Gothenburg is a city that invites you to stay moving. Whether you are looking for world-class wellness, a unique indoor winter experience, or urban outdoor sports, the city offers a diverse range of activities. From historic bathhouses to innovative sports arenas, here is my personal guide to staying active in Gothenburg.
When I first started visiting Gothenburg back in the nineties, it was primarily known for its industrial harbor and the iconic Liseberg amusement park. Today, it is a completely different story. The city has embraced a lifestyle that perfectly blends physical activity with the typical Swedish sense of relaxation.
Hagabadet: A sanctuary of health since 1876
For nearly 150 years, Hagabadet has been a cornerstone of Gothenburg’s health tradition. What was originally built to improve public health in the 19th century has transformed into a modern oasis of wellness. Recently named one of the top 100 spas in the world, Hagabadet successfully balances its historical heritage with cutting-edge health technology.
Inside the stunning historical building in the Haga district, you can experience a holistic approach to well-being. Over the years, I have found that a visit here is the perfect antidote to a rainy Gothenburg afternoon. Alongside traditional spa treatments, yoga, and swimming, Hagabadet has introduced the VitalityLab. This facility offers innovative recovery methods such as cryotherapy (extreme cold treatment), red light therapy, and compression treatments.
Where to stay in Gothenburg
To make the most of your active city break, I recommend staying in the heart of the city. Whether you want a hotel with its own world-class gym or a cozy spot near the Haga district, you’ll find the perfect base here.
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Insider tips from 30 years of Sweden travel. This guide contains affiliate links (marked with ➔) to help support my work at no extra cost to you.
Prioritet Serneke Arena: Skiing and beach volleyball
In the district of Kviberg, you will find one of the most impressive multi-sport facilities in Europe. The Prioritet Serneke Arena is a playground for athletes of all kinds and houses two world-class indoor attractions under one roof.
The Skidome features a 1,200-meter long indoor ski track that allows you to enjoy cross-country skiing regardless of the weather outside. The temperature inside is kept at a constant minus 2 to 4 degrees Celsius throughout the entire year. Whether you are a professional or a beginner, you can rent equipment on-site and hit the tracks on three parallel lanes.
And the best part?
Right next to the ski tracks, the arena also hosts the Beach Center – the world’s largest indoor beach volleyball facility. With over 15 courts and tons of real sand, it offers a permanent summer vibe even in the middle of a Swedish winter. After your workout, whether on skis or in the sand, you can enjoy a meal or a classic Swedish fika at the arena’s restaurant and lodge.
Jubileumsparken: Public saunas and harbor baths
In the heart of the Gothenburg harbor area known as Frihamnen, you will find a symbol of modern, sustainable urban development: Jubileumsparken. This park was created as part of the city’s 400th-anniversary celebrations and aims to bring the citizens closer to the water.
The centerpiece of the park is a unique public sauna, designed by the architects RaumlaborBerlin and built using recycled materials. It is an architectural marvel. This sauna is completely free to the public and offers a spectacular view of the river Göta älv.
Right next to the sauna, you can take a dip in the harbor baths, which feature pools with both salt water from the river and naturally filtered fresh water. It is a fantastic place to experience authentic Swedish sauna culture in an urban, industrial setting.
Actionpark: Urban sports in the city center
For those who prefer wheels over skis, the Actionpark offers nearly 2,000 square meters of concrete challenges. Located near the Scandinavium arena, this free outdoor skatepark is a hub for skaters and riders of all skill levels.
The park is open to:
- Skateboards
- Scooters
- BMX bikes
- Inline skates
It has become a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors alike, reflecting the city’s welcoming and active spirit. During the summer months, a small café next to the park provides a place to rest and watch the action.
Gothia Cup: The world’s largest youth soccer tournament
If you happen to visit in mid-July, you will witness Gothenburg transform into the global capital of youth football. The Gothia Cup is not just a tournament; it is a massive celebration of sport and international friendship. Every year, around 1,700 teams from over 80 nations arrive to compete on more than 100 pitches scattered across the city.
The energy during this week is infectious. The tournament’s heart is the Heden area in the city center, but the true highlight is the grand opening ceremony at the Ullevi Stadium. Over 50,000 spectators gather to watch the parade of nations – it is a goosebump-inducing experience that rivals the Olympics.
Over the years, I have followed the incredible stories of future world stars like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Alan Shearer, Alan McInally, Zé Roberto, and Andrea Pirlo who started their journey right here. But even if you are not a scout, simply walking through the city during the Gothia Cup is an experience in itself. The streets are filled with young athletes from all corners of the world, making it a true hub for cultural exchange.
Practical tips for your active trip
If you are planning to visit these spots, here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:
- Transport: Gothenburg has an excellent tram system. To get to Kviberg (Skidome), take tram 7 or 11 from the central station.
- Booking: While the sauna at Jubileumsparken is free, you should book your slot online in advance to guarantee a spot.
- Equipment: Don’t worry about bringing skis or volleyballs; all the major arenas offer high-quality rental gear.
Experience Gothenburg from the water
Want to see the city from a different perspective? I highly recommend a guided tour or renting a kayak to explore the canals and the harbor area. It’s the ultimate active way to sightsee.
Final thoughts
Gothenburg is much more than just a beautiful coastal city; it is a place where you can be as active or as relaxed as you want to be. Whether you are sweating it out in a historic sauna or gliding through the snow in the middle of July, the city always has something to keep you moving.
Hotels in Gothenburg
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Sightseeing tours, activities and entrance tickets
Book now: The best Gothenburg tours, activities and tickets
Photo Hagabadet: Hagabadet. Photo Beach Center: Beach Center. Photos sauna: Älvstranden Utveckling AB. Photos Gothia Cup: Carl Sandin, Bildbyrån.
