Gothenburg is a city deeply tied to the sea, but if you only stick to the historic center, you are missing half the story. Over my nearly three decades of exploring Sweden, I have watched the northern banks of the river transform from gritty, industrial shipyards into some of the most vibrant, modern neighborhoods in Scandinavia. Today, the districts of Lindholmen and Eriksberg offer the perfect mix of cutting-edge architecture, sunny waterfront promenades, and brilliant cafés. Let me take you on a journey across the river to discover my favorite waterfront spots, complete with insider tips on how to get there easily.
The perfect starting point – Stenpiren Travel Centre
Stenpiren Travel Centre, with the modern skylines of Lindholmen and Eriksberg in the background
Before we cross the river, let’s start at a place that has completely revitalized Gothenburg’s city center. The Stenpiren Travel Centre, opened in 2016, is a magnificent transport hub located just 300 meters from the famous Gothenburg Opera House. While major infrastructure projects can often be controversial among locals, almost everyone in Gothenburg agrees that Stenpiren is a massive success.
On a sunny day, this place turns into a gigantic sun terrace with sweeping views of the harbor. There are plenty of benches right by the water, along with fantastic restaurants and cafés featuring comfortable outdoor seating. It is no surprise that Stenpiren won the prestigious Swedish architecture award, the Sienapriset, in 2017.
And the best part? It is your ultimate gateway to the north bank. This is where you can hop on the local ferries to cross the river and start your adventure.
Lindholmen – Innovation, free Wi-Fi, and a touch of the future
From Stenpiren, you can board the Älvsnabbaren ferry (Line 286), which shuttles directly across the Göta älv to the district of Lindholmen. And here is an insider tip – this specific ferry line is currently completely free of charge!
Where massive shipyards once dominated the landscape, you will now find the Lindholmen Science Park. This thriving innovation hub houses around 350 companies, alongside universities and public organizations focusing on intelligent vehicles, technology, and modern design. The architecture here is brilliantly open, friendly, and creative.
If you need a quiet place to catch up on work or simply want to absorb the inspiring atmosphere, head into the lobby of the main Science Park building. It features excellent seating areas and workspaces that anyone can use, completely free of charge – and yes, the Wi-Fi is free too!
Over the years, Lindholmen has evolved into a highly popular destination for both locals and tourists. Thanks to its ideal southwest orientation, the waterfront gets flooded with sunshine, making it the perfect spot to sit outside at one of the thirty-plus local cafés and restaurants.
The newest crown jewel of the area is Karlatornet, which stands as Sweden’s tallest high-rise at a staggering 246 meters. While the surrounding neighborhood is reaching its final completion stages, there is an extra reason to be excited: the spectacular observation deck on the 69th floor is scheduled to open in June 2026! I will be sure to write a dedicated guide for that very soon.
If you want to experience the absolute best views over the harbor right now, I highly recommend visiting the nearby Radisson Blu Riverside Hotel. Its rooftop terrace offers an unforgettable panoramic view over the river and the entire city skyline.
Stay in the heart of Lindholmen
The Radisson Blu Riverside Hotel stands on the right, showcasing its fantastic rooftop terrace and spa area overlooking the waterfront.
Want to wake up to spectacular harbor views? The Radisson Blu Riverside Hotel offers stylish, modern rooms right on the waterfront, featuring a fantastic rooftop terrace and spa area that you will absolutely love.
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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.
Eriksberg – Seaside promenades and maritime history
A short trip further west brings you to Eriksberg, another masterclass in urban transformation. Much like the famous Docklands in London or Västra Hamnen in Malmö, this area gracefully transitioned from a historic shipbuilding center into a stunning residential and cultural district.
Walking through Eriksberg, you will be treated to beautiful contemporary Swedish architecture, particularly the classic “Funkis” style buildings with their soaring ceilings, expansive windows, and open floor plans. It is incredibly family-friendly too, boasting vibrant playgrounds and a local skatepark.
My absolute favorite thing to do here is to stroll along the wide, sun-drenched waterfront promenade. It is dotted with impressive sculptures and welcoming street cafés that offer prime views of the passing ships.
Speaking of ships, Eriksberg is the home port for the magnificent Götheborg, a full-scale sailing replica of an 18th-century Swedish East India Company ship that has actually sailed all the way to China and back!
Right in the middle of the district, you will spot the iconic Eriksbergshallen – a former shipyard hall turned into a bustling exhibition venue and restaurant. Right next to it stands the architectural landmark Quality Hotel 11.
Experience Eriksberg’s maritime charm
The prominent Quality Hotel 11 (left) and the historic Eriksbergshallen exhibition venue (right) side by side.
Nestled right by the waterfront and the historic Eriksbergshallen, the Quality Hotel 11 combines maritime history with modern comfort, making it a fantastic base for exploring Gothenburg’s northern riverbanks.
Practical tips for your waterfront adventure
Getting to Lindholmen and Eriksberg from Gothenburg’s city center is incredibly easy – and scenic! Here are the best ways to plan your route:
- By ferry (the scenic route): From the Stenpiren Travel Centre, you can take the free ferry Line 286 (Älvsnabbaren) directly to Lindholmen. Alternatively, the regular Älvsnabben ferry (Line 285) connects Stenpiren, Lilla Bommen, and the Stena Line Kiel-ferry terminal directly to both Lindholmen and Eriksberg.
- By bus (the eco-friendly route): If you prefer to travel on land, you can hop on Bus Line 55 from Gothenburg Central Station. It runs completely silently on 100% electricity and takes you straight to Lindholmen.
- By foot (the panoramic route): If you are feeling active, you can walk to Eriksberg from the mainland (Klippan) via the massive Älvsborgsbron suspension bridge. Just a heads-up if you are sensitive to heights: this structure is seriously high, and I admittedly get a bit dizzy every single time I look down! But the reward is absolutely worth it, as there are spectacular viewing platforms at both ends of the bridge, offering some of the most grand views over the entire city.
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A modern side of Gothenburg well worth exploring
Gothenburg’s waterfront districts showcase how a city can honor its industrial, maritime past while building a sustainable, beautiful future. Whether you want to enjoy a coffee in the sun at Eriksberg’s promenade, experience the technological buzz at Lindholmen Science Park, or enjoy a panoramic view from a rooftop terrace, crossing the Göta älv is an absolute must on your next Swedish vacation. Trust me, you will see a completely different, inspiring side of this wonderful city!
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