Gothenburg was founded in 1621 by Gustaf II Adolf but was not actually the first city at the mouth of the Göta River. At the end of the 15th century, "Nya Lödöse" was built, which was an important trading city for Sweden and was in the place where Gamlestaden is located today. After Gothenburg took over more and more as grew in to the big city of the West Coast, the Importance of Nya Lödöse decreased and became popularly known as the "old town".

But, how is it that Gothenburg is located where it is? Well, Karl IX made the decision to build the city of Gothenburg in 1607 at the current Färjestaden on Hisingen. However, this city was destroyed in 1611 by the Danes who burned it to the ground. Luckily the Swedes did not give up the idea of a western trading city and in 1619 Gustaf II Adolf decided that "here is where the city should lie" and pointed to the land that is today known as Gothenburg, and luckily that is what happened!

What do you have to do if you visit Gothenburg for the first time? Liseberg is a given choice, this is a fairground that opened in 1923 and has an obvious place in the hearts of many Gothenburgers. For those interested in trains, Gothenburg's tram history can be interesting. The first electric tram arrived in Gothenburg 1902, but already in 1879, an English company started horse-drawn carriages on the Brunnsparken–Stigbergsliden line. Today, about 260 trams roll into town and has names of famous Gothenburg profiles. For the art enthusiast, it is worth visiting the Göteborg Museum of Art, which with its three stars in Michelin's Green Guide has impressive, Nordic collections from the 15th century onwards.

Welcome to Gothenburg!