Gothenburg is filled with shops and boutiques offering plenty of Swedish and Nordic products. The city is an excellent shopping destination with the latest and best Scandinavian design and fashion. Most shops in the city are open regular hours but be sure to check specific store websites for detailed information. Though shopping in Sweden may seem overwhelming for newcomers, you can find all necessary household goods, groceries, and clothing with ease throughout the city.

Shopping districts 

Avenyn

Avenyn is one of the most popular areas in central Gothenburg because it is a major hub for locals and tourists and is home to some of the area’s best restaurants and entertainment options. It is no wonder that it’s a popular area for shopping as well. Here in Avenyn, you can find chic brands and locally owned businesses for unique products and gifts. Many of the stores feature antique items, second hand selctions, and a focus on interior design. In addition to classic Swedish stores, you can also find unique shops that showcase handmade clothing, artistic products, and exquisite jewelry selections.

Haga

In Haga, you will find cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved picturesque buildings. You’ll find many independent shops here, all with their own specialties ranging from soaps, to chocolate, to handmade toys. The special thing about shopping in Haga is the uniqueness of store selections. Most big name brands cannot be found here which promotes small businesses and niche business concepts.

Magasinsgatan

Magasinsgatan is the trendy part of town where you’ll find the newest trends in fashion, food, and lifestyle. Stores here are home to clothing items fresh off the runway and hand-crafted sleek décor. If you’re looking for the perfect posh items to add to your collection, be sure to visit this area!

Many neighborhoods in Gothenburg are equipped with at least one grocery store in walking distance, but there is one on almost every block in the central part of town. The most popular supermarkets in Gothenburg are ICA, Hemköp, COOP, Lidl, Willy’s and CityGross. Like clothing and home goods stores, grocery stores in Sweden charge a nominal fee for paper or plastic bags.

Many grocery stores have weekly advertisements available in print or online with discounted prices on certain items. Unlike other countries, alcohol is not available for purchase in supermarkets due to legislative restrictions. Supermarkets in Gothenburg are generally open from 7:00am to 8:00pm but some larger grocery stores open until 10pm. 

For larger selections of international food items that may not be available at generic grocery stores, you can visit one of Gothenburg’s many specialty shops that either feature foods from a wide range of cultures or tailor to various dietary needs.

USEFUL VOCABULARY

value added tax – moms

sale – realisation (Rea)

right to return an item – öppet köp

extra item for free – på köpet

cash – kontant

receipt – kvitto

change – växel