Gothenburg Botanical Garden - The sign for Gothenburg Botanical Gardens
1 / 10

Gothenburg Botanical Garden

4.7
·10k reviews·, Sweden

One of Europe's largest botanical gardens, offering a vast, natural park experience with stunning views and free entry.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers in bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Gothenburg Botanical Garden - The sign for Gothenburg Botanical Gardens

Gothenburg Botanical Garden

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers in bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

One of Europe's largest botanical gardens, offering a vast, natural park experience with stunning views and free entry.

4.7
(10k reviews)

"One of the largest botanical gardens in Europe. Free admission, with optional donations."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The garden is vast and hilly. You'll do a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst nature. Many visitors find it a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Smith Valley Exploration

Smith Valley Exploration

Western part of the garden

Discover a wilder side of nature, with lush vegetation and a sense of untouched beauty. A true escape.

Panoramic Hilltop Views

Panoramic Hilltop Views

Highest point in the garden

Hike to the summit for breathtaking vistas of Gothenburg and the surrounding landscape. Worth the climb!

Tranquil Rock Garden

Tranquil Rock Garden

Near the waterfall

A beautifully designed area featuring diverse rock formations and a soothing waterfall. Perfect for quiet contemplation.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vastness

This isn't just a garden; it's a sprawling natural park. Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking, especially if you plan to explore the 'wilder' sections or hike to the viewpoints. Consider packing a picnic to fully enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Greenhouse Renovation Alert

The main greenhouses are undergoing renovation until 2030. While the outdoor gardens are spectacular, be aware that this key attraction is temporarily unavailable. Check for updates on specific areas before your visit.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Flowers in bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm weather, picnic perfect
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn weekdays
Why
Vibrant foliage, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

First time visiting Göteborg - would be happy to get some insider tips :)

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The garden is vast and hilly. You'll do a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst nature. Many visitors find it a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

reddit.com

Visiting Gothenburg, looking for advice

🗺️ Grab a Garden Map

Essential for navigating the extensive grounds and finding hidden gems like Smith Valley. :world_map:

💰 Optional Donation

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed to help maintain this beautiful space. :moneybag:

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The garden is vast and hilly. You'll do a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst nature. Many visitors find it a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

🗺️ Grab a Garden Map

Essential for navigating the extensive grounds and finding hidden gems like Smith Valley. :world_map:

💰 Optional Donation

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed to help maintain this beautiful space. :moneybag:

⛰️ Hike to the High Point

The climb can be steep, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely rewarding. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Gothenburg Botanical Garden's immense size and natural beauty, often comparing it to a national park. The free admission and serene atmosphere are major draws, making it ideal for relaxation and picnics. However, the ongoing renovation of the greenhouses until 2030 is a significant drawback for some.

"Beautiful Garden with loads of different plants and trees. You can walk around and enjoy nature. It’s wheelchair accessible but the garden in total is having some steep parts.
The restaurant in the garden has some really delicious food for reasonable prices.

The entry is free but you can pay something if you want to help keeping the garden - amazing concept.

I will definitely come back here ❤️"

Jules Bee

"One of the largest botanical gardens in Europe. Free admission, with optional donations.
It feels more like a vast natural park — almost like a national park — right in the middle of Gothenburg. Perfect for picnics, sunbathing, or hiking up to a small mountain that was recently cleared after being overgrown for decades. Walking here feels like stepping into wild nature.
Highly recommended for stress relief."

Daniel JB

"Probably the best large botanical gardens in the world! Having visited 90 countries and most of the botanical gardens in them, this is so well looked after and designed. It's over 100 years old and a must in Gothenburg."

John Marshall

What People Like

Vast natural park feel
Free admission
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Greenhouse renovation (until 2030)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Gothenburg Botanical Garden (Botaniska Trädgården) is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram lines 1, 7, or 8 to the 'Botaniska Trädgården' stop. It's also a pleasant walk or bike ride from the city center. :bus: :tram: :bike:

Yes, there is parking available near the main entrance. However, public transport is highly recommended due to potential limited availability, especially during peak seasons. :car:

Absolutely! It's about a 20-30 minute tram ride from the central station, or a longer but scenic walk if you enjoy exploring. :walking:

The garden is largely wheelchair accessible, with many paved paths. However, some of the steeper 'wilder' sections or trails might be challenging. :wheelchair:

Many visitors recommend starting with a map and exploring the different themed areas. Don't miss Smith Valley and the hike to the high point for stunning views. :compass:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to the Gothenburg Botanical Garden is free! You can wander through its vast grounds without purchasing a ticket. :ticket:

While entry is free, visitors are encouraged to make a donation to help with the garden's upkeep. The restaurant also has charges for food and drinks. :moneybag:

Opening hours vary seasonally. Generally, the garden is open daily from morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the official website for the most current hours. :clock:

Unfortunately, the main greenhouses are currently undergoing renovation and are expected to reopen in 2030. This is a significant point to note for your visit. :construction:

As the garden itself has free admission, there are typically no separate fees for exploring the grounds. Special events might have separate ticketing, but this is rare for general access. :star:

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the expansive Smith Valley for a wilder feel, the rock garden with its waterfall, and the challenging but rewarding hike to the hilltop for panoramic views. :camerawithflash:

Absolutely! The garden is perfect for picnics. There are many beautiful spots to lay down a blanket and enjoy your meal surrounded by nature. :picnic_table:

You'll find an incredible diversity, from temperate forests and meadows to alpine plants and a Japanese garden. It's one of Europe's largest botanical gardens. :evergreen_tree:

Yes, there are restrooms available, and a restaurant within the garden that serves delicious food at reasonable prices. :coffee:

To truly appreciate its size and beauty, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you want to explore thoroughly and enjoy a picnic, you could easily spend half a day. :hourglass:

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The rock garden with its waterfall, the panoramic views from the hilltop, and the diverse plant collections offer fantastic photo opportunities. Golden hour light is magical here. :camerawithflash:

Generally, tripods are allowed for personal photography. However, it's always wise to be considerate of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. :camera:

Drone usage is typically restricted in botanical gardens and public parks to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and wildlife. Check local regulations if unsure. :noentrysign:

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour hues. Midday can be harsh for photography. :sunriseovermountains:

Focus on macro shots of flowers, wide landscapes from the hilltop, or the textures of the rock garden. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic subjects. :flowerplayingcards:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Gothenburg Botanical Garden offers a fantastic, free outdoor adventure for families. While the main greenhouses are under renovation, the expansive grounds provide plenty of space for kids to run and explore. Pack a picnic to make a day of it, and let them discover the 'wilder' parts of Smith Valley or enjoy the rock garden. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover! Reddit

Consider focusing on the more accessible paths and the open grassy areas for younger children. The hike to the hilltop might be challenging for very small kids, but the rock garden with its waterfall offers a more manageable and engaging experience. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with nature in a safe and beautiful environment. :child: :tree:

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For solo travelers seeking tranquility, the Gothenburg Botanical Garden is an absolute gem. Its sheer size and the 'wilder' sections like Smith Valley offer ample opportunities for quiet contemplation and a deep connection with nature. You can wander for hours, finding secluded benches or scenic spots to read, reflect, or simply be present. Reddit

The free admission makes it an accessible and rewarding experience. The optional donation system means you can contribute as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. It's the perfect place to decompress, escape the city bustle, and enjoy the restorative power of a vast, well-maintained natural space. :person_walking: :leaf:

📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts

Photographers will find endless inspiration at the Gothenburg Botanical Garden. From intricate floral details to sweeping landscapes, the garden offers diverse subjects. The rock garden with its waterfall, the panoramic views from the hilltop, and the varied plant collections provide excellent opportunities for stunning shots. Reddit

Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. While tripods are generally permitted, be mindful of other visitors. The ongoing renovation of the greenhouses means focusing on the outdoor beauty, which is abundant year-round, especially during spring blooms or autumn foliage. :camera: :rose:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the 'Wilder' Side: Smith Valley

Beyond the manicured paths, the Gothenburg Botanical Garden boasts areas like Smith Valley, which offers a more natural, untamed experience. This section feels like stepping into a miniature wilderness, with dense vegetation and a sense of discovery. It's a favorite for those seeking a break from the more structured parts of the garden and a chance to immerse themselves in a more rugged natural setting. Visitors often describe it as feeling like a national park right within the city. Reddit

Navigating Smith Valley can be a bit more adventurous, with uneven terrain and winding paths. It’s here that you can truly appreciate the scale and diversity of the garden's collection. The feeling of seclusion and the raw beauty make it a highlight for many, offering a stark contrast to the more formal garden designs. It’s a testament to the garden’s commitment to showcasing a wide spectrum of plant life and natural landscapes. Reddit

The Panoramic Views from the Hilltop

For those willing to embark on a short hike, the Gothenburg Botanical Garden rewards visitors with spectacular panoramic views from its highest point. This elevated vantage point offers a breathtaking perspective over Gothenburg, allowing you to see the city sprawl and the surrounding natural beauty. The climb itself is often described as 'treacherous' by some, especially if you have mobility issues, but the payoff is universally praised. Reddit

Reaching the summit provides a moment of triumph and a stunning visual reward. It's an excellent spot for reflection and to appreciate the garden's integration within the urban landscape. Many visitors recommend descending from the high point into the rock garden, creating a well-rounded exploration that combines exertion with serene beauty. The views are particularly captivating during sunrise or sunset, offering photographers and nature lovers alike an unforgettable experience. Reddit

A Haven for Relaxation and Picnics

The Gothenburg Botanical Garden is more than just a collection of plants; it's a sanctuary for relaxation. Its vast, open spaces and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal location for picnics, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll. The sheer size of the garden means you can often find a quiet spot to yourself, even on busier days. Reddit

Many visitors highlight the garden's suitability for picnics, suggesting it's a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a meal amidst nature. The combination of beautiful scenery, fresh air, and a stress-free environment makes it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike seeking a respite from city life. It truly embodies the essence of a 'horticultural gardens gothenburg' experience, offering both beauty and tranquility. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2