Gothenburg may not offer the grandeur of Stockholm, but what this seafaring city lacks in pomp it compensates for in charm, from its many parks and gardens — there are 274 square meters of green space for every citizen — to its queer-friendly vibe: For West Pride, the city is decorated annually with 1,000 rainbow flags that flap and flutter high over churches, schools, and government buildings.
It’s also a dining mecca, with its Michelin-starred seafood restaurant Sjömagasinet, housed in a 1775 wooden structure on the waterfront, and Norda Bar & Grill in the Clarion Hotel, a major supporter of 2018 EuroPride, which takes place this summer in Stockholm and Gothenburg over two separate weeks (July 27-August 5 in Stockholm, and August 14-19 in Gothenburg). There’s plenty to keep you occupied in this cheery northern metropolis, but you’d be denying yourself one of life’s great pleasures if you didn’t use it as nature intended: as a stepping stone for a trip up Sweden’s bewitching West Coast.
First though, do as the natives do, and make time for a fortifying fika in Gothenburg. There’s no shortage of choices to enjoy a strong coffee and pastry, but on a sunny morning, sitting in the courtyard outside Da Matteo (Magasinsgatan 17) is heaven. The strong, ethically-sourced coffee pairs equisitely with the caramom buns baked on the premises. At weekends, a spread (shown above) of breads, jellies, and cheese is laid out for customers to craft their own feast. Sated and caffeinated, you are ready to start your west coast adventure.
By Aaron Hicklin – Full Story at Out Magazine