Gothenburg Opera House (Goteborgsoperan)
Christina Nilssons Gata, Gothenburg, Sweden
Perched on the banks of the Gota River, Gothenburg Opera House is Gothenburg’s most prestigious arts venue, hosting more than 300 performances a year. The grand building is also among Gothenburg’s most notable landmarks, with its maritime-inspired façade and ship-like silhouette dominating the Lilla Bommen waterfront.
The basics
Whether attending an opera or ballet, watching a classical music concert, or bringing the kids along to a family-friendly musical—Gothenburg Opera House offers something for all tastes. Couple an evening show or matinee performance with a delicious lunch or dinner at the Gothenburg Opera Restaurant, or a cocktail at the Opera Bar. Or, for a behind-the-scenes look at the opera house and its performances, join a guided tour and peek into the dressing rooms, walk the stage, and watch the wigmakers, stage designers, and costume tailors at work.
Things to know before you go
- Architecture enthusiasts should include a stop at Gothenburg Opera House—the Jan Izikowitz-designed building is one of Gothenburg’s most unique.
- Tours are conducted in Swedish, but English-language tours are available by reservation.
- The opera house has a bar-restaurant, café, and gift shop. The entire complex is cash-free and only accepts credit or debit card payments.
- There are wheelchair-accessible seats in the stalls and discounted ticket prices for those with disabilities.
How to get there
Gothenburg Opera House is located on the riverfront at Lilla Bommen harbor. It’s just a 10-minute walk from downtown Gothenburg. The closest bus and tram stop is Lilla Bommen, right nearby.
When to get there
Evening performances typically start at 6pm or 7pm, while matinees take place between 12:30 and 4pm. It’s recommended to arrive 30 minutes before the show. Tours typically take place on Saturdays. If you’re not attending a show, a lunch or dinner reservation at the Opera Restaurant is a popular choice; if you can, visit in the evening to see the illuminated building at its most atmospheric.
Exploring Lilla Bommen
A stroll around Lilla Bommen—Gothenburg’s main harbor—is a must for visitors to the city. Admire the contemporary façade of Gothenburg Opera House, fronted by a 26-foot (7-meter) tall Bård Breivik sculpture, then head over to the red-and-white Lilla Bommen skyscraper for a drink with a view at the rooftop café. Lilla Bommen is also home to the Barken Viking, a 20th-century merchant ship now transformed into a hotel and restaurant; the Maritiman floating museum; and the launch point for boat cruises to the island fortress of Nya Älvsborg.
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