Overview of Flights to Gothenburg
Flights to Gothenburg, Sweden’s charming second city, connect travelers from across Europe and North America to one of Scandinavia’s most vibrant destinations. Whether you’re searching for cheap flights to Gothenburg or direct routes from major hubs, understanding your options will help you secure the best deal for your trip.
Main Airport and Popular Routes
Gothenburg Landvetter Airport (GOT) serves as the primary international gateway, located about 20 kilometers east of the city center. The airport handles connections from major European carriers including KLM, British Airways, and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS).
The most popular routes to Gothenburg include:
- Copenhagen to Gothenburg flights – A short regional hop, often the most frequent connection
- Flights from London to Gothenburg – Multiple daily services from UK airports
- Stockholm to Gothenburg flights – Convenient domestic options for travelers already in Sweden
- Flights from LAX to Gothenburg – Typically requiring one connection via a European hub
Best Time to Book Flights to Gothenburg
Timing your booking can significantly impact prices. According to travel experts, October offers the lowest flight prices to Gothenburg, while summer months (June through August) command premium rates due to festivals and ideal weather.
For the best deals, consider booking 6-8 weeks in advance for European routes and 8-12 weeks ahead for transatlantic flights from the USA. Flexibility with travel dates can save you hundreds of dollars.
Current Pricing and Deals
Recent deals show competitive pricing from North America. SAS has offered flights to Gothenburg from Chicago starting at $355-375 roundtrip in basic economy class. Basic economy typically includes a carry-on bag but charges extra for checked luggage and seat selection.
One important consideration: flights from Gothenburg to other European destinations cost nearly twice as much as comparable routes from Stockholm or Copenhagen, making it worth comparing whether to fly into a neighboring city and take ground transport.
Finding Cheap Flights to Gothenburg
Airline Comparison for Budget Travelers
Several carriers compete on routes to Gothenburg, each with different pricing structures:
| Route | Airlines | Typical Price Range | Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| London → Gothenburg | British Airways, SAS, Ryanair | $80-200 | 2h 15m |
| Copenhagen → Gothenburg | SAS, Norwegian | $60-150 | 55 minutes |
| Chicago → Gothenburg | SAS, United (with connection) | $355-700 | 10-14h |
| Amsterdam → Gothenburg | KLM, SAS | $90-180 | 1h 45m |
Note: Prices are indicative and fluctuate based on season and demand. Check real-time pricing before booking.
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Flights to Gothenburg
Money-Saving Booking Strategies
- Use flight comparison tools – Sites like Google Flights track prices and alert you to drops
- Consider nearby airports – Flying into Copenhagen or Stockholm and taking the train to Gothenburg can be cheaper
- Book mid-week travel – Tuesday and Wednesday departures typically cost 15-20% less
- Set price alerts – Get notifications when fares drop below your target price
- Clear browser cookies – Some booking sites adjust prices based on search history
Price Examples from Major Cities
Here are typical roundtrip fares from popular departure cities:
- Cheap flights to Gothenburg from USA – $350-800 (varies by East vs. West Coast)
- Flights from Baltimore to Gothenburg – $400-650 with one connection
- Low cost flights to Gothenburg from UK – £70-180 depending on advance booking
- Business class flights to Gothenburg – $1,500-3,500 from North America, £300-600 from Europe
Direct Flights and Connections to Gothenburg
Direct Flight Options from Europe
Several European cities offer direct flights to Gothenburg without connections, making for convenient travel:
- London (Heathrow, Gatwick) – 2-3 daily direct flights
- Amsterdam – Multiple daily KLM services
- Copenhagen – Frequent short-haul flights throughout the day
- Oslo – Regular Scandinavian connections
- Helsinki – Several weekly direct routes
Direct flights save considerable time and reduce the risk of missed connections or lost baggage during transfers.
Long-Distance Travel from the USA
Currently, there are no direct flights to Gothenburg from the US. All transatlantic routes require at least one connection, typically through:
- Copenhagen (most common hub for SAS flights)
- Amsterdam (KLM network)
- London (British Airways and partners)
- Frankfurt or Munich (Lufthansa connections)
Total travel time from major US cities ranges from 10-16 hours including layovers. For optimized connections, allow at least 90 minutes between flights in European hubs.
Travel Times and Connection Considerations
When booking connecting flights, factor in these typical journey times:
- New York/Boston → Gothenburg: 10-13 hours (via Copenhagen or Amsterdam)
- Chicago → Gothenburg: 11-14 hours (typically via Copenhagen)
- Los Angeles → Gothenburg: 14-17 hours (longer layovers common)
For smoother connections, book all segments on the same ticket when possible. This ensures your luggage is checked through to your final destination and provides protection if delays cause you to miss your connection.
Practical Travel Tips for Your Gothenburg Flight
Booking Smart and Packing Right
Before finalizing your booking, review the fare rules carefully. Budget airlines and basic economy fares often exclude:
- Checked baggage (carry-on only)
- Seat selection (assigned at check-in)
- Meal service
- Changes or refunds
For international flights to Gothenburg, most airlines allow one carry-on (up to 8kg) and one personal item. Checked baggage typically costs $30-70 each way on budget carriers, while full-service airlines include at least one bag.
Getting from Landvetter Airport to Downtown
Upon arrival at Gothenburg Landvetter Airport, you have several transport options to reach the city center:
- Flygbussarna airport coaches – Depart every 10-20 minutes, 30-minute journey, costs approximately 120 SEK ($11)
- Taxi – Fixed price around 450-500 SEK ($42-47), 25-minute drive
- Rental car – Major agencies available at the airport, useful for exploring western Sweden
- Private transfer – Pre-booked services start around 350 SEK
The airport bus drops passengers at Nils Ericson Terminal in central Gothenburg, connecting to the city’s tram network and train services.
Making the Most of Your Gothenburg Visit
Top Things to Do After You Land
Once you’ve secured your flight to Gothenburg, start planning what to explore in this coastal Swedish gem. The city offers a compelling mix of maritime heritage, contemporary culture, and culinary excellence.
Must-see attractions include the historic Haga district with its charming wooden houses, the Gothenburg archipelago with its scenic islands, and the innovative Universeum science center. For comprehensive planning, check out our guide to Gothenburg’s best attractions.
Food lovers should explore the Feskekôrka (Fish Church) market and sample local specialties at the Saluhallen market hall. The city’s official tourism site maintains an updated calendar of festivals and events.
Accommodation and Neighborhood Guide
Gothenburg’s compact size makes most neighborhoods accessible. Popular areas for visitors include:
- City Center (Nordstan area) – Convenient for sightseeing, wide hotel range
- Haga – Charming historic quarter with boutique hotels
- Linnéstaden – Trendy district with cafes and local atmosphere
- Waterfront – Modern hotels with harbor views
Book accommodations in advance during summer months and major events when availability tightens and prices increase.
Visitor Information and Entry Requirements
For entry to Sweden, requirements vary by nationality:
- EU/EEA citizens – Valid ID card or passport, no visa required
- US, Canadian, Australian citizens – Passport valid for 3 months beyond stay, no visa for visits under 90 days
- Other nationalities – Check current Schengen visa requirements before booking
Sweden uses the Swedish Krona (SEK), though credit cards are widely accepted. English proficiency is high, making navigation easy for international visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Gothenburg
How do I find cheap flights to Gothenburg?
To find the cheapest flights to Gothenburg, use comparison sites like Google Flights, book 6-12 weeks in advance, and consider flying mid-week. October typically offers the lowest prices. Also compare flying into Copenhagen or Stockholm and taking ground transport, which can sometimes be significantly cheaper than direct flights to Gothenburg.
Are there direct flights to Gothenburg from the USA?
No, there are currently no non-stop flights from the USA to Gothenburg. All routes require at least one connection, typically through Copenhagen, Amsterdam, or London. Total travel time ranges from 10-16 hours depending on your departure city and connection time. SAS offers competitive connecting flights from several US cities with relatively short layovers in Copenhagen.
What airlines fly to Gothenburg?
Major airlines serving Gothenburg include Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), KLM, British Airways, Norwegian, Ryanair, and Lufthansa. SAS and KLM offer the most extensive networks with connections from North America. Budget carriers like Ryanair provide low-cost options from select European cities. For the widest choice of routes and schedules, check multiple airlines when comparing prices.
How long does it take to fly to Gothenburg?
Flight duration varies by departure city. From London, expect about 2 hours 15 minutes. Copenhagen to Gothenburg takes just 55 minutes. From major US East Coast cities, total travel time including connections is 10-13 hours, while West Coast departures typically require 14-17 hours. European connections generally add 1-3 hours to your journey depending on layover length.
What is the best time to visit Gothenburg for lower flight prices?
October consistently offers the lowest flight prices to Gothenburg, with rates often 30-40% below summer peak season. Late winter (February-March) also features competitive pricing. Avoid June through August if budget is a priority, as this period sees the highest fares due to ideal weather and major cultural events. Booking during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) balances good weather with more reasonable prices.
How far is Gothenburg Airport from the city center?
Gothenburg Landvetter Airport (GOT) is located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of the city center. The Flygbussarna airport coach takes 30 minutes and costs around 120 SEK ($11). Taxis charge a fixed rate of about 450-500 SEK ($42-47) for the 25-minute drive. Public bus services are also available but take slightly longer than the express coaches.
