Gothenburg with autistic children can be a very informative and special learning experience. Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, is an inviting destination for families, including those with autistic children. With its beautiful parks, engaging museums, and family-friendly activities, Gothenburg promises a memorable experience for all.
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Getting To Gothenburg
Gothenburg is accessible via Göteborg Landvetter Airport. Direct flights are available from many major cities. Consider the most comfortable mode of transport for your child, and plan for breaks during the journey.
Transport options from Gothenburg Landvetter Airport into Gothenburg:
Airport Shuttle Bus (Flygbussarna)
This bus service runs frequently between the airport and Gothenburg city centre, taking about 20 minutes.
Taxi:
Taxis are available outside the terminal and offer a direct route to the city. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Car Rental:
Several car rental companies operate at the airport, allowing for flexible travel.
Public Bus:
Västtrafik operates a bus service from the airport to Gothenburg.
Private Transfers:
Pre-booked private transfers offer convenience and comfort. You can book via GetYourGuide here.
We took a bus – can’t remember now if it was a shuttle or public bus on the way into the city, but it was definitely the public bus on the way back to the airport.
Where to Stay
Choose accommodations that offer quiet environments and easy access to outdoor spaces. Many hotels in Gothenburg are family-friendly and can accommodate specific needs. Consider self-catering options for more flexibility.
We stayed at a hotel in the centre of Gothenburg. This was the first time we went to a hotel where we had to either bring, or pay for, bedding and towels separately.
10 Family-Friendly Activities
Liseberg Amusement Park
Visit Liseberg for an exciting day of rides and attractions. The park offers sensory-friendly times and quiet areas for breaks.
Universeum
Explore this science centre with interactive exhibits designed to engage and educate children. This was probably our favourite thing to do in Gothenburg with autistic children. We did it on the last day, we went here and then took the bus from nearby to the airport.
Universeum is like a jungle, but inside. Like a jungle museum zoo. We absolutely loved exploring here.
You can pay for your ticket in advance via GetYourGuide here.
Slottsskogen Park
A beautiful park with playgrounds, a zoo, and plenty of space to run around and relax. When we visited, Gothenburg was so cold that we did not spend a huge amount of time outside unless we were walking and moving to keep warm so we missed this park.
You can book on this tour to Slottsskogen Park and the Botanical Garden with GetYourGuide.
Maritiman Maritime Museum
Explore historic ships and learn about maritime history. The open spaces and interactive displays are great for children and autistic children especially enjoy touching and feeling things so benefit from interactive experiences.
Alfie Atkins’ Cultural Centre
A fun and engaging space for children to play and learn, with a focus on creativity and imagination.
Haga District
Stroll through this charming area with its cobblestone streets, unique shops, and cosy cafes. Early mornings are quieter and more manageable.
You can book a walking tour of the Haga District online with GetYourGuide here.
Botanical Garden
Enjoy the serene environment of the Botanical Garden, with its beautiful plants, flowers, and walking paths.
You can book on this tour to the Botanical Garden and Slottsskogen Park with GetYourGuide.
Archipelago Boat Tour
Take a boat tour of the Gothenburg archipelago. The calm waters and scenic views can be very soothing. Autistic people are very drawn to water so this could be a very positive sensory experience for them.
Book your Archipelago Boat Tour in advance with GetYourGuide here.
Änggårdsbergen Nature Reserve
Explore the trails and natural beauty of this peaceful reserve, perfect for a relaxing outdoor adventure. Definitely a good option for the better weather days in Gothenburg.
Our Favourite Autism-Friendly Activity in Gothenburg
Gothenburg Museum of Natural History
Discover fascinating exhibits about animals, fossils, and the natural world. The museum provides quiet spaces for a more relaxed visit. This was a massive surprise to us, because this museum was totally free to visit! We loved every second here and Travis enjoyed seeing so much in real life up close. Watch some of our visit to the Museum of Natural History in Gothernburg with our autistic son here.
Getting Around Gothenburg With Autistic Children
We literally walked everywhere in Gothenburg, besides the airport which we took a bus to. This was one of the first trips we took our autistic toddler without a stroller and we did end up regretting not bringing it because he refused to walk a lot of the time or got tired. We had no idea he had autism or we would have been more prepared and open minded about the stroller. Our favourite compact travel stroller is the Maxi Cosi Lara 2.
Is Gothenburg Autism-Friendly?
Gothenburg is a relatively autism-friendly city, with a high level of public awareness, inclusive attractions, and a supportive healthcare and education system. The city’s commitment to inclusivity, combined with its accessible public spaces and services, makes it a welcoming destination for individuals with autism and their families.
Things That Make Gothenburg Stand Out
- Gothenburg’s public transportation system, including buses, trams, and ferries, is accessible and increasingly autism-friendly. The city’s public transport authority provides information on accessible routes and services, and many vehicles are equipped with features to assist passengers with special needs. The public transport system is generally less crowded during off-peak hours, making it easier to navigate for individuals with autism.
- Liseberg Amusement Park: Liseberg, one of Scandinavia’s largest amusement parks, offers services for visitors with special needs. The park provides a “Ride Accessibility Pass” for visitors who may need special accommodations, and the staff are trained to assist guests with various disabilities. Visiting during off-peak hours can help avoid large crowds and long lines.
- Universeum Science Center: Universeum, a popular science and nature center, is designed to be educational and engaging for visitors of all ages. It offers a variety of sensory experiences, and the center is equipped to accommodate visitors with special needs, including quieter areas and staff trained in autism awareness.
- Slottsskogen Park: This large urban park offers a relaxing environment with plenty of open spaces, a petting zoo, and playgrounds. It’s a great place for a peaceful outing away from the busy city, with ample space to move around freely.
- Gothenburg Museum of Art: The museum provides a quieter environment that might be suitable for visitors with autism, especially during weekdays when it is less crowded.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need.
- Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
- Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download.
- Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts. Our absolute must have safety item for travelling with an autistic child is a TinyTags wristband or tag that can be tapped or scanned by a mobile phone – giving the person who tapped it all of the information they need to get your child back to you. TinyTags also feature a location alert to help you find your child.
Gothenburg offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to the needs of children with autism. From amusement parks to serene gardens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit and create lasting memories in this beautiful and vibrant city.