Haga New Street and Haga District, Gothenburg (must see)

Haga is one of Gothenburg’s oldest and most beloved historic districts. Established in 1648 by Queen Kristina just outside the original city walls, it began as a working-class neighbourhood of craftsmen, labourers, and sailors. During the 20th century, much of the area faced demolition as part of urban renewal plans, but local opposition helped preserve its unique character. The historic buildings were restored in the 1980s, and today Haga is known for its cobbled, pedestrian-only streets and relaxed, village-like atmosphere.

At the heart of the district lies Haga New Street, the area’s main pedestrian shopping street. Lined with historic homes, independent boutiques, art galleries, craft shops, cafés, and restaurants, it is one of the most charming streets in Gothenburg. Visitors can browse for unique gifts, homewares, antiques, and sweet treats while enjoying a setting that feels pleasantly removed from the age of cars.

Haga New Street is especially famous for its cafés, and it doesn’t wait long to surprise you. Café Husaren can be found on your right just 50 metres from the intersection of Haga New Street and Sprängkullsgatan. Inside the café’s preserved 19th-century storefront is the neighbourhood’s most celebrated culinary landmark. The indoor counters feature mountains of enormous, plate-sized cinnamon buns known locally as hagabullar, serving as the ultimate oversized symbol of the unapologetic indulgence associated with the traditional Swedish fika coffee break.

Next up, rising directly from the street frontage, are the Governor’s Houses. They can be found just a short walk down the cobblestones where the side streets intersect. Looking closely at these unique buildings reveals a ground floor built entirely of solid brick, topped by two upper levels constructed of beautifully crafted wood. This hybrid style was developed because old city regulations strictly banned wooden structures from exceeding two storeys as a fire-safety measure.

The final highlight is the Haga Baths. The moment you enter this historic spa complex, which originally opened in 1876, look inside the main bathing pavilion to find the elegant swimming pool. The interior is decorated with stunning artistic murals and rich ceiling frescoes that immerse bathers in Art Nouveau luxury. The entire complex stands as a masterpiece of late 19th-century civic design. The baths are not located on Haga New Street, however. After admiring the Governor’s Houses, turn right onto the next intersecting side street and walk one short block to reach the parallel street. The building housing the baths is imposing and is easily identified by the flags displaying the word "Hagabadet.''