How long does it take to walk the Beer Mile in Gothenburg?

The walking route itself takes about 30 minutes, but with stops at historic pubs and landmarks, most people spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the area.

Is Andra Långgatan safe at night?

Yes, Andra Långgatan is generally very safe. It is a popular social hub for locals and students, though it can become very crowded and loud on weekend nights.

What is the history of Järntorget?

Järntorget, or 'The Iron Square,' was the historic site for weighing exported iron. It later became the center of the Swedish labor movement and remains a key political and social landmark today.

Can I do this walk during the day?

While you can walk the route during the day to see the architecture, the pubs and 'Beer Mile' atmosphere don't truly come alive until after 4:00 PM.

Are the pubs on Andra Långgatan expensive?

Andra Långgatan is known for being one of the more budget-friendly areas in Gothenburg for a beer, offering a wide range of prices from cheap lagers to premium craft brews.

Is the Beer Mile route accessible for strollers?

Yes, the route follows flat city sidewalks and through open squares like Järntorget, making it very easy to navigate with a stroller.

What makes Ölhallen 7:an special?

Ölhallen 7:an is one of Gothenburg's oldest pubs, dating back to 1900. It is famous for its preserved historic interior and its unique historical status in Sweden's alcohol licensing history.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Gothenburg’s spirit isn’t just found in its historic canals or grand museums; it thrives in the clinking glasses and lively conversations along the legendary 'Beer Mile.' This self-guided walk invites you to explore the heart of the city’s nightlife and the unique cultural identity of the Linné district. Beginning in the historic center and moving toward the gritty, alternative charm of Andra Långgatan, you will discover the evolution of Swedish social life through its most iconic pubs and meeting places. This walking route Gothenburg offers is more than just a pub crawl; it is a journey through the city’s social history, from the traditional beer halls of the 1900s to the modern craft beer revolution. As you begin your self-guided adventure, you will encounter Ölhallen 7:an, a legendary institution that has maintained its character for over a century. From there, the route takes you toward Järntorget, a square steeped in political history and the gateway to the 'Long Streets.' You will experience the distinct personalities of Andra and Tredje Långgatan—streets that mirror the city's transformation from a working-class port to a hub of creativity and nightlife. Whether you are a craft beer aficionado or simply looking to soak in the local atmosphere, this neighborhood stroll provides the perfect framework to explore Gothenburg at your own pace. You can choose to stop for a local brew, browse vintage record shops, or simply enjoy the architectural transition from the city’s stone center to the brick-lined streets of Linné. This walking tour Gothenburg experience is designed for flexibility, allowing you to linger where the vibe suits you best while learning the stories that make these streets the city's most vibrant social artery. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Visit Ölhallen 7:an, one of Gothenburg's oldest and most traditional beer halls

Discover Järntorget, the historic heart of the city's labor movement

Stroll down Andra Långgatan, the epicenter of alternative nightlife

Experience the trendy bars and industrial chic of Tredje Långgatan

Learn about Sweden's unique alcohol laws and pub history

Explore the 'Long Streets' at your own pace with local insights

Tour Stops (6)

Ölhallen 7:an

Welcome to the starting point of your self-guided walk. Ölhallen 7:an is a true Gothenburg institution, standing virtually unchanged since it opened in 1900. For decades, it was famous for being the only place in the city allowed to serve beer without a food requirement—a testament to its status as a dedicated beer hall. As you look at its traditional wooden interior and vintage mirrors, you are seeing a slice of history. It survived the strict temperance movements of the 20th century by maintaining a strictly 'no-nonsense' atmosphere. It remains a place where people from all walks of life gather for a simple, cold lager. Take a moment to appreciate the lack of background music; here, the main soundtrack is the hum of conversation.

Språkcaféet

Moving toward the water, we find Språkcaféet at Esperantoplatsen. This spot represents the modern, international face of Gothenburg. While it serves great coffee and beer, its primary purpose is social connection. It is a 'language cafe' where locals and expats meet to practice different languages. The square itself, Esperantoplatsen, is named after the constructed international language, signaling the area's inclusive and global vibe. This area serves as a bridge between the formal city center and the more bohemian districts ahead. It’s a great example of how Gothenburg repurposes its urban spaces for community and culture rather than just commerce.

Järntorget

You are now standing in Järntorget, or 'The Iron Square.' Historically, this was where iron from the Swedish countryside was weighed before being exported. However, in the 20th century, it became the symbolic heart of the Swedish labor movement. The square is surrounded by the headquarters of many trade unions and the 'Folket Hus' (People's House). Take note of the 'Five Continents' fountain in the center, representing Gothenburg's global shipping reach. Today, Järntorget acts as the gateway to the nightlife district. It's a bustling transit hub where the city's political past meets its energetic, social present. From here, the 'Long Streets' beckon.

Ölstugan Tullen Andra Lång

As you enter Andra Långgatan, you’ll find Ölstugan Tullen. This pub is a key player in the modern revival of the Swedish 'Ölstuga' or beer cottage. The decor pays homage to the early 1900s, but the tap list is strictly contemporary, focusing almost exclusively on Swedish craft breweries. This location is particularly significant as it helped transform Andra Långgatan from a somewhat neglected street into a destination for beer lovers. It balances a cozy, traditional Swedish aesthetic with the neighborhood's unpretentious, slightly rebellious spirit. It's the perfect place to see how local craft culture has integrated into the historic fabric of the Linné district.

Tredje Långgatan

Parallel to the main 'Beer Mile' is Tredje Långgatan, which offers a slightly different flavor. While Andra Lång is known for its dive bars, Tredje Långgatan has seen significant redevelopment in recent years. This street is home to the Auktionsverket Kulturarena, a stunning former auction house turned cultural venue. You’ll notice more wine bars, artisanal pizza spots, and trendy bistros here. It represents the gentrification and culinary expansion of the area. The architecture here is often more industrial and grand, reflecting the warehouses that once served the nearby port. It’s a fascinating contrast to the street you just left, showing the diverse layers of Gothenburg's urban evolution.

Andra Långgatan

You have reached the heart of the 'Beer Mile.' Andra Långgatan is famous throughout Sweden for its concentrated density of bars, record stores, and alternative shops. Historically, this was a rougher part of town, close to the docks and frequented by sailors. Today, that grit has evolved into a fiercely independent spirit. You won't find many large international chains here; instead, the street is lined with local favorites like The Rover or Kelly’s. The atmosphere is famously egalitarian—it's a place where everyone is welcome regardless of status. Note that the vibe changes frequently as new pop-ups and street art appear, keeping the 'Mile' constantly in motion. Enjoy the end of your route by soaking in one of the most authentic neighborhood atmospheres in Scandinavia.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Beer Mile along Andra Långgatan is the definitive self-guided walk for nightlife. It offers a dense concentration of local pubs, craft beer bars, and alternative culture within a flat, walkable mile.