An exceptionally well-attended travel trade event, enabling city break organisers to meet operators and agents, the occasion – held in Sweden for the first time - will serve as yet another spur for the city’s ever-increasing popularity (visit www.citybreakexpo.com).
 
Gothenburg has so much going for it….
 
Geographically, it’s a gem. A harbour city with a cosmopolitan pulse and small town charm, it’s situated in a beautiful region on Sweden’s west coast. It has an archipelago on its doorstep, impressive botanical gardens and parks, a range of fine museums, a culinary call with its burgeoning restaurant scene and Liseberg (Scandinavia’s largest amusement park). And all this less than a two-hour hop away, served by low-fare airlines with regular departures.
 
Greenly, it’s a go. The city has a long-term environmental awareness policy, including an efficient and environmentally friendly public transport system. It’s a breath of fresh air: clean and spacious, with an array of parks, plus the nearby forest and archipelago.
 
Gourmet-wise, it’s the gastronomic gateway to Sweden. Regarded by many as the ‘foodie’ capital of northern Europe, visitors are spoilt for choice with dining options ranging from its five Michelin-starred restaurants to an abundance of cafés and bistros. What’s more, prices in the Michelin-rated venues are cheaper than many of their counterparts in other European cities, and getting a table at short notice is not a problem. Options only a short drive away include savouring a smorgasbord of schnapps, or experiencing a lobster safari: cooking your catch and enjoying a self-sought dinner.
 
Generously is how you’re received as guests. Whether you stay in a sleek, contemporary hotel in central Gothenburg or in a castle or Gothic seaside villa outside the city, you’ll feel welcomed.
 
Going on? There are oodles of occasions all year-round in this leading events city, and its environs. Highlights include:
 
• Gothenburg International Film Festival, January – is Scandinavia’s largest public film festival with 450 films from 67 different countries. A must for all film lovers.

• Fresh Fish, February - is Gothenburg's annual fashion fair and design competition aimed at young local designers. The winners’ items will be on show at Röhsska museum of fashion, design and decorative arts.
  
• UEFA U21 Championship, June – the stars of tomorrow in European football. Group matches and one semi-final are played at the new stadium in Gothenburg.
 
• Gothenburg Culture Festival, August – where dance and theatre are added to the mix of music, activities, open air dance floors, arts and crafts market, and a special kids’ party. All with free admission.
  
• Way out West, August - ranks as one of the twenty best music festivals in Europe, hosting world-class performers. Held in a large beautiful park in the city centre, there are two outdoor stages, an indoor stage, a buzzing festival atmosphere and a number of club nights.
  
• Christmas Market, November to December – the largest Christmas market in Scandinavia, lit by nearly five million glimmering Christmas lights. A huge selection of genuine handicrafts and homemade delicacies are on offer. Through the city centre runs a 3 kilometre Lane of Light showcasing the best of contemporary lighting design.
 
Direct flights to Gothenburg are available with Ryanair from London Stansted, Glasgow Prestwick and Dublin, with SAS from London Heathrow and with City Airline from Manchester and Birmingham.
 
For further information on Gothenburg visit www.goteborg.com. For information on the region, visit www.westsweden.com.