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We bring you the very best travel opportunities in Sweden from the experts with the local knowledge. We have travelled extensively throughout Sweden and want to share our experiences with you.



Göta Kanal (Gota Canal) 2013

Explore Sweden as this unique Swedish cruise takes you between 2 seas, along 3 canals, across 8 glorious lakes and through 66 locks. The Göta Kanal (Gota Canal) may not be the fastest way to travel between Stockholm and Gothenburg but this is certainly one of the most gracious, beautiful and relaxing forms of transport.

3 magnificent ships (M/S Diana, M/S Juno and M/S Wilhelm Tham) dating back to the 1800’s, offer stunning views over the Swedish countryside. Each ship has a meticulously maintained lounge and dining room, offering delicious traditional Swedish meals and a different view each evening. You will be catered for on a full board basis whilst on the ship; breakfast buffet, 2 course lunch and 3 course supper. 
The cabins are small, comfortable and tastefully decorated. Most are fitted with bunk beds (some have double beds) and each has a hand basin; WCs and showers are adjacent in the corridor. As there is plenty to see and do most guests are only in their cabins to sleep. All cabins are above the waterline with a port hole or window. All bridge and shelter deck cabins open on to the deck.
There are several shore excursions included in every cruise and the ship’s guide is never far away to offer their expert advice. Here are some Simply Sweden suggestions and highlights!

  • A quick dip in a warm lake
  • Explore the ancient alleyways and buildings of Vadstena
  • Borrow one of the ships bicycles
  • A casual stroll along the towpath during lockage

You can choose your hotels in Gothenburg and Stockholm however for this holiday we recommend:

Hotel Post - Gothenburg

Opened in January 2012 the Clarion Hotel Post is a modern hotel with prime location in the very centre of Gothenburg. Located in the old post house next to the train / tram / bus station where shops, restaurants, bars and the harbour all easily accessible. Hotel Post boasts 500 rooms, 2 restaurants and 3 bars, a roof terrace / pool and SPA.

Columbus Hotel - Stockholm

An excellent small, personal and award winning hotel located in a listed building from 1780 and on the fashionable island of Södermalm. This is where the locals live! The building was converted into the Columbus Hotel in 1976 and has recently been fully refurnished. Just 10 mins walk from the centrally located Gamla Stan (Old Town) and 2 mins from the nearest underground station at Medborgarplatsen.

Simply Sweden recommendations
Plenty for all tastes and at any time of year. Cosy cafes and bars are plentyful around the Columbus. Our favourites include an archipelago tour, a visit to the Vasa Museum and a walk through the Old Town. There is a nice walk between the Columbus Hotel and the Old Town, taking in views across Stockholm Harbour.

Book / enquire about a Göta Kanal holiday

Göta Kanal (Gota Canal) brief itinerary
(more detailed below)
Day 1

Fly from London to Gothenburg or Stockholm, where you will stay in city centre hotel of your choice. We recommend the Plaza Hotel in Gothenburg and the Columbus Hotel in Stockholm for their proximity to the departure point. Extra nights are available.

Day 2
Boarding begins 1 hour and ends no later than 15 mins prior to departure at 9am for the 6 day tour (10am for the 8 day tour). You will be welcomed aboard by your guide, shown to your cabin and then take coffee in the dining room where you will be able to discuss the seating arrangements for meals during your cruise.

Day 3 to 4 (3 to 6)
Quite simply relax, admire the stunning scenery, enjoy the shore excursions and the mouth watering food this fabulous cruise has to offer!

Day 5 (7)
Arrive in Stockholm or Gothenburg at approximately 1430 (1530 for the 8 day tour). Your hotel is a city centre hotel close to the arrival point of your cruise.

Day 6 (8)
Time to explore before returning to the UK or continuing your Swedish adventure with Simply Sweden

More detailed information regarding prices
The Great Swedish Cruise from £2495 per person
The Classic Swedish Canal Cruise from £1835 per person
From Coast to Coast from £1595 per person

Book / enquire about a Göta Kanal holiday

More detailed itineraries
The Great Swedish Cruise
The Classic Canal Cruise
From Coast to Coast

Göta Kanal Info

Departure dates & prices
2013 departure dates and prices
Cabin Plans
Cabin plans of the M/S Wilhelm Tham, M/S Juno & M/S Diana
A map of the route and some interesting photos

Stockholm Info

Stockholm Hotels
Our hotels recommended hotels in Stockholm

Gothenburg Info

West Sweden Tailor Made
Our hotels across West Sweden - you decide!
Gothenburg Hotels
Our hotels in & around Gothenburg

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Alternative touring holidays across Sweden