The Gota Canal creates a shortcut between Göteborg and Stockholm, splitting the distance of 950 km (590 miles) almost in half. Today, only parts of the Gota Canal are used for transportation - it has become a major attraction for 2 million visitors annually instead.
In Swedish, the Gota Canal is called "Göta Kanal". When you take a look at the map of the Gota Canal, you'll see why it is also called "Sweden’s blue ribbon". Activities along this stunning canal include boating, kayaking, and swimming.
As a visitor, you can travel down the Gota Canal on yacht boats yourself, or pick one of the popular Gota Canal cruises available in the summer months. The length of canal cruises offered ranges from 2-7 days depending on the number of nightly stops.
When traveling on the Gota Canal, you receive a Gota Card which gives you access to the facilities of the 18 marinas along the way. It is similar to the Swedish city cards.
Many visitors believe that the Gota Canal leads directly from Stockholm to Gothenburg. This is not true - the cities at the end of the Gota Canal are Sjoberg and Mem. From Mem, for example, it's another 150 miles north to Stockholm.
