Linnégatan is one of my favorite streets to walk in Gothenburg. Stretching from Järntorget toward Slottsskogen, it’s lined with cafés, restaurants, bars, and beautiful late-19th-century buildings.
I’ve walked here many times since moving to Sweden, and what I like most about Linnégatan is how naturally it connects different sides of Gothenburg. You can start among the lively cafés and restaurants around Linné, continue toward quieter residential streets, and eventually find yourself at Slottsskogen.
But Linnégatan is more than a pleasant street for a walk. Behind its name and buildings are some curious stories — involving Sweden’s most famous botanist, a king, and even a devil.
Let me take you for a walk along Linnégatan and show you what makes this part of Gothenburg worth exploring.
Why Is Linnégatan in Gothenburg Named After Carl von Linné?
Linnégatan opened in May 1900 as part of Gothenburg’s expanding Linné district. Designed as a broad, elegant boulevard, the street was named after Carl von Linné, Sweden’s famous botanist and one of the most influential scientists of the 18th century.
Carl von Linné had actually visited Gothenburg long before the street was named after him. In 1746, he passed through the city during his journey through Västergötland. His system for naming and classifying plants and animals later became the foundation of modern biological classification.
Hagabion: Cinema, Café, and Local Life on Linnégatan
An interesting place on the street is the bar-restaurant at Hagabion Art Cinema on Linnégatan 21. Set inside the beautiful Viktoriahuset, it feels much more like a local cultural meeting place than a typical movie theater.
Hagabion has three screening rooms and shows films every evening, seven days a week. Along with its regular program, it hosts special screenings, events, and themed film series.
Right next to the cinema is Hagabion’s Café, formerly known as Kino. It’s a relaxed place to stop for a drink or something to eat, and when the weather is good, the large outdoor terrace is especially nice for sitting and watching Linnégatan go by.
The Devil on Linnégatan and the Legend of King Oscar II
As you continue along Linnégatan, look up at the buildings around numbers 16–26. Among the architectural details, you’ll spot something rather unexpected: a grinning devil’s face staring out from the façade.
There’s a local story behind it, known as “The Devil on Linnégatan.”
According to the legend, King Oscar II had a private apartment nearby, which he used during his visits to Gothenburg and on his way to the island of Marstrand.
The story goes that the king used the apartment for secret meetings with women. A local property owner across the street supposedly disapproved of the king’s behavior and had a devil’s face placed on his own building — positioned so that the king could see it from his window.
Imagine the king opening his curtains in the morning only to find the devil staring straight back at him. What a scene that must have been!
The original building with the devil was demolished in the 1980s, but the face was preserved and incorporated into the new structure. It’s still there today, so remember to look up as you walk along Linnégatan — it’s surprisingly easy to miss.
Best Cafés and Coffee Shops on Linnégatan
Coffee and fika are an essential part of life in Gothenburg, and Linnégatan has plenty of places to stop along the way. From brunch and bagels to a classic Swedish fika, here are a few of my favorite cafés and coffee spots around Linnégatan.
Along Linnégatan, I’d like to share my favorite coffee spots:
Bönor & Bagels, Linnégatan 48
On Linnégatan, you’ll also find a little bagel café Bönor & Bagels run by two brothers and Emmy since 1995. It’s the kind of place where you feel welcome right away, and the bagels are always fresh and full of flavor. People drop by for a quick bite, but it’s just as easy to linger a little longer – especially on a sunny day, when you can sit back and soak up the warmth. They serve great coffee and fresh juices that go really well with the bagels – simple, tasty, and exactly what you want from a neighborhood café.
Brunchoteket, Linnégatan 56
If you’re in the mood for pancakes, avocado toast, or eggs benedict in abundance, Brunchoteket is the place to be. This trendy brunch spot serves à la carte brunch every day, inspired by flavors worldwide. At Brunchoteket, the joy of eating and a great atmosphere are paramount.
With home-baked brioche bread, gluten-free options, and a menu catering to vegetarians and vegans, it’s a delight for all palates. Remember, no reservations are accepted, so it’s first-come, first-served.
Bar Kastello, Landsvägsgatan 38
It’s located right on the corner where Linnégatan meets the street Landsvägsgatan, which takes you straight into the well-known Haga district.
So, if you’re strolling down Linné towards Järntorget and keep your eyes open, you’ll spot an Espresso House on one of the corners. Just to the right of you’ll find Bar Kastello. You really can’t miss it. In the warmer months, the outdoor tables are always full of people enjoying their coffee in the sun.
And you can actually see a clear connection to the US and its rock music culture. I ordered a cortado and loved it – just look at the presentation in the photo; it’s perfect!
Gerd, Linnégatan 7
A charming café, Gerd, that recently celebrated its first anniversary, has brought a fresh burst of energy to the neighborhood.
Known for its home-baked cookies, crafted bean cappuccinos from Gringo, crispy croissants from Campanile, and fluffy egg sandwiches with mayonnaise, chives, and caviar, Gerd is more than the sum of its parts. The friendly owners and loyal regulars contribute to a homely atmosphere that keeps visitors returning.
Final Thoughts on Linnégatan
Linnégatan is much more than one of Gothenburg’s liveliest streets. Between its cafés and restaurants, beautiful architecture, Hagabion, and the curious legend of the devil watching over the street, there’s plenty to discover as you walk from Järntorget toward Slottsskogen.
Take your time, stop for a fika along the way, and remember to look up — some of Linnégatan’s best stories are hiding above street level.
More Things to Do Around Gothenburg
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➡️ Things to Do on Tjörn Island in Summer
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About the author:
Hello and welcome! I’m Victoria, a travel writer and the creator of Best Kyiv Guide. I spent years working as a private tour guide in Kyiv, sharing the city’s history and everyday life with visitors. I now live in Sweden and write about the places I explore firsthand, sharing personal travel experiences, practical tips, and stories from Sweden, the Baltics, and across Europe.