7 hidden vintage gems to visit in Gothenburg this weekend

There is nothing quite like the thrill of the vintage clothing hunt. When you finally get your hands on that almost pristine Miu Miu bag or Gucci loafers, it can be so satisfying. Not only can you enjoy the rarity of the piece, but there's the knowledge of knowing it's a responsible and sustainable purchase.

Gothenburg, Sweden’s second largest city, is full of rare sartorial treasures which would get even the most committed fashion fan's heart pumping. Given the popularity of preloved goods, an explosion of vintage shops has provided an impressive roster of secondhand boutiques by the west coast of Sweden.

But finding the real secondhand shopping gems can be tough. That's why we've made it easy for you and have compiled a list of the best shops to seek out and add to your weekend itinerary.

Our Swedish obsession with living sustainably coupled with the propensity towards jealousy-inducing outfits is exactly why boutiques such as Aplace has come into fruition. Boasting an impressive array of luxury designer garments, this vintage shop is the place to visit if you want to invest in a lifelong piece that will truly stand the test of time.

Magasinsgatan 20, 411 18 Göteborg

Sweden’s century-old department store Nordiska Kompaniet has long been the sartorial crown jewel in Scandinavia, historically known for creating impressive couture for A-listers and offering the most exclusive brands, both from the Nordics and internationally. Now, the iconic retailer has opened its warm embrace to the vintage market, hosting an envy-inducing mix of vintage designer clothes – from near-mint Gucci Jackie bags to Chanel sunglasses.

Teatergatan 30, 411 35 Göteborg

With its first store opening in East London over two decades ago, Beyond Retro has swiftly become one of the most popular second hand boutiques in the Nordics. Boasting several gem-filled shops sprinkled across Scandinavia, this extensive store is an Aladdin’s cave for every vintage enthusiast – offering an eclectic mix of items from decades past. Here, you can dive back into the '70s with flare jeans and flower shirts to the hip '90s with low-waist jeans and tank tops.

Arkaden 7, 411 07 Göteborg

Nestled right in the heart of Gothenburg sits Broadway and Sons, a unique vintage boutique that differs greatly from your usual thrifting nest. Here, you can graze countless piles of military surplus, exactly what many a sartorial aficionado might be on the hunt for. It also offers an impressive assortment of vintage jeans. Plus, their stock of perfectly worn Levis 501s is well worth looking in on.

Korsgatan 7, 411 16 Göteborg

Located just a stone's throw away from Broadway and Sons is the must-visit thrift shop Miss Ragtime. Located in a cosy corner of Magasinsgatan, one of Gothenburg’s trendiest thoroughfares, this choice spot houses an array of Scandi designers, from Rabens Saloner, Stine Goya to Stand Studio, Munthe and Baum Und Pferdgarten.

Magasinsgatan 15, 411 17 Göteborg

Situated on the main strip of Gothenburg’s famous cultural hub Järntorget – home to a host of different thrift shops – Arkivet reads like a dream closet. It's full to the brim with some of our favourites, such as Acne, Toteme and Ganni, in a clean, minimalist-style environment. Some pieces are from the last couple of seasons, others are older – whatever your flavour, you’re unlikely to leave here without something.

Järntorget 4, 413 04 Göteborg

Find the crème de la crème of luxury consignment at Exklusiv – an elegant boutique hidden behind Gothenburg’s main buzzing boulevard Avenyn. Come for the icons (the Hermès scarves and vintage Louis Vuitton) and stay for the real showpieces – a velvet Gucci Marmont shoulder bag or a mustard yellow Giambattista Valli suede coat, for instance. Whatever is on your shopping list – this is the place to peruse if you’re on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind vintage piece.

Teatergatan 17, 411 35 Göteborg