Discover 7 must-visit vintage stores and second-hand gems in Gothenburg

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. While the thrill of finding a rare piece or stumbling across a new designer is rewarding, the knowledge that your shopping spree is sustainable is even better. Any time of year, when your wardrobe needs a refreshing update, look no further than Gothenburg to satisfy your sartorial needs.

Gothenburg, Sweden’s second largest city, is full of rare vintage 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 second-hand boutiques on the west coast of Sweden.

However, finding the vintage and second-hand shops that are true gems can be tough. That's why we've made it easy for you, compiling a list of the best vintage and second-hand stores to seek out when visiting Gothenburg.

Our Swedish obsession with living sustainably coupled with the propensity towards jealousy-inducing outfits is exactly why boutiques such as Aplace have popped up left and right. Yet perhaps no shop can boast the impressive array of luxury designer garments that Aplace does. 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

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 Studios, 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

There's a reason that cool girls across Sweden turn to Humana for their latest finds. From casual tracksuits to rare Prada jackets and boots, Humana has it all. With new curated picks coming in every day, there's no limit to the amount of truly special pieces you will find. With a central location surrounded by great boutiques and restaurants, Humana is decidedly the place to start or end your day out in Gothenburg.

Kaserntorget 6, 411 18 Göteborg