Things To Do
in Malmö

Malmö is a vibrant coastal city located in southern Sweden, known for its diverse population and rich cultural scene. The city boasts unique modern architecture mixed with historic buildings, such as Malmö Castle and St. Peter's Church. With a strong focus on sustainability, Malmö is often recognized as one of the greenest cities in Europe.

Visitors can enjoy beautiful parks, scenic waterfront views, and a variety of museums and galleries showcasing local and international art.

  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Förlåt" - Sorry
  • "Ja" - Yes
  • "Nej" - No

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
  • Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $75

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Malm Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Malmö's iconic Turning Torso. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café while taking in the stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through Malmö's picturesque parks, including Kungsparken. Lunch at a local eatery, then explore the Malmö Art Gallery to discover contemporary art.

evening
:

Finish your day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Take a relaxing walk along the canal to admire the illuminated city.

day 2
Historical Malm
morning
:

Explore the historic Malmöhus Castle and learn about the city's rich history. The surrounding park is perfect for a morning stroll.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Malmö City Hall for its renaissance architecture. Enjoy lunch at a quaint café in the old town and take some time to wander the charming streets.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Swedish restaurant to savor local dishes. Join a guided evening tour to hear fascinating stories about the city’s past.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals and events
  • Beautiful green spaces and parks, providing a high quality of life
  • Strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives
  • Diverse population and an inclusive atmosphere
  • Good public transportation network and bike-friendly infrastructure
  • High cost of living, particularly for housing
  • Limited job market in certain sectors compared to larger cities
  • Weather can be gloomy and rainy, particularly in winter
  • Some areas may have higher crime rates than desired
  • Public services may be stretched during peak times due to population growth

Best Activities in Malmö

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Ribersborg Beach

Relax on the sandy beach, swim in the sea, and take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.

Pildammsparken

Enjoy picnics, cycling, and jogging in this beautiful park with its expansive green spaces and water features.

Kungsparken

Explore the landscaped gardens, historic buildings, and peaceful pathways perfect for a leisurely walk or a serene afternoon.

Tours

Uncover the best of Malmö with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Malmö

Visit one of these nice places.

Turning Torso

A modern residential skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.

Malmö City Hall

Provides a stunning view of the city and is an excellent spot for photography, particularly at sunset.

Slottsträdgården

The beautiful gardens surrounding Malmöhus Castle offer picturesque views and photo opportunities.

Food in Malmö

Malmö's cuisine embodies the rich diversity of Swedish and international flavors, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a strong influence from its multicultural population. From traditional Swedish delights to global gastronomic experiences, the city's food and drink scene is a true delight for culinary enthusiasts.

Malmö Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Smörrebröd

Open-faced sandwiches with a variety of toppings such as pickled herring, shrimp, and roast beef. Try at Malmö Saluhall or Slagthuset Market.

Must-Try!

Kanelbulle

Cinnamon buns that are a staple of Swedish fika (coffee break). Head to Lilla Kafferosteriet for a delectable kanelbulle experience.

Raggmunk

Crispy potato pancakes often served with lingonberries and bacon. Savour the authentic raggmunk at Kockeriet or Sankt Markus Vinkällare.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Malmö better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Malmö Saluhall

A historic food market offering a wide array of local produce, artisanal cheeses, fresh seafood, and gourmet street food. Don't miss the falafel at Falafel & Burgers or the Swedish meatballs at Meatballs for the People.

Möllevångstorget Market

Explore this vibrant outdoor market featuring global street food stalls, organic produce, and multicultural flavors. Sample the vegan delights at the Green Kitchen or the Thai noodles at Tössebageriet Food Truck.

Weather

Located in southern Sweden, this city experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild summers and relatively cold winters. Average summer temperatures typically range from 17°C to 24°C (63°F to 75°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F). Rainfall occurs throughout the year, with a slight peak in late summer and autumn. The city enjoys long daylight hours in the summer months, contributing to the pleasant outdoor lifestyle, while winter days are much shorter, with limited sunlight. The proximity to the Øresund Strait influences weather patterns, often bringing breezy conditions. Snowfall can occur in winter, but accumulation is usually modest. Overall, the climate is marked by distinct seasonal variations, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

In Malmö, it is important to respect personal space and not stand too close to others, particularly when conversing or waiting in lines. Swedes value their personal space and may feel uncomfortable if it is invaded.

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly regarded in Malmö. It is important to arrive on time for social gatherings, appointments, and meetings as being late may be considered disrespectful.

Gender Equality

Gender equality is a fundamental aspect of Swedish culture, and it is important to treat people of all genders with equal respect and consideration.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Malmö with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this city is generally considered to be quite high, with low levels of violent crime reported. The community benefits from a well-organized police force that actively engages in preventative measures. Residents often feel secure wandering around at all hours, although like any urban area, certain neighborhoods may experience higher crime rates than others. Public transportation is reliable and largely safe, contributing to a sense of security for daily commuters. However, it's always advisable to remain aware of one’s surroundings, particularly at night or in less populated areas. Local authorities emphasize safety through community initiatives, and there are numerous programs aimed at fostering cooperation between citizens and law enforcement. While the city does face challenges related to petty crime, such as pickpocketing, these occurrences are infrequent. In terms of emergency services, they are efficient and responsive, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors alike. Overall, while no place is entirely devoid of risks, this city stands out for its low crime rates and proactive community safety measures.

Tipping in Malmö

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Malmö, tipping is not mandatory and is generally not expected in restaurants, cafes, or bars. However, it is appreciated if you receive exceptional service, and a small tip of 5-10% is considered polite in such cases.

Payment

Cashless payment methods such as credit/debit cards and mobile payment apps are widely accepted in Malmö. It is rare for establishments to accept only cash, so it is convenient for visitors to rely on electronic payments during their stay in Malmö.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Malmö.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Malmö as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and parks start to get green. The weather is mild and it's a good time to explore the city on foot or by bike.

Summer

Summer is peak tourist season in Malmö with longer days and pleasant weather. The city hosts many outdoor events, festivals, and concerts during this time. The beaches are also popular for sunbathing and swimming.

Autumn

Autumn is a beautiful season in Malmö as the leaves start to change colors, creating a picturesque setting. The city is less crowded, and it's a good time to enjoy cultural events and visit the local markets.

Winter

Winter in Malmö is cold and can be quite dark, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy traditional Christmas markets, ice-skating, and cozy cafes offering warm drinks.

Malmö at Night

Nightlife in Malmö offers a vibrant and diverse experience that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The city boasts an array of trendy bars, lively clubs, and cozy pubs that keep the atmosphere buzzing well into the early hours. Lilla Torg, a popular square in the heart of the city, serves as a central hub for nightlife, with its numerous outdoor terraces and charming cafés. Here, you can enjoy a laid-back evening with friends or immerse yourself in the electrifying energy of the crowd. For those who prefer a more elegant setting, Malmö features several sophisticated cocktail bars where expert mixologists craft innovative drinks. The city's music scene is equally impressive, with live performances ranging from jazz and indie rock to electronic and hip-hop. Venues like KB (Kulturbolaget) and Moriska Paviljongen host a variety of concerts and club nights, ensuring there’s always something happening for music enthusiasts. In addition to its vibrant bar and club scene, Malmö also offers cultural nightspots such as intimate theaters, art galleries, and film screenings, providing a well-rounded nightlife experience. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink, Malmö's nightlife scene has something to offer everyone.

Hiking in Malmö

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Söderåsen

A beautiful nature reserve with a variety of hiking trails, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and rich flora and fauna.

Kullaberg Nature Reserve

Located a bit farther from Malmö, this area offers dramatic coastal cliffs, lush forests, and numerous trails suitable for hiking, with views of the Öresund Strait.

Bjärred Beach

A great spot for a leisurely hike along the coastline, this area features well-maintained trails with views of the sea and nearby beach areas.

Skåneleden Trail

A long-distance trail that runs through various regions of Skåne, offering segments that are accessible from Malmö, ideal for both short and long hikes.

Dalby Söderskog National Park

A serene national park with hiking paths through ancient forests, rolling hills, and opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Malmö through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Malmö by plane.

Copenhagen Airport (CPH)

Located in Kastrup, Denmark, this is the largest airport in the Nordic countries, situated about 30 kilometers from Malmö, accessible via train.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)

Sweden's largest airport located about 600 kilometers north of Malmö, serving as a major international gateway to Sweden and the rest of Scandinavia.

Göteborg Landvetter Airport (GOT)

Located about 250 kilometers north of Malmö, it is the second-largest airport in Sweden, servicing domestic and international flights.

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)

Located approximately 800 kilometers from Malmö, it is the main international airport in Finland and a hub for flights to and from Europe and Asia.

Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL)

Situated around 500 kilometers from Malmö, it is Norway's main airport and serves as a key international travel hub.

Walkability

In recent years, many urban areas have prioritized walkability as a key component of city planning, and this trend is evident in a picturesque city known for its sustainability efforts and vibrant urban design. The city features pedestrian-friendly streets, well-maintained sidewalks, and ample green spaces that encourage residents and visitors to explore on foot. A carefully designed public transportation system complements the walkable environment, providing easy access to various neighborhoods and attractions without relying solely on cars. Key areas often highlight pedestrian streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, creating lively atmospheres that invite social interaction. Biking infrastructure is also integrated into the urban landscape, promoting a car-free lifestyle alongside walking. Parks and public squares create inviting spaces for relaxation, and the availability of amenities within walking distance enhances the convenience of daily life. Overall, this city's commitment to walkability reflects its broader goals of sustainability, livability, and community engagement, making it an appealing place for those who appreciate a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Swedes

The ethnic and cultural majority in Malmö, consisting of people who identify as Swedish by nationality and heritage.

Immigrants from the Middle East

A significant demographic group in Malmö, particularly from countries such as Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon.

Immigrants from Eastern Europe

Includes individuals from Poland, the Baltic states, and other Eastern European countries, contributing to the diversity of the city.

Somali Community

A notable community primarily consisting of individuals from Somalia, which has established a strong cultural presence in Malmö.

North African Community

Includes individuals from countries such as Morocco and Algeria, contributing to the multicultural landscape.

South Asian Community

Comprises individuals from countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, adding to the demographic diversity.

Other immigrant groups

Includes smaller communities from various parts of the world, reflecting Malmö's status as a multicultural city.

The Soul of Malmö

Discover the essence of Malmö through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Malmö, with the city being home to the well-known Malmö FF football club, which has a rich history and a strong following.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is also highly popular in Malmö, with teams like Malmö Redhawks competing in the Swedish Hockey League, attracting significant local support.

Handball

Handball enjoys popularity in Malmö, with local clubs participating in various national leagues and tournaments.

Basketball

Basketball is growing in popularity, with several clubs and youth teams contributing to the sport's presence in the city.

Running

Running is a popular activity, with many local parks and scenic routes for running enthusiasts, as well as several organized races throughout the year.

Cycling

Cycling is a common sport and mode of transport in Malmö, promoted by the city's infrastructure and cycling-friendly policies.

Traffic

In this dynamic city, traffic is characterized by a blend of urban infrastructure and sustainable transportation options. The layout features well-maintained roads and a robust public transport system, including buses and trains that provide efficient connectivity. Cycling is particularly popular, supported by extensive bike lanes that encourage eco-friendly commuting. During peak hours, especially in the mornings and evenings, traffic congestion can occur, particularly along major thoroughfares. However, the city’s commitment to promoting walking and cycling helps to alleviate some vehicular traffic. Additionally, Malmö has implemented several green initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality, such as promoting car-sharing services and enhancing public transport accessibility. Overall, the traffic culture here leans towards sustainability while catering to the needs of a growing urban population.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Malmö.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Malmö boasts numerous eateries catering to vegetarians and vegans. Standouts include Govindas Vegetariska, offering flavorful vegetarian buffets, and Veganbar, renowned for its plant-based burgers and desserts.

Gluten-Free Dining

Those seeking gluten-free options will find welcoming choices at places like RizRaz, known for its gluten-free pastries, and Saluhallen Glutenfritt, where an array of gluten-free products are available.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Malmö with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the region is characterized by a publicly funded system that provides comprehensive services to residents. The system is designed to offer accessible medical care, focusing on preventive measures and the treatment of various health conditions. In Malmö, healthcare services are managed by the Skåne Regional Council, which oversees hospitals, primary care centers, and specialized clinics. The central facility is Skåne University Hospital, which provides a wide range of specialized medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity services. Primary care is delivered through a network of health centers that are designed to be easily accessible to all residents. These centers offer services from general practitioners, nurses, and specialists, emphasizing continuity of care and coordination among healthcare providers. Malmö also benefits from investments in mental health services, with various programs aimed at providing support and treatment for mental health issues. The city also focuses on integrating services for vulnerable populations, ensuring that everyone has access to necessary healthcare regardless of their circumstances. Additionally, there's a growing emphasis on digital healthcare services, enabling patients to access consultations and health information online, which enhances convenience and efficiency in the delivery of care. Overall, the healthcare system in the region aims to prioritize public health and well-being, with a strong commitment to ensuring high-quality care for all residents.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2024 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide