Things To Do
in Malmö
Malmö is Sweden's third-largest city, located in the southern province of Skåne along the Öresund strait. It blends a maritime heritage with bold modern architecture, including the Turning Torso and the revitalized Västra hamnen waterfront. The city is known for its multicultural vibe, lush parks, and a growing culinary scene anchored by Malmö Saluhall.
From the cobblestone lanes of Gamla Väster to bike-friendly streets, Malmö is a compact hub that's easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Malmöhus Castle, a Renaissance fortress that houses several museums. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque park surrounding the castle, taking in the lush greenery and serene atmosphere. Don't forget to capture the stunning views of the moat and the castle's architectural details.
After lunch at a cozy café, stroll through the charming streets of Gamla Staden, Malmö's old town, where you can admire beautifully preserved buildings. Visit the St. Peter’s Church, with its striking brick façade and intricate interior, before exploring the nearby Lilla Torg, a square lined with vibrant restaurants and shops. Spend some time at the Malmö Art Museum, which showcases both contemporary and classic works in a stunning setting.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront area and enjoy a dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the Turning Torso, Sweden's tallest skyscraper. The ambiance is perfect for savoring local seafood dishes while watching the sky change colors over the Öresund Strait. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the tranquil sounds of the water.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, followed by a short bike ride to Ribersborg Beach. The sandy shores and views of the Øresund Strait are ideal for a relaxing morning stroll or a refreshing swim. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze as you settle in for some sunbathing or beach volleyball.
After a morning of beach fun, grab a light lunch at one of the beachside cafés, where you can sample local delicacies. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful waterfront parks, such as Pildammsparken, where you can unwind in the shade of the trees or rent a paddleboat. If you're feeling adventurous, try out stand-up paddleboarding or windsurfing at the beach.
As evening approaches, enjoy a beach BBQ with friends or at designated public grills along the shore. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Wrap up your day by watching a stunning sunset over the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨One-night hotel in mid-range | $90-170 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with excellent transit
- Vibrant food scene and strong waterfront identity
- Prices can be higher than many other Swedish cities
- Weather can be changeable; plan for rain even in summer
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack så mycket" - Thank you very much
- "Ursäkta, kan jag få menyn?" - Excuse me, can I have the menu?
- "Jag skulle vilja beställa..." - I would like to order...
- "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Var ligger närmaste toalett?" - Where is the nearest bathroom?
- "Kan jag få notan, tack?" - Can I have the check, please?
Places to Visit in Malmö
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweden’s tallest skyscraper, best photographed from Lilla Torg or the water at Västra Hamnen, especially at sunset.
Historic fortress grounds with formal gardens and water features, great for timeless landscape shots.
A dramatic harbor district with modern buildings and the iconic bridge; ideal for wide harbor photos and silhouettes.
Historic squares with colorful façades, cobbled streets, and city life photography opportunities.
Long sandy beach with dunes and sea views; fantastic for sunset and texture shots.
Food in Malmö
Malmö Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Malmö staple on rye with shrimp, lettuce, dill, and lemon; beloved at harbor cafés.
Must-Try!
Cured salmon with dill and a tangy mustard sauce, often served with potatoes.
Potato dumplings filled with pork, brushed with butter and served with lingonberries.
Assorted marinated herrings, a classic accompaniment to bread and potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A modern market hall in the city center with fresh seafood, cheeses, produce, and ready-to-eat options.
A lively market district offering global street food, spices, and fresh produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Take a coffee break with friends; it’s a social ritual and a time-honored pause in the day.
Be punctual for appointments; queue patiently; respect personal space and public quiet hours.
Conversations are typically calm and reserved in public; modesty is valued in social interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Malmö
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Sweden, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in busy restaurants if a service charge is not included.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; many places are cashless. ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days (near midsummer) and mild-to-warm weather make outdoor life vibrant. Expect outdoor festivals, harbor life, and plenty of daylight for sightseeing; bring a light jacket for cooler evenings and occasional showers.
Cooler temperatures with colorful parks and harvest markets. Wind can be brisk by the water, so dress in layers.
Cold with shorter daylight hours; Christmas markets and indoor attractions come alive. Pack warm layers, waterproof footwear, and a scarf for windy waterfront walks.
Mild and gradually warming; blossoms in parks and gardens make outdoor activities pleasant. Rain is possible, so carry a compact umbrella.
Malmö at Night
Hiking in Malmö
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A small, accessible forest park near Lund with gentle trails through ancient woodlands.
Dramatic coastal cliffs near Höganäs offering panoramic sea views and varied hiking routes.
Lush forest canyons and scenic trails within reach of Malmö, ideal for longer hikes.
Airports
How to reach Malmö by plane.
Located about 28 km southeast of Malmö; accessible by train or bus; mainly serves domestic and low-cost international flights.
Approximately 25–45 minutes away by direct train across the Öresund Bridge; a major international hub with extensive connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of residents from the Middle East, Balkans, Africa, and beyond, alongside a sizable student population from Malmö University.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Malmö FF is Sweden’s prominent club with a long history and passionate following.
Malmö Redhawks compete in Sweden’s top league and have a strong local fan base.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malmö.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and vegan options are abundant; look for 'vegetariskt' on menus, ask for meat-free alternatives, and enjoy Malmö’s growing plant-based scene.