Top 10 Best Things to do in Malmö (Sweden)

Looking for the top things to do in Mälmö? Read more and find out all the cool things you can do in this beautiful city!

The third-largest city in Sweden, Malmö is a multicultural pot in Europe. Sweden has connected to Denmark thanks to its Øresund Bridge, just a quick drive from the city center. It is situated in proximity to the continent thanks to its diverse population.

Despite modern appeal to the world, Malmö retains its old-world charm dating back to the 13th century. It is a city which is full of history.

Malmö was a Danish city until the 16th century as it is well connected to Copenhagen thanks to its iconic bridge. It played a vital role as a trading port. Hence, it has the Dutch feel in the architecture of its crow-stepped and curved gables.

Related: Day trips from Copenhagen

Some of the best places to visit in Malmö are the high-spirited old town squares, Stortorget, and Lilla Torg. These are highly photogenic and car-free attractions for Malmö sightseeing.

The official seat of Danish rulers, the castle hosts a range of museums, and its grounds serve as verdant gardens beside canals and moats. It is as green as you would like to visit.

So, without further ado, let us explore some of the top things to do in Malmö.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

Where to stay in Mälmö

Tours to do in Mälmö

Experiences and top things to do in Malmö

Malmö Castle

As you step foot onto the grounds of Malmö Castle, you can feel the rich history of the towering fortress encompassing you. The citadel, originally built by Erik of Pomerania in 1434, boasts walls that still exist to this day – remnants of a time long passed. During The Count’s Feud, citizens of Malmö ravaged the castle, tearing down its walls and merging it with the town. However, the fortitude of the fortress helped it withstand the test of time, and in 1607, Christian IV added an elegant storehouse with Dutch Renaissance gables to the castle.

Yet, the castle’s true resilience was proven during the 1658 Swedish modernization, where a Dutch-inspired defense system was implemented, and in 1675, it held strong during a Danish siege. Sadly, time caught up with the castle and by the early 1800s, it served as nothing more but a granary and an arsenal for the Swedish army, and from 1828 until 1909, it became a prison.

Thankfully, this Renaissance-style castle regained its former glory in the 1930s through a meticulous restoration effort, and now you have the opportunity to witness the grandeur that once was. As you wander through the halls of the museum, you’ll marvel at the intricate detail that adorned the walls and ceilings of this historic fortress, transporting you back to a time of royal courts and sieges. This museum is not just a collection of artifacts but an experience you won’t want to miss. So come, immerse yourself in the captivating story of Malmö Castle, and let the fortress and its rich history enchant you.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

Øresund Bridge

The size of the resund Bridge immediately stands out when you get closer to it. The bridge looms over the resund like a huge snake, its steel cables shining in the sun. The realization that you are about to cross one of the world’s most famous engineering feats fills you with a thrill of anticipation.

The scenery along the coast is so stunning that it will take your breath away when you cross the bridge. Denmark‘s pastoral hills, complete with farms and windmills, may be seen off to one side. On the other, Sweden’s craggy shoreline with its cliffs and secret bays beckons.

You can feel the bridge’s significance as you walk across it. It’s more than simply a road; it’s a physical representation of the solidarity and cross-border ties that characterize the Nordic region. As you cross the border from Denmark into Sweden, you can’t help but experience a surge of liberation and possibility.

The Oresund Bridge, however, is also a demonstration of human creativity and technical mastery. The bridge incorporates a tunnel, making it both a tunnel and a rail/road bridge. Moving through the ocean while floating above the waves gives the impression of ease.

The feeling of awe and wonder that comes when you cross over is palpable. The resund Bridge is more than a simple passage from one location to another; it is also a link between the past, the present, and the future. You consider yourself very fortunate to have had this opportunity.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

Turning Torso Tower

The Turning Torso in Malmö is a stunning and innovative structure that commands attention from far and wide. The tallest building in not just Sweden, but the entire Nordic region, this residential tower was created by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. For good reason, too; it’s an outstanding example of contemporary engineering.

The Turning Torso gets its name from the building’s unique, twisted appearance as seen from afar. It’s as if the whole building is a dynamic, ever-evolving work of art that responds to your changing perspective. The tower’s central steel spine connects its nine distinct portions, giving it strength against the winds that batter its sides.

But the Turning Torso is more than just a gorgeous face; it is also a practical, environmentally friendly home meant to improve its inhabitants’ quality of life. Solar panels help power the building’s lights and heat, for example, as part of the cutting-edge technology used to lessen the structure’s negative effect on the natural environment. The Turning Torso is well placed in the middle of Malmö’s Western Harbor district, providing its residents with convenient access to all the city has to offer.

A trip to the Turning Torso should be on the itinerary of anyone who considers themselves a “architecture nerd,” “modern design enthusiast,” or “appreciator of the finer things in life.” It’s an unforgettable structure that can’t be compared to anything else.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

Indulge in Swedish Cusine

You’ve arrived in Malmö, Sweden’s exciting and culinary-rich second city. Get your taste buds ready for a trip of a lifetime, one that will take you from the stalls of a lively market to the finest tables at Michelin-starred establishments.

The city’s streets are lined with restaurants serving dishes from all over the world. Try the unusual Scandinavian herbs and spices in dishes made with game meat, or the crisp Swedish rye bread and creamy herring salad. Perhaps you’re feeling daring and want to sample the local specialty, surströmming (fermented Baltic Sea herring). Please be aware that this may not be to your liking.

But don’t let that deter you from trying one of the city’s many fantastic vegan eateries. Because of the city’s reputation for supporting vegetarian and vegan diets, there is an abundance of fantastic vegan options to choose from. You won’t be let down if you’re a vegan or just seeking for some tasty alternatives to meat.

And let’s not overlook the thriving street food sector in Malmö. Follow your nose as you make your way through the maze of alleys that make up the city’s food markets, and you might end up with some freshly made falafel or Swedish meatballs. You only need to try some street cuisine in Malmö to realize why it has become so integral to the city’s identity.

It’s overwhelming to have so many potential paths to take. But that’s part of the thrill! Allow your taste buds to lead you through the varied cuisines available in Malmö. This is a heaven for foodies, with options ranging from fine restaurants to quick bites to eat on the go.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

The People’s Park – Folkets Park

As you step foot into Folkets Park in Malmö, you can feel the history and community spirit that this landmark exudes. You can hear the joyful screams of children playing on the colorful playground while their parents relax on the grassy field, soaking up the warm Swedish sun.

But the park isn’t all about entertainment – it’s also a hot spot for exercising and relaxing. With a variety of outdoor fitness equipment scattered throughout the park, you can break a sweat while enjoying the fresh air and natural surroundings. Or if you prefer to take it slow, you can simply kick back on one of the many benches and read a book, taking in the sights and sounds around you.

Throughout the years, Folkets Park has undergone multiple transformations but its essence as a park for the people has remained the same. It’s a melting pot of cultures and a symbol of unity, where everyone is welcome to come together and enjoy all that this vibrant community has to offer.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

Katrinetorp Country House

Just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of Malmö’s city center, Katrinetorp Country House is an oasis of peace and beauty. The beautiful manor home was built in the 19th century, and it is now part of a large English park where the fresh aroma of roses floats through the air.

A visual feast awaits you as you explore the grounds: the elaborate Baroque-style manor garden is a photographer’s dream, and the carefully tended kitchen garden will motivate even the most inexperienced gardener. The estate also features a modest restaurant, an antique shop, and a well-lit garden shop stocked with all sorts of plant-related goodies in case you get tired of being surrounded by nature.

Katrinetorp is the place to go if you’re looking for a venue that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Rooms in the manor house can be rented for events such as business meetings, conventions, weddings, and family reunions; after all, who wouldn’t want to say “I do” in front of such a picturesque setting?

The estate also plays host to numerous lively markets and musical evenings throughout the year, exhibiting the finest in regional art, music, and gastronomy. But the yearly Christmas market is especially well-liked since it transforms into a winter wonderland when the lights are lit and the glögg begins to flow.

Invigorated, inspired, and in awe of the magnificent natural and cultural wonders Sweden has to offer, a visit to Katrinetorp Country House is an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling all of the above.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

St. Peter’s Church (Sankt Petri Kyrka)

As you approach the heart of Malmö, your eyes are drawn to the striking Brick Gothic architecture of Saint Peter’s Church. Stepping inside this awe-inspiring sanctuary, you’re instantly enveloped by a sense of calm and serenity amidst the bustling culture and commerce of the city.

Dating back to the 14th century, St. Petri’s is a true masterpiece of Gothic design, and the main Gothic monument within church architecture in Skåne. Its stunning stained glass windows and elaborate vaulted ceilings are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of bygone eras.

Yet, this magnificent church is more than just a piece of history frozen in time. Here, tradition and renewal mingle beautifully, reflecting a vibrant community of faith in everyday life and on holidays. From somber funeral services to joyous Christmas celebrations, the church remains a vital part of the city’s cultural fabric.

Exploring the church’s nooks and crannies, you can’t help but feel a sense of reverence and wonder at the centuries of worship that have taken place within these walls. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a curious traveler seeking spiritual solace, St. Petri’s offers an unforgettable experience that speaks to the very soul of Malmö.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

Museum of Modernism (Moderna Museet)

The Moderna Museet is a haven of peace away from the busy streets of Malmö. A remarkable collection of modern and contemporary art, meticulously organized and displayed, now resides in the former power plant.

The incredible range of artworks on show as you go around the galleries will astound you. There’s something for every kind of art enthusiast here, from timeless paintings and sculpture to interactive installations and provocative videos. Bengt Lindström’s abstract paintings capture your attention, and you find yourself staring at their vivid colors and complex details for quite some time.

Some of Sweden’s most well-known painters, such as Olafur Eliasson and Sigrid Hjertén, are represented in the museum’s extensive collection. Not only that, but it also features works by world-famous artists including Yoko Ono, George Condo, and Damien Hirst.

After taking in the exhibits, wander the museum store for a chance to purchase some mementos or souvenirs. Before heading back out into the bustle of the city, you take a moment to unwind with a cup of coffee and a sweet pastry in the museum’s café.

The Moderna Museet in Malmö is an incredibly moving place to see. Here, you can take refuge from the chaos of the outer world in the splendor and originality of modern art.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

Visit the Slottsträdgarden and Kungsparken City Parks

Slottsträdgarden and Kungsparken City Parks are two of the most beautiful places in all of Malmö. The grounds are centuries old, and as you walk about them, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a time of kings and queens.

The stunning cast-iron fountain, built in 1882, is one of the park’s most popular features. It’s proof positive of the high quality craftsmanship that existed in the past. Watching the water dance in the fountain will leave you feeling captivated.

You’ll come across a mystery cave, previously a major attraction in the park, as you wander around. Many legends and rumors have grown up around the cave, adding to its aura of mystery. Anyone with a thirst for exploration and curiosity should go.

Visit the elegant Park restaurant, which has been lovingly rebuilt and is now home to the Casino Cosmopol, before you check out. It is a beautiful building that exemplifies the splendor that was once widespread throughout Malmö.

In conclusion, while in Malmö, you absolutely must check out the city parks of Slottsträdgarden and Kungsparken. Its fascinating past and stunning landscape will leave you spellbound. It’s the city’s hidden jewel and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

Enjoy Swedish Fika

Everyone who visits Malmö, Sweden, should try their hand at the Swedish tradition of fika. This is no average coffee break; rather, it’s an opportunity to learn about Swedish culture.

Envision yourself strolling around Malmö’s historic streets, where you can take in the sights and sounds of the city while enjoying the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. In your search for the ideal location, you find Espresso House, a charming cafe ideal for a fika break.

Fika in Malmö is not limited to coffee and pastries, but is a cultural experience in and of itself. It’s all about experiencing Swedish culture firsthand, where free time is highly valued and chatting over coffee is treated as a religious ritual.

Finding the ideal cafe in which to enjoy your fika is crucial, given the abundance of options. And Espresso House in Malmö is the place to go for a one-of-a-kind, genuine experience.

Indulge in a delightful fika the next time you’re in Malmö, and don’t forget to bring home a little bit of Swedish tradition.

Where to stay in Mälmö? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link!

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting!

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