A lovely city escape
Having lived in Copenhagen all our lives, we’ve been crossing the Øresund to Malmö for years.
It’s incredibly easy to get there and, in less than an hour, you can swap Denmark for Sweden and a completely different atmosphere.
In fact, one of our very first dates was actually a day trip to Malmö!
Over the years, we’ve visited in every season and always found something to love, whether it’s the cosy cafés and Christmas markets in winter, the lively squares in summer or simply the relaxed pace of life.
For this Malmö travel guide, we partnered with Malmö Tourism and stayed for a full weekend for the very first time, which gave us even more time to explore the city’s charming streets, historic buildings, green parks and great food scene.
We’ve visited several times since and always update this guide with new tips and more things to do around the city.
If you’re looking for inspiration on things to do in Malmö, you’ve come to the right place.
In this Malmö guide, we’ll share all of our favourite spots and experiences in one of Sweden’s most underrated cities.
We hope you will enjoy the city as much as we do.
Where to stay in Malmö?
- Budget: HOTEL N Hostel Malmö City – Centrally located hotel/hostel where you can choose between a double bed or a bunk bed if you want to save even more money.
- Value for money: Best Western Plus Hotel Noble House – Where we’ve stayed ourselves. A quirky, characterful spot with a gym and sauna in our favourite pocket of the old town.
- Luxury: MJ’s – Colourful and exclusive rooms in a cosy hotel near Lilla Torg.
Search for the best hotels in Malmö here.
Table of contents
Why visit Malmö
So, what to do in Malmö? Quite a lot, as it turns out.
The city is much smaller than Copenhagen or Stockholm, but don’t let that fool you – it’s every bit as cute and cosy while still being packed with cool things to do.
Old cobblestoned walking streets and canals make Malmö such a lovely city to stroll around in and because it’s so compact, it’s easy to walk everywhere.
Within a small area, you can visit churches, squares with food stalls, parks, shopping centres, a fortress, one of the tallest skyscraper in Scandinavia and even a wonderful beach.
The eco-friendly city is filled with great food, lots of vegan options, hipster cafés with specialty coffee and cheap falafel stands.
We promise you, there are a lot of things to see in Malmö for both couples, groups of friends and families travelling with children.
What to see and do on a day trip to Lund, Sweden + how to get there
Read moreMap
Malmö is the third-largest city in Sweden after Stockholm and Gothenburg.
It’s located in the southwestern part of Scania county (Skåne län in Swedish) – very close to the Danish capital, Copenhagen (yay, our hometown!).
Best things to do in Malmö
Whether you’re looking for the best things to do in Malmö on a weekend break from Copenhagen, or you’re after a full Malmö travel guide for a longer stay, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are our favourite things to do in Malmö:
- Gamla Staden
- Stortorget
- Lilla Torg
- Gustav Adolfs Torg
- Sankt Petri Kyrka
- Västra Hamnen
- Turning Torso
- Malmö Old Lighthouse
- Kungsparken
- Slottsparken
- Malmö City Library
- Slottsmöllan
- Slottsträdgården
- Malmöhus Castle
- Ebba’s House
- Ribersborg Beach
- Ribersborgs Kallbadhus
- Pildammsparken
- Folkets Park
- Möllevångstorget
- Malmö Saluhall
1. Gamla Staden
Gamla Staden (meaning “the Old Town”) is easily one of the most picturesque parts of Malmö and a place you’ll almost certainly wander through during your trip.
The area is split into two neighbourhoods: Gamla Väster in the west and the Caroli Quarter in the east.
Gamla Väster is the most well-preserved of the two, with cobbled streets, colourful historic houses and quiet little alleyways that feel made for slow strolls and coffee breaks.
This part of the city is packed with beautiful architecture, cosy courtyards, independent shops, two shopping centres and four beautiful squares.
It’s also home to several historic landmarks, including two impressive old churches and centuries-old buildings that remind you just how long Malmö has been an important trading city.
If you’re wondering what to see in Malmö beyond the modern waterfront, Gamla Staden is the perfect place to start.
It’s compact, walkable and full of character, which is one of the reasons we always end up back here whenever we visit.
2. Stortorget
Stortorget literally means “the Big Square” and, true to its name, it’s Malmö’s largest and most famous square.
Surrounded by grand historic buildings, it has been the heart of the city since the 1500s and is one of the classic things to do in Malmö if you’re visiting for the first time.
One of the standout buildings here is Malmö’s striking old City Hall, originally built in the 16th century and later redesigned in Dutch Renaissance style.
In the middle of the square, you’ll spot the large equestrian statue of King Karl X Gustav, the Swedish king who conquered Scania from Denmark in the 17th century.
As Danes, we have slightly mixed feelings about that one…
Another detail is the pretty Apoteket Lejonet – the historic pharmacy building with its ornate facade and old-fashioned sign.
If you arrive by train from Copenhagen, Stortorget is usually the first major square you’ll reach after leaving Malmö Central Station.
Everything you need to know about Helsingborg in Sweden, including what to do, where to stay and our best tips
Read more3. Lilla Torg
Just around the corner from Stortorget, you’ll find Lilla Torg (“the Little Square”), which is Malmö’s smaller and arguably more atmospheric square.
This is one of our favourite spots in the city, and somewhere we almost always end up at least once during a visit.
The square is lined with colourful half-timbered houses, cosy cafés and restaurants that are packed on sunny days.
Despite its central location, Lilla Torg somehow manages to feel intimate and relaxed.
In winter, fairy lights and heaters make it extra cosy, while summer evenings here have a wonderfully lively atmosphere.
If you’re wondering what to do in Malmö beyond the main sights, Lilla Torg is the perfect place to slow down with a coffee, a drink or simply a nice break from sightseeing.
4. Gustav Adolfs Torg
Just south of Stortorget and Lilla Torg, Gustav Adolfs Torg is another of Malmö’s main squares and a busy meeting point in the city centre.
The square often hosts small market stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers.
It’s less touristy than some of the other central squares and feels a bit more like everyday Malmö.
One of the most interesting buildings here is the former Malmö Theatre. While the original theatre no longer exists, its elegant neoclassical facade was preserved and now forms part of a (Swedish) H&M store, which is a slightly unexpected but rather clever reuse of the historic building.
When writing this Malmö guide, we stayed at Best Western Plus Hotel Noble House (adlink), located right on the square.
The location was excellent for exploring the city on foot, with most of the best things to do in Malmö within easy walking distance.
Everything you need to know about sparkling Stockholm, including what to do, where to eat and our top tips
Read more5. Sankt Petri Kyrka
Sankt Petri Kyrka, or Saint Peter’s Church, is Malmö’s oldest church.
Built in the 14th century in the classic Brick Gothic style that’s common around the Baltic Sea region, the church has a red-brick exterior and a peaceful interior.
The church is especially famous for its altarpiece from 1611, which is considered one of the largest wooden altarpieces in Scandinavia.
There are also beautiful frescoes, detailed carvings and vaulted ceilings that make the whole space feel grand yet calm at the same time.
If you’re interested in history or architecture and wondering what to do in Malmö beyond cafés and shopping, Sankt Petri Kyrka is worth adding to your itinerary.
6. Västra Hamnen
Västra Hamnen, meaning “Western Harbour”, is one of Malmö’s most modern and fascinating neighbourhoods.
What was once an industrial shipyard area has been transformed into a stylish waterfront district known for sustainable urban design, modern architecture and sea views across the Øresund.
Today, it’s considered one of the first carbon-neutral neighbourhoods in Europe and also one of the most desirable places to live in Malmö.
This is where you’ll find Malmö’s famous waterfront promenade, modern apartment buildings and plenty of spots to sit by the water on a sunny day.
Locals come here to swim, sunbathe, jog or simply enjoy the views towards Copenhagen and the Øresund Bridge.
7. Turning Torso
The most famous piece of architecture in Västra Hamnen is the neo-futurist residential skyscraper, Turning Torso.
For a long time, it held the title as the tallest building in Sweden (and the rest of Scandinavia!) with a height of 190 metres, but it has now been surpassed by Karlatornet in Gothenburg.
It’s still the tallest building in Malmö and the second tallest in all of Scandinavia – and its twisting design is fascinating to look at.
Unfortunately, the top two floors are only open to visitors for three weeks of summer, and unless you have booked a tour in advance, you will have to admire Turning Torso from the outside.
You can obviously see the building up close when visiting Västra Hamnen, but you can spot the twisted skyscraper from almost anywhere in Malmö.
Our favourite place to photograph the building from was the Ribersborg Beach.
8. Malmö Old Lighthouse
While exploring Västra Hamnen, you should make sure to stop by Malmö’s Old Lighthouse.
Standing at around 20 metres tall, the lighthouse dates back to 1878 and was once an important guide for ships entering Malmö Harbour.
Although it stopped operating in 1983, it still adds plenty of character to the waterfront and is one of those small sights that’s easy to miss unless you know it’s there.
It may not be Malmö’s biggest attraction, but it’s a nice little detour if you’re looking for things to see in Malmö beyond the main landmarks.
9. Kungsparken
Just west of Gamla Väster, you’ll find Kungsparken, which is Malmö’s oldest park and one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces.
Designed in the 19th century by Danish landscape architect Ove Høegh Hansen, the park has a romantic feel with winding paths, small canals, colourful flower beds and plenty of trees. There are also sculptures, fountains and benches.
It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down for a while.
Despite being right in the city centre, Kungsparken feels really peaceful.
Locals come here to read, picnic, jog or enjoy a quiet break from the city streets, and if you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Malmö, grabbing a takeaway coffee and wandering through Kungsparken is easily recommended.
10. Slottsparken
Right next to Kungsparken lies Slottsparken, which is another large central park that feels a bit wilder and more spacious.
The park has open lawns, wooded areas, winding walking paths and two picturesque ponds, and it’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon outdoors.
In summer, you’ll find locals sunbathing on the grass, having picnics or cycling through the park.
Three small bridges connect Slottsparken with Kungsparken and the nearby square Mölleplatsen, so the whole area is ideal for a longer walk through Malmö’s green spaces.
11. Malmö City Library
Located on the edge of Slottsparken, Malmö City Library is one of the city’s most compelling modern buildings.
What makes it especially interesting is the contrast between the historic older section and the dramatic glass extension known as “The Calendar of Light”.
The mix of classic and contemporary architecture works surprisingly well and makes the library feel bright, open and inviting.
Even if you’re not usually someone who visits libraries while travelling, this one is worth a quick stop.
Inside, you’ll find airy reading spaces, large windows overlooking the park and a wonderfully calm atmosphere. It’s also completely free to visit.
For architecture lovers, bookworms or anyone wondering what to see in Malmö beyond the usual tourist sights, Malmö City Library is a hidden gem.
Forests, cliffs, streams and panoramic views from Kopparhatten
Read more12. Slottsmöllan
As you cross the bridge from Slottsparken towards Mölleplatsen, you’ll spot Slottsmöllan: a traditional Dutch-style windmill that looks wonderfully out of place in the middle of the city.
Built in the mid-19th century, the windmill remained in use until 1945 and is now one of Malmö’s best-known historic landmarks.
Surrounded by greenery and water, it’s a lovely spot for photos and one of those places that makes Malmö feel both urban and relaxed at the same time.
Today, Slottsmöllan forms part of Malmö Museer (Malmö Museums), which also includes Malmöhus Castle and the charming little Ebba’s House.
13. Slottsträdgården
Right next to Slottsmöllan, you’ll find Slottsträdgården – a beautiful open-air garden right in the middle of Malmö.
The organic garden is filled with colourful flowers, herbs, vegetables and themed garden areas that change with the seasons.
It has a calm, slightly hidden feel despite being so close to the city centre.
One of the highlights is simply wandering around the paths and seeing what’s growing, especially in summer when everything is lush and colourful.
There are also benches scattered around if you fancy sitting down for a break.
And of course, no visit is complete without some fika at Slottsträdgårdens Kafé (the Swedish concept of enjoying a coffee and cake break together).
The cosy garden café is known for its homemade cakes, coffee and relaxed atmosphere, and it’s easily one of the nicest places in Malmö for a slow afternoon break.
14. Malmöhus Castle
Close to both Slottsparken, Slottsmöllan and Slottsträdgården, you will find the historical fortress, Malmöhus Castle.
The original fortress was founded in 1434 by King Eric of Pomerania, but was largely destroyed in the early 16th century.
The castle you see today was built in the 1530s by Danish King Christian III at a time when Malmö and the whole Scania region were still part of Denmark – something we Danes naturally enjoy pointing out whenever possible…
The castle is part of Malmö Museer (Malmö Museums) and houses a range of exhibitions covering history, natural science, technology and shipping.
15. Ebba’s House
Near Malmöhus Castle, you’ll find Ebbas Hus (Ebba’s House) if you look closely. It’s one of Malmö’s smallest and cutest museums.
The little house was originally built in 1873 and was once home to twine maker Ebba Olsson, who lived here for most of her life.
When the surrounding neighbourhood was redeveloped in the 1960s, many old buildings were demolished, but Ebba refused to sell her home.
Thanks to her stubbornness, the house survived while almost everything around it changed.
After her death, the house was donated to Malmö Museer and preserved exactly as it was, complete with original furniture, wallpaper, kitchenware and personal belongings.
Walking inside feels like stepping directly into a Swedish home from the early 20th century.
It’s a small place and doesn’t take long to visit, but that’s part of the charm.
If you enjoy unusual museums or want to see a more personal side of Malmö’s history, Ebba’s House is a lovely little stop.
16. Ribersborg Beach
A beach? In the city? Yes!
And a beautiful one too.
Ribersborg Beach is a long stretch of sand west of central Malmö – around 10 minutes on a bike or 30 minutes of walking from Gamla Staden.
It’s one of the best places to head on a warm day, whether you want to swim, sunbathe or stretch your legs along the shoreline.
In the evenings, it’s lovely for a relaxed walk as the light softens over the Öresund.
From here, you’ll also get excellent views of the skyline, including the Turning Torso and the Öresund Bridge connecting Sweden and Denmark.
All you need to know about visiting the tennis capital of Sweden
Read more17. Ribersborgs Kallbadhus
On Ribersborg Beach, you’ll also find the open-air public bath called Ribersborg Kallbadhus.
It has separate sections for men and women, and it’s a place where skinny dipping is part of the experience.
Don’t worry, though – when we visited, it was closed for the day and completely empty when we took this photo from above.
Inside, both sides have access to saunas and warm-water baths, and it makes it popular even in the colder months when the contrast between hot steam and icy sea air is part of the charm.
For opening times and practical details, you can check the official website for Ribersborg Kallbadhus.
18. Pildammsparken
Pildammsparken is another of Malmö’s beautiful green parks and a perfect escape when you want a break from the city centre.
The park’s ponds were originally part of Malmö’s water reservoir system, but over time the area has been transformed into a spacious and peaceful park filled with tall trees, wide open lawns, walking paths and a large central pond.
It’s popular with runners and walkers, but it’s just as nice for a slow stroll or a picnic on a sunny day.
In summer, the park feels almost like a mini retreat, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the greenery.
Discover the best hikes, viewpoints, practical tips and where to stay
19. Folkets Park
Folkets Park (“The People’s Park”) is a lively green area in one of Malmö’s most densely populated neighbourhoods.
It’s a bit of everything at once – a playground for kids, a hangout spot for friends, a cultural venue and a relaxed urban park.
You’ll find skate ramps, a basketball court, picnic areas and plenty of open space.
In summer, the park really comes into its own with splash pools, mini golf, bouncy cushions and regular events.
It’s also used for concerts, theatre performances and festivals, so there’s often something going on.
What we love most is how mixed and welcoming it feels. Families, students, skaters and older locals all share the same space in a very easygoing way.
And if you’re hungry, Far i Hatten is right inside the park. It’s a cosy spot known for Neapolitan-style pizzas, including some excellent vegan options.
20. Möllevångstorget
Located between Pildammsparken and Folkets Park, Möllevångstorget is one of Malmö’s liveliest and most multicultural squares.
It’s the main square of the Möllevången neighbourhood, often simply called “Möllan” by locals.
The area is known for its independent cafés, international restaurants, street art and slightly alternative atmosphere.
During the day, the square hosts a market selling fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and all sorts of local and international ingredients.
In the evenings, it’s a popular meeting place, and the surrounding restaurants and bars fill up quickly.
This is one of the best parts of Malmö for casual dining and affordable food from all over the world.
21. Malmö Saluhall
Malmö Saluhall is a stylish indoor food hall located inside a beautifully renovated old warehouse on Gibraltargatan.
The industrial setting gives the place plenty of character with high ceilings, exposed brickwork and long communal tables creating a relaxed but slightly upscale atmosphere.
It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time while wandering between food stalls trying to decide what to eat.
Inside, you’ll find everything from fresh produce, baked goods and handmade chocolates to pizzas, burgers, noodles, sandwiches, salads and excellent falafel.
There are also several vegan-friendly options, which naturally made us very happy.
Although the food hall sits slightly outside the very centre of the city, Malmö is so compact that it’s still an easy walk from Gamla Staden and only a short stroll from Malmö Central Station.
If you’re a foodie, this is one of the best things to do in Malmö, and we think Malmö Saluhall is worth a visit whether you’re after a quick lunch, coffee and cake, or a longer relaxed meal.
There’s seating both indoors and outside, and the atmosphere feels lively without being overwhelming.
What to do in summer and winter, the best time to visit, where to stay and our top tips
Read moreWhere to stay in Malmö
As Malmö is a relatively compact city, most hotel locations will get you within walking distance to all of the best things to do in Malmö.
Staying in Gamla Staden (the old city) is very cosy and easily recommendable.
We can wholeheartedly recommend spending at least one night in Malmö. It allows you to experience much more of the city and venture a bit further away from the main thoroughfare.
Two nights will likely be perfect for most people.
Extend it to three nights if you also want to explore some of Skåne’s natural areas (like Måkläppen Nature Reserve), take the short trip to Lund, or simply indulge in as much delicious food as we did when we visited the city!
Search for the best hotels in Malmö here (adlink) or check out our full guide on where to stay in Malmö for more details and pictures.
How to get to Måkläppen Nature Reserve and see the seals in Falsterbo
Read moreThe best luxury hotels in Malmö:
- MJ’s – Colourful and exclusive rooms in a cosy hotel near Lilla Torg.
- Elite Hotel Esplanade – Spacious rooms in Malmö’s old market hall with exposed brick walls and an included breakfast buffet.
- Story Hotel Studio Malmo – “Work, stay, play” big city atmosphere with a view of Malmö’s roofs.
The best value for money hotels in Malmö:
- Best Western Plus Hotel Noble House – Where we’ve personally stayed. A very nice, quirky hotel with a gym and sauna in Malmö’s most lovely area.
- Radisson Blu Hotel Malmö – Quiet accommodation in the middle of the Caroli district in Gamla Staden with organic breakfast.
- The More Hotel Västra Hamnen – Modern apartments with a kitchen and living room.
- Mayfair Hotel Tunneln – Classic hotel right by Stortorget.
The best budget accommodation in Malmö:
- HOTEL N Hostel Malmö City – Centrally located hotel/hostel with the option of either a double bed or a bunk bed.
- Moment Hotels – Small double rooms by the canal in Gamla Staden serving good breakfast.
- Good Morning+ Malmö – A nice place to save some money on accommodation if you don’t mind there being ~2 kilometres to the centre.
Our personal pick of the best hotels in Malmö across four lovely neighbourhoods – from budget bunks to luxury.
Read moreWhere to eat in Malmö
Malmö is full of wonderful restaurants, cafés and bars.
And compared to Stockholm and Copenhagen, Malmö is a bit cheaper for eating out.
The scene for vegan and vegetarian food in Malmö is amazing with options ranging from smoothie bowls, salads and sweets made with local organic ingredients to pizza, faux shawarma and vegan burgers that could fool anyone.
During our four days in the city (and on several day trips to Malmö), we have tried a lot of restaurants and cafés to sample a little bit of everything the city has to offer.
You can read all about it in our comprehensive vegan eating guide to Malmö with the best restaurants and cafés.
Here are our favourites:
- The best brunch places (including smoothie bowls): Farm2Table and Jord.
- The best croissants and baked goods: Leve.
- The best pizza: Far i Hatten.
- The best burger: The Vegan Bar.
- The best falafel and shawarma: Möllans Falafel.
- The best speciality coffee shop: Solde.
Everything you need to know about finding the most delicious vegan and vegetarian places in Malmö, Sweden
Read more
How to get around in Malmö
Malmö is a really compact city and one of the things we love most about visiting is how easy it is to get around on foot.
When we visit on day trips from Copenhagen, we almost always walk everywhere. Most of the main sights, neighbourhoods, cafés and restaurants are within easy walking distance of each other, so you rarely feel like you need transport at all.
During our full weekend stay in the city, we had bikes, which gave us a bit more flexibility and made it quicker to get around, especially when heading to restaurants across town or cycling out to Västra Hamnen, which is about a 30-minute walk from Gamla Staden.
Malmö is very bike-friendly, with dedicated cycle lanes throughout the city, so cycling feels safe and relaxed.
We haven’t used public transport much in Malmö, mainly because walking and cycling have always been enough for us, but the city’s buses are known for being reliable, easy to use and well connected.
How to get to Malmö
By car
For our weekend trip to Malmö, we drove our car and parked it at one of the many indoor parking spaces.
We paid around 160 SEK (~ 15.5 EUR / 18 USD) per 24 hours in 2020, but didn’t use the car at all while staying in the city.
If you’re road-tripping through Sweden and visiting Malmö by car, an indoor parking garage will usually be your best option, as free parking in the city is quite limited.
You might find a few shopping centres offering a couple of hours of free parking, but generally speaking, parking can be both tricky and expensive.
If possible, we’d recommend arriving by public transport instead, especially since Malmö Central Station is so conveniently located close to the city centre.
By train or bus
Trains and buses run between Copenhagen in Denmark and Malmö throughout the day, usually several times per hour year-round, and Malmö is very well connected to other cities in southern Sweden such as Lund, Helsingborg and Gothenburg.
If you’re visiting Malmö on a day trip from Copenhagen, the train is by far the easiest option.
Direct trains leave regularly from Copenhagen Central Station and the journey to Malmö Central Station takes around 35 to 45 minutes, including the ride across the impressive Øresund Bridge (and through the underwater tunnel).
Train tickets usually cost around 90 to 140 SEK (roughly 8-13 EUR / 9-14 USD) per person each way in 2026, depending on when you book and which operator you use. Tickets can easily be bought online, in apps or at the station.
You can bring two children under the age of 7 free of charge.
Buses, mostly operated by FlixBus, can sometimes be slightly cheaper, especially if booked in advance, but the journey takes closer to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover the charm of Sweden’s 3rd largest city just 40 minutes by train from Copenhagen
Read moreBy plane
Malmö city is actually midway between Malmö Airport and Copenhagen Airport (in Denmark).
While Malmö Airport is connected to most big cities in Europe, flights to Copenhagen Airport are often cheaper as there are more arrivals/departures to both Europe and the rest of the world.
It’s worth checking out fares to both airports if you plan to travel to Malmö by plane.
Search for the cheapest flights on Momondo (adlink).
When to visit Malmö
Malmö generally has short but very pleasant summers, colourful autumns, not-too-cold but dark winters and lovely but slightly unpredictable springs.
If you ask us, June is probably the sweet spot.
The days are incredibly long, outdoor cafés are full of life, the parks are lush and green, and the city feels lively without being overwhelmingly crowded.
Around midsummer, the sun barely sets, which gives Malmö a wonderfully relaxed summer atmosphere.
May is also a fantastic time to visit Malmö, especially if you prefer slightly cooler temperatures and fewer people.
July and August are the warmest and busiest months.
This is when locals fill the beaches, outdoor restaurants spill onto the pavements, and Malmö feels at its most vibrant.
Accommodation prices can be a bit higher during this period, especially on sunny weekends.
Autumn arrives surprisingly quickly in southern Sweden, but September can still be beautiful, with mild weather and golden colours in the parks and along the canals.
Winter in Malmö is much milder than many people expect from Scandinavia.
Snow is possible, but temperatures often hover just above freezing. What you notice more is the lack of daylight.
In December, it gets dark early, but the Christmas lights, festive markets and cosy cafés give the city plenty of charm.
Spring can be a bit unpredictable: one day might feel like early summer, while the next brings wind and rain.
But when the cherry blossoms bloom, and people start returning to the parks and outdoor terraces, the city feels lovely.
One thing to keep in mind is the wind. Malmö is right by the sea and can feel breezier than the temperature suggests – even in summer.
Tip: Bring a raincoat and a jumper whenever you’re visiting Scandinavia, no matter the season!
Average minimum and maximum temperatures in Malmö
Monthly sunshine hours in Malmö
Monthly rain in Malmö
Our personal accommodation recommendations, from budget to luxury stays
Read moreOur best tips for visiting Malmö
- Drink tap water. The water quality in Malmö is excellent.
- Walk around. Malmö is a very compact city and walking from one place to another is often the best option.
- Explore the parks. The parks in Malmö are great places to unwind and breathe fresh air.
- Bring layers – even in summer. The city is right by the sea and can feel surprisingly windy along the waterfront or the beach.
- Eat falafel. The falafels in Malmö are known to be the best in Sweden.
- Don’t forget fika. Having a cup of coffee and something sweet is a great way to spend the afternoon.
- Pay by card everywhere. Sweden is famously cash-light, and many places barely handle cash anymore.
- Take it slow. Malmö is a place to relax and enjoy life at a slower pace.
- Check opening hours beforehand. Shops, cafés and even some attractions may open later or be closed entirely on Sundays and Mondays, so it’s worth planning ahead.
FAQ about Malmö
Still got questions?
We don’t blame you – there’s a lot to know before visiting this cute little city.
Here are the answers to the most common questions people ask when planning their visit and what to do in Malmö.
Is Malmö worth visiting?
We absolutely think so. Malmö is a beautiful old town with a lively food scene, great parks, an actual beach and impressive architecture – all packed into a very walkable area.
It’s also noticeably more relaxed (and more affordable) than Copenhagen or Stockholm. Whether you’re coming for a day trip or a full weekend, you won’t leave disappointed.
How many days do you need in Malmö?
One full day is enough to tick off the main things to do in Malmö: the old town squares, Västra Hamnen, Turning Torso and a stroll along Ribersborg Beach.
But two nights is the sweet spot for most visitors. It gives you time to slow down, explore the parks, and actually enjoy a proper fika rather than rushing from one sight to the next.
Add a third night if you fancy day-tripping into the wider Skåne region.
What is Malmö best known for?
A few things, actually! The Turning Torso skyscraper is probably the city’s most iconic image – you’ll spot it from almost everywhere.
Malmö is also famous for its falafel (widely considered the best in Sweden), its eco-friendly Västra Hamnen neighbourhood, and its proximity to Copenhagen via the Øresund Bridge.
On the cultural side, it gained a new wave of international fans as the backdrop to the Nordic noir TV series Broen (The Bridge).
What are the best free things to do in Malmö?
Plenty of the best things to see in Malmö won’t cost you a penny.
Wandering Gamla Staden (the old town), visiting the squares, strolling through Kungsparken and Slottsparken, chilling out at Ribersborg Beach, seeing the Turning Torso from the outside, and poking around the organic garden at Slottsträdgården are all completely free.
Is Malmö safe for tourists?
Yes, Malmö is generally a very safe destination for visitors. Like any city of its size, it has areas that are livelier than others, but tourist areas are relaxed and trouble-free.
The usual common-sense precautions apply: keep an eye on your belongings at busy spots like the Central Station, and watch out for bike lanes (Malmö cyclists do not mess about).
What is the best time of year to visit Malmö?
We would argue that June is the best month. Daylight lasts until nearly midnight, the tourist crowds haven’t fully arrived yet, and the city has a lovely, unhurried feel.
July and August are warmer, but busier. May is also a great option if you don’t mind slightly cooler temperatures.
Autumn brings lovely colours to the parks, and winter, while dark, has a cosy atmosphere of its own and we love the Christmas markets in December. Whatever the season, pack a raincoat. This is Scandinavia, after all.
Do you need Swedish kronor in Malmö, or can you pay by card?
Card is king in Malmö. Sweden is one of the most cashless societies in the world, and you can pay by card virtually everywhere, including tiny cafés and market stalls.
Contactless and mobile payments are widely accepted, and you’ll rarely need cash.
Thanks for reading our Malmö travel guide
Thanks for reading about all the best things to do in Malmö!
We hope this Malmö guide has been useful and inspired you to explore the city.
Do you know what to do in Malmö now, or do you still have questions? Please don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments. We’re glad to help.
And if you’ve already been, it would be awesome to hear your best tips.
Our favourite travel resources:
- Booking.com for hotels and apartments.
- Momondo for the best flight deals.
- AirHelp for flight delay compensation.
- GetYourGuide for great tours everywhere.
- Airalo for reliable eSIM.
- Discover Cars for transparent car hire.
- SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like True Traveller. Compared here.
Christmas in Malmö 2025: Where to Find the Best Christmas Markets & Christmas Shopping
Planning a visit to the Christmas markets in Malmö? Here's all you need to know about visiting the capital of Scania in December
-
Måkläppen Nature Reserve: Travel Guide to Spot Wild Seals in Southern Sweden
How to get to Måkläppen Nature Reserve and see the seals in Falsterbo
-
Where to Stay in Malmö: The 4 Best Areas & 10 Best Hotels
Our personal pick of the best hotels in Malmö across four lovely neighbourhoods – from budget bunks to luxury.
Thank you for your guide! It was really useful and interesting to read. Now I’m planning my day in Malmö and your guide helps me a lot.
Cheers Ana! We hope you have a magnificent day.