Brilliant Things To Do In Malmö, Sweden: Our Highlights And Tips

Updated On: December 04, 2023 by   Nuala Davies

Searching for things to do in Malmö? We’ve got it covered! We visited Sweden, home of the Vikings, to bring you some of the highlights from this city!

Nestled on Sweden’s West Coast, the vibrant city of Malmö is a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Danish capital of Copenhagen via the Øresund bridge. Just a short twenty-five-minute journey over the Baltic Sea will transport you from one Scandinavian country to another.

We visited, caught up with the locals and got some insider tips and tricks for those of you hoping to adventure to the land mass responsible for Abba! (You really should check out the Abba museum in Stockholm... You can thank us later)

So let’s consider some of the brilliant things to do in Malmö.

Fun Things To Do In Malmö: Why choose the city?

Home to people from all over the world, Malmö boasts the reputation of an International hotspot, blending global diversity with Swedish charm. This diversity creates a thriving community with cuisine and culture from all over the world.

Malmö’s diversity originates from its origins as a port city therefore meaning there is extensive trade within its walls. Businesses such as Oatly, Ikea have offices based in the city, attracting lots of professionals from across the globe flock to the city for employment.

This has created a fun and diverse arts, culture and food scene to be enjoyed by all of those seeking things to do in Malmö.

Planning Your Trip

Here are a few things to consider before travelling:

Currency: Sweden uses its own currency, the Swedish Kronor (SEK).

Cashless Society: Sweden is predominantly a cashless society, preferring card payment where possible. You may find some smaller places that only accept cash, but it’s generally not necessary.

Language: Swedes boast impeccable English language skills, as they learn English from a very young age. You’ll be able to get by without knowing any Swedish, but knowing a few basic phrases like “hello” (hej), “thank you” (tack), and “excuse me” (ursäkta) will go a long way.

Getting There

The most accessible route to Malmö is undoubtedly via Copenhagen Kastrup Airport (CPH). The short journey of just twenty-five minutes via the Øresundtåg costs just 135 kronor for a single ticket to Malmö Central train station.

Getting Around Malmö

Public Transportation:

Malmö has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and trams. You can purchase tickets through the Skånetraffiken app, which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Things to do in Malmö: Rent a Bike!

During the summer, we recommend trying Malmö By Bike. Environmentally conscious Sweden encourages the use and rental of bikes within all its major cities. This means that bike rental is not just safe due to the extensive cycle paths but also affordable. It’s a great way to explore the city and feel like a local during the gorgeous Swedish summer months.

Where to Stay in Malmö

There are many great hotels to choose from in Malmö, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

OhBoy Hotel

A sustainable hotel that offers a range of rooms or lofts, located close to the old industrial area of Malmö. At OhBoy, they focus on ecological harmony with the city. The cost ranges from 1390 kronor to 1690 kronor, where you can choose either a room or a loft. 

Scandic Triangeln, Malmö, Sweden

A modern hotel located in the heart of the city center, just a few minutes walk from Triangeln Train Station.  This hotel is perfect for someone wanting to be in the hustle and bustle. The rooms cost are spread with lots of different options for different budgets. 

Things To do In Malmö: The Best Places To Eat And Drink

For food recommendations we got some insider tips from the locals! 

Love hummus? Then you’ll adore Two Forks. This cosy, quirky family run restaurant is placed a mere eight minute walk from Malmö Central Station. Their passion for what they do is inspiring and ethics inform every single dish, right down to the last chickpea.

“We envision a life where food, that most essential part of life, can be shared with the people we love. Food is personal and universal at the same time. Food is the connection between people. Food is a memory of the past, and is the vision of the future. Food is sustenance, and food is comfort. For us, food is love. Our mission is, above all else, loving people through food.” (Two Forks)

They offer a delicious, locally sourced menu, with some produce even coming from their own Urban Farm when the growing season is correct. 

Just across the street from Two Forks is Malmö’s famous Saluhallen. This space offers a wide selection of small restaurants, stalls and stores. This is the perfect place to do if you are a big group of people with lots of different tastes as the space boasts something for everyone.

We also recommend checking out Lilla Torg, one of the oldest parts of the city dating back to the 1500s! Here you will find many restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from, soaking up the city from the beautiful outdoor seating. 

These just are a few options of the many amazing restaurants in the city. We recommend simply exploring the bars, cafes and eateries by walking around and soaking up the atmosphere. The locals are also super friendly and helpful, so ask someone where there favourite place to eat is!

Things To Do In Malmö in…

Winter

Even when the weather outside is frightful (Prepare yourself, it can get pretty cold in the Winter so wrap up warm!), there are plenty of delightful things to do in Malmö, Sweden during the winter months. Spend an afternoon warming up in one of Malmö’s many modern art galleries, like the Malmö Konsthall, which hosts various avant-garde and contemporary exhibitions. 

Or head to the unique Disgusting Food Museum to explore displays on the world’s strangest food creations – just don’t get too queasy! With vibrant culture and one-of-a-kind attractions, a winter break in Malmö provides the perfect indoor adventure, being sure to stop off and have plenty of Fika along the way!

(Fika: A Swedish coffee and cake break)

Summer

When the summer sun is shining, Malmö becomes a paradise for outdoor lovers. The Swedish love of nature and the outdoors means that the city really comes to life and has a chance to thrive during July and August. You will be spoiled for things to do in Malmö in the Summer!

Head down to Ribersborg Beach for an invigorating swim with a view of the Oresund Bridge, or relax like a local in the salt baths at Kalles Bath house. 

At night, join Malmö residents for jolly sing-a-longs in the gorgeous gardens of Pildammsparken. With concerts, nature trails, tree and stunning gardens, it’s one of the best places to spend long summer evenings. Grab a picnic basket and go see it for yourself.

So whether you’re taking a cycle down Malmö’s old, cobblestone streets or browsing through the shops and restaurants in its Old Town, you’ll find fun and good vibes around every corner within this city. Be sure to share your tips and recommendations in the comments!