18 Best Things to Do in Malmo, Sweden

Malmo is not usually a name that comes to mind when the country of Sweden is mentioned, but this city undoubtedly has its own charm and prominence.

It is the third-largest city of Sweden and lies in the far south corner of the country.

The city has a spectacular castle called Malmo Castle, which is bathed with immense historical significance due to the repeated attacks that were inflicted on it.

For museum lovers, there are a plethora of museums scattered across the city.

As for those who seek a few days of calm and respite, the city is home to well-maintained parks filled with lush green trees and fountains.

Ideal for young souls, Malmo also conducts music, art and cultural concerts on a regular basis.

All that said, this city is an excellent choice for a vacation.

These are the best things to do in Malmo, Sweden:

Explore the Historic Malmo Castle

The land of Sweden has faced several wars in the past; hence, numerous castles are scattered around the country.

Malmo Castle is one such castle with immense historical significance.

It was built in 1434 and is said to be the oldest preserved castle in Scandinavia constructed in the Renaissance design.

Due to repeated fights between the Danes and the Swedes, the castle could not retain its original state; but even now, the construction and the surrounding area form a magnificent sight.

The structure served as a mint, a prison, and a palace over the years, and traces of it can still be seen inside the castle.

Presently, Malmo Castle houses an aquarium, the Museum of Natural History, and the City Museum.

Witness the Awe-Inspiring Oresund Bridge

The majestic design of the Oresund Bridge attracts visitors from across the globe.

The bridge links Sweden and Denmark and does so in style.

It took nearly five years to complete the bridge, as it is the longest one in the entire continent of Europe.

The length of the bridge is more than all of Europe's railway bridges and roadway bridges combined.

Its unique feature is that it is both a bridge and a tunnel.

It was engineered in this manner so as not to restrict the airway traffic of Copenhagen or block the passage for the ships.

The beautiful bridge looks like a painted picture during sunrise and sunset.

Spend a Relaxing Day at Kungsparken

Located right at the center of the city, Kungsparken is a sanctuary for people seeking peace and respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The oldest park in Malmo, it is technically part of Malmo Castle but is worthy of a special mention.

It was built to aid the defense system of the castle; but after that need was fulfilled and the wars were over, the space was turned into a garden that follows an English style.

Kungsparken is filled with lush green trees of different species, numerous military statues, and spectacular sculptures that grab the attention of tourists.

The park also has a fountain and a grotto that was constructed in the 19th century following the theme of Norse mythology.

Explore Lilla Torg's Shops and Restaurants

Lilla Torg still bears the charm of the 17th century, with its pavements made of cobblestone and the houses made of timber.

It is a square that is surrounded by antique shops, cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers.

Back in the day, this square used to be a sort of shopping center for residents, as it contained butcher shops, grocery shops, and bakeries.

The restaurants in the area serve delicious Scandinavian dishes, which are not available elsewhere.

This is the best place for visitors to shop for souvenirs as well.

Go Back in Time at the Technology and Maritime Museum

The Technology and Maritime Museum is situated near Malmo Castle.

Malmo was one of the major industrial cities of Sweden where all the technological advancements were initiated.

The museum showcases its heritage so that the present and future generations are well acquainted with the history of the place.

Aircraft of the previous and current century are displayed in the museum, and a detailed account of each is presented.

The tour guides explain the inner workings of such vehicles.

There is also a provision that allows the visitors to enter a U3 submarine that was used during World War II and enter the cockpit of a British plane called the Vickers Viscount.

Say a Prayer at St. Peter's Church

Established in the 14th century, St. Peter's Church embodies the Gothic theme of the past, the style it follows being called "Baltic Brick Gothic."

Since its establishment, the tower of the church fell twice, and the present structure that stands was crafted in the year 1890.

The oldest church in the city, it draws visitors from across the globe because of its wooden altar, which was made in 1611 and is considered the largest in Northern Europe.

The Merchant's Chapel, which lies to the North of the main tower, contains authentic frescoes that are painted on the ceiling.

Visit Stortorget, the City's Oldest Square

Stortorget is the oldest and largest square in Malmo and is the best place to take a stroll.

The square is covered on all sides by buildings of immense historical and architectural significance.

For instance, on the north side of the square is the Town Hall, which was built in 1547 and was given a Dutch Renaissance touch in the year 1860.

Among such beautiful buildings rests the oldest pharmacy of Malmo, Lejonet, built following the tradition of Neo-Renaissance.

At the center of the square, a spectacular statue of King Karl Gustav X acts as a landmark and helps tourists navigate the square as they visit all the shops present in the area.

Snap Photos with the Turning Torso

Scandinavia is full of wonders; the Turning Torso of Sweden is one of them.

Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the building is no less than an artist's miracle.

Quite aptly named, the 190-meter-tall structure represents the torso of a human body trying to look backward or while dancing.

Located near Malmo Castle, the white marble building is owned and maintained by HSB.

More than just a building that houses rental space, it exudes an aura of a statue that makes a mark on the mind of the people.

The waterfront of the area has been reconstructed to suit the taste of modern life and make it more eco-friendly and pedestrian-friendly.

Try Out the Open-Air Bath at Ribersborgsstranden

Located near the Malmo city center, Ribersborgsstranden is the most famous beach in the city that can be accessed in a jiffy.

It is a man-made beach that comprises walking and biking paths, a nine-hole golf course, and grassy spots for picnics during the summer season.

A lot of beach activities are enjoyed here.

The Ribersborgs open-air bath, located at the far end of the pier, is a delight for visitors as they can enjoy scenic views while having a relaxing bath.

There are ancient wooden buildings that house a traditional Swedish sauna, regular baths, and seawater baths, where clothing is optional.

The baths are separated based on gender to provide maximum privacy to the people.

For the Ardent Readers

Malmo City Library is a paradise for readers as it incorporates both the new and the old.

The building that houses the library was built around the 1940s, and the style it embodies is of the Renaissance, with its conical-shaped towers.

In the year 1997, a magnificent glass portion was added, designed by Danish architect Henning Larsen.

The library is conveniently located where the illuminated space and the elegant trees get reflected on the surface of the lake.

This magical sight can be viewed from the library's glass wing.

Apart from the stupendous architecture, Malmo City Library contains books of every genre and of several languages.

Shop till You Drop at Södergatan Street

Every tourist destination has a street or a square that exudes the classic charm of Beverly Hills.

Södergatan Street is the Beverly Hills of Malmo, as it contains several shops that range from small boutiques to famous designer stores.

In the year 1978, it became the first pedestrian street in Malmo to house original Swedish brands.

Flensburgska Huset, the oldest building in Malmo that was constructed in the 16th century, forms a breathtaking sight with its signature white stone and red bricklayers.

Optimistorkestern is a must-visit for the people who want to explore every nook and corner of Malmo.

The eccentric sculpture of a marching band led by a drummer was installed on the spot in 1985.

This is the best place to collect a piece of Sweden to take back home.

Get Creative at the Form/Design Center

Inaugurated by King Gustav VI Adolf in 1964, the Form/Design Center of Malmo is located near Lilla Torg.

The picturesque building has a cobblestone path laid around it to make it look more aesthetically pleasing.

Fashion shows, pottery workshops, exhibitions, and many more creative workshops are hosted in this center.

To the present day, it has hosted more than 12,000 lectures and workshops.

The aim of the authority is to promote creativity among the masses and educate them about healthy living conditions.

On the grounds of the Form/Design Center, there are shops that sell authentic Swedish collectibles and souvenirs.

Go on a Leisurely Stroll around Pildammsparken

Malmo is heavily influenced by art and creativity; hence, several exhibit centers are scattered around the city.

Pildammsparken lies south of the main center and is considered the largest park in Malmo, where regular workshops, concerts, and exhibitions are held.

Covering an area of 45 hectares, the park was built in the 17th century and was used to reserve water for the city.

The first exhibition held here was the Baltic Exhibition in 1914, which showcased the art and culture of the area surrounding the Baltic Sea.

It was after the end of the exhibition that the authorities started to move ahead with their plan of making the park what it is today.

The water tank that is present within the boundary of the park enhances the beauty of the park when illuminated at night.

A circular space called the Tallriken is used for festivals, picnics, and concerts and is beautifully illuminated.

Due to the abundance of flora, the park is also home to several species of birds.

Make Time for Another Park

The Folkets Park is one of the oldest parks in the world.

Also known as the People's Park, it is located on the southern side of the main center.

Since it is a kid-friendly park, it has several rides that keep children occupied and in a joyous mood.

During the summer months, the park opens itself to fairgrounds, adventurous activities, screening a variety of movies, and an amusement arcade.

Musical concerts and festivals are hosted here, too.

Meanwhile, during the winter season, the park opens its skating rink.

The Folkets Park has several ponds, well-maintained walking paths, and lush green trees that bring people close to nature.

Attend the Annual Malmo Festival

In recent years, the concept of live music has become more prominent, so much so that people travel across the globe to attend music festivals.

Malmöfestivalen, or the Malmo Festival, is one of the biggest concerts held in Scandinavia, attracting at least 1.4 million people every year.

On-site food centers are temporarily constructed during the event and offer a variety of cuisine choices.

Apart from the main concert and performances, there are a plethora of family-friendly events that appeal to the visitors.

Visit Katrinetorp Landeri

Katrinetorp Landeri is a haven for all nature lovers, as it is situated eight kilometers from the center of Malmo.

This amazing country home is surrounded by a flourishing English garden with rose-embellished pathways and a picturesque orangery, as well as a Baroque manor garden, perfect for growing organic produce.

There's so much to see inside Katrinetorp Landeri—for instance, a free exhibition of scale model dollhouses.

Its appeal as a tourist destination also lies in its remarkable scenery, lush forests (renowned for their flora), and clean rivers.

Plenty of weddings are held here every year throughout the summer, and events like conventions and student concerts have been known to take place here over the last decade.

You'll also find a restaurant and cafe here that also serves traditional Swedish food, including cinnamon buns.

Set Out for a Walk through Slottstradgarden

Taking a leisurely stroll through Slottstradgarden should be on everyone's bucket list.

The 12,000-square-meter lovely garden is one of the most peaceful places in Malmo, as well as in all of Sweden.

This glorious haven will give both tourists and locals a much-needed rest from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Slottstradgarden, also known as the Castle Garden, is an ecological space created by local Green Party enthusiasts.

It's an attraction especially sought out by nature lovers since it offers a wide array of landscapes from varied areas.

Here, you'll find a rose garden, a perennial garden, a greenhouse, and an orchard garden.

There are also rows upon rows of apple trees and other crops grown specifically to be sold to the general public.

But that's not all; this place is also home to a quaint cafe that serves delicious snacks only during the spring and summer months, between April and October.

Experience the Swedish Tradition of Fika

One of the most famous Swedish traditions is fika, the art of taking a break to indulge in some much-needed coffee and cake.

Fika provides a welcome respite from your busy daily life, but that's not all it's for.

It's more about slowing down and living life than it is about celebrating a culture.

Fika isn't just limited to the Swedes, either—expats join in on the tradition, too.

It's so integral to Swedish culture that it has unlimited uses as a common ground for businesses seeking to foster new connections with each other.

Noir Kaffekultur and Lilla Kafferosteriet are two wonderful attractions where you can embrace the Swedish Fika culture that will make you feel like royalty.

If you're traveling on your own, engage in some socializing and ask locals what their ideas are for having a traditional Swedish fika with family or friends.

Final Thoughts

Your trip to Sweden's design capital will surely be unforgettable.

Whether you're a shopaholic, foodie, or history buff, you'll find that Malmo has something to offer everyone in a relaxed and open-air setting.

Here, you'll find an array of bars and restaurants, boutiques, and galleries that effortlessly merge art and architecture into this modern city.

It's undeniably innovative and sustainable yet still holds on to its historic Gothic architecture.

With so much to see within these city walls, how can you pass up this scenic jewel in Sweden?