Why Visit Malmö, Sweden?
Malmö is Sweden’s third-largest city with approximately 350,000 inhabitants, positioned in southern Sweden’s Skåne County. This vibrant coastal city blends historic charm with cutting-edge architecture, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking cultural diversity, modern attractions, and easy access from Copenhagen. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, Malmö offers something for everyone—from medieval castles to contemporary art scenes, all within a compact, bike-friendly urban landscape.
Connected to Denmark via the Öresund Bridge (Öresundsbron), Malmö sits just 35 minutes by train from Copenhagen, creating a unique cross-border region. This strategic location makes it a popular destination for international visitors exploring Scandinavia. The city’s transformation from an industrial hub to a sustainable, multicultural metropolis has positioned it as one of Europe’s most progressive urban centers.
Top Attractions and Things to Do in Malmö
Malmö Sweden offers an impressive range of attractions that cater to history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and families alike. The city’s compact size means most landmarks are within walking or cycling distance, making exploration convenient and enjoyable.
Historic Sites and Malmö Castle
Malmö Castle (Malmöhus Slott) stands as one of Scandinavia’s oldest surviving Renaissance castles, dating back to the 1430s. Located in a scenic park setting, the castle now houses multiple museums, including the Malmö Art Museum and the Natural History Museum. Admission provides access to all exhibitions, typically around 100 SEK for adults, with free entry for visitors under 19 years old.
Nearby, the historic Lilla Torg (Little Square) showcases perfectly preserved 16th-century architecture. This charming cobblestone square hosts numerous restaurants and cafés where you can experience traditional Swedish fika culture. The adjacent Stortorget, Malmö’s main square, features the imposing Renaissance-style Town Hall and the equestrian statue of King Karl X Gustav.
Modern Architecture: Turning Torso
The Turning Torso stands as Malmö’s most recognizable landmark and Europe’s tallest residential building at 190 meters (623 feet). Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and completed in 2005, this neo-futurist skyscraper twists 90 degrees from base to top across 54 floors. While the building is residential and not open for public tours, the surrounding Västra Hamnen (Western Harbour) district offers excellent photo opportunities and waterfront promenades.
According to Visit Malmö, the Western Harbour represents Sweden’s most ambitious sustainable urban development project, featuring carbon-neutral buildings and innovative environmental solutions.
Green Spaces and Parks
Malmö boasts extensive green spaces, with Slottsparken (Castle Park) being the most central. This 8.4-acre park surrounds Malmö Castle and includes walking paths, a windmill, and ample picnic areas. For beach lovers, Ribersborgsstranden (locally called ”Ribban”) offers a 2.5-kilometer sandy beach just minutes from the city center, complete with the iconic Ribersborgs kallbadhus, a historic cold-water bathhouse dating from 1898.
Kungsparken (King’s Park) and Pildammsparken provide additional recreational opportunities, with the latter featuring beautiful gardens, walking trails, and an open-air theatre hosting summer performances.
Budget-Friendly Tip
Many of Malmö’s best attractions are free, including all parks, beaches, and the exterior viewing of Turning Torso. Purchase the Malmö City Card (starting at 295 SEK for 24 hours) for free admission to museums and unlimited public transport. The card pays for itself if you visit just two museums and use public transport.
How to Travel to Malmö
Malmö’s accessibility is one of its greatest advantages, with multiple convenient transportation options from across Scandinavia and Europe. The city serves as a major transport hub in southern Sweden.
Train from Copenhagen
The train connection from Copenhagen to Malmö is the most popular and efficient option. Trains operated by Øresundståg and SJ depart from Copenhagen Central Station every 20 minutes during peak hours, taking just 35-40 minutes to reach Malmö Central Station. As of 2025, ticket prices typically range from 109-149 SEK (approximately €9-13) one-way, with significant discounts for advance bookings.
The train crosses the impressive Öresund Bridge, providing spectacular views of the strait. Both rail services offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and the convenience of arriving directly in Malmö’s city center. For detailed schedules and booking information, visit the official Visit Sweden transportation guide.
Flying to Malmö Airport
Malmö Airport (MMX), located in Sturup about 28 kilometers from the city center, serves budget carriers and regional flights. Airport buses (Flygbussarna) connect the airport to Malmö Central Station in approximately 40 minutes, costing around 125 SEK one-way. Alternatively, Copenhagen Airport (CPH), just 40 minutes away by train, offers significantly more international connections and often better flight deals.
Driving via Öresund Bridge
If traveling by car, the Öresund Bridge toll for passenger vehicles costs approximately 495 SEK (€44) one-way in 2025. The bridge spans 8 kilometers and connects directly to the E20 motorway leading into Malmö. However, parking in central Malmö can be expensive (25-30 SEK per hour), and the city’s excellent public transport and bike infrastructure often make cars unnecessary for visitors.
| Transport Option | Duration | Approximate Cost (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train from Copenhagen | 35-40 minutes | 109-149 SEK | Day trips, convenience |
| Flight to Malmö Airport | 40 min airport-city | Varies + 125 SEK bus | International arrivals |
| Car via Öresund Bridge | 40 minutes | 495 SEK toll + parking | Regional road trips |
| Train from Stockholm | 4.5 hours | From 295 SEK | Domestic travel |
Events and Activities in Malmö
Malmö’s cultural calendar features year-round events ranging from international football matches to cutting-edge e-sports tournaments. The city’s diverse event scene reflects its multicultural population and innovative spirit.
Football with Malmö FF
Malmö FF (Fotbollförening) is Sweden’s most successful football club, having won 22 Allsvenskan championships—the Swedish top division. Home matches take place at Eleda Stadion (capacity 24,000), located just south of the city center. The atmosphere during matches is electric, with passionate supporters creating an authentic Scandinavian football experience.
Match tickets typically range from 150-400 SEK depending on the opponent and seating section. The season runs from April to November, with European competition matches occasionally scheduled outside this period. Check the official schedule for current fixtures and availability.
DreamHack and E-Sports
DreamHack Malmö is one of the world’s largest digital festivals, attracting over 20,000 visitors annually to Malmömässan exhibition center. The event combines competitive e-sports tournaments, gaming exhibitions, cosplay competitions, and LAN parties. Held typically twice per year, DreamHack tickets range from 400-800 SEK for weekend passes. According to Malmö city’s official tourism page, the event significantly contributes to the city’s reputation as a tech-forward destination.
Cultural Events and Festivals
Beyond sports and gaming, Malmö hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the year. The Malmö Festival in August transforms the city center into a week-long celebration with free concerts, street food, and cultural performances. December brings atmospheric Christmas markets to Stortorget and Lilla Torg, featuring traditional Swedish handicrafts and seasonal treats like glögg (mulled wine) and pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies).
Practical Information for Visitors to Malmö
Planning your visit to Malmö requires understanding accommodation options, weather patterns, and budget considerations to maximize your experience.
Accommodation Options
Malmö offers diverse lodging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The city center provides the most convenient base for sightseers, with hotels like the Story Hotel and Clarion Hotel Malmö Live offering modern amenities from 1,200-2,500 SEK per night. Budget travelers can find hostels and budget hotels in the 500-800 SEK range, while Airbnb apartments provide mid-range alternatives with kitchen facilities.
For longer stays or family visits, the Västra Hamnen area near Turning Torso offers contemporary apartments, though slightly removed from historic attractions. Booking in advance is essential during summer months (June-August) and major events like DreamHack.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Malmö experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and pleasant summers. The best time to visit depends on your preferences:
- Summer (June-August): Average temperatures 18-22°C (64-72°F), long daylight hours, peak tourist season
- Spring/Fall (April-May, September-October): Mild weather 10-15°C (50-59°F), fewer crowds, good for outdoor activities
- Winter (December-February): Cool temperatures 0-5°C (32-41°F), Christmas markets, lowest hotel rates
Pack layers regardless of season, as coastal winds can make it feel cooler than inland Sweden. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, so a waterproof jacket is advisable.
Budget and Costs
Malmö is more affordable than Stockholm or Copenhagen but still reflects Scandinavian price levels. A realistic daily budget for mid-range travel includes:
- Accommodation: 800-1,500 SEK
- Meals: 300-500 SEK (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Attractions: 100-300 SEK
- Local transport: 50-100 SEK (or free with city card)
- Total: Approximately 1,250-2,400 SEK per person per day
Budget travelers can reduce costs significantly by staying in hostels, shopping at supermarkets like ICA or Coop, and focusing on free attractions. Credit cards are widely accepted, and many establishments are cashless.
Local Insider Tip
Download the Skånetrafiken app for seamless public transport. A 24-hour pass costs just 130 SEK and covers all buses and trains within Malmö. Bikes are readily available through city bike-sharing schemes (Malmö by Bike), with rentals from 25 SEK per hour—an authentic Swedish way to explore the flat, bike-friendly city.
Day Trip Ideas from Malmö
Malmö’s location makes it perfect for exploring southern Sweden and Denmark. Things to do in Malmö extend beyond the city limits with several worthwhile excursions.
Copenhagen is the obvious choice, just 35 minutes away, offering world-class museums, Tivoli Gardens, and Nyhavn’s colorful waterfront. Within Sweden, the medieval town of Lund (15 minutes by train) features a magnificent Romanesque cathedral and one of Scandinavia’s oldest universities. The coastal village of Skanör-Falsterbo (40 minutes by bus) provides pristine beaches and nature reserves ideal for birdwatching and summer relaxation.
According to TripAdvisor’s Malmö guide, these regional attractions consistently rank among travelers’ top experiences when based in Malmö.
Frequently Asked Questions About Malmö
Is Malmö worth visiting from Copenhagen?
Yes, Malmö is absolutely worth visiting from Copenhagen. The 35-minute train journey makes it feasible for both day trips and overnight stays. Malmö offers a distinctly Swedish experience with lower prices than Copenhagen, unique attractions like Turning Torso and Malmö Castle, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Many visitors combine both cities to experience the best of Öresund region culture. For a comprehensive guide, see our article on Malmö to Copenhagen travel options.
What are the best things to do in Malmö Sweden?
The best activities include visiting Malmö Castle and its museums (Swedish history and art), photographing Turning Torso in Västra Hamnen, strolling through the medieval Lilla Torg square, relaxing at Ribersborgsstranden beach, cycling the extensive bike paths, exploring the Malmö Konsthall contemporary art museum, and enjoying Swedish fika at traditional cafés. For families, the Science and Technology Museum and Folkets Park offer engaging experiences. Detailed recommendations are available in our things to do in Malmö guide.
How long does the train take from Copenhagen to Malmö?
The train from Copenhagen to Malmö takes 35-40 minutes on direct Øresundståg services. Trains depart every 20 minutes during peak hours and hourly during off-peak times. The journey crosses the impressive Öresund Bridge, providing scenic views of the strait. Tickets cost approximately 109-149 SEK one-way (around €9-13), with discounts for advance bookings and return tickets. Both Copenhagen Central Station and Malmö Central Station are centrally located, making this the most convenient cross-border transportation option.
Where is Malmö located in Sweden?
Malmö is located in southernmost Sweden in Skåne County (Scania), directly across the Öresund Strait from Copenhagen, Denmark. It sits approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles) southwest of Stockholm and 280 kilometers (174 miles) south of Gothenburg. The city occupies a strategic coastal position on the Baltic Sea, making it Sweden’s gateway to continental Europe. The Öresund Bridge physically connects Malmö to Denmark, creating one of Scandinavia’s most integrated cross-border regions.
What is the best time of year to visit Malmö?
The best time to visit Malmö depends on your interests. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather (18-22°C), longest daylight hours, and most outdoor activities, but also peak tourist crowds and higher prices. Late spring (May) and early fall (September) provide pleasant weather with fewer visitors and moderate prices—ideal for sightseeing and cultural events. Winter visitors (December-February) enjoy atmospheric Christmas markets and lower accommodation rates, though daylight is limited and weather cooler. Malmö’s mild coastal climate makes it accessible year-round.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Malmö
Malmö successfully bridges Sweden’s rich historical heritage with forward-thinking urban development, creating a destination that appeals to diverse traveler interests. Whether you’re arriving from Copenhagen for a day trip, planning a weekend exploration of Sweden Malmö and surrounding Skåne region, or considering a longer stay to experience the city’s multicultural neighborhoods and events, Malmö delivers authentic Scandinavian experiences without Stockholm’s crowds or Copenhagen’s premium prices.
The city’s compact size, excellent public transport, and bike-friendly infrastructure make navigation effortless, while the blend of medieval squares, modern architecture, beach culture, and international dining scenes provides variety rarely found in cities of similar size. With its strategic location, cultural vitality, and progressive outlook, Malmö stands as one of Scandinavia’s most underrated and rewarding urban destinations.
