As the third-largest city in Sweden, Malmo is a wonderful place for tourists looking to see the best of what the country has to offer. If you’re going to visit Scandinavia while on vacation, it’s essential that you stop by Malmo for at least a day.
In order to show you what to do in Malmo, we’ve created a travel guide with the best things to do in Malmo. We’ll be showing you our favorite activities alongside general tips to make sure that your trip is efficient, frugal, and fun!
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Where to stay in Malmo?
- Where to stay – You’ll see detailed recommendations below but in general, our go-to choice is Booking.com especially since once you reach their Genius tier, you can get an additional 10-15% off. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
- Car rentals – Save the most money through car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
- Flights – International flights are never cheap, but with the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature you can find the best deals. Check how much it would be for you to get to Sweden!
- Insurance – Not always required but always recommended! Make sure you’re covered with the best travel insurance.
- Best deals – Bookmark our frequently updated travel deals page.
Top 6 Things to Do in Malmo
Malmo is somewhere that’s near and dear to my heart because I spent 4 months in the nearby Lund during University. Malmo is the largest city in the southern part of Sweden and worth visiting.
Here are 6 of the best things to do in Malmo.
#1 See the Malmo Castle
Originally established in 1434 before being partially torn down and rebuilt in the 1530s, the Malmo Castle is one of the city’s most notable pieces of history. If you are someone who wants to learn more about Sweden’s beautiful history while also taking in some wonderful sights, you should check out the Malmo Castle.
If you want to be guided through the castle by a true expert, we recommend taking one of the tours in the castle. By doing that, you will make sure you have all of the appropriate facts.
#2. Have a Meal in Lilla Torg
With its iconic cobblestone, Lilla Torg is a market square that perfectly blends Malmo’s history with its vibrant contemporary culture. If you want to have a nice breakfast to start your day or have a night on the town, you can’t go wrong with going to Lilla Torg!
Lilla Torg is also known as an area with impressive restaurants and businesses, so those looking to get shopping done will appreciate this district.
#3. Have a Tranquil Afternoon in the Slottsträdgården
When traveling, it can be easy to get worn down by the excessive amounts of traveling and planning. For this reason, it is important that you plan some time to relax and take a break.
Visiting the Slottsträdgården is a perfect way to do this—take some time to admire one of the most beautiful natural areas in the city. Even if you visit in winter, you’ll still be astounded by the area’s beauty. It’s also completely free to visit!
#4. Admire the Windmills at Kungsparken
While you’re abroad, it’s important to take the time to experience things that you won’t be able to find at home. Scandinavian windmills are especially beautiful in Kungsparken, the oldest park in the city.
In the event that you want to grab something to eat after admiring the windmills, you are also within walking distance of the popular restaurant’s, Lemongrass and Rosegarden!
#5. Visit the Malmo City Library
Sweden is well-known for having some of the most extensive and gorgeous libraries in Europe. However, the Malmo City Library truly stands out among the rest of the country’s central libraries.
Not only will you be able to find books on the country’s history that you won’t be able to find elsewhere, but you also don’t have to pay for entry! This is definitely one of the Malmo activities that is a hidden gem. You also don’t have to worry about a potential language barrier, as there are many books available in English!
#6. Have a Picnic Along the Ribersborgsstranden
No matter which time of year you visit, you should visit Ribersborgsstranden. It is one of the most scenic areas of the city and has a number of wonderful ocean views to see.
If you want to make the most out of your visit to this beach, we recommend grabbing some food from a nearby grocery store and having a picnic. If you want to experience some of the local cuisines, you should get some knäckebröd, cold cuts, and cheese!
Out of all of the things to do in Malmo Sweden, this can also be one of the most romantic things to do.
Other Activities You Can Check Out
Take a 3-Hour Guided City Tour
This 3-hour guided tour throughout the city will not only show you some of the spots on our list (i.e. the Malmo Castle) but also more of the city’s medieval past!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: Meet at Malmo Central Station (Skeppsbron 1, 211 20 Malmo, Sweden)
Hours:
- Duration: 3 hours
- Starting time 10:00 AM
Price: From 57.27USD per person
Tips:
- This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility
- There is approximately three hours of walking
- Please dress accordingly for the weather
What to bring:
- Passport or ID card
- Comfortable shoes
- Warm clothing
- Rain gear
Have a Fun Day at Folkets Park
There is always something going on at this unique park! Check out local musicians or admire the natural scenery at any time of the year. This walking tour will take you to many stops including Folkets Park.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: Malmö Central Station, Skeppsbron 1, 211 20 Malmö, Sweden
Hours:
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Starting at any time
Price: From US$6.32 per person
Tips:
- This is a private tour/activity, only your group will participate
- Maximum group size of 15
- Please dress accordingly for the weather
What to bring:
- Headphones to listen to the audio tour on your phone
- Comfortable shoes
Get Close to the Turning Torso Tower
As one of the most spectacular pieces of architecture in the city, the Turning Torso Tower is something that must be seen to be believed. We recommend visiting at night to see the wonderful lights illuminating the building! You can also check out this amazing Canal Sightseeing Tour of Malmö.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address:
- Norra Vallgatan 60, 211 22 Malmö, Sweden
- Opposite the Central Station
Hours: Duration – 50 minutes
Price: From US$18.74 per person
Tips:
- Live commentary
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
What to bring:
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Snacks – does not include food and drinks
A Quick Malmo Travel Guide
Money
Sweden uses the Swedish krona, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the currency before you go on your trip. The conversion rate is always changing, so we recommend downloading a currency convertor app to stay up-to-date with the most accurate rates.
We also recommend exchanging all of your money once you enter the city at one of the money converters at various main train stations. By doing this, you’ll make sure that you won’t have to pay associated fees twice!
In general, Sweden has regulations requiring businesses to pay their employees minimum wage. However, it is still common practice to tip between 5-10% when paying for food or restaurant services. This tip should only be applied if it is not already included in the bill—many establishments include gratuity!
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Malmo is a beautiful city at any time of year, making this not an essential question to ask. No matter when you go, you’ll have a great time!
Getting to Malmo
If you are already in Europe, getting to Malmo by train or bus is the easiest method. However, those traveling from outside of Europe should consider purchasing plane tickets to arrive at Sturup Airport.
Getting Around Malmo
Like many cities in Sweden, Malmo has an affordable and efficient public transit system that visitors can use. Day passes only cost 65SEK (about 6.75USD) and allow you to take unlimited transportation within a 24-hour period!
Where To Stay in Malmo?
AFFORDABLE
Grand Circus Hotel
Have a unique stay in one of the “rooms” that are designed as separate individual carriages such as the ones that travel with circuses. “A perfect place to escape… well thought of with plenty of creativity. Easy parking, not far from the highway, nor from the city centre.”
VACATION HOME
Country Suite Malmö
Rent a whole vacation home that includes free private parking, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. Don’t worry, this home comes equipped with air conditioning and a kitchenette. A very popular choice for travelling couples and very affordable rates for a whole house.
MIDRANGE
Mayfair Hotel Tunneln
Stay at this historic hotel that is set in a 14th-century building once used by Swedish royalty. In a very central location you won’t have far to go if you want to enjoy some retail therapy on Södergatan shopping street which is only a 3 minutes walk away.
LUXURY
MJ’s
Stay at this stunning hotel full of class and style. Be close to the action as this hotel is located only 50 m from Lilla Torg Square with several restaurants near by or enjoy your first meal of the day in their breakfast garden. Guests rate this hotel high for it’s excellent check-in experience.
What about Malmo Airbnbs?
If you prefer to stay in private room rentals, here are some of the best Malmo Airbnb stays.
If the map below is difficult to navigate, make sure to head to the best Airbnbs in Malmo.
In Conclusion
At the end of the day, the best things to do in Malmo are the ones that are most interesting to you. By including a variety of options in our travel guide, we hope that you’re able to find a good place to start when planning a vacation that you’ll never forget!
Travel Resources For Your Next Trip
If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.
Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.
Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.
Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.
Rideshare: For new Lyft users, use code WILLIAM4825 to get 50% off your first 2 rides (max $10 USD per ride). Offer valid for 14 days after you take your first ride. For new Uber users, use code psuqbjg4d7rn for the same offer except it’s valid for 30 days.
Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.
eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.
- AmigoSIM – Use GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 25% off. Code is re-useable.
- Gigsky – Use TANG149 to get $3 USD when you sign up, then use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% on all eSIM orders.
- KnowRoaming – Use code GAP10 to save 10%.
- AloSIM – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15%.
- Airalo – Use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase.
- Ubigi – AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.
Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.
Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.
Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).
Tours and Activities: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.
Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.
- HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 15% discount (from June 19-29)!
- RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
- SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
- Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
- InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.
If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.
