A coastal city in Sweden, Malmo is connected to Denmark’s Copenhagen by the Oresund Bridge. Although the city was Danish till the 16th century, Malmo exudes a Dutch feel because of the architecture and its crow-stepped gables. In the city’s heart, you will come across Lilla Torg, which is a cobblestone area filled with antique shops, half-timbered houses, restaurants, and cafes. It usually comes alive in all its glory, especially in the summers. There is another renowned attraction – a 16th-century Malmo Castle, constructed by King Christian III of Denmark. It now houses a variety of museums, and it has converted the castle grounds into a stunning landscaped garden. That’s not all. There are a plethora of other attractions in Malmo for one to visit. In this article, we list down some of the top things to do in Malmo.
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Stortorget
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Renowned as the oldest, and the largest square in the city, Stortorget came into existence in the 1540s. Most of the big administrative buildings of the city are present here, among which City Hall is the prominent attraction. This Dutch Renaissance building made of curved gables, pilasters, and pediments, goes way back to the first years after the square’s establishment. Another of the popular things to do in Malmo is checking out the living quarters of the governor from Skåne County. Book your stay at the Quality Hotel The Mill, a cozy hotel with modern amenities, just 650 meters away from Stortorget.
Lilla Torg
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While you are on a vacation in Malmo and want to eat out, there are very high chances that you will make your way to this charming cobblestone square. A renowned neighbor to Stortorget, this location is lined with rooftop cafes and restaurants which feature highly on things to do in Malmo. And many historical buildings of the square surround these establishments, which are a sight to behold. Lilla Torg was once a place where the locals of the city would buy groceries. It also gave a temporary place to the bakeries, butcher shops, and many other stores. And for accommodation options, if you are looking for more luxury, stay at the Clarion Hotel situated less than five minutes away from the attraction.
Malmo Castle
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A prominent Danish fortress, Malmo Castle isn’t all about the beauty on the outside. But what it contains inside. The castle is famous for housing several museums and an aquarium. Along with this, it also hosts exhibitions that range from brewing beer, Finnish fashion, etc. Back in the old days, this castle was a distinguished royal palace and a prison. And if you want to learn more about the castle, or explore many of the city’s attractions on foot, then make use of the small walking tour to discover more things to do in Malmo.
Folkets Park
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In the hip neighborhood of Mollevangen in Malmo, Folkets Park is one of the popular landmarks in the city. Established in 1906, this renowned park is home to several movie screenings, adventure playgrounds, fairground rides, and many more. Along with this, the attraction also features Moorish-style pavilion domes, which acts as one of the best venues for live music scenes in this city.
Pildammsparken
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Sitting on a 111-acre piece of land, Pildammsparken is nestled in the heart of Malmo that was specifically designed for the Baltic Exhibition held in 1914. But, before the exhibition, this site was famous for its reservoirs and pine trees. The water is still present, and the exhibition takes place at the Neoclassical Margareta pavilion. That isn’t all, as you will also get to witness the park’s water tower, which looks exceptional when lit. If you’d like to stay close to this beautiful attraction, just minutes away from one of the top things to do in Malmo, book your room at Teaterhotelle.
Turning Torso
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If you are a lover of architecture, this place right here, Turning Torso must be on your Malmo excursion list. The unconventional architecture of the building gives a dramatic effect on the city’s skyline. Santiago Calatrava, a neo-futurist from Spain, built this tower. Standing tall at 190 meters, Turning Torso is renowned as Scandinavia’s tallest skyscraper. However, since the building is home to office space and residences, visitors can check out this building only from the outside.
Malmö City Library
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When you tour around Malmo, Malmo City Library must be on your to-see list. Easily accessible from Kungsparken, the library features several highlights such as the old wing and the glass wing. The old wing hails from the 1940s, featuring crow-stepped gables and the conical tower that is usually seen in the Renaissance castles of Denmark and Sweden. And if you want some seclusion, away from the city bustle, this library is one of the top things to do in Malmo. It’s home to a good number of English books and newspapers that make for a good reading activity. If you are interested in doing a quick, informative tour of the library and the other notable attractions, check out the 30-minute Malmo tour for a fun day out.
Oresund Bridge
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Those who love the beauty of mega-structures will be keen on visiting Oresund Bridge on their Malmo vacation. A road link between Denmark and Sweden, this bridge is renowned as the longest road and railway bridge on the continent. This famous bridge gained even more popularity post its debut in the Scandinavian crime drama show – “The Bridge.” Considered one of the top things to do in Malmo, if you want to wake up to views of this stunning structure and the man-made island, make sure to stay at First Camp Sibbarp.
Sankt Petri Church
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The oldest but stunning-looking building in Malmo, Sankt Petri Church is a 14th-century church that comes with Gothic lines seen mostly on Hanseatic churches. The center of the church features high rib vaults and narrow columns that support the former. And the whitewashed walls within the church give the whole space an airy atmosphere. The main highlight of the church is the wooden altar. This wooden altar is famous as ‘Northern Europe’s largest wooden altar.’ And towards the north of the tower, you can check out the 15th-century Merchant’s Chapel, which features limestone pictures on the roof and the walls. After a visit, why not go for a remarkable experience, try the Canal Sightseeing Tour of Malmo.
Kungsparken
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Established between the years of 1869-70, Kungsparken is the oldest park in the city. This park features a canal that divides the park on one side and Slottsträdgården on the other. Kungsparken was once popular as the castle’s fortification. An English-style garden took its place after the castle fortification site became obsolete. The park boasts over 120 species of trees and plants, wide paved paths, and a beautiful fountain in the center. Beside the fountain sits a 19th-century Grottan that was renovated into a Norse mythological style in the 1980s.
Just So You Know:
- Malmo is home to Bryggeriet – the only skateboard high school in the word. It is also home to the world-renowned skatepark that the skateboarding community built – Stapelbäddsparken.
- As summer begins, the town offers free cultural events. They range from concerts by international artists, to the theatre, and more. Keep a note of these on your what to do in Malmo list.
Where to Stay:
- ⭐⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Mayfair Hotel Tunneln – A stunning 14th-century establishment boasts rustic ambiance and features a stylish interior decor with a hint of Swedish royalty. Featuring modern amenities, this hotel is an amazing choice for visitors who would love to explore the old town, cafes, and nightlife. Guests can enjoy breakfast, tea, or coffee every morning perfect to fuel up for the day trip in Malmo.
- ⭐⭐⭐ Moments Hotel – Have a goodnight’s sleep in one of the stylish compact rooms at Moments Hotel. The property gives access to the urban garden and a common room. Along with the modern amenities provided in every room, the hotel also offers free coffee, internet, and morning breakfast.
Get Some Culture:
- Malmöfestivalen – Famed as the biggest festival in Scandinavia, Malmöfestivalen covers the music of all types, art and design, cultural specials, food & drink, and many more events. Held at the end of August, Malmo sees party-goers from all over for the festival.
- The Malmo Opera House – The Malmo Opera House is renowned for organizing and hosting events, including musicals, contemporary dramas, and classic operas. There is also the Operaverkstan that brings fun kid things to do Malmo. There, kids aged 3-19 perform contemporary acts.
Grab A Bite:
- Restaurang Spill – Run by a couple, Restaurang Spill is a lunch-only restaurant where the whole menu takes inspiration by the unwanted items from producers and distributors. In simple terms, the couple prepares dishes out of the ingredients that come under the “waste” tag. Looking for what to do in Malmo, why not try out this unusual approach? They serve Nordic cuisine with fine dining techniques. The menu is subject to change daily as it depends on what ingredients or products they receive.
- Malmo Brewing Company – The largest taproom in the city, Malmo Brewing Company is a haven for the craft beer community and patrons since 2010. Boasting 42 beers on tap, it’s one of the top things to do in Malmo as guests can try several beers from around the world. Along with craft brew, the brewery also offers wine, homemade mead, and cider. The spacious brewery with an airy atmosphere also comes with an all American-style food menu. It is a must-visit for beer lovers.
