When most people think of Sweden, they picture Stockholm. With millions wandering through its Old Town, exploring its palaces, and reveling in its food and culture, the city has certainly become the tourist hub of the country.
And yet so much more exists beyond the confines of its city limits. I’ll be honest, I knew nothing much about Sweden except its capital. But, when planning a Scandinavian adventure, I learned of family connections throughout the country and, for convenience sake, figured why not. So, I soon found myself in a city that I’d never heard of previously- that of Malmö.
I quickly learned, in no small part due to my host and guide, that Sweden’s third largest city is a place that belongs on every traveler’s itinerary. From food to activities, museums to canals, it offers something for everyone, and a great taste of what makes Sweden, and Scandinavia, so magical.
Boat Ride Along the Canal
Originally built as part of the city’s defense, Malmö’s system of canals now provide visitors with a relaxing and informative tour. Consider BYOing food and beverages for an evening floating, snacking, and sight seeing. Rundan, nearby the Central Station, runs a regular schedule of fifty-minute boat tours from April to September.
Try Some Swedish Wine
Wineries are a relatively new, but booming, industry in Sweden. Making anything from white to red to sparkling, many of the brands remain available only in-country, meaning you can spend an entire Swedish vacation trying never-before-tasted wines. My personal favorite is any/all of the cava. It is absolutely delicious.
Walk the Waterfront
Malmö’s revitalized Western Harbour, or Västra Hamnen, is certainly worth a visit, particularly for views of the Turning Torso. The tallest building in Scandinavia, it rises 190m into the air, built to appear as though it actually rotates. Along the waterfront runs a promenade from where one can catch a glimpse of the Øresund Bridge, go for a roller blade, or read at a cafe. A set of circular sculptures provide the perfect sunset photos as you can catch the sinking sun framed within it.
Strip Down at Ribersborgs Kallbadhaus
Along the Ribersborgsstranden, a stretch of city beach running from Västra Hamnen, you’ll find Ribersborgs Kallbadhaus, a famous bathing pier. Whether you’re a seasoned sauna-er or first-timer, comfortable in the nude or not, nothing is more Swedish than this. After changing/stripping down (you can leave underwear on if you’d like) and rinsing off, you head into a gender-specific sauna to warm up. While you can simply lounge within, for the full experience and once toasty, you jump into the frigid sea. The combination of warm and cold is excellent for your body and health.
Hours: May- August: Weekdays 9am-9pm, Weekends 9am-6pm, September – April: Weekdays 10am-7pm, Weekends 9am-6pm
Entrance Fee: 70 SEK Location: Along Ribersborgsstranden
Picnic in the Park
With three major green spaces in the city center, you almost can’t help but spend time in one of Malmö’s parks. Slottsparken offers a large pond great for bird watching, the library and castle mill for continued sightseeing, and a sculpture of pegasus by the famous Carl Milles. Kungsparken, the oldest park in the city and located right in the heart of Malmö, was once home to a burial ground. Now filled with gardens and a wide variety of tree species, it is perfect for a stroll. And then there’s Pildammsparken, the largest of them all. Its “flower alley” boasts over 10,000 flowers and many visit to feed the ducks and geese.
Visit Old Town/Gamla Staden
Just as Stockholm has its old town, so too does Malmö, and it is equally worth exploring. Side streets are lined with small one story houses, many of which boast flower boxes or other colorful accents. The paths converge in cobblestone squares, home to restaurants and coffee shops that offer plenty of outdoor seating in the summer months. Leave your map at home or in your backpack, allowing yourself to simply wander. Each seems to have its own personality, from bohemian to quaint. And Stortorget Square is one of the largest, home to city hall and a statue of King Carl Gustav, the man who took the city back from Denmark.
Immerse in History at Malmö Castle
Otherwise known as Malmöhus Slott, this fortress was initially constructed in the 1400s and re-built by Danish king Christian III in 1542. Standing as a reminder of Denmark’s influence in the region and on Malmö in particular, the Castle is now part of the city’s museums. Having served as a prison, a mint, and a royal residence, it is worthwhile to walk through- along with visiting the adjoining galleries that display anything from natural history to Nordic art.
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm Entrance Fee: 40 SEK Location: 15 minute walk SW of train station
Go Shopping and Get Eating
No matter how busy one’s itinerary, there’s always time for both! When it comes to shopping, keep your eye out for the design stores for which Scandinavia is famous (IKEA anyone?!). One of particular note is Svenssons. The town also boasts one of Europe’s most impressive indoor malls, Emporia, along with Triangeln, a smaller option nestled into the old town itself. For dining, be sure to try Bastard. The menu changes frequently but always offers a wide variety of European fare. Sitting right along the waterfront, Salt & Brygga serves delicious Mediterranean inspired dishes while remaining environmentally-friendly. The establishment has won awards for its efforts to use ingredients that reduce its carbon footprint. And, Bloom in the Park is perfect for those who like a taste of the unexpected as they run a menu-less operation.
Whether you have one day or an entire week in Malmö, the city is filled with activities of all kinds. What’s more, it also provides easy access to Denmark. If you have extra time, be sure to venture to Copenhagen. It will add additional context to your time in Sweden!
Also, consider adding Iceland to your Scandinavian adventure. It’s ideal for outdoor adventurers!
