Malmo is a charming city in southern Sweden. It is also a hub of culture and history, blending old-world charm with modern innovations. This waterfront city is known for its picturesque parks, historic architecture, and vibrant art scene. If you are also looking for the top things to do in Malmo during your visit, you have landed at the right place.
From exploring the city through the iconic boat tours to strolling through the food market, there is something for everyone. The city’s rich history is showcased in its ancient buildings and museums, while contemporary attractions cater to modern interests.
Malmo’s diverse culinary scene, offering traditional Swedish dishes alongside international cuisine, is a delight for food enthusiasts. Whether you are interested in soaking up local culture, enjoying outdoor activities, or indulging in culinary delights, Malmo promises a memorable experience.
In this article, we will share all the fun-filled top things that you can do in Malmo. Let’s begin!
1. Boat Tour
A boat tour in Malmo is a peaceful and scenic way to see the city. You can relax on the boat while it moves smoothly on the water.
This tour lets you see Malmo’s mix of old and new buildings from a new angle. You will see the Turning Torso, Malmo’s tallest building, and other landmarks.
The tour is not just about sights. You also feel the sea breeze and learn about Malmo’s connection to the sea.
A boat tour here is a chance to step away from busy city life. It’s a calm and beautiful way to see Malmö from its waterways.
2. Bike Tour
A bike tour in Malmo is an excellent way to explore the city. Malmo, known for being bike-friendly, offers dedicated bike lanes and paths that make it easy and safe to travel on two wheels.
During a bike tour, you can cover more ground than walking, allowing you to visit various attractions, from the charming Old Town to modern areas like Vastra Hamnen.
It is a fun, healthy, and eco-friendly way to see the city, giving you the flexibility to stop and enjoy places that interest you.
Riding through Malmo’s streets and parks, you get a closer look at local life, architecture, and nature. Bike tours can be guided or self-guided, depending on your preference.
3. Witness Fika Culture/ Swedish Fika
Witnessing Fika culture in Malmo is an essential Swedish experience. Fika is a traditional coffee break but it’s much more than just a coffee pause.
It is a moment to slow down, enjoy a cup of coffee, and often indulge in a sweet treat, like a cinnamon bun or a piece of cake. Moreover, it is a cherished social practice, where friends, family, or colleagues gather to chat and relax.
In Malmö, you’ll find numerous cozy cafés that embody this tradition, each with its unique charm. Taking part in Fika is not only about enjoying coffee and snacks; it’s about embracing a key part of Swedish culture, where taking a break and appreciating simple pleasures are highly valued.
4. Explore Food Market
Exploring the food markets in Malmo is a delightful experience for food lovers. It is a journey through the tastes and flavors of both local and international cuisines.
Malmo’s food markets are vibrant and bustling, offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and gourmet treats.
Visitors can sample traditional Swedish delicacies, seafood, cheeses, and more. The markets are also a great place to interact with locals and understand the culinary culture of the city.
Wandering through these markets, you will encounter a plethora of aromas and tastes. It makes a memorable and engaging experience for your palate.
5. Ribersborg Beach
Ribersborg Beach, often referred to as “Ribban” by the locals, is a popular destination in Malmo. This long, sandy beach stretches along the coast, offering a beautiful view of the Oresund Bridge and the Turning Torso.
It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying leisurely walks. The beach is also equipped with facilities like changing rooms and showers for convenience.
Ribersborg is not just a summer spot but it is frequented year-round for its serene environment and picturesque views.
In the winter, the open-air bathhouse at the end of the beach, Ribersborgs Kallbadhus, provides a unique experience with saunas and cold sea baths.
6. Cultural Workshop
Cultural workshops in Malmo offer a unique way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage. These workshops can include a variety of activities, such as traditional Swedish crafts, art classes, or even culinary lessons that focus on local cuisine.
They provide a hands-on experience, allowing participants to learn new skills and understand the cultural significance behind them.
Attending a cultural workshop is not just educational. It is also a fun way to interact with locals and other travelers, creating a memorable and meaningful experience during your visit to Malmo.
7. Explore Street Art
Exploring street art in Malmo offers a colorful journey into the city’s vibrant art scene. This Swedish city is adorned with creative murals and graffiti that transform ordinary walls into canvases showcasing artistic expression.
Walking through the streets, you can witness a diverse range of styles, from large-scale paintings to intricate stencils, each piece telling its own story.
The street art in Malmo is not just about aesthetics but it often reflects social themes and local culture, making it a meaningful experience.
Discovering these artworks gives you a unique insight into the city’s contemporary artistic landscape and the voices of its local artists.
8. Shopping
Shopping in Malmo offers a unique and enjoyable experience. This place is known for its charming streets lined with boutique stores and vintage shops.
Here, you can find a mix of fashion, art, and design items that are both unique and stylish. Malmo attracts not only those looking for the latest fashion trends but also vintage lovers and art enthusiasts.
The shops here offer a personal and intimate shopping experience, differing from the larger commercial centers. It is a perfect place to find special gifts or to treat yourself to something unique.
The atmosphere in Malmo is laid-back and friendly, making it a delightful area for a leisurely shopping day.
9. Folkets Park
Folkets Park in Malmo is a lively and family-friendly public park, known for its vibrant atmosphere. It is a place where locals and tourists alike come to relax, socialize, and enjoy various activities.
The park features green spaces for picnics and leisure, playgrounds for children, and stages for live performances. Throughout the year, Folkets Park hosts a range of events, including concerts, festivals, and cultural activities, making it a hub of community life.
With its combination of natural beauty, entertainment options, and cultural events, Folkets Park offers a perfect snapshot of Malmo’s dynamic community spirit.
10. Malmos Old Town – Gamla Staden
Malmo’s Old Town, known as Gamla Staden, is a journey into the city’s rich history. This area is the heart of Malmo, with narrow, cobbled streets and colorful buildings.
It is home to historic landmarks like St. Petri Church, one of the oldest in the city. Walking through Gamla Staden feels like stepping back in time.
The area is bustling with cafes, small shops, and galleries, offering a cozy atmosphere. It is a place to slow down, savor a coffee, and enjoy the old-world charm.
Gamla Staden also hosts various cultural events, making it a lively and engaging part of Malmo.
11. Disgusting Food Museum
The Disgusting Food Museum in Malmo is a unique and intriguing attraction. It challenges visitors to rethink ideas about what is edible.
The museum showcases a variety of foods from around the world, many of which might seem unappetizing or unusual to some.
From fermented shark to maggot cheese, the exhibits are designed to provoke thought and conversation about food and cultural differences.
It is not just about disgust; the museum also aims to explore the concept of food sustainability. Visitors leave with a new perspective on food and its diverse cultural meanings.
12. Mollevangen
Mollevangen, often called Mollan by locals, is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Malmo known for its multicultural atmosphere. It is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and creativity.
The area buzzes with a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering tastes from around the world. Mollan is also famous for its lively market square, where fresh produce and international goods are sold daily.
The streets are adorned with colorful street art, adding to the area’s artistic charm. At night, Mollevangen transforms into a lively spot with numerous bars and clubs, reflecting the youthful and energetic spirit of the district.
This neighborhood provides a unique and dynamic experience, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Malmo.
13. Waterfront at Vastra Hamnen
The Waterfront at Vastra Hamnen in Malmo is a modern, vibrant area known for its contemporary architecture and scenic views. It is home to the Turning Torso, an iconic skyscraper that has become a symbol of the city.
The area is perfect for leisurely walks along the water, offering panoramic views of the Oresund Bridge and the coast.
With its open spaces and maritime ambiance, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the fresh sea air.
The waterfront also has cafes and restaurants where you can savor local and international cuisine while soaking in the stunning views.
14. Discover Sankt Nuts
Discovering Sankt Knuts in Malmo is about exploring a charming, lesser-known neighborhood. This area is known for its laid-back atmosphere and is a favorite among locals.
It features quaint streets lined with small boutiques, cozy cafés, and unique shops. The vibe here is more relaxed compared to the bustling city center, making it a perfect place to stroll and experience a more authentic side of Malmo.
You can enjoy leisurely coffee breaks, browse through local artisan products, and soak in the friendly neighborhood feel of Sankt Knuts.
Ending Note
Exploring Malmo, you will discover a city where every experience is unique and memorable just like all the unusual things in Gothenburg. Whether it is the peacefulness of a boat tour, the excitement of a bike ride through bustling streets, or the cultural immersion of a Swedish Fika, Malmo offers activities that cater to all interests.
From relaxing on Ribersborg beach to delving into history at Malmos Old Town, each activity is an opportunity to connect with the city’s diverse character.
This blend of nature, culture, and urban energy makes Malmo an ideal destination for travelers seeking a rich, well-rounded experience.
Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Malmo has something special to offer, ensuring your visit is filled with enjoyable moments and lasting memories.
