Malmö, the third most populous city in Sweden, is one of those places that doesn’t always land on travelers’ wish lists, but once you start hearing about it, you feel compelled to get to know it inside and out. For years it has lived in the shadow of Stockholm and, above all, of its neighbor Copenhagen, separated only by the Øresund Bridge and about 40 kilometers away.
However, a few hours in Malmö are enough to understand that it’s playing in a different league. It is more relaxed, youthful, diverse, and it radiates a very particular kind of creative energy. After hosting Eurovision in 2024, in the year that marked the 50th anniversary of ABBA’s Waterloo, many people turned their attention to it for the first time. But the truth is that they had been doing things right here for a long time.
Although many barely dedicate a day to it given its proximity to other cities, it is perfect for a multi-day urban escape. Or at least for a weekend. Almost flat, it is comfortable, easy to get around on foot or by bike, with plenty of greenery, the sea always nearby, and a very interesting blend of medieval history, Scandinavian design, and a lively cultural life. Here life moves slowly, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things happening.
Old Town
First things first. As mentioned, if you enjoy cycling, the best plan is to rent a bike for your stay. While most things can be reached on foot, two wheels let you go further. The natural starting point is Old Town, the historic center. Here you’ll find Stortorget, the main square dominated by the town hall erected between 1544 and 1547, and Lilla Torg, probably the most photogenic square in the city. It is the old market square, dating from the 16th century, and it still preserves that charm of cobbled streets, colorfully painted timber-framed houses, and historic buildings.
Of course, there are plenty of lively terraces to enjoy when the weather cooperates. And if it doesn’t, you can always seek shelter under the heaters that every terrace has. Between one terrace and the next, the best option is to stroll along Södergatan, Malmö’s shopping street, where shops and malls abound.
