Malmö is a fast-growing cosmopolitan center, teeming with history, sights and activities for all tastes and interests. An epicenter of cultural diversity and innovation, Malmö offers everything from ancient Gothic cathedrals to fresh contemporary art, quaint cobblestone squares to innovative modern neighborhoods, quiet antique coffee shops to bumping bars and nightclubs, fast-food falafel stands to Michelin-star dining, and forested city parks to sandy public beaches. The city is fairly condensed in size, so If you’re spending 24 hours in Malmö, you’ll easily be able to fit in a little bit of everything; this Malmö itinerary will help you make the most of your stay.
Morning: Take a peaceful walk around Pildammsparken
Start your Malmö itinerary with a peaceful walk around fragrant rose gardens, fresh forest trails, and a tranquil lake at Pildammsparken, and enjoy a taste of nature in the middle of the city. You’ll also get a great view of Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s tallest building, in the distance from over the lake. Ducks, swans, and other birds tend to roam around the park by the water, so you might see lots of animal life on your serene nature walk as well. After your walk (or your bike ride), head to the Triangeln area for breakfast at one of Malmö’s countless charming cafés and coffee shops.
Mid-Morning: Explore Gamla Staden
The second leg of your Malmö itinerary must include the city’s amazing sites. From Triangeln, it’s an easy walk up into the main downtown area of Malmö, called Gamla Staden. Here, you can enjoy historic sights like the statue of King Karl X Gustav, Malmö City Hall, lovely canals through Kungsparken, St Peter’s Cathedral, and Malmö City Library. The old castle Malmöhus Slott sits on the western edge of Gamla Staden, and houses the Malmö Museum, which has everything in its exhibits from aquarium to art gallery. For a coffee break, or Fika, in between sights, check out Lilla Kafferosteriet or Café Eida for a smooth brew or pastry and relaxed café vibe. Sights throughout the surrounding castle gardens, Slottsträdgården, include the old castle mill Slottsmöllan, which is great for photo ops or a picnic nearby.
Lunch: Nosh on renowned Malmö cuisine
If you’d rather eat out and try some of Malmö’s renowned international cuisine, head to Malmö Saluhall or the harbor area for lunch. You’ll see beautiful sculptures surrounding the harbor, and all kinds of restaurants offering outdoor seating. For an authentic meal of the type Malmö is best known for, pick up a falafel roll from one of the many kebab shops around the city. By far the city’s favorite street food delicacy, falafel in Malmö is and high quality wherever you go. It’s also cheap, quick, and easy to find, with a restaurant or stand on nearly every street. Trying the delicious food is a Malmö itinerary must, regardless of whether you blow your last paycheck or pick up some budget bites.
Afternoon: Take in the sea breeze at Ribersborgstranden
Not every Malmö itinerary needs to be nonstop action. Now that you’ve done your fair share of walking and sightseeing, it’s time to kick back, relax, and enjoy an afternoon at the beach. Ribersborgsstranden stretches for almost 3 kilometers along the city’s coast, so you can enjoy plenty of space to sunbathe in the soft sand or take a refreshing dip in the Øresund waters. There are several piers along the beach you can jump from, or just wade into the water straight from the beach. If you’d like to go nude, there’s a designated section on the beach for that. Or, you can visit the open-air bath house Ribersborgs Kallbadhus at the end of a long pier, and bathe naked in enclosed gender-separated swimming areas or out in the open water. The facility also offers sunbathing decks, saunas, and massage, for the ultimate Swedish spa experience.
Dinner: Head to Lilla Torg Square
After the beach, hit up Lilla Torg in Old Town for dinner or a drink in one of the many lively restaurants and bars clustered around the square. Ample outdoor seating brings plenty of life to this bustling square, and you could easily spend a few hours over a tasty meal, quality drinks, or a live music performance. For stylish, innovative cocktails and cuisine, try Restaurang Bastard or Bord 13. To try local craft beers and full-flavored meads, head to Malmö Brewing Co. & Taproom, which serves a long list of beers on tap from their in-house brewery. Though there are many places to visit in Malmö, get the best of your day-trip with this Malmö itinerary!