Destination Guide: Malmö

Historic charm meets a creative, multicultural edge in Malmö. Old town squares, the striking Turning Torso tower, and waterfront parks set the scene for a vibrant, bike-friendly visit. Copenhagen is also a 1-hour train ride across the Öresund Bridge.

Image courtesy of Elite Hotel Esplanade

Where to stay

Elite Hotel Esplanade: Tucked into Malmö’s historic Gamla Väster district, this boutique stay is full of understated charm. Spacious rooms with soft palettes offer a calming retreat from the city’s creative energy. Stroll outside to cobbled streets lined with galleries and cafés.

Where to eat

• Ruths: Warm, buzzy restaurant offering inventive Nordic dishes using seasonal, local ingredients, open for breakfast to late-night dining.

• La Fonderie: French-inspired cuisine with a Scandinavian twist.

• Malmö Saluhall: The vibrant food hall features local producers, artisanal cheeses, freshly caught seafood, and casual Swedish specialties.

• Bastard: Rustic-modern Nordic small plates with a focus on sustainable, seasonal ingredients in a cozy, energetic space.

• Bloom in the Park: Michelin-starred fine dining in a serene park setting. Tasting menus showcase hyper-local ingredients in creative, artful presentations.

• Vollmers: Elegant, intimate fine-dining with innovative Nordic cuisine, exceptional service, and minimalist décor.

What to do

• Gamla Väster: Wander Malmö’s historic quarter, where colorful 19th-century houses frame boutique shops and cafés. Pause at the lively squares Stortorget and Lilla Torg.

• Möllevången: Explore this multicultural district brimming with street art, indie shops, and trendy cafés.

• Moderna Museet Malmö: Step inside for bold contemporary works from Nordic and international artists.

• Ribersborg Beach: A summer must where locals swim, walk the promenade, or linger in waterfront cafés. 

• Malmöhus Castle and Slottsparken: Visit this Renaissance fortress and surrounding gardens for art, history, and natural history collections.

• Västra Hamnen: Explore Malmö’s sleek waterfront district, with striking modern architecture, upscale dining, and panoramic views of the Öresund Bridge.

• Form/Design Center: Browse this boutique museum and gallery celebrating Swedish design, fashion, and crafts.

• Copenhagen: Take a day trip, just 35 minutes across the Öresund Bridge by train, for world-class dining, design, and vibrant neighborhoods.