Malmö, Sweden is a short train ride away from Copenhagen and makes for a great day trip. Malmö is the third-largest city in Sweden, but it feels like a small town. It’s full of cute streets and impressive buildings. As a big fan of the scandic noir tv-series ‘The Bridge’ I was also very much excited to catch a glimpse of the Øresund Bridge. Here are my recommendations for a fun day trip in Malmö.
Sightseeing
Explore Gamla Väster
The most beautiful part of Malmö is definitely Gamla Väster, the city’s old town. Start your sightseeing adventure at Stortoget, the city’s main square. It was created in 1540 and used to be the largest market place in Europe. On the square you will find the City Hall and the oldest pharmacy Lejonet.
Make sure not to miss Lilla Torg! This cute square is surrounded by beautiful old buildings and cozy terraces. I also recommend heading to Jakob Nilsgatan, a side street filled with colorful houses that are waiting to be photographed.
Saint Peter’s Church (Sankt Petri Kyrka) is a Brick Gothic church that was built in the 14th century and is Sweden’s oldest church. Unfortunately it was closed to the public that day, so we were not able to go in and visit it.
Visit Malmöhus Castle
Malmöhus Castle is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and one of the oldest Renaissance castles in Scandinavia. The fort has been under both Swedish and Danish reign, so the museum inside explains a great deal about the history between both countries. Malmöhus Castle is a very important landmark for Sweden, the fortress has not only served as a royal residence, but also as a corrective prison and a shelter for people coming from the concentration camps.
Wander around the Kungsparken (King’s Park)
The beautiful Kungsparken is the oldest park in Malmö. It’s beautiful ponds, fountains and lots of green spaces make it a relaxing spot to hang out and perhaps enjoy a picnic.
Explore the Västra Hamnen neighboorhood
Västra Hamnen was once a rundown industrial state and has now become one of the most popular residential neighborhoods in Malmö. Between all the fancy apartments, there was one building that immediately caught my attention; the Turning Torso, Malmö’s very own skyscraper. Near the waterside there is also a very nice recreational park, where locals can come to barbecue, skate or hang out with friends. The temperatures were really nice so we decided to stay at the Västra Hamnen waterfront for a while and enjoy the sun and the people watching.
From the Västra Hamnen waterfront you also have a view upon the Øresund Bridge. Don’t expect a close-up from ‘The Bridge’, because you will only see it from afar. There was also no Saga Norén, which was kind of disappointing, but hey you can’t have it all.
Foodie Hotspots
As we only spend the day in Malmö I don’t have that many recommendations, however the ones we did go to, where really enjoyable.
Kärleksgatan 3 – cosy breakfast and lunch spot that serves delicious sandwiches and salads. Service is fast and super friendly.
Noir Kaffecultur – trendy coffee spot in the heart of Malmö
Practical Information
• Getting to Malmö from Copenhagen: There are several ways (bus, car & train) to get to Malmö from Copenhagen Central. We decided to go by train, as they run much more frequently than the bus does. Practically every half hour a train leaves Copenhagen Central for Malmö Central. As you will be crossing the border, don’t be surprised that borders checks will take place during the train ride and you have to show your passport or ID.
• Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)