The best things to do in Malmo - how to visit Malmo in one day

Are you going to Sweden and looking for the best things to do in Malmö? Are you doing a day trip from Copenhagen and wondering what to see in Malmö in one day? Then you’re in luck, because these are the 10 best things to do in Malmö in one day!

In this blog post, I’m going to highlight the best things to do in Malmö, Sweden, the best places to visit in Malmö and the best adventures to go on. This is the blog post for you whether or not you are visiting Malmö in one day, doing a day trip to Malmö, or spending a little bit more time in the area (it is one of the best places to visit in Sweden an somewhere that should definitely be on your Europe bucket list, so I don’t blame you!).

A day trip to Malmö is the Danish people’s favourite place for a getaway from Copenhagen. Located in southern Sweden, it is only a 40-minute train ride away from the centre of Copenhagen. On top of that, Malmö is a charming little city with much to offer, so it is easy to see why they love it so much. It’s also not too big, which is why so many people choose to visit Malmö in one day.

If you are visiting Copenhagen for a longer period of time, then you will probably want to consider visiting the European hidden gem that is Malmö! It is a smaller city packed with things to do see and experience. You will find everything from the must-do tourist attractions such as the Turning Torso and Lilla Torg, to some of the best places to go for a Swedish fika. More on that later…

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Where is Malmö?

Malmö is located in southern Sweden, but actually used to be Danish up until the 16th century. Malmö is the largest city in “Skåne” and is tied to Copenhagen by the famous Öresundbridge.

How to get to Malmö:

Many airlines offer direct flights from London to Malmö. If you are in Copenhagen, you can easily reach the city by taking the regional train arriving within 40 minutes.

Getting around Malmö:

Getting around Malmö is easily done on foot. You can walk to most of the landmarks, but when that is not possible, the second best way to get around Malmö is by bike. Bikes are a very common mode of transport in Malmö so cycling is a very safe option.

You can find bike rentals in many places around the city; even most hotels offer bike rentals. You can also opt for Donkey Bike or Malmö by Bike which are both companies that rent out bikes through apps. Simply download and setup the app and you’re ready to start cycling in Malmö.

See more useful travel apps here.

So here we are! Below are some of the best things to do in Malmö, including priorities in terms of what to see in Malmö in one day and a day trip to Malmö itinerary!

The best things to do in Malmö, Sweden

1. Marvel at the iconic Turning Torso.

The first thing you absolutely must do when visiting Malmö in one day is to see the iconic Turning Torso. It makes for a stunning photo and is the main attraction and landmark of Malmö. The Turning Torso is a residential, twisted skyscraper with a unique look that will make you recognize it instantly. It is also the tallest building in Scandinavia!

You can see the Turning Torso from basically anywhere in the centre of Malmö, but here are some of the best spots that you should go to if you want the absolute best view of the Turning Torso (one of the best things to do in Malmö):

The Western Harbour: This is the best place to get a beautiful view of the Turning Torso. In the Western Harbour you can find a lot of different angles to see the Turning Torso from, whilst also enjoying the modern architecture of the area.
Ribersborg Beach: Just a short walk from The Western Harbour is Ribersborg Beach where you can get a beautiful skyline view of the city and the Turning Torso. This is also where the locals of Malmö go for a dip – in all seasons and weather conditions!

2. Walk by the water and see Malmö from a different perspective.

After seeing the Turning Torso, one of the best things to do in Malmö is to go for a walk along the water from the Turning Torso to the Old Lighthouse. When doing this, you will be able to see Malmö from one of the most beautiful perspectives. You will skip touristy crowds and have a peaceful and quiet walk enjoying the city from afar. This walk is especially beautiful at sunset or sunrise, and a great way to see Malmö in one day if you’re short on time.

Start address: Lilla Varvsgatan 14, 211 15 Malmö

End address: Malmö Old Lighthouse, 211 19 Malmö

3. Stop and smell the roses inside St. Johannes Kyrka (St. John’s Church).

Malmö has a few churches scattered over the city, but St. Johannes Kyrka is a must-visit if you’re planning to visit Malmö in one day. From the outside it makes for a beautiful photo with its gingerbread house look.

The inside of the church does not disappoint either! St. Johannes Kyrka is known as “the Church of Roses” because of its famous rose carvings all over the inside of the church (ok, so don’t literally smell the roses, but take a minute to stop and appreciate the things you have in your life!). You’ll definitely want to take lots of photos while you’re inside, too!

4. Have a relaxing stroll through Pildammsparken.

Pildammsparken is, with its 45 hectares, the largest park in Malmö. The park is beautiful and worth visiting during all seasons, however it especially shines during autumn. One of the best things to do in Malmö is to grab a takeaway coffee or tea and go for a long stroll through Pildammsparken and enjoy the quiet, idyllic scenery. If you are visiting Malmö in summer, be sure to pack a picnic basket with sandwiches and snacks, and spend an afternoon in this beautiful park.

Here are a few beautiful sights you will meet on your walk in Pildammsparken:

Margareta Paviljongen
Galatheas Hage
Galleri Pildammstornet
Bloom in the Park

5. Visit Malmö Castle.

Malmö Castle was built from 1537 to 1542 on top of ruins from an old fort. It is the oldest preserved Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, and today it is used for a variety of different experiences and exhibitions.

Inside, you will find an aquarium, an art museum, the City Museum and the Museum of Natural History. With all of these experiences inside, it is safe to say that there will be something for everyone! If you’re wondering what to see in Malmö in one day, this should definitely be on your list. The entrance fee for all of the experiences together is 40kr.

6. Go inside the impressive library, Malmö Stadsbibliotek.

If you are a book-lover then one of the best things to do in Malmö is to visit the Malmö Stadsbibliotek. You will be amazed by the architecture the minute you step inside the library. It has a whole wall of windows with a view of a park just across the street. It is the perfect place to study, read or just sit and people-watch. You will definitely meet some local Malmö people here.

Top tip: make sure your phone storage is cleared and ready to shoot a few hundred photos! See how to improve your travel photography here.

7. Wander around the Historical Square, Lilla Torg.

One of the best things to do in Malmö that you cannot miss Lilla Torg. Lilla Torg is a romantic, little square located in the centre of the city, close to the main shopping square “Stortorget”.

This little area is filled with small shops and cozy cafés. Besides its many shops and cafés, it is also known as “the Historical Square” in Malmö. The square was created in 1590 and was used as a shopping square then and still is today. Even if you’re only in Malmö for one day, you must visit!

8. Go for a walk in Kungsparken and see the historical Slottsmöllan.

Just around the corner from Malmö Castle, you will find the park “Kungsparken” as well as the historical mock mill “Slottsmöllan”. This spot is a popular spot for picnicking or going for a walk. One of the best things to do in Malmö during late spring or in the summertime is to keep an eye out for concerts, as this place is also used for open-air concerts and other events during the summer!

9. Have ‘fika’ at one of the many cafés in Malmö.

You cannot go to Sweden without sitting down to have fika. This Swedish word is a concept which involves having a break in the cosiest of environments (a nice cafe or even your own home), with coffee, cake and your favourite people.

One of the best things to do in Malmö, and something you must do, even briefly, if you’re only visiting Malmö for one day, is to go for Swedish fika. here are a few of the best cafes in Malmö that really give the fika feeling:

Avocado (Holmgatan 4, 211 45 Malmö, Sweden)
Lilla Kafferosteriet (Baltzarsgatan 24, 211 36 Malmö, Sweden)
Uggla Kaffebar (Sankt Knuts Väg 16, 211 57 Malmö, Sweden)
Atrium Café (Skvadronsgatan 13, 217 49 Malmö, Sweden)

Fika is also one of the best things to do in Stockholm – check out the Stockholm travel guide here.

10. Enjoy a sunset drink and a panoramic view at Skybar Malmö Arena Hotel.

After a long day of exploring, seeing all the best sights and experiencing the best things to do in Malmö, you will want to end your day here! Trust me. This is an absolute favourite place of mine. Not enough people talk about when they mention Malmö, and you must visit it.

At the top of the Skybar in Malmö Arena Hotel you can enjoy a cocktail or a mocktail with a stunning view over the city. You will even be able to see the Turning Torso from a whole new perspective. It is especially beautiful for sunset, so if you can make it for the golden hour, do it! Whether you choose to just enjoy a drink or also have dinner, you will be guaranteed a beautiful experience.

If you want to have the best experience at Skybar make sure you book a table in advance or arrive quite a bit earlier than other people would. This place can get very crowded with locals, especially on the weekends!

Skybar Malmö Arena Hotel address: Hyllie Boulevard 12, 216 23 Malmö, Sweden.

Malmö in one day: a day trip to Malmö itinerary…

Do you have a minimal amount of time to explore Malmö, perhaps because you’re looking for things to do in Malmö in one day or you’re planning a day trip to Malmö? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here is a Malmö in one day itinerary to guide you through your day trip…

9:30 – 10:30: Breakfast at “Avocado”

Start the day by having a “fika” and going for breakfast at an all-avocado café called “Avocado”. This café is not only the tastiest breakfast in Malmö, it is also one of the most accommodating places for people with allergies, dietary restrictions, etc. Look at the menu here to get inspired before going.

10:30 – 11:30: The Turning Torso

After you’ve been fueled up for the day, let’s head out into the city and let’s start off by going to the iconic Malmö landmark: the Turning Torso! I’d recommend going directly to the Turning Torso and seeing it up close, then afterwards head towards The Western Harbour to get a great picturesque view of the Torso!

11:30 – 12:30: Lilla Torg

When you are done admiring the main landmark in Malmö, you should head into the city and explore both Stortorget and Lilla Torg. Admire the old Swedish buildings as you stroll along the main street of Malmö, and of course don’t forget to head into a few of the many shops you will meet on your way! There are many dedicated Swedish brand shops all along the streets, so you will be guaranteed to find a souvenir for yourself or a friend.

12:30 – 13:30: Lunch and fika

When you are done exploring the main streets of Malmö, don’t leave yet! When you think you’ve done all the things to do in Malmö in one day, this city keeps on giving. Stop at one of the many cafés for lunch and fika to recharge yourself for the next adventure.

13:30 – 17:00: Visit Malmö Castle

Once you have been re-fueled, one of the best things to do on a day trip to Malmö is to head to Malmö Castle to experience one or more of the following: The Aquarium/zoo, The Art Museum, the City Museum and the Museum of Natural History.

17:00 – 19:00: Head to Skybar for dinner and/or a drink

You are probably pretty worn out and tired now at teh end of your day trip to Malmö, so I think it is time for dinner and relaxation. Head to Skybar Malmö Arena Hotel for a viewpoint dining experience. You will not regret this one.