Quick Stay in Malmo, Sweden
Exploring Malmö, Sweden: A Scandinavian Gem Just Minutes from Copenhagen
Malmö is in Sweden—but it is what you could call a cross-border destination. That’s because the region encompassing both Malmö and Copenhagen sometimes markets itself as a single, seamless travel experience. At least, that was what happened a few years ago when I was planning a press trip to Copenhagen and I was put up in Malmo. And why not? With one of the most efficient train services in the world connecting the two cities, it takes just 15 minutes to reach central Malmö from Copenhagen International Airport—about the same time it takes to get into the heart of Denmark’s capital.
The Øresund Link: An Engineering Wonder
The journey between Copenhagen and Malmö is a spectacle in itself. Whether you’re travelling by train or car, you’ll first plunge beneath the Øresund Strait in a sleek tunnel, only to emerge and soar across the iconic Øresund Bridge. This architectural marvel, stretching nearly 8 kilometres, ranks as one of Europe’s longest cross-channel links. It’s a bold, elegant symbol of Scandinavian cooperation and innovation.
At 190 meters (623 square feet) high, the Turning Torso is the tallest residential building in Sweden and the second tallest residential building in Europe. At the top of the tower, visitors can see Copenhagen to the west, Falsterbo to the south, the Skane plain to the east and Helsingborg to the north
Malmö: From Industrial Port to Creative Hub
With just under 300,000 residents, Malmö is Sweden’s third-largest city, nestled in the southern province of Scania (Skåne in Swedish). Once a gritty industrial port town, Malmö has dramatically reinvented itself in recent decades. As Sweden’s traditional manufacturing industries moved offshore, the city responded with resilience and vision—transforming into a centre for green innovation, biotech, digital start-ups and creative industries.
The city’s skyline now features striking modern architecture, including the Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s tallest building and a bold symbol of Malmö’s renaissance.
Vibrant Student Life and Historic Charm
Malmö University has grown to become one of Scandinavia’s most dynamic educational institutions, infusing the city with youthful energy. Students from all over the world gather here, adding to the cosmopolitan vibe.
Yet amid all the innovation and buzz, Malmö has retained its historical soul. Wander its cobbled streets and you’ll encounter ancient buildings, timbered houses, and landmarks like the 14th-century St. Peter’s Church. The city blends old and new in a way that’s effortlessly charming.
Laid-Back Living and Easy Cross-Border Adventures
We found Malmö to be the perfect counterpoint to Copenhagen. It has a relaxed, laid-back vibe that makes for an ideal base when exploring both sides of the Øresund Strait. After a busy day in bustling Copenhagen, returning to the leafy parks and calm cafés of Malmö felt like slipping into something more comfortable.
A Shared History Between Malmö and Denmark
Reading up on the city’s history helped explain the lack of any overt rivalry between Malmö and Copenhagen. This part of Sweden was actually Danish for centuries. In fact, during the 15th century, Malmö was one of Denmark’s most populous and prosperous cities, thanks to a booming herring trade.
In 1434, a powerful citadel—Malmöhus—was constructed to protect the town from naval threats. It was once part of an elaborate network of defences that made Malmö one of the most fortified places in Scandinavia. Today, Malmöhus is the only structure remaining from that system, and it now houses Malmö’s excellent city museum.
Things to Do in Malmö: Culture, Cuisine and Coastal Walks
Malmö may be small, but it’s packed with attractions:
Malmö Castle (Malmöhus): Explore the city’s fascinating history in a castle-turned-museum complex.
Västra Hamnen (Western Harbour): A sustainable urban neighbourhood on the site of a former shipyard, perfect for walking or dining by the sea.
Ribersborgsstranden (The People’s Beach): A sweeping city beach just minutes from the centre, ideal for swimming, walking or simply soaking in the view.
Folkets Park: One of Sweden’s oldest public parks, now a lively hub for events, cafés, and outdoor play.
Don’t miss the city’s growing food scene either. Malmö has embraced its multicultural roots, and you’ll find everything from traditional Swedish smörgåsbord to world-class falafel on offer.
Why Visit Malmö?
Whether you’re interested in sustainable design, Nordic cuisine, medieval history, or just fancy a relaxed base for exploring Copenhagen, Malmö offers a little of everything. With its efficient connections, welcoming atmosphere and perfect balance between tradition and modernity, Malmö is a must-visit for anyone heading to southern Scandinavia.
