Malmö, Sweden

Malmö, Sweden

In the year 2000, the Øresund Bridge was officially opened, connecting Denmark and Sweden. Since then, the Swedish city of Malmö has become a popular destination for tourists traveling from Copenhagen to explore attractions such as City Hall, the Old Town, the Calatrava building, and much more.

In the southwest of Sweden, you'll find Malmö, the country's third most populous city and the prominent capital of the southern region. With its origins dating back to the 13th century, Malmö has a historical connection to Copenhagen, as it was founded during a period when the territory was part of the Kingdom of Denmark.

During the 19th century, Malmö was a significant trading power, contributing to its current development. Over the past century, travel between Malmö and Copenhagen has been consistent, culminating in the construction of the Øresund Bridge in 2000—a 4-mile-long (8 kilometers) structure that connects the two cities.

Today, Malmö is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, reflected in the 2018 census, where only three nationalities were absent.

What to Do in Malmö

The Old Town

  • Stortorget: Situated just 500 meters from the train station, this is Malmö's "main square" and serves as the city's central hub. With a history dating back to 1540, it features the Old Town Hall and the iconic "Lion's Pharmacy" building—two architectural gems worth exploring.
  • Malmö Castle: A historic fortress constructed in the 15th century, Malmö Castle has witnessed periods under both Danish and Swedish royalty. Once a significant prison, it now houses the Malmö City Museum, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history.
  • St. Peter's Church: Dating back to the 14th century, St. Peter's Church is Malmö's oldest church. While the interior is relatively austere, the exterior architecture is noteworthy. Pay attention to the tower's changing styles, reflecting multiple reconstruction efforts over the years.
  • Lilla Torg: Known as the "little square," Lilla Torg is often considered the most beautiful square in Malmö. Formerly the site of the old city market, it has transformed into a vibrant area with a plethora of restaurants, terraces, and lively activity day and night.

The Modern District

  • Canal Buildings: Located a short distance from the train station, Malmö Canal showcases an array of modern buildings featuring diverse shapes and design materials.
  • Turning Torso: Designed by Calatrava, this remarkable building stands as the most distinctive modern landmark in the Malmö skyline.

How to Get to Malmö from Copenhagen

  • Train: The train journey from Copenhagen to Malmö takes approximately 35 minutes, costing around 13 (US$ 14). The trains run every half an hour and provide a comfortable transportation option.
  • Bus: The bus is the cheapest choice for traveling from Copenhagen to Malmö, with prices ranging between 5 (US$ 5.40) and 10 (US$ 10.70). The bus journey typically takes around an hour.
  • Day Trip: For the best experience, consider booking a day trip to Malmö from Copenhagen. This option includes an expert guide, bus transportation, and even a boat trip on Malmö's canals.

Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, all trips involve crossing the famous Øresund Bridge.