A travel guide to everything worth seeing and enjoying in the Swedish city where the Malmö - Panathinaikos match will take place.
The Malmö (Malmö) is a city of contrasts, where the charm of the old meets the cosmopolitan atmosphere and innovation. It is located in the south of Sweden, across from Denmark, and is connected to Copenhagen via the Öresund Bridge (Öresund Bridge). With its intriguing architecture, dynamic culinary scene, and youthful atmosphere, Swedens third largest city is ideal for a city break beyond the ordinary.
These days all eyes are on it, as Panathinaikos plays against Malmö on Thursday (06/11) for the 4th matchday of the Europa League. For those of you who will travel there for the game, we have prepared a short guide with the best things you can do in the city.
A few words about Malmö
Malmö is the third largest city in Sweden (after Stockholm and Gothenburg) and is located near the countrys southwestern tip, in the province of Scania. Since 2000, an 8 km road and rail bridge (Öresund Bridge) has connected the city with Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. Malmö is a true melting pot of cultures, with residents from more than 170 countries. The city is known for its extensive parks and green spaces and is considered a model of sustainable urban development. Also, with approximately 515 km of cycle paths, it is one of the most bike friendly cities in the world.
Attractions and strolls
Old Town
A stroll through Malmös Old Town is one of the most enjoyable experiences for visitors. The old town is divided into two parts: the Gamla Väster area with historic buildings to the west and the eastern area, which was revitalized in the 1960s. Take photos in Stortorget, Malmös oldest and largest square, with its beautiful 16th century architecture. One block northeast, you will find Malmös oldest building, the 14th century Gothic Church of St. Peter. Be sure to stop at the picturesque Lilla Torg square too, where the restaurants and cafés are always full of locals and visitors.
Västra Hamnen
The Västra Hamnen, or Western Harbor, is the newest part of the city. Once a shipyard, it has now been transformed into an area with cutting edge design, seaside promenades, and excellent places to eat. The iconic, 190 meter tall, skyscraper Turning Torso, designed by Santiago Calatrava, dominates the skyline and the seafront promenade offers stunning views of the Öresund Bridge.
Öresund Bridge
Malmö features some of the most impressive modern structures in Northern Europe. The 8 km Öresund Bridge (famous from the Swedish-Danish TV series "The Bridge") connects Malmö with Copenhagen by crossing the Öresund strait. It was inaugurated on July 1, 2000, and is the largest bridge in Europe that combines railway and motorway.
Malmöhus Castle and the museums
Turn back time with a visit to Malmöhus Castle, one of the oldest preserved Renaissance castles in Scandinavia. The castle hosts fascinating museums, such as the Art Museum of Malmö, the Museum of Natural History, as well as an aquarium. Wander through the historic halls, explore the exhibitions, and learn about Malmös rich cultural and natural heritage.
The parks
The park Folkets, with playgrounds, food stalls, and live entertainment, is ideal for spending a few hours in the city. A short walk away you will also find Slottsträdgården and Kungsparken, two lush parks that offer a serene escape in the heart of the city.
Dining recommendations
Malmö is famous for its cosmopolitan culinary scene. In the city you will find a wide variety of tasty options, from traditional Swedish cuisine to international dishes and street food. Try beer from the areas microbreweries and sit down for a fika (coffee and a sweet), pairing your coffee with kanelbullar (buns with sugar and cinnamon).
- Visit the bustling street food market at Möllevångstorget (locals call it "Möllan") to taste everything from falafel to Korean barbecue.
- You will find good falafel almost everywhere, but if you really want to enjoy it where the locals eat, head to the outskirts of the city and try it at Falafel N1.
- If you want to try local flavors, Lyran is one of the best options.
- Ideal for brunch and lunch, Farm2Table is known for its colorful, plant based dishes.
- For lovers of gourmet flavors, the restaurant Vollmers, awarded two Michelin stars, offers a refined menu based on local, seasonal ingredients.
