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Hey travelers!
Malmö in 2026 is all about that crisp, fresh Scandinavian winter magic – fewer crowds, beautiful light, and the city feeling extra cozy.
Just a speedy 35-minute train ride from Copenhagen across the spectacular Öresund Bridge, Malmö is the easiest way to experience Sweden without the summer tourist rush.
Sweden’s third-largest city combines medieval charm with futuristic architecture, diverse multicultural cuisine, and one of Europe’s most bike-friendly layouts.
Whether you are here for a quick day trip or a more extended winter getaway, here are the 10 absolute must-do experiences in Malmö right now.
Let us dive in!
1. Marvel At The Turning Torso – Scandinavia’s Most Striking Skyscraper
The Turning Torso remains Malmö’s undisputed star.
This 190-meter twisted marvel, designed by Santiago Calatrava, rotates a full 90 degrees from bottom to top, inspired by a twisting human torso.
Completed in 2005, it remains Sweden’s tallest building and appears even more dramatic against the pale January sky.
Take a walk around the base in Västra Hamnen for stunning photos – the low winter sun creates long shadows and golden reflections on the glass.
Fun Fact: each floor twists 1.6 degrees from the one below, making it one of the world’s most technically complex residential towers.
2. Get Lost In Lilla Torg – Malmö’s Most Charming Winter Square
Lilla Torg (Little Square) is pure winter romance.
Surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses from the 16th–18th centuries, cobblestone streets, and fairy lights that often stay up into January, it feels like a cozy postcard.
Warm up with a steaming glögg (mulled wine) or hot chocolate and a fresh cinnamon bun at one of the cafés with outdoor heaters and blankets.
The square is quieter in January, making it perfect for relaxed people-watching and exploring the small, independent shops that still sell holiday goodies.
3. Explore Malmöhus Castle – Scandinavia’s Oldest Renaissance Fortress
This gorgeous 16th-century red-brick castle sits next to Kungsparken and houses museums dedicated to art, history, and natural science, as well as a small aquarium that’s great for kids or anyone who loves marine life.
In January, the castle grounds are beautifully lit in the early evening, and the surrounding parks are peaceful for a crisp winter stroll.
The castle often hosts special winter exhibitions or indoor events to escape the cold.
4. Stroll Västra Hamnen – The Trendy Waterfront District
Once a gritty shipyard, Västra Hamnen is now a showcase of sustainable design with colorful modern buildings, wooden boardwalks, and sweeping sea views.
In January, the promenade is quiet and atmospheric, perfect for a brisk walk with a hot drink in hand.
Many cafés along the water offer cozy indoor seating with views of the Turning Torso and the Öresund Bridge, ideal for a winter lunch or coffee break.
5. Relax At Ribersborgsstranden (Ribban) – Malmö’s City Beach And Sauna
Yes, the beach is still open in January!
“Ribban” offers incredible views of the bridge and Turning Torso.
The real highlight in winter is the historic Kallbadhus (public sauna) right on the water – jump into the icy Baltic Sea and then warm up in the sauna.
It is a classic Swedish experience that feels incredibly refreshing and invigorating.
6. Dive Into Malmö’s Legendary Falafel Scene
Malmö is Sweden’s falafel capital, thanks to its large Middle Eastern community.
Head to Möllevången (Möllan) for the best spots: Möllans Falafel, Jalla Jalla, Falafel Baghdad, or new favorites that pop up every year.
Expect fresh, crispy falafel wraps packed with veggies, tahini, and hot sauce – perfect fuel for a cold January day.
7. Catch The Last Of The Christmas Magic (And Winter Events)
Although the main Christmas markets have ended, many decorations and lights remain up into January.
Look out for:
- Lingering fairy lights on Gustav Adolf’s Torg and Lilla Torg
- Indoor winter events at MittMöllan or Kronprinsen
- Special exhibitions and cozy pop-up cafés, January 2026 also brings quieter, more local winter festivals and ice-skating rinks – perfect for a relaxed winter vibe.
8. Cycle Through the City – Malmö’s Bike-Friendly Heaven
Malmö has over 500 km of dedicated cycle paths and is one of Europe’s most bike-friendly cities.
In January, the streets are calm and quiet – rent a city bike or use the electric bike-sharing system to explore parks, waterfronts, and hidden gems.
Just dress warmly and enjoy the crisp air!
9. Discover Street Art In Möllevången And Seved
Malmö’s streets are an ever-growing open-air gallery thanks to the annual Artscape festival.
Möllevången and Seved neighborhoods are adorned with large murals by international artists.
January is a great time to explore – with fewer crowds and many guided street-art tours still running.
Every corner hides a new masterpiece.
10. Enjoy Swedish Fika In A Cozy Café
Fika is sacred year-round, but it is especially comforting in the winter months.
Head to Lilla Torg or beloved spots like Café Hollandia, Solde, Bastard Café, or the new cozy cafés that open each winter.
Try a warm saffron bun (lussekatt) if they are still around, or a classic cinnamon bun with strong coffee while watching the world go by outside.
Malmö’s Top 10 Experiences
| # | Experience | For | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Turning Torso | Architecture & Photos | 30–60 min |
| 2 | Lilla Torg | Cafés & Old Town Charm | 1–2 hours |
| 3 | Malmöhus Castle | History & Museums | 1–2 hours |
| 4 | Västra Hamnen | Waterfront & Modern Vibes | 1 hour |
| 5 | Ribersborg Beach | Relaxation & Sauna | 30–90 min |
| 6 | Falafel in Möllevången | Foodies | 30–60 min |
| 7 | Winter Events & Lights | Festive Vibes | 1–3 hours |
| 8 | Cycling the City | Exploring & Exercise | Flexible |
| 9 | Street Art Hunt | Art Lovers | 1–2 hours |
| 10 | Traditional Fika | Cozy Moments | 30–60 min |
Bonus Trivia
Did you know? Malmö was Danish until 1658; therefore, you will still see Danish-style architecture and hear Swedish spoken with a slight Danish accent in some neighborhoods.
Malmö is a peaceful, photogenic, and incredibly welcoming destination.
Whether you are crossing the bridge for a day or staying longer, you will leave with warm memories (and probably a few extra layers of clothing!).
Which one are you most excited to try?
Let us know in the comments!
For more Scandinavian winter travel inspiration, check out our other guides.
Stay warm and safe travels!
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