Multi-cultural Malmö is a place where you will find diverse cuisine and multi-cultural residents, but also a city that is unmistakably Scandinavian. Middle Eastern markets, falafel cafes, American burger chains and Nordic fine-dining restaurants sit side by side to offer the chance to taste the world without the need for air-miles. Yet, Sweden’s third-largest city shows its flair for Scandinavian design and architecture in the form of the Turning Torso building and the iconic Oresund Bridge that connects to Copenhagen.
Another thing Scandinavia (and, in that respect, Malmö) does well is creating and promoting greener ways of living that are almost universally adopted by the locals. The relatively new and dynamic neighbourhood of Vastra Hamnen is a prime example of this kind of forward-thinking. Created in the Western Harbour, it is fully sustainable with 100% of its energy generated by wind or solar power and biogas. This futuristic district is made with its residents in mind, combining beautiful landscaping with fantastic restaurants and leisure facilities that put the focus on recreation.
When you compare this to the historic Gamla Staden (Old Town), it is clear to see the mix of old and new that Malmö offers. This area is home to market squares with origins stretching back centuries, castles built by kings, libraries stocking authentic Scandi-noir novels and cafes alive with the hum of locals enjoying Fika (the Scandinavian tradition of coffee, cake and a catch-up).
Flight time from London: 2 hours to Copenhagen and then 20 mins by train
Or 4 hours 30 mins in-direct flight via Stockholm
Copenhagen Airport: 27 miles from the city centre; transfer time about 20 min
Malmö Sturup Airport: 19 miles from the city centre; transfer time 1 hour
Nearest railway station: Centralstation
Currency: Swedish Krona
