My Photography & Travel Guide to Malmo, Sweden

It’s not every day you find a city where medieval castles, cutting-edge architecture, and sea breezes from the Øresund Strait all come together in one laid-back package. But Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city, manages to do just that—effortlessly. From its eco-friendly ethos to its photo-worthy canals, parks, and cobbled streets, Malmö is a wonderful city for travelers and photographers seeking a fresh perspective on Scandinavia.

In this Photography Guide to Malmö, you’ll find everything from travel tips to the best photography spots in Malmö, as well as recommendations on where to stay, what to eat, and the gear that’ll help you capture it all.

Getting to Malmo from Copenhagen

Getting from Copenhagen to Malmö is fast, easy, and scenic—perfect for travelers and photographers alike. Here are your best options: A delightful way to experience two countries in one day. The cities are connected by the impressive Øresund Bridge, making the journey quick and scenic. Most of my visits to Malmö have been day trips from Copenhagen. In fact, sometimes I have just gone for a morning visit.

By Train (Easiest )

• Route: Take the Öresundståg (Oresund Train) from Copenhagen Central Station (København H) to Malmö Central Station (Malmö C).

• Travel Time: ~35–40 minutes

• Cost: Around €11–€14 (USD $12–$15) one-way

• Bonus: The train crosses the iconic Öresund Bridge, offering great views. If you're lucky, grab a window seat on the left side when heading toward Malmö.

Border Crossing Tips

While both Denmark and Sweden are part of the Schengen Zone, it's strongly advisable to carry your passport or ID card, as random checks can occur on the train. The last few visits I have had to show my passport each time I board the train.

Turning Torso

Where to Stay in Malmö

The best area to stay in Malmö is Gamla Staden (Old Town) or Västra Hamnen (Western Harbor)—you’ll be close to restaurants, shops, and the city’s most iconic photo locations.

Luxury Hotels in Malmö

1. MJ’s Hotel – Chic, eclectic, and full of character. Ideal for lifestyle photographers.

2. Clarion Hotel Malmö Live – Steps from the train station, with skyline views and a rooftop bar.

3. Story Hotel Studio Malmö – Modern design meets harbor views. A favorite among creatives.

Mid-Range Hotels in Malmö

1. Hotel Duxiana Malmö – A cozy boutique hotel known for comfort and simplicity.

2. Best Western Plus Hotel Noble House – Centrally located with easy access to all major photo spots.

3. Scandic Triangeln – Great for families or longer stays, with a tram stop just outside.

How Many Days Should I Stay in Malmö?

Plan for 2 to 3 days in Malmö to enjoy a relaxed but photo-rich experience. It’s compact enough to explore on foot or by bike but offers enough variety for a rewarding itinerary. If you're also visiting nearby Copenhagen (just 30 minutes by train), Malmö makes an excellent base.

Best Time to Visit Malmö for Photography

The best time to visit Malmö for photography is late spring through early autumn (May–September). You'll get long daylight hours, warm golden hour light, and vibrant city life.

• May & June: Blooming parks and fewer tourists.

• July & August: Perfect weather, outdoor events, and sunsets after 9 PM.

• September: Soft light, colorful foliage, and quieter streets.

Avoid November–March unless you’re chasing Nordic moody vibes—just be ready for overcast skies and limited daylight.

How to Get Around Malmö

Malmö is incredibly walkable and bike-friendly, and the city has an excellent network of bike lanes. You can rent bikes via apps like Donkey Republic or grab an e-scooter.

Public transport includes city buses and trains (using a Skånetrafiken card). Uber operates in Malmö, but taxis can be pricey.

Where to Eat in Malmö

Malmö is one of Sweden’s most exciting food cities, known for its multicultural flavors and progressive dining scene. It also has some of the best coffee shops.

Best Restaurants in Malmö

1. Vollmers – Two Michelin stars and a love letter to Nordic ingredients.

2. Lyran Matbar – Seasonal, sustainable, and wildly creative.

3. [Bastard (now closed, but look for its pop-ups)] – Legendary nose-to-tail eatery; its spirit lives on in Malmö’s food scene.

4. Saltimporten Canteen – Minimalist and delicious lunches by the harbor.

5. Falafel No.1 – Budget-friendly and legendary—this is Malmö's go-to street food.

Best Coffee Shops in Malmö

1. Solde Kaffebar – Great coffee, cozy atmosphere.

2. Uggla Kaffebar – Stylish spot perfect for editing photos.

3. Noir Kaffekultur – Instagram-worthy drinks and a relaxed vibe.

4. Kaffebaren på Möllan – Funky, artsy, and very Malmö.

Photography Gear to Bring to Malmö

To make the most of Malmö’s mix of cityscapes, waterfronts, and street life, pack versatile gear:

• Camera: Canon EOS R5, Sony A7R V, or Nikon Z7 II

• Lenses:

  • Wide-angle (16–35mm) for architecture and tight city alleys

  • Standard zoom (24–70mm) for everyday shooting

  • Telephoto (70–200mm) for harbor scenes, portraits, or candid street moments

• Tripod: Lightweight carbon fiber for low-light and sunrise shots

• ND filters: For long exposures of Turning Torso or reflections

Öresund Bridge

Best Photography Spots in Malmö

Here are the top photography locations in Malmö, each with its own charm:

1. Turning Torso – Iconic skyscraper and Malmö’s modern symbol. Best shot from across the canal at golden hour.

2. Lilla Torg – Cobblestone square surrounded by colorful half-timbered buildings.

3. Västra Hamnen – Contemporary harbor area with piers, bathhouses, and sunset views.

4. St. Peter’s Church – Moody Gothic architecture, ideal for interior low-light shots.

5. Slottsträdgården & Malmö Castle – Great for nature, historical architecture, and peaceful compositions.

6. Folkets Park – Street photography goldmine with art installations and community events.

Festivals and Events in Malmö

• Malmö Festival (Malmöfestivalen) – August. A massive city-wide celebration of food, music, and culture.

• Nordic Game Conference – For tech and gaming enthusiasts (May).

• Pride Malmö – Vibrant and welcoming celebration held each summer.

• Christmas Markets – Especially cozy at Gustav Adolfs Torg in December.

Final Thoughts

Malmö might not shout the loudest, but it rewards anyone who visits. Whether you’re snapping the sunset behind Turning Torso or sipping coffee while editing street shots, Malmö’s creative pulse and coastal beauty are an inspiring blend.

If you enjoyed this Photography and Travel Guide to Malmö, you can explore more of my Photography and Travel Guides here.

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