Leisure activities

9 Exceptional Indoor Activities in Malmö: Local Experiences Beyond Tourist Trails

Leisure activities

9 Exceptional Indoor Activities in Malmö: Local Experiences Beyond Tourist Trails

Updated Sun, Jan 25, 2026

Discover Malmö's best-kept indoor secrets from artisan workshops to cozy bookshops, offering authentic Swedish experiences away from crowds.

9 Exceptional Indoor Activities in Malmö: Local Experiences Beyond Tourist Trails
1

Browse rare books and vinyl records

Rogers Antikvariat
Gamla Staden
browsing
Not required

Antikvariat Carlssons Bokhandel offers a treasure hunt through decades of literary history in central Malmö. This traditional antiquarian bookstore houses rare Swedish and international books alongside vintage vinyl records spanning multiple genres. Visitors spend hours browsing floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with first editions, out-of-print titles, and collectible albums. The shop specializes in Swedish literature, philosophy, and music history books. Record collectors find jazz, classical, and rock albums from the 1960s through 1980s. The knowledgeable staff provides expertise on book values and musical rarities. Prices range from affordable paperbacks to premium collector items, making it accessible for casual browsers and serious collectors alike.

How to get there. Located on Stora Nygatan in Malmö's old town, a 5-minute walk from Stortorget square. Take bus lines 1, 2, or 6 to Gustav Adolfs Torg stop. Walk south on Stora Nygatan until you find the bookstore's distinctive green storefront. Look for vintage book displays in the window.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This cozy secondhand bookstore offers an impressive collection spanning floor to ceiling. The owner stands out as exceptionally knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about books. Visitors appreciate the helpful service and diverse selection, including specialty French and Swedish comics. Many call it a hidden gem worth returning to.

The main drawback is the extremely cramped space that requires visitors to shuffle around carefully to browse. The tight quarters and crowded bookshelves can make navigation challenging, though most agree the extensive collection makes the confined space worthwhile for dedicated book lovers.

Reviews summarized from between May 2017 and Sep 2022

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the extensive collection and knowledgeable staff who help locate specific titles. Many appreciate the fair pricing and authentic atmosphere of a traditional bookstore. Record enthusiasts love discovering rare albums in excellent condition.

Some visitors find the shop cramped and difficult to navigate. Others mention limited English-language selections. Occasional complaints about inconsistent opening hours and cash-only transactions for smaller purchases.

2

Explore contemporary Nordic design

Form/Design Center
Västra Hamnen
Cultural visit
Optional

Form/Design Center showcases cutting-edge Nordic design through rotating exhibitions featuring furniture, textiles, and home decor from Scandinavian designers. The three-story space highlights both emerging and established Nordic creators, offering visitors insight into the region's minimalist aesthetic and sustainable design philosophy. Interactive displays allow guests to experience the functionality and craftsmanship of contemporary pieces. The center regularly hosts workshops, lectures, and design events that connect visitors with local creative communities. Located in a converted industrial building, the space itself exemplifies Nordic design principles with clean lines and natural materials.

How to get there. Take bus 5 or 32 to Universitetet station, then walk 5 minutes north. From Malmö Central Station, take bus 30 or walk 20 minutes through Västra Hamnen district. The center is located at Lilla Varvsgatan 14 in a distinctive red-brick building with large windows. Look for the Form/Design Center signage at street level.

How to buy tickets. Tickets can be purchased online at formdesigncenter.com or at the entrance. Online booking offers small discounts and guarantees entry during busy periods. Some special exhibitions may require advance booking.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Free admission to this heritage building art space featuring interactive installations, welcoming staff, and quality gift shop items. The on-site café serves fresh house-made food and good coffee in a calm atmosphere with modern design elements. Visitors enjoy the thoughtful architecture books, comfortable seating areas, and overall pleasant experience browsing exhibits.

Visitors not interested in art may find limited appeal in the exhibitions. International travelers noted gift shop items are expensive and difficult to transport home due to luggage restrictions, limiting purchasing opportunities despite quality merchandise being available.

Reviews summarized from between Jul 2023 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the high-quality exhibitions and well-curated displays that showcase authentic Nordic design. Many appreciate the knowledgeable staff who provide valuable insights about featured designers and pieces. The building's architecture receives frequent compliments for perfectly complementing the exhibited works.

Some visitors find the admission price steep for the size of the exhibition space. Others mention that certain displays lack detailed information about the designers or design processes. A few reviewers note that exhibitions can feel repetitive if visiting multiple times per year.

3

Discover Malmö's industrial heritage

Technology and Maritime Museum
Västra Hamnen
museum visit
Optional

The Technology and Maritime Museum showcases Malmö's transformation from industrial powerhouse to modern city. Housed in a former power plant, the museum displays Sweden's technological innovations, maritime history, and industrial heritage through interactive exhibits. Visitors explore submarines, vintage cars, and steam engines while learning about the region's shipbuilding legacy. The building itself represents Malmö's industrial past, featuring original architecture and machinery. Exhibits cover everything from early aviation to modern renewable energy, highlighting how the city evolved from heavy industry to sustainable technology. The museum offers hands-on experiences perfect for families and history enthusiasts seeking to understand Malmö's industrial roots.

How to get there. Take bus 5 or 32 to Teknikens och Sjöfartens hus stop. From Malmö Central Station, it's a 15-minute walk south along Slottsgatan. The museum sits along the harbor waterfront in a distinctive red brick building. Look for the submarine display outside as a landmark. Free parking available but limited during peak hours.

How to buy tickets. Tickets available online at teknikenshus.se or at the entrance. Online booking offers small discounts and guarantees entry during busy periods. Family packages and annual memberships provide better value for multiple visits.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Visitors love this family-friendly museum with affordable admission and free entry for children. Highlights include exploring a real submarine, interactive exhibits covering maritime, industrial and transportation history, hands-on activities, and 3D movies. Staff are friendly and most displays have English translations. Multiple levels offer engaging experiences for both kids and adults.

The main complaint is insufficient time to see everything. Visitors who arrived close to closing time felt rushed and wished they had more hours to explore the extensive collection. The museum's size means you need adequate time to fully appreciate all exhibits and interactive experiences.

Reviews summarized from between Jul 2025 and Sep 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the museum's fascinating submarine exhibit and well-preserved industrial machinery. Families love the interactive displays and educational value. Many appreciate learning about Malmö's shipbuilding history and seeing vintage vehicles up close. The building's industrial architecture receives frequent compliments.

Some visitors find certain exhibits outdated or lacking English translations. A few mention the museum feels smaller than expected. Others note limited parking availability. Some exhibits require more maintenance according to recent reviews.

4

Enjoy craft beer tasting sessions

Malmö Brewing Company
Limhamn
tasting
Optional

Malmö Brewing Company offers guided craft beer tasting sessions featuring their award-winning local brews in a converted industrial warehouse setting. The brewery produces small-batch IPAs, stouts, and seasonal specialties using traditional Swedish ingredients alongside international hops. Sessions typically include 4-5 beer samples paired with explanations of brewing processes and flavor profiles. The knowledgeable staff shares stories about Malmö's brewing heritage while guests sample fresh pours directly from the tanks. The industrial-chic taproom provides an authentic brewery atmosphere with exposed brick walls and brewing equipment visible throughout the space. Sessions accommodate both beer novices and enthusiasts.

How to get there. Take bus line 34 or 35 to Limhamn and walk 5 minutes to the brewery located in an industrial area near the harbor. The facility is housed in a converted warehouse with clear brewery signage. Parking is available on-site for those driving from central Malmö.

How to buy tickets. Book directly through the brewery's website or call ahead to guarantee spots, especially for weekend sessions. Walk-ins welcome when space permits.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Excellent craft beer destination with 30 house brews on tap plus guest selections. Outstanding beer and mead variety including unique options like barley wine. Authentic American BBQ food that rivals US quality. Beer flights let you sample multiple styles in small glasses. Great atmosphere perfect for groups and repeat visits.

Staff may not inform tourists about beer flight options available to sample different varieties. Food quality can be inconsistent with some burgers described as just okay. Beer recommendations from waiters might not match personal taste preferences, leading to disappointment with selections.

Reviews summarized from between Aug 2024 and Sep 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the exceptional beer quality and knowledgeable staff who explain brewing techniques clearly. The authentic brewery atmosphere and fresh-from-the-tank tastings receive consistent acclaim. Many appreciate the intimate group sizes and personalized attention.

Some visitors find the industrial location slightly difficult to locate without GPS. Limited food options beyond basic snacks can leave hungry guests wanting more substantial pairings. Weekend sessions sometimes feel rushed when fully booked.

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5

Explore modern Nordic architecture

Malmö City Library
Gamla Staden
walking tour
Not required

Malmö City Library sis a prime example of modern Nordic architecture, designed by Henning Larsen Architects and opened in 1997. The building features a striking cylindrical design with a glass facade and distinctive copper-clad spiral structure called 'The Calendar of Light.' Visitors can explore the innovative interior spaces that blend natural materials with cutting-edge design principles. The library's architecture emphasizes transparency, natural light, and sustainability - hallmarks of Scandinavian design. The building connects to the historic Castle Mill through a glass bridge, creating an intriguing contrast between old and new architectural styles. The surrounding area showcases additional examples of contemporary Nordic buildings, making it an ideal starting point for architecture enthusiasts exploring Malmö's modern design landscape.

How to get there. Take bus lines 1, 7, or 35 to Malmö Central Station, then walk 5 minutes southeast to Kung Oscars väg 11. The distinctive cylindrical building is easily recognizable near Malmö Castle. For a comprehensive architectural tour, start at the library and walk through Gamla Staden to see other Nordic buildings including residential complexes and commercial structures designed by prominent Scandinavian architects.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This stunning modern library impresses with beautiful architecture inside and out. Multiple floors house thousands of books plus manga collections. Diverse spaces accommodate studying, working, or reading quietly. Family-friendly features include dedicated children's areas with forest themes. Visitors can borrow books, movies, and games while enjoying restaurant facilities and peaceful atmosphere.

Limited English signage and descriptions create challenges for international visitors who want more detailed information about exhibits and collections.

Reviews summarized from between Mar 2025 and Oct 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the library's stunning architectural design and innovative use of natural light throughout the building. Many appreciate how the modern structure harmoniously integrates with the historic surroundings while maintaining its bold contemporary identity.

Some visitors find the building's interior layout confusing to navigate initially. A few reviewers mention that certain architectural details are better appreciated from the outside rather than within the functional library spaces.

6

Visit independent art galleries

Galleri Rostrum
Gamla Staden
gallery hopping
Not required

Explore Malmö's vibrant independent art scene by visiting Galleri Rostrum and surrounding galleries in the city center. This contemporary gallery showcases experimental works by emerging Nordic artists alongside rotating exhibitions. The area features multiple independent spaces within walking distance, including smaller artist-run galleries and creative studios. Visitors can spend 2-3 hours discovering diverse artistic expressions from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations. The galleries often host opening events and artist talks. Most spaces are small and intimate, allowing for personal connections with artwork. The independent art scene reflects Malmö's creative energy and multicultural influences. Perfect for art enthusiasts seeking authentic local culture beyond mainstream museums.

How to get there. Start at Galleri Rostrum on Bergsgatan in central Malmö. Walk through Gamla Staden neighborhood to find additional independent galleries within 3-4 blocks. Check gallery websites for current exhibitions and opening hours before visiting. Most galleries cluster around Bergsgatan, Södergatan, and nearby side streets.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This artist-run gallery impresses visitors with beautiful artwork and thoughtful installations. The space creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes it genuinely worth visiting. Multiple reviewers recommend stopping by to experience the quality art and creative curation on display.

The reviews provided contain only positive feedback about this gallery, with no negative aspects mentioned by visitors. All reviewers expressed satisfaction with their experience and recommended the destination to others.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2017 and Feb 2023

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the high quality contemporary art and intimate gallery atmosphere. Many appreciate discovering lesser-known Nordic artists and the personal attention from gallery staff. The concentration of galleries in walkable area makes for enjoyable art crawling.

Some find galleries have limited opening hours and irregular schedules. A few visitors mention language barriers when discussing artwork details. Occasional complaints about small exhibition spaces feeling cramped during busy periods.

7

Experience traditional Swedish sauna

Ribersborgs Kallbadhus
Ribersborg
wellness
Not required

Ribersborgs Kallbadhus offers an authentic Swedish sauna experience in a historic 1898 wooden bathhouse extending into Öresund Sound. The facility features traditional hot saunas paired with cold water plunges in the sea year-round. Visitors enjoy panorized views of the Öresund Bridge while alternating between intense heat and invigorating cold dips. The experience includes separate sections for men and women, plus a mixed section. Many locals visit daily, creating a genuine community atmosphere. Steam rises from the wooden structures while bathers brave icy waters even in winter. The ritual promotes circulation, relaxation, and mental clarity through temperature contrast therapy.

How to get there. Take bus 32 to Ribersborgs Kallbadhus stop or walk 20 minutes southwest from Malmö Central Station along Ribersborg beach. The distinctive wooden bathhouse extends into the water. Purchase entry at the reception desk, rent towels if needed, and follow posted rules for sauna etiquette.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Exceptional sauna experience combining traditional Swedish culture with Baltic Sea cold therapy. Multiple sauna types offer varying heat levels in clean, peaceful facilities. Direct ocean access creates unforgettable hot-to-cold transitions. Friendly atmosphere welcomes international visitors in natural, clothing-optional environment.

Facilities show their age with old-school design that some may find outdated. Restaurant quality disappoints visitors seeking dining options. First-time visitors unfamiliar with Swedish sauna customs may feel uncomfortable initially adjusting to local traditions and etiquette.

Reviews summarized from between Jul 2025 and Oct 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the authentic atmosphere and stunning sea views. Many highlight the friendly local community and helpful staff who explain sauna traditions. The historic wooden architecture adds charm. Cold water enthusiasts love the year-round sea access.

Some find facilities basic compared to modern spas. Language barriers occasionally occur with Swedish-only signage. Winter sea temperatures intimidate first-time visitors. Limited changing room space during peak times creates crowding issues.

8

Browse vintage furniture and design

Malmö Retro Lampor
Möllevången
shopping
Not required

Malmö Retro Lampor is an exceptional vintage shop in the creative Möllevången district. This carefully curated shop features authentic Scandinavian furniture from the 1950s through 1980s, including iconic pieces by renowned Nordic designers. Visitors discover everything from sleek teak dining sets to colorful Danish ceramics and unique lighting fixtures. The store's knowledgeable staff provides insights into each piece's history and design significance. Quality items range from affordable decorative objects to investment-worthy collector pieces. The space itself reflects mid-century aesthetic with thoughtful displays that inspire home design ideas. Regular inventory turnover means each visit reveals new treasures for vintage enthusiasts and design lovers.

How to get there. Take bus 4, 7, or 31 to Möllevångstorget stop, then walk 2 minutes south. From Malmö Central Station, it's a 15-minute walk or 8-minute bus ride. Look for the distinctive storefront with vintage furniture displays in the windows along the main shopping street.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This Malmö lamp shop delights visitors with knowledgeable, friendly staff who provide excellent service and repairs. The store features a wonderful selection of older, vintage lamps plus custom globe lighting assembled to customer specifications. Travelers consistently return here, making it a must-visit destination that offers unique finds perfectly suited to personal taste.

The reviews provided contain no significant negative feedback about this lamp shop. All customers expressed satisfaction with their experience, staff service, and product selection. No complaints about pricing, quality, or customer service were mentioned in these particular reviews.

Reviews summarized from between Feb 2023 and Mar 2024

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the store's authentic vintage selection and fair pricing. Many highlight the staff's expertise and helpful service. Shoppers appreciate the quality of Scandinavian design pieces and the constantly changing inventory that rewards repeat visits.

Some customers note limited space can feel cramped during busy periods. A few mention that premium designer pieces carry high price tags. Occasional complaints about inconsistent opening hours during holiday periods.

9

Learn about regional history

Malmo Museum
Gamla Staden
Museum visit
Not required

Malmo Museum's archive houses extensive collections of documents, photographs, and artifacts spanning centuries of regional development. Visitors can explore interactive exhibitions showcasing Malmö's evolution from medieval trading post to modern industrial hub. The archive features rare manuscripts, immigration records, and visual documentation of the Öresund region's transformation. Guided tours reveal stories of Swedish-Danish cultural exchange and the area's maritime heritage. Special collections highlight the industrial revolution's impact on southern Sweden and the diverse communities that shaped modern Malmö.

How to get there. Located in Gamla Staden near Malmö Castle. Take bus lines 1, 7, or 30 to Malmöhus stop. Walk 200 meters south along Slottsparken. The archive entrance is on the ground floor of the municipal building. Ring bell for staff assistance during operating hours.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Malmö Museum offers diverse attractions including art galleries, maritime exhibits, natural history, and an aquarium. The interactive technology section engages kids, while wartime displays feature compelling stories like the white bus rescue. Family-friendly with affordable entry, good cafe serving apple cake, clean facilities, and easy location access.

The museum's second floor layout can be confusing and visitors may get lost. Many historical exhibits lack English translations, particularly in the paleontology section. While Google Translate helps, the translation process becomes tedious. The museum requires at least 3 hours to see everything properly.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Aug 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the knowledgeable staff who provide detailed insights into local history. The extensive photograph collections receive particular acclaim for documenting Malmö's urban development. Many appreciate the quiet research atmosphere and well-organized digital archives.

Some visitors find the archive primarily research-focused with limited interactive displays for casual tourists. Opening hours can be restrictive, and advance appointments are sometimes necessary for accessing specific collections or receiving guided assistance.

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