Hotel n Hostel

Malmö may be the third largest city in Sweden, but it still has the vibe of a friendly small town. Its historic centre dates back to the 16th century, with cobbled squares and colourful pastel buildings setting the scene. It's a thoroughly modern destination too, however, with contemporary architecture lining the riverfront, a multicultural and progressive population and a wide range of restaurants. Its many parks make Malmö the ideal place for a fika, a coffee break with a cinnamon bun.

Whichever Malmö hostel you choose, you'll never be far from cultural sights and artistic hubs in this compact city. Meeting fellow travellers is core to the hostel experience, and it's easy to do over a shared free breakfast. Hostels in Malmö have a fresh, modern feel, and they give you the choice between private, double and dorm rooms. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and some have free linen too.

The old town area of Gamla Staden is Malmö's historic hub, and it's also where you'll find the buzzing nightlife of Lilla Torg and Stortorget. Möllan (also called Möllevången) is the place for people watching, with popular cafés and arty spaces all around. It's the city's multicultural heart, so prepare to be spoiled for choice when it comes to lunch options. Västra Hamnen is the ultra-modern part of Malmö, known as the City of Tomorrow, and is Europe's first carbon-neutral district. 

Malmö is where the Øresund Bridge touches down in Sweden, connecting it to Denmark's Copenhagen. After marvelling at the engineering wonder, head to Stortorget to immerse yourself in history. Built in the mid-16th century, the cobbled square and ornate Rådhuset (town hall) are worth a photo. While you're there, pop inside the 19th-century Apoteket Lejonet, a pharmacy with period features. If you're visiting in summer, look out for the free cultural events that take place all around the city. Malmö's innovative food scene is another major attraction. You can expect everything from egg cake to smoked herring.

If you're coming from Copenhagen, drive or take the bus over the iconic bridge. Malmö Airport is just an hour from the city by train, or you can jump in a taxi for 30 minutes. The train takes you into Malmö Central Station, right by the university in the centre of town. Once you're there, the city is mostly walkable, and regular buses run routes to nearby places of interest if you need to make a longer trip.