The Best Things to Do in Skåne, Southern Sweden
From historic cities to stunning nature reserves, discover the top experiences and hidden gems in Skåne, Sweden’s southernmost province.
Skåne, Sweden’s southernmost province, is a captivating region where rolling farmland meets vibrant coastlines, bustling cities blend with medieval charm, and local cuisine delights food lovers. Whether you’re seeking remarkable nature, centuries of history, artisan culture, or just a place to unwind, Skåne offers experiences for every traveler. This guide explores the top things to do across the region, with insider tips on historic cities, scenic countryside, hidden gems, and must-visit attractions.
Why Visit Skåne?
- Eclectic City Culture: Cities like Malmö, Helsingborg, and Lund blend innovative architecture, history, and a thriving café scene.
- Picturesque Landscapes: Experience golden rape fields, sandy beaches, lush forests, and serene lakes.
- Culinary Hotspot: Discover fresh, local produce, celebrated restaurants, and Swedish ‘fika’ culture.
- Rich Heritage: Explore ancient castles, mystical stone monuments, and medieval towns.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hike national parks, bike the countryside, kayak along the coast, or take scenic drives.
Malmö: The Dynamic Capital of Skåne
Malmö is the heart of Skåne—a city famous for its progressive eco-initiatives, multi-cultural vibe, and striking landmarks. Connected to Copenhagen by the iconic Öresund Bridge, Malmö’s compact center is easily explored on foot or by bike. Key highlights include:
- Turning Torso: Sweden’s tallest building, a twisting architectural marvel by Santiago Calatrava, dominates the city’s skyline.
- Västra Hamnen (Western Harbour): A sustainable waterfront district with boardwalks, modern cafés, and stunning views of Öresund Bridge.
- Lilla Torg: The cobbled “Little Square” is lined with 16th-century merchant houses, lively bars, and restaurants, often packed for outdoor dining.
- Malmöhus Castle: Scandinavia’s oldest surviving Renaissance castle, now home to Malmö’s history, art, and natural history museums.
- Möllevången: A cosmopolitan neighborhood celebrated for its open-air market, independent shops, and lively atmosphere.
- Disgusting Food Museum: A one-of-a-kind experience challenging your notions of what’s edible with global oddities—curious (and adventurous) foodies, don’t miss it!
Other Essential Malmö Experiences
- Bike along Malmö’s many dedicated cycle paths for a serene city tour.
- Enjoy fika (Swedish coffee break) at a local coffeeshop—try cardamom or cinnamon buns.
- Relax in Kungsparken and Slottsparken—two of Malmö’s green lungs with flower-packed gardens.
- Cruise the city canals on a sightseeing boat for a unique waterside perspective.
Lund: A Historic University Town
Lund, one of Sweden’s oldest cities, is famed for its prestigious university, relaxed student vibe, and medieval landmarks.
- Lund Cathedral: This 12th-century masterpiece, with its iconic twin towers and astronomical clock, stands as one of Scandinavia’s most significant religious sites.
- Kulturen Open-Air Museum: Wander through historical buildings, gardens, and exhibitions tracing everyday life in southern Sweden across centuries.
- Botanical Gardens: These lush gardens are perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll among rare and native plants.
- Café Life: With its many student hangouts and intimate bakeries, Lund is an ideal spot to experience Swedish coffee culture.
Helsingborg: Seaside History and Urban Life
Located across the narrow straits from Denmark, Helsingborg is both cosmopolitan and historic. The city is just a short ferry ride from Helsingør, home of Hamlet’s castle, making it a perfect twin-city day trip. Don’t miss:
- Kärnan Tower: Climb the medieval tower for panoramic city views and a sense of Helsingborg’s storied past.
- Sofiero Palace and Gardens: Affectionately called Europe’s most beautiful park, this royal estate bursts with blooming rhododendrons in the spring and summer. The palace hosts events, art exhibitions, and a celebrated restaurant.
- Stroll the Harbourfront: Enjoy vibrant cafés, art installations, and relaxed promenades along the waterfront.
Castles and Manors of Skåne
Skåne surprises visitors with its number of historic castles, ranging from stern medieval fortresses to elegant Renaissance palaces. Many are set in idyllic countryside and surrounded by lush parkland.
- Glimmingehus: Sweden’s best-preserved medieval manor, dating from 1499. Wander through secret passages, learn about medieval defense tactics, and step back into feudal times.
- Kronovalls Vinslott: This château is renowned for its French-style architecture, beautiful parkland, and, notably, the vineyard and wine cellar tastings.
- Christinehof Castle & Ecopark: A baroque castle set within a natural reserve, offering walking trails, interactive exhibitions on sustainability, and guided nature experiences.
- Wanås Estate & Sculpture Park: This stunning estate melds contemporary art among forests and farmland. Over 70 outdoor sculptures by international artists, hands-on workshops, and delectable organic dining await.
Nature, National Parks, and Outdoor Adventures
Skåne’s landscapes shift from rolling yellow fields to tranquil lakes, lush forests, and endless sandy beaches. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore:
- Stenshuvud National Park: Hike panoramic trails through beech woodlands, climb the coastal hill for dramatic Baltic Sea views, and look for rare orchids and wildlife.
- Sandhammaren Beach: Among Sweden’s best stretches of white sand, this wild beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and long walks bordered by dunes and pine woods.
- Hallamölla Waterfall: Skåne’s highest and most picturesque waterfall, set alongside a restored mill, surrounded by lush greenery and walking trails.
- Lake Ringsjön: Ideal for canoeing, fishing, or spotting birdlife, this lake is a serene escape in the heart of Skåne’s countryside.
Charming Coastal Villages and Seaside Towns
Skåne’s coastline is dotted with idyllic fishing villages, colorful harbors, and pretty seaside towns. Each offers its own local charm and culinary specialties:
- Kivik: Famous for orchards and autumn apple festivals. Visit the cideries, local farm shops, and take a stroll on the scenic harbor.
- Vitemölla and Vik: Enjoy tranquil beach walks, explore charming cottages and enjoy local seafood at coastal restaurants.
- Mölle: Nestled at the foot of Kullaberg Nature Reserve, Mölle is a haven for kayakers, climbers, hikers, and those keen on whale-watching in certain seasons.
Ancient Sites and Mysteries
Skåne’s past is never far away. Investigate mysteries and legends at these sites:
- Ales Stenar: An awe-inspiring megalithic stone ship overlooking the sea above Kåseberga. Over 1,400 years old, its purpose remains a subject of conjecture—some suggest a burial site or an astronomical calendar.
- Runestones and Viking Heritage: Across Skåne, ancient runestones and burial mounds reveal glimpses of the region’s Viking-era significance.
Crossing the Öresund Bridge
Few modern wonders are as emblematic as the Öresund Bridge, the 16-kilometre bridge-tunnel linking Malmö to Copenhagen, Denmark. Travel by car or train for incredibly scenic views and the thrill of moving seamlessly between two countries. The bridge’s unique design has made it a must-visit icon of the region.
Food Culture in Skåne
Skåne’s culinary scene is celebrated for its local ingredients, embrace of farm-to-table dining, and rich food traditions. The region is at the epicenter of New Nordic cuisine, where sustainability and flavor combine. Highlights include:
- Smoked Fish: Try freshly smoked salmon, eel, and herring at beachside smokehouses.
- Flatbread and Goose: Skåne is known for festive goose dinners in November and traditional flatbreads year-round.
- Cafés and Bakeries: Enjoy local cheese pastries, knäckebröd (crispbread), and Swedish coffee culture—‘fika’ is an everyday highlight here.
- Michelin-Recognized Restaurants: Skåne has become a hotbed for fine dining, with several acclaimed chefs celebrating local, organic produce.
- Farm Shops: Discover roadside stands and markets selling fresh berries, apples, peas, and artisanal jams.
Getting Around Skåne
Skåne boasts efficient, traveler-friendly infrastructure. Some tips:
- The Öresundståg regional train links Malmö, Lund, Helsingborg, and Ystad with Copenhagen, making cross-border trips simple.
- Rent a bike or car for flexibility, especially in rural regions and coastal drives.
- Ferries connect Helsingborg and Helsingør, as well as several islands and points along the coast.
- For ultimate freedom, many visitors combine train travel with short scenic road trips.
When to Visit Skåne
- Spring: Apple and cherry blossoms color orchards, park gardens fill with rhododendrons, and outdoor events return.
- Summer: Beaches, outdoor cafés, music festivals, and vibrant city life are in full swing. Mild, long days encourage biking, swimming, and hiking.
- Autumn: Apple harvests, culinary festivals, and golden-hued forests abound.
- Winter: Christmas markets and cozy cafés welcome visitors, and the region’s historic sites take on a peaceful, frosted beauty.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
- Wanås Sculpture Park: Wander among contemporary art installations in forested parkland, combine with locally inspired dining at Wanås Restaurant.
- Alnarp Park: Explore the campus gardens and landscape art near Lomma.
- Farm Stays: Experience rural tranquillity by staying in a traditional farm hotel or B&B—an authentic way to enjoy Skåne hospitality.
- Local Festivals: Catch village crayfish parties, harvest celebrations, and music festivals for a taste of local life.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Malmö, stroll Lilla Torg & Turning Torso | Cycle to Västra Hamnen, visit Disgusting Food Museum | Fika at a local café, dinner at eco-restaurant |
| 2 | Train to Lund, visit Cathedral & Kulturen Museum | Botanical Gardens, explore university area | Evening walk in historic center, return to Malmö |
| 3 | Morning trip to Sofiero Palace & Gardens (Helsingborg) | Visit Kullaberg Nature Reserve & Mölle | Seaside dinner or ferry ride to Helsingør (Denmark) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best way to explore Skåne’s countryside?
A: Combination of car or bike rental allows flexibility to visit rural sites, coastal towns, and nature reserves at your own pace.
Q: Is Skåne suitable for family travel?
A: Yes. The region offers family-friendly attractions, castles, nature parks, interactive museums, and plenty of safe cycling trails.
Q: Are English speakers welcome?
A: Absolutely. English is widely spoken, especially in cities, tourist sites, restaurants, and hotels.
Q: When do the parks and gardens bloom?
A: Late spring and early summer (May–June) are peak months for flowers and rhododendrons, especially at Sofiero and Stenshuvud National Park.
Q: Can I visit both Copenhagen and Skåne in one trip?
A: Yes. The Öresund Bridge connects the two regions; day trips are popular and simple, especially using trains or by car rental.
