En route to Malmö for Eurovision? Make the most of your pilgrimage to the southern Swedish city with Vogue Scandinavia's in-the-know guide
It’s no secret that Malmö is often overshadowed by Sweden’s capital, Stockholm. But this weekend, all eyes will be on Sweden’s third-largest city when the Eurovision Song Contest is held at Malmö Arena. Below, browse our suggestions of the best places to eat, where to stay, and what to do to make the most out of this festive weekend.
What to do
Celebrate Eurovision with live music, food trucks, and shopping kiosks at the official Eurovision Village at Folkets Park. With a program of live music, crafts, and dancing set to extend through Saturday night, the park is the perfect place to celebrate Eurovision with other enthusiasts.
If you need a fashion fix (beyond the fabulous Eurovision costumes), the new exhibition on Lars Wallin at Malmö Museum is the place to be. The show focuses on the Swedish designer’s career, with almost 100 couture pieces from the past 30 years on view. Besides seeing the stunning gowns and stage costumes, visitors can follow the entire creative process of fashion design in an on-site studio.
No festive weekend would be complete without a little shopping. The Davidshall neighbourhood may be small, but it boasts several stores that carry a range of designer and independent brands. Stop by Grandpa, Très Bien, and Aplace to update your look or pick up some home goods ahead of the concert.
Where to eat
If you’re craving comfort food, head to Atrium for breakfast, where you’ll find options ranging from overnight oats and avocado toast to Turkish eggs. Enjoy the airy atmosphere of the cafe, or take your meal outside to soak up some late spring sun.
Restaurang Riket offers seasonal small plates, ideal for adventurous foodies to try out new dishes. The menu changes frequently, but you can expect inventive, delicious bites and a great wine selection. The lively ambiance is sure to get you in the mood for the weekend’s festivities.
Craving a bagel? Chef Mama is the mecca for Sweden's best. The family-owned business, born from a Swedish-American love story, opened in 2021 as Malmö's – and the nation's – first American bagel bakery. The New York-style bagels are freshly based and sold by the dozen or half-dozen, or you can pick up just one – completely with traditional fillings – to tide you through your morning.
Where to stay
Lodged in a stately building dating back to the 1870s, the Hotel Scandic Kramer offers a touch of old-war charm. The marble lobby and stained-glass windows give way to mod guest rooms and a gym with a sauna. The best place to put your feet up after the concert!
Complete with a gastro pub and outdoor terrace, the Elite Plaza Hotel in Malmö is beloved for a reason. The central location makes it a practical base for the weekend, and the interior’s mid century-modern touches add a jazzy vibe to the classic building.