Things to do in Skåne - 50 tips, sights and experiences

Writer: Peter Bergström

Looking for things to do in Skåne? Here you will find the best sights, excursions and experiences – from Malmö, Helsingborg and Lund to Österlen, Kullahalvön, Ales stenar, Ven and some of Sweden's finest beaches. We have travelled around Skåne many times ourselves and have collected our best tips from places we have visited.

Skåne

Skåne has so much beautiful and wonderful to offer and we have been to the region many times. We of course have some of our own favorites in Skåne such as Birgit Nilsson Museum, Ven and Ystad.

1. discover beautiful Kristianstad

Kristianstad is one of Skåne's most underrated destinations and a perfect base for those who want to experience both city, nature and history. Here you can visit Naturum Vattenriket, make excursions to Ivön, Forsakar and Bäckaskog Castle and enjoy good food in a charming urban environment.

2. holidaying in Åhus with ice cream in hand

Åhus is one of Skåne's most classic summer resorts that offers charm, sea and taste experiences. Here you can stroll among old houses, enjoy Otto ice cream or eat ice cream at the ice cream boat, and take excursions along the beautiful Åla coast.

3. Get a flavour experience at Pia's Kitchen - Sweden's smallest restaurant

Pia's Kitchen is one of Skåne's most special restaurant experiences and a real gem for those who like food. The small restaurant is located in a charming cottage on the Åla coast and serves creative menus in an unusually personal environment.

4. Visit Ivön and Bäckaskog Castle

Ivön and Bäckaskog Castle is one of the finest combinations of nature and history in north-eastern Skåne. Here you can discover the beautiful castle park, look for the horse grave in Bäckaskog and then take the free ferry to Ivön to experience Ivö klack, beech forests and the caves Ugnsmunnarna.

5. Check out Kronovall Wine Castle

Kronovall Castle in Österlen is a real dream stop for those who like castles, wine and beautiful environments. Wine tastings, castle weekends, beautiful parks and an atmosphere that makes the place one of Skåne's most special experiences.

6. See Glimmingehus – the best preserved medieval castle in the Nordic region

Glimmingehus is an exciting destination for those who like history. The mighty castle from the end of the 15th century is considered the best preserved medieval castle in the Nordic countries and is a real highlight in Österlen.

7. Enjoy Sandhammaren in Österlen

Sandhammers is one of Sweden's most talked about beaches and an obvious attraction in Skåne during the summer months. Here you'll find soft, light-coloured sand, a nature reserve and a beach that is often mentioned among the country's finest.

8. Be fascinated by Ale's stones

Ales stones is one of Skåne's most iconic sights and one of Sweden's most mysterious ancient monuments. The large shipwreck lies dramatically above Kåseberga and offers both history, views and a truly powerful feeling.

9. Stay close to nature at Cocoon Meetings

Cocoon Meetings is a different and nature-orientated accommodation in Skåne that is perfect for those who want to relax. Here you live close to nature in glamping cabins and get a quiet experience with a focus on silence, environment and good food.

10. Check out Yangtorp Qigong Temple

Yangtorp is one of Skåne's most spectacular buildings – a magnificent qigong temple in the middle of the Skåne landscape. This unusual place is today a closed retreat center, but just looking at the place from the outside is fascinating.

11. Discover charming Ystad

Ystad is one of Skåne's most picturesque towns with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and lots of history. Here you can follow in the footsteps of Kurt Wallander, visit the monastery, discover old buildings and combine a city walk with swimming and coffee near the sea.

12. Take a selfie at Smygehuk – Sweden's southernmost cape

Smygehuk is Sweden's southernmost cape and a classic stop on a road trip through Skåne. Here you can enjoy the sea, the harbour, small restaurants and the special feeling of being at the bottom of the country.

13. See cool street art in Malmö

Malmö is one of Sweden's best cities for street art and public art. Around the city you'll find murals, colourful walls and creative expressions that make an ordinary city walk much more fun.

14. Explore beautiful Malmö

Malmö is the largest city in Skåne and an obvious destination in the province. Here you can experience Turning Torso, Västra Hamnen, Lilla Torg, Malmöhus Castle, Ribersborg, cold bathhouse, market hall and lots of lovely big city feel near the sea.

15. Stroll around Trelleborg – Sweden's southernmost city

Trelleborg is Sweden's southernmost city and a charming place perfect for a day trip. Here you can discover Trelleborgen, the city's museums, parks, art galleries and the special feeling of standing at the gateway to the continent.

16. Sunbathing and swimming on the sandy beaches of Skanör and Falsterbo

Skanör and Falsterbo offers some of Skåne's most classic summer experiences. Long sandy beaches, small harbours, sea views and a holiday feeling make the area one of Skåne's strongest coastal gems.

17. Hiking in Dalby Söderskog - Europe's smallest national park

Dalby Söderskog National Park is a small but very charming nature area outside Lund. It is a perfect stop for those who want to combine short hikes with proximity to attractions such as Dalby church, Skrylle and Dalby quarry.

18. Learn about history at Kulturen in Lund

Culture in Lund is one of Skåne's best open-air museums and a perfect stop in the city centre. Here you can walk between historic buildings, museum environments and exhibitions that together give a fine picture of both Skåne and Sweden.

19. Cycling around historic Lund

Lund is one of Skåne's very best cities for a day trip and is perfect to discover on foot or by bike. Lund Cathedral, the university, cobbled streets, the market hall, the botanical gardens and lots of historical charm await you here.

20. Be fascinated by Jakriborg – inspired by the Middle Ages

Jakriborg is one of Skåne's most unusual residential areas and a place that surprises many. The area looks like a mix of Hanseatic city and fairytale world, making it a fun and photo-friendly stop between Malmö and Lund.

21. Take a scenic day trip to Ven

Ven is one of Skåne's very best day trips and a place we really like. It's easy to get here by ferry from Landskrona, and once on the island you can enjoy cycling, Backafall, the Tycho Brahe Museum, harbours, swimming spots, ice cream and a wonderfully peaceful island feeling.

22. Get inspired by cosy Landskrona.

Landskrona is a pleasant town on the Öresund that often surprises positively. Here you can visit Landskrona Castle, the city museum, the allotment gardens, the Rothoffska allotment, the art centre and at the same time be close to both the sea and the ferry to Ven.

23. Visit picturesque Råå

Råå is a real little gem in southern Helsingborg and a perfect stop for those who like coastal resorts with charm. Here you will find small houses, boats, cozy environments, a fishing tradition and also one of Helsingborg's cold bathhouses.

24. Homestay in fine Helsingborg

Helsingborg is one of Skåne's very best destinations and a city that has almost everything. Here you can experience Kärnan, Kullagatan, Dunkers culture center, City Hall, cold bathhouse, swimming areas, Fredriksdal, Sofiero and also take the ferry over to Helsingör in just a short time.

25. Go to Tropikariet in Helsingborg

The Tropicarium in Helsingborg is a fun and family-friendly stop for both children and adults. Here you can meet exotic animals from different parts of the world and have a different experience that perfectly complements the city's other attractions.

26. Stroll in Ramlösa well park

Ramlösa Brunnspark is a quiet and beautiful green oasis in Helsingborg dating back to the 18th century. Here you can walk among historic buildings, old well environments and feel the wings of history from the classic spa era.

27. Discover the Fredriksdal open-air museum

Fredriksdal is one of Skåne's most enjoyable open-air museums and is perfect for both adults and children. Here you will find historic buildings, farm animals, beautiful gardens and a relaxed environment that makes it easy to stay for a long time.

28. Experience Sofiero Castle and Castle Garden

Sofiero is one of Skåne's most beautiful sights and a must-see if you like gardens, history and sea views. The castle and the award-winning park offer floral splendour, royal history and a fantastic setting just north of Helsingborg.

29. Visit Höganäs – the ceramics town on the west coast

Höganäs is a charming coastal town on the Kulla Peninsula with a strong history linked to ceramics, coal mines and the sea. Here you can stroll in the harbor, enjoy the sea view, discover local shops and feel the relaxed atmosphere that has made the resort so popular.

30. Wine tasting at Swedish vineyards around Skåne

Skåne is Sweden's most important wine region. and a perfect place for those who want to combine nature, food and drink. There are several wineries offering wine tastings, farm settings and a different experience that has become increasingly popular in recent years.

31. Take a stroll in the castle park at Krapperup Castle

Krapperup Castle is one of Skåne's most historic estates and a great stop on the Kulla Peninsula. Here you can stroll in the beautiful castle park, visit the art gallery, have a coffee and enjoy a quiet environment with a historical feel.

32. Discover the Kulla Peninsula and Kullaberg Nature Reserve

Kulla Peninsula is one of Skåne's most dramatic and varied areas, perfect for road trips and excursions. Sea cliffs, small villages, vineyards, hiking trails, caves, viewpoints and some of the landscape's most powerful natural experiences await you here.

33. Walk to the Nimis artwork

Nimis is one of Sweden's most talked about works of art and an experience that really stands out. It's quite a tough walk to get here, but once you're there, you'll find a fascinating wooden building by the sea that has become one of Skåne's most unique attractions.

34. Visit Mölle - a classic seaside resort on the Kulla Peninsula

Mölle is one of Skåne's most classic coastal towns and a real favourite on the Kulla Peninsula. Here you can stroll in the harbour, enjoy the view, eat well and feel that special mix of seaside resort, history and dramatic nature.

35. See the Kullen lighthouse - at the far end of the sea

Kullens fyr is one of Sweden's most iconic lighthouses and an obvious stop when exploring Kullaberg. Out here, the sea and nature feel extra strong, and the view of the cliffs and water is really powerful.

36. Cosy in charming Ängelholm

Ängelholm is a nice city which is perfect for a relaxed day trip or weekend. Here, you can combine the city centre, beaches, heritage park, museums, Rönne river and family-friendly experiences in a very easy way.

37. Enjoy the beautiful Bjäre Peninsula

Bjäre Peninsula is one of the most scenic parts of Skåne and an area that offers both the sea, small towns and great excursions. Here you can discover Torekov, Hovs hallar, Båstad, Hallands Väderö, vineyards, swimming areas and beautiful walking trails.

38. Visit the Birgit Nilsson Museum

Birgit Nilsson Museum is one of Skåne's most interesting personal museums and tells the story of the opera star who grew up on a farm in north-west Skåne. A great stop for those who like culture, history and fascinating life stories.

39. Hang out in Båstad

Båstad is best known for the tennis week, but the resort has much more to offer than that. Here you can enjoy the sea, the marina, restaurants, spas, walks and at the same time be close to several of the Bjäre Peninsula's best excursion destinations.

40. Admire the gardens of Norrviken

Norrviken Gardens is one of Skåne's most beautiful destinations and a real must on the Bjäre Peninsula. Here you will find several different style gardens, beautiful views, a restaurant, activities and an environment that suits both adults and children.

41. Experience the halls of Hov - dramatic cliffs by the sea

Hovs Hallar is one of Skåne's most spectacular natural areas with cliffs, sea, paths and impressive views. It is a perfect place for those who want to hike a short distance, take photos or just enjoy nature.

42. Take a trip to Torekov

Torekov is one of Skåne's most charming coastal towns and a classic summer favourite on the Bjäre Peninsula. Here you can stroll in the harbour, swim, eat well and enjoy a quiet and exclusive small town feeling.

43. Take the boat to Hallands Väderö

Hallands Väderö is a fantastic nature experience and one of the finest island excursions you can do from Skåne. You can get here from Torekov, and the island awaits hiking, swimming, cliffs, forest and a feeling of getting far away from everyday life.

44. Visit Kåseberga - charming fishing village in Österlen

Kåseberga is much more than just Ale's stones and is well worth a stop of its own. The small fishing village offers a harbour, smokehouses, small restaurants and a lovely atmosphere that is perfect before or after the walk up to the stones.

45. Explore Simrishamn - one of Österlen's finest coastal towns

Simrishamn is a charming coastal town with colourful houses, a harbour, small shops and close proximity to many of Österlen's best excursion destinations. It is a perfect base from which to discover Glimmingehus, beaches, fishing villages and the beautiful surrounding countryside.

46. Visit Kivik and enjoy Österlen's apple kingdom

Kivik is a classic on Österlen and a stop that is perfect for those who like nature, sea and local flavours. The town is known for its apples, its market and its location close to both beaches, Stenshuvud and several nice excursion destinations.

47. Hiking in the Stenshuvud National Park

Stenshuvud National Park is one of Skåne's very best nature experiences and a must for those who like hiking. Here you can walk through forests, past beaches and up to viewpoints with fantastic views of Hanöbukten.

48. Find peace in Söderåsen National Park

Söderåsen National Park is one of Skåne's most magnificent nature experiences with deep crevice valleys, dense deciduous forest and beautiful views. Here you can hike on fine trails, enjoy the tranquillity and experience one of southern Sweden's most impressive national parks.

49. Take a trip across the Öresund Bridge

The Öresund Bridge is not only a transport route, but also one of Skåne's most iconic experiences. Driving over the bridge gives a special feeling of being in the middle of Sweden and Denmark, and it's hard not to be impressed by the structure itself.

50. Visit Dag Hammarskjöld's Backåkra

Backåkra in Österlen is a quiet and beautiful place with both nature and history. It's home to Dag Hammarskjöld's farm and an area that's perfect if you want to combine tranquillity, seaside scenery and a slightly more thoughtful stop.

READ MORE: Here you will find all our reports about Skåne

FAQ - frequently asked questions about Skåne

What is Skåne known for?

Skåne is known for its long sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, historic sights, castles, nature reserves and proximity to Denmark. The landscape also offers Österlen, the Kulla Peninsula, Malmö, Helsingborg, Lund and some of Sweden's best road trips.

What's not to miss in Skåne?

Some of the most classic sights in Skåne are Malmö, Helsingborg, Lund, Ystad, Ales Stenar, Glimmingehus, Ven, Sofiero Castle, Kulla Peninsula and Sandhammaren. If you have more time, the Bjäre Peninsula, Stenshuvud and Österlen are also well worth prioritising.

When is the best time to travel to Skåne?

The best time to travel to Skåne is usually from May to September, when the weather is suitable for the coast, beaches, small towns and excursions. Spring and early autumn can also be great times for hiking, road trips and avoiding the summer crowds.

How many days do you need in Skåne?

One day is enough to see some of the most famous places, but two to three days gives a much better experience. If you have four to five days, you can combine Malmö, Lund, Helsingborg, the Kulla Peninsula, the Bjäre Peninsula and Österlen in a really good way.

More landscape guides nearby

Want to discover more of Sweden? Here are more guides to nearby landscapes that we have visited and that are perfect for more excursions, road trips and holidays at home.

• Things to do in Blekinge
• Things to do in Halland
• Things to do in Småland
• Things to do in Öland
• Holidays in Sweden