Exploring Malmö, Sweden, the city hosting Eurovision 2024 (and it's closer to Copenhagen than you think)

Ah Sweden, famous for its lakes, meatballs, IKEA and... Eurovision? I won't add anymore clichés in there (it was hard for me not to type ABBA tbf), but Sweden is pretty great. Saying that, there's a place in Sweden that's slightly less well-known than its big sister capital Stockholm - welcome to Malmö. 

   If someone could do an edit and photoshop me in The Beatles Abbey Road photo I'd be grateful, ta. 

In fact, if you don't know, the small city of Malmö is preparing to host Eurovision 2024, and not for the first time either. Malmö is quite the Eurovision veteran. Hosting the song contest twice before, once in 1992 and for a second time in 2013, you could say Malmö is extremely prepared to welcome hundreds and thousands of screaming fans into its walls. 

Picture cobblestone streets (you don't really need to picture it as I've taken photos for you), colourful houses, the salty breeze from the Baltic Sea tousling your hair and the sound of music floating through the air. That's Malmö for you. And, with a population as diverse as its musical line-up, Malmö is certainly a melting pot of cultures, at least it will be, come the 11th May. 

That's right, come May all roads lead to the Malmö Arena. That's the same arena where the Malmö Redhawks usually hit the ice. 

But, while it may seem that Eurovision is stealing the limelight, there's a whole lot to Malmö than meets the eye. This multicultural marvel is about to become your new fave city break destination, offering a mixture of history, architecture and great footwear (see below) that'll have you swooning. 

These clogs were made for walking.

I haven't told you the best part yet. Malmö is only a half an hour train ride from the Danish Capital, Copenhagen. My top tip - if you're staying in Copenhagen (which we were) but you also want to experience a smørrebrød or two, take one of the sleek and modern trains from Copenhagen Central Station across the Øresund bridge, all the way to Malmö Central Station. It costs around £12 which is a bargain if you compare it to the price of a plane ticket!

Make sure you sit back, relax and enjoy the seamless (well, relatively seamless - buy your train tickets online beforehand to save the hassle at the station) journey from one Scandinavian gem to another. 

Malmö's main square, Stortorget, is stunning. The historic square exudes an irresistible charm that captivates tourists from near and far. Towering above the square is the majestic St Peter's Church, a centuries-old landmark that adds a sense of grandeur to the scene. From vibrant street performers entertaining passers-by to locals leisurely enjoying a fika (aka a coffee break) at outdoor cafes, the main square is a vibrant hub of activity where the past and present seamlessly intertwine. It's almost as if it's inviting you to uncover its rich culture and history. 

I also couldn't not mention the shopping. Malmö has some great vintage stores, with SO. MANY. BARGAINS. In fact, I bought my favourite pair of Levi's from a shop in Malmö. Granted they did have a whole in the knee (which I got repaired, ripped jeans are so 2017), but I've genuinely worn them to death.

If you find yourself needing a break from the hustle and bustle, Malmö has lush green spaces and picturesque parks too. Whether you want to stroll through the verdant oasis of Pildammsparken, or prefer to soak up the sun in Kungsparken, you'll find plenty of spots to relax and recharge before hitting the shops, restaurants, or even the Eurovision after-parties. 

For the most gorgeous street in the whole of Malmö (confirmed by me, obvs), you have to visit 'Jakob Nilsgatan', just off Lilla Torg, which is another public square.

It's easy to see why Malmö has been chosen as the Eurovision 2024 host country. It has a rich history with the contest, it's got the modern venue and transportation already in place, and it's got a vibrant art scene. 

As the countdown to Eurovision is well underway, get ready to experience the best of Sweden's city breaks alongside the glitz and glamour of the multicultural show. Grab your Eurovision flag, extend your trip (you won't regret it) and get ready to dance the night away in one of Europe's most vibrant and welcoming city.