Explore Malmo’s cultural heritage in this 15th-century former Danish fortress, complete with fascinating museums and a fish market.

Malmo Castle, near the city’s centre, is a Renaissance castle, the oldest of its kind remaining in the country. Visit the castle to learn about the city’s cultural history and to see a fish market with an aquarium.

The castle was built by King Eric of Pomerania in 1436 and rebuilt in 1530s by King Christian III, a Danish monarch. The castle was intended as a fortification on the west side of the city and a control for shipping trade on the Oresund Strait. The Danes used the castle as a prison for Mary Queen of Scots’ third husband, James Hepburn, in the late 1500s. Beheadings would take place in the castle’s courtyard in the 19th century.

Rent an audio guide for a small fee. The self-guided tour takes about 2 hours and includes an exhibition on the wars between Sweden and Denmark in the 17th century. In summer, free guided tours are available on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

Check out the City Museum (Stadsmuseum) to learn about Malmo’s cultural heritage. The Knight’s Hall features artefacts from the late Medieval to Renaissance periods, including items from St. Canute’s guild. Kids will enjoy identifying the animals in exhibits in the Natural History Museum. Over 12,000 taxidermy birds, a giraffe and some foxes are on display. A small aquarium features coral reefs and exotic fish.

Outside, see the Fiskehoddorna, a line of 19th-century fisher’s huts. Local fishers sell fresh local fish and seafood here from Tuesday until Saturday.

The castle is located north of Kungsparken and Castle Park, just a short walk from the city centre. Parking is available for a fee in front of the castle. Trams run between the castle and Malmo City Library in Castle Park when the weather is warm. Tram timetables and prices can be found on the Malmo Tramway website.Visit the Malmo Castle any day of the week, except some public holidays. Check the museum’s opening hours on the museums section of the Malmo City website. Tickets to the castle allow free entry to the museums. Admission to the castle is free for visitors under the age of 19.