Malmö for Expats: A City That Feels Like Home

Moving to a new country is exciting, but it’s the little things—your morning coffee spot, your favorite walk by the water, the feeling of knowing your way around—that truly make a place feel like home. Welcome to Malmö, a city that embraces newcomers with open arms and makes settling in easier than you’d expect.

The City

First Impressions: Where Scandinavia Meets the World

Malmö is where history and innovation meet. You’ll see it in the skyline—one moment, you’re admiring the medieval charm of Stortorget, the city’s oldest square, and the next, you’re gazing up at the ultra-modern Turning Torso, the tallest building in Scandinavia. But it’s not just the architecture that makes this city special—it’s the international vibe. With over 180 nationalities calling Malmö home, English is widely spoken, and finding a sense of belonging is easier than in many other European cities.

Photo credits: Nana (Unsplash)

A City Built for Everyday Enjoyment

Life in Malmö has a relaxed rhythm. Need a break? Head to Slottsträdgården, a beautiful green oasis in the middle of the city, where locals enjoy open-air cafés and seasonal flower displays. On sunny days, everyone flocks to Ribersborgsstranden (Ribban), a long stretch of beach where you can swim, sunbathe, or just take in the views of the Öresund Bridge. And speaking of the bridge—weekend getaways to Copenhagen are just a 30-minute train ride away.

Photo credit: Charley Litchfield (Unsplash)

A Food Scene That Surprises

For a relatively small city, Malmö’s food scene is diverse and exciting. You’ll find everything from Michelin-starred dining at Vollmers to casual food truck markets like Malmö Saluhall, a perfect spot to try local and international flavors. Craving something cozy? Grab a classic Swedish fika—a coffee and cinnamon bun—at Lilla Kafferosteriet, a local favorite in a charming old house.

A Work-Life Balance You’ll Love

Swedes take work-life balance seriously, and Malmö is no exception. The city is home to thriving industries in tech, gaming, design, and sustainability, making it an attractive place for skilled professionals. Major companies like IKEA, Massive Entertainment, and Oatly are based here, along with a growing startup scene. The best part? The commute is often a short bike ride away—Malmö is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.

Photo credit: Karl Hörnfeldt (Unsplash)

Getting Around & Feeling at Home

One of the first things expats notice about Malmö is how easy it is to navigate. The city is compact, well-connected by public transport, and completely walkable. Need to get to the airport? Copenhagen Airport is just 20 minutes away. Prefer to explore on two wheels? Malmö’s cycling infrastructure makes biking the fastest way to get around.

Final Thoughts: A City That Welcomes You

Malmö isn’t just a place to work—it’s a place to live. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a cozy café, jogging along the harbor, or networking at an international event, you’ll find a city that is open, forward-thinking, and easy to call home. And with a temporary stay at Yellow Nest, you’ll have the perfect landing spot to explore it all before deciding on your next move.

Ready to experience Malmö? Nest in, settle down, and let the adventure begin.