The Swedish City With A Dangerous Dark Side To Consider Before You Visit It

Among travelers, Sweden is often seen as a calm and comfortable destination. It's considered one of the most family-friendly countries to visit in Europe, there are plenty of nature spots for unwinding, and it doesn't get nearly as crowded as many other tourist centers. With that said, the Swedish city of Malmö has a dangerous side visitors should be cautious of.

Malmö, located in the southwest tip of Sweden just across the bridge from Copenhagen, is the third-largest city in the country but often comes out on top in terms of crime. A ranking of perceived crime in Europe published by Numbeo placed Malmö in 11th place, the highest for the Scandinavian nation (Stockholm and Gothenburg ranked 44th and 45th on the list, respectively). Another survey from the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention (via The Local) asked respondents how comfortable they feel walking alone at night. Between 60% and 65% of residents revealed they would feel "unsafe" or "very unsafe" in two of the city's neighborhoods, Fosie and Rosengård, compared to the national average of 28%.

While you may generally only focus on avoiding pickpockets in Europe, the crimes aren't always so petty in Malmö. The Swedish city has struggled with bombings, shootings, arson, and other violent attacks. Though the worst crime is often concentrated in specific areas and takes place between rival groups, bystanders and innocent victims can sometimes get caught in the crossfire, something to keep in mind if you plan to explore Malmö as a tourist.

Deciding whether or not to visit Malmö is a highly personal choice, though keep in mind that other travel spots are also often associated with crime. For example, Paris and Naples were deemed more dangerous than Malmö in the Numbeo ranking, yet many tourists still visit these destinations without being personally affected by crime. If you zoom out and look at the ranking of cities globally, Malmö falls to 77th place, with several American cities ranking higher on the list.

It's also helpful to consider the sites and attractions Malmö has to offer. If you're interested in seeing multiple points in Scandinavia, Malmö is well worth a stop on a castle-filled road trip route between Stockholm and Copenhagen. For even more history in the city, check out the charming area around Stortorget Square, including Saint Peter's Church. If you're more intrigued by contemporary culture, there's plenty of stunning street art, scenic biking paths, and local boutiques to explore. Malmö is also a haven for foodies, from its Möllevångstorget food market to its Michelin-recognized restaurants to its coffee shops perfect for taking a fika break.

The city also has different activities to offer depending on the season. In the summer months, visitors can rent a boat and do some sightseeing from the sparkling canals or take a dip in the outdoor baths at Ribersborgs Kallbadhus. In the winter, Malmö transforms into one of the world's most magical Christmas towns.

By taking some basic precautions, travelers to Malmö can typically expect to avoid being a victim of crime in the city. Like in most places, it's wise to keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables out of sight so as to not attract thieves. It's also best to remain vigilant and avoid wandering around drunk or visibly lost, especially at night.

When it comes to sidestepping violent crime, tourists are generally okay as long as they steer clear of high-risk areas. The city center and area around the main train station are often considered safe by locals. Meanwhile, specific neighborhoods such as Rosengård, Lindängen, and Seved are best avoided, especially if you're an outsider unfamiliar with the surroundings. Book your hotel and plan your itinerary in tourist-friendly areas where you're less likely to stand out and attract unwanted attention. Additionally, it's important to note that some of the crime in Malmö is often of religious and political nature. With this in mind, it's a good idea to always remain cautious at places of worship and at venues hosting political protests.