Walk among trees from three continents, spend an evening at a casino and be part of the free Sommarscen festival at the Kungsparken (King’s Park). Formerly a burial ground, this 21-acre (8.4-hectare) park opened to the public in 1872. The Danish landscape architect, Ove Høegh Hansen, designed the park and took inspiration from landscaped English gardens.
A distinguishing feature of the King’s Park is its collection of tree and plant species. Find a 95-foot (29-metre) Turkish oak tree, a century-old sweet chestnut and a “tree of heaven” native to China and Taiwan. The park’s flora makes it a popular location for joggers, sunbathers and picnickers. Exercise with locals in the early mornings or picnic with families on warm weekends.
Visit the fountain in the centre of the park. With the trees as a backdrop, it provides plenty of photo opportunities. The lawn in front of the fountain offers an open view of the park’s canal and the bridges that cross to Castle Park.
Play a game of chance at the onsite casino, which is one of only four legal casinos in Sweden. It houses a nightclub and restaurant, in addition to the gambling facilities.
In the summer the park becomes a venue for cultural events during the Sommarscen festival which lasts for two months. Watch circus and acrobatic shows, and alternative theatre performances specifically designed for young children. Events are free. A schedule is available on the official Sommarscen website.
The park is located on the edge of the Old Town, a short walk from Malmo’s major attractions. Gustav Adolf’s Square and Stortorget are less than 10 minutes away on foot. There is a small pay-and-display parking lot outside the casino. This can fill up quickly, so public buses are a more convenient option.
Kungsparken is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. It’s free to enter.
