Experience southern Sweden’s timeless beauty and rural charm on this private day tour from Malmö to Ystad and Österlen. Travel through the heart of Skåne’s most picturesque countryside as you explore medieval towns, coastal villages, and gently rolling farmland dotted with orchards, galleries, and artisan producers. From the cobbled streets of Ystad to the natural beauty of Österlen, this journey offers a perfect mix of history, local culture, and laid-back Scandinavian lifestyle.

With a private driver-guide and a flexible itinerary, this day trip can be tailored to match your pace and interests, whether you’re drawn to quaint harbor towns, open landscapes, traditional food, or simply want to slow down and soak up the essence of rural Sweden. Below is a sample itinerary to give you a feel for how your day might unfold:

Ystad & Österlen Private Day Tour Itinerary

Your private driver-guide will meet you at your hotel in Malmö. Settle into a comfortable, premium vehicle for a scenic journey south through the lush landscapes of Skåne. As you leave the city behind, your guide will tell you the stories, culture, and traditions that define this part of Sweden. This includes its Viking roots and monastic heritage to the artists, writers, and food producers who have made the region their home.

Ystad

Step back in time as you participate in a medieval town tour of Ystad. Ystad is known for preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets.

Highlights of your morning medieval tour include:

St. Mary’s Church: Explore the stunning Gothic brick church dating back to the 13th century. Look out for the centuries-old tradition of the night watchman, still honored today.

Ystad Kloster (Ystad Abbey): Your driver guide will lead you to the atmospheric 13th-century Franciscan monastery. Admire the peaceful cloisters and walk through the manicured gardens.

Per Helsas Gård: Despite being in the heart of Ystad’s Old Town, its inner courtyards are quiet and intimate. It’s renowned for having some of southern Sweden’s most well-preserved 17th-century urban architecture. Admire its beautiful architecture as you visit artisan boutiques and local cafés.

Kurt Wallander: For fans of the TV series “Kurt Wallander,” your private guide can take you to filming locations from the series, such as Gamla Fritidsbadet, Greyfriars Monastery ruins, and many more!

Lunch in Ystad

After a busy morning exploring the town’s best attractions, it’s time to take a break for a hearty lunch at one of Ystad’s cozy, high-quality restaurants. We will work with you to determine what type of food you want and find a suitable dining option. We can either find food options similar to what you eat at home, or you can try some classic Skåne dishes like gravlax, herring platters, or västerbotten cheese pies.

Österlen’s Countryside

Depart Ystad and travel deeper into Österlen, the rural, sun-drenched region often compared to famous regions in Italy such as Provence and Tuscany. Your guide will take scenic backroads through golden fields, fruit orchards, and coastal cliffs and can pull in for photo stops at windmills or colorful cottages. This region has artists’ studios, slow-food farms, and artisan workshops.

Ale’s Stones

After a peaceful drive through the countryside, arrive in Kåseberga, a tiny fishing village perched above the Baltic Sea.

Climb the gentle hill to explore Ale’s Stones, a 1,400-year-old megalithic stone ship formation made of 59 boulders aligned with the sun’s movement. Your guide will explain the site’s historical and spiritual significance, discussing Viking mythology, solar calendars, and the mystery behind its origins. From the clifftop, enjoy panoramic views of the Österlen coastline,

Below the hill, you can browse local fish smokehouses or pick up artisan souvenirs in the small craft shops.

Kivik & Apple Delights

Continue to Kivik, a village in the heart of Sweden’s apple-growing region. Visit Kiviks Musteri, the country’s most famous apple orchard and cidery. Walk through the apple museum and learn about Sweden’s unique apple varieties. You can then sample juices, ciders, jams, and must (non-alcoholic cider).

If you fancy a quick detour, your private guide can take you to Stenshuvud National Park for a quick forest walk and sea views.

Local Arts

Österlen is known for being a favorite spot for artists and designers. Depending on your interests and time, you can stop at:

Gunnarshögs Gård – A working rapeseed oil farm offering tastings, gourmet products, and a boutique shop.

Gyllengården in Smedstorp – A gallery, shop, and café with local textiles, ceramics, and handmade gifts.

Autoseum in Simrishamn – A museum of vintage vehicles and retro tech

Let your guide know if you’re interested in glassblowing, painting studios, or boutique interior design stops, and they will tailor the day to your needs.

Scenic Return to Malmö

Your journey back to Malmö continues along the stunning Österlen coastline, with some stops to break up time in the car. Stop in Brantevik, a storybook fishing hamlet with whitewashed homes and harbor views. This is a great chance to get final photos with your friends or family. You’ll then pass through coastal towns such as Simrishamn before your private tour ends in Malmö.