Bornholm, Denmark Travel Guide

Explore Bornholm: Denmark's Baltic gem, offering stunning nature, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and food enthusiasts.

Bornholm, known as the pearl of the Baltic Sea, is an island in Denmark that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming local culture. With its stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque towns, Bornholm is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The island is also famous for its artisanal crafts, especially its pottery and glasswork, making it a delightful destination for those who appreciate handmade goods. From the historic ruins of Hammershus Castle, one of Northern Europe's largest medieval fortresses, to the round churches that dot the landscape, Bornholm's architectural heritage is both fascinating and diverse. The island's quaint villages, such as Gudhjem and Svaneke, offer a glimpse into traditional Danish life, with their colorful houses, cozy cafes, and smokehouses serving locally caught fish. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do on Bornholm, with its extensive network of cycling and hiking trails. The island's varied terrain, from rugged coastlines to serene forests, provides endless opportunities for exploration. For those interested in the local cuisine, Bornholm boasts a vibrant food scene with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try the island's famous smoked herring and indulge in some delicious Danish pastries.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bornholm.

Rent a bike to explore the island’s extensive network of cycling trails.
Visit the local smokehouses to taste the island's famous smoked herring.
Check out the artisanal pottery and glasswork in the island’s many craft shops.
Take a guided tour of Hammershus Castle for historical insights.
Visit during the summer months for the best weather and festival activities.

Explore Bornholm: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Bornholm

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Hammershus Castle Ruins

Bornholm’s great clifftop fortress, where vast medieval ruins, Baltic Sea panoramas and a striking modern visitor centre bring 800 years of history to life.

4.6

Almindingen

Vast reforested heart of Bornholm, where granite cliffs, echoing valleys, castle ruins and European bison meet a web of trails under a deep green canopy.

4.7

Dueodde Strand

Fine white sand, whispering pines and a vast Baltic horizon meet at Bornholm’s southern tip, where Dueodde Strand stretches for kilometres of tranquil, windswept coast.

4.8

Østerlars Church

Denmark’s largest round church, Østerlars blends 12th‑century stone fortification, vivid medieval frescoes and Viking rune stones in a single atmospheric Bornholm landmark.

4.4

Best landmarks in Bornholm

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Hammeren

Rugged cliffs, sweeping sea views, ancient lighthouses, and rare wildlife make Hammeren Bornholm’s ultimate outpost for nature lovers and explorers.

4.9

Hammershus Castle Ruins

Northern Europe's largest castle ruin crowning a clifftop fortress with Baltic views, free and open 24/7.

4.6

Madsebakke

Northern Europe's most significant Bronze Age rock carving site, revealing 3,000 years of sacred ritual and symbolic expression.

4.0

New Church

Bornholm's smallest round church, a 12th-century gem of Romanesque architecture and medieval frescoes.

4.4

Best restaurants in Bornholm

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Stammershalle Badehotel

Historic 1911 seaside bathing hotel on Bornholm’s wild north coast, pairing Baltic Sea panoramas and rocky swims with refined Nordic dining and quiet coastal charm.

4.6

Spektakel-bar

Prisvindende burgere og tapas i Gudhjems hyggeligste gårdhave – en autentisk bornholmsk aften med levende stemning, fremragende drinks og venlig service under åben himmel.

4.7

Vinøst wine bar & restaurant

Svaneke's premier wine bar and French bistro, pouring Bornholm's largest natural wine collection amid cozy vibes and delectable plates on the charming town square.

4.6

Det Røde Pakhus

Modern Bornholm cuisine in a historic red warehouse, where harbour and forest ingredients meet thoughtful cooking in the heart of Rønne.

4.7

Best bars in Bornholm

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Ølstauan

Harbourside Bornholm bar where local craft beers, hearty Danish comfort food and Baltic Sea views come together in a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.

4.7

Madvig

Intimate Bornholm wine and cocktail bar in Svaneke’s old streets, pouring carefully chosen bottles and classic drinks in a warm, candlelit setting.

4.7

Norresan

Laid‑back seaside café and bar in a former smokehouse on Gudhjem’s quiet west harbour, serving coffee, ice cream and drinks with front‑row Baltic sunsets.

4.5

Penyllan Brewery

Harbourfront craft brewery on Bornholm’s north coast, blending barrel-aged beer, Nordic flavours and Baltic sea views in a relaxed, intimate taproom.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Bornholm

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Tucan Swinger & wellness Club

Upscale swinger and wellness club in rural Jutland, blending spa comforts, themed erotic rooms and a structured, adults-only atmosphere for adventurous guests.

4.4

Doiazd7 Do Ronne

Compact island nightclub bringing late-night beats, colourful lights and an easygoing local crowd to the harbour town of Rønne on Bornholm.

Palæcafeen

No‑frills late‑night disco bar in central Rønne, mixing local bodega charm with loud music, dancing and affordable drinks on Bornholm’s main island.

3.3

After Dark

Compact weekend nightclub bringing big-city beats, DJ-driven dancing and a lively bar atmosphere to the otherwise quiet island town of Rønne on Bornholm.

Best shops in Bornholm

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Art Box Bornholm

Compact gallery, design shop and creative supply store in Svaneke, distilling Bornholm’s coastal character into bold prints, maps, jewellery and art materials.

4.8

Baltic Sea Glass

Renowned Bornholm glass studio and gallery where molten sand, Baltic light, and island-inspired design become elegant, hand-blown works of art.

4.5

Torvehal Bornholm

Compact Bornholm food hall and roastery café in Rønne, bringing local flavours, natural groceries and island coffee culture together under one relaxed roof.

4.1

Janne K

Intimate Scandinavian clothing and lifestyle boutique on Gudhjem’s main street, pairing Nordic style with a Bornholm coastal sensibility in a calm, curated space.

4.5

Explore Bornholm on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bornholm, mapped for you.

Bornholm Essentials

Bornholm is accessible by several means. The primary way to reach the island is by ferry, with regular services from Køge, Ystad (Sweden), and Sassnitz (Germany). There are also flights from Copenhagen to Bornholm Airport (RNN) near Rønne. During the summer, additional seasonal flights may be available from other European cities. If traveling by car, you can take the ferry from Ystad, and the drive from Copenhagen to Ystad takes about 1.5 hours.
Bornholm has an efficient public transport system, primarily consisting of buses that connect major towns and attractions. Renting a car or a bicycle is highly recommended for greater flexibility and to reach more remote areas. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Bornholm's compact size makes it ideal for cycling, and there are numerous bike rental shops across the island.
The official currency in Denmark is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across Bornholm, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns or rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. ATMs are readily available in major towns.
Bornholm is generally a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings. There are no specific areas or neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists. Exercise usual caution, especially in crowded places or tourist hotspots.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Bornholm has several medical facilities, including a hospital in Rønne. Pharmacies are available in major towns for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and practically, especially if you plan on outdoor activities. Layers are recommended due to changing weather conditions. Avoid overly flashy or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Although Denmark is generally secular, respect any religious practices you may encounter. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'hej' (hi) is a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like smoked herring and Bornholm's famous rye bread. Don't leave food on your plate if invited to a local's home, as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Bornholm like a local, visit the island's many markets where you can buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share tips about hidden gems. Don't miss out on exploring the island's natural beauty, including its stunning cliffs, forests, and beaches. Try local specialties such as 'Sol over Gudhjem' (a dish with smoked herring) and the island's handcrafted chocolates and liquorice. Participate in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in Bornholm's unique culture.

When is the best time to visit Bornholm?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bornholm

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bornholm. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHej
  [hay]
- GoodbyeFarvel
  [fah-vel]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNej
  [nigh]
- Please/You're welcomeVær så venlig
  [vair so ven-lee]
- Thank youTak
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryUndskyld
  [oon-skyl]
- How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vor-dan har do deh]
- Fine. And you?Fint. Og dig?
  [feent. oh die?]
- Do you speak English?Taler du engelsk?
  [tay-ler do eng-elsk?]
- I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yai for-stor ik-kah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gerne se menuen, tak
  [yai vil gar-neh say meh-noo-en, tahk]
- I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kød
  [yai spee-ser ik-kah kuhth]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skawl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gerne betale, tak
  [yai vil gar-neh beh-tah-leh, tahk]
- Help!Hjælp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå væk!
  [go vek]
- Call the Police!Ring til politiet!
  [ring til po-li-teet]
- Call a doctor!Ring til en læge!
  [ring til en lay-eh]
- I'm lostJeg er faret vild
  [yai air fah-ret vil]
- I'm illJeg er syg
  [yai air sue]
- I'd like to buy...Jeg vil gerne købe...
  [yai vil gar-neh kuh-beh...]
- I'm just lookingJeg kigger bare
  [yai kee-ger bar-eh]
- How much is it?Hvor meget koster det?
  [vor mai-eth kos-ter deh?]
- That's too expensiveDet er alt for dyrt
  [deh air alt for dyert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du sænke prisen?
  [kan do sen-keh pree-sen?]
- What time is it?Hvad tid er det?
  [vahd teed air deh?]
- It's one o'clockDet er et klokke
  [deh air et kloh-keh]
- Half past (10)Halv (10)
  [halv (10)]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-en]
- AfternoonEftermiddag
  [ef-ter-mi-dahg]
- EveningAften
  [af-ten]
- YesterdayI går
  [ee gor]
- TodayI dag
  [ee dai]
- TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mor-en]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/den...?
  [vor air en/den...?]
- What's the address?Hvad er adressen?
  [vahd air ah-dress-en?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise mig (på kortet)?
  [kan do vee-seh mai (po kort-et)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Hvornår går den næste (bus)?
  [vor-nor gor den nes-teh (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En billet (til ....)
  [en bee-let (til ....)]

History of Bornholm

Bornholm's history dates back to the Stone Age, where evidence of early settlers has been found in various archaeological sites. Tools, pottery, and burial mounds scattered across the island indicate the presence of thriving communities who lived off the land and sea. The famous Almindingen forest holds remnants of these ancient civilizations, with artifacts dating back more than 5,000 years.
During the Viking Age, Bornholm became a crucial maritime hub. The island’s strategic location in the Baltic Sea made it a key point for trade routes and seafaring warriors. Rune stones and burial sites found on the island, such as the ones in Østerlars, provide a glimpse into its Viking past. The Vikings left a lasting legacy on the island, influencing its culture and fortifications.
Hammershus Castle stands as a monumental testament to Bornholm's medieval history. Constructed in the 13th century, it served as a fortress and a symbol of power for the Danish crown. The castle witnessed numerous battles and conflicts, including the long-standing disputes between the Danish monarchy and the Lübeckers. Today, it remains Northern Europe's largest medieval fortification and a fascinating historical site.
In the late Middle Ages, Bornholm became deeply entwined with the Hanseatic League, a powerful economic and defensive alliance of merchant guilds. The island's towns, particularly Rønne and Nexø, flourished under this influence, becoming bustling centers of trade. The architecture and town layouts from this period reflect the prosperity and importance of the Hanseatic League on Bornholm.
The 17th century brought turmoil to Bornholm as it became a battleground between Denmark and Sweden. The Treaty of Roskilde in 1658 ceded Bornholm to Sweden, but the islanders revolted later that year, expelling the Swedish forces and returning Bornholm to Danish control. This period of conflict left a lasting impression on the island's identity and fortifications.
Bornholm played a unique role during World War II. While the rest of Denmark was liberated in May 1945, Bornholm remained under German control until Soviet forces intervened. The island endured bombings and a brief Soviet occupation before finally being returned to Denmark in April 1946. The wartime events are commemorated in local museums and memorials, offering a poignant reminder of the island's resilience.
Bornholm is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and thriving arts scene. The island has long been a haven for artists, with its stunning landscapes providing endless inspiration. The Bornholm Art Museum showcases works by local and international artists, while traditional crafts such as glassblowing and ceramics flourish in towns like Svaneke and Gudhjem. The island’s cultural vibrancy is celebrated through numerous festivals and events year-round.
Bornholm is famous for its unique round churches, which serve both religious and defensive purposes. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, these churches, including the famous Østerlars Church, feature thick walls and circular designs that could withstand attacks. They are a distinctive element of Bornholm’s architectural heritage, reflecting the island’s medieval history and strategic importance.