Bornholm: The Pearl of the Baltic
Discover Bornholm, the 'Pearl of the Baltic': Explore dramatic coastlines, sandy beaches, medieval ruins, and a vibrant arts scene on Denmark's sun-kissed island escape in the Baltic Sea.
Bornholm, a Danish island in the Baltic Sea, beckons with its unique blend of dramatic rocky coastlines, pristine sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages. Known as the 'Sunshine Island' for its abundant sunlight, Bornholm offers a diverse landscape ranging from lush forests and dramatic cliffs to rolling hills and hidden waterfalls. Explore its rich history through ancient fortresses like Hammershus, medieval round churches, and Bronze Age rock carvings. Indulge in local culinary delights such as smoked herring and craft beer, and immerse yourself in the island's vibrant arts and crafts scene. Whether you seek outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or peaceful relaxation, Bornholm promises an unforgettable escape.
A brief summary to Bornholm
- Bornholm, DK
Local tips
- Rent a bike to explore the island's scenic bike paths and discover hidden gems at your own pace.
- Try 'Sol over Gudhjem,' a local culinary specialty, at a traditional smokehouse for an authentic taste of Bornholm.
- Visit Hammershus Castle ruins for stunning views and a glimpse into Bornholm's medieval history; check opening hours beforehand.
- Explore the unique round churches, a testament to Bornholm's past, but be mindful of their opening times, which can vary.
- Purchase a parking vignette at a gas station or tourist information center for hassle-free parking in time-limited free parking zones.
Getting There
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Ferry
The most common way to reach Bornholm is by ferry. Several routes are available, primarily from Ystad (Sweden), Køge (Denmark), and Sassnitz (Germany), all arriving in Rønne, Bornholm's main port. From Ystad, the fast ferry takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes; from Køge, the overnight ferry takes about 5.5 hours; and from Sassnitz, the journey is around 3.5 hours. Ferry fares vary depending on the route, season, and vehicle type. For foot passengers, tickets start around DKK 49 from Ystad and DKK 49 from Køge. Car tickets start around DKK 99 from Ystad, DKK 199 from Køge and DKK 699 from Sassnitz. Remember to bring a valid photo ID or passport, especially when traveling from Sweden or Germany.
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Flight
Alternatively, you can fly to Bornholm Airport (RNN), located just outside Rønne. Danish Air Transport (DAT) and Alsie Express operate flights from several Danish cities, including Copenhagen, Billund, and Aalborg. From the airport, you can take a bus (BAT local buses) or a taxi to your final destination on the island. A taxi to Rønne city center will cost approximately DKK 100-150. Bus tickets can be purchased directly in Rejseplanens app or at BAT's office in Rønne. Car rentals are also available at the airport.
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Local Transportation within Bornholm
Once on Bornholm, local buses (operated by BAT) provide comprehensive coverage of the island. Bus schedules and routes can be found at Rejseplanen.dk. Tickets can be purchased directly in Rejseplanens app before boarding, at Church Square, or at BAT's office in Rønne. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the island at your own pace. Parking is generally free, but many spaces are time-limited, requiring a parking vignette (a dial of a hand clock) displayed on the windshield. These vignettes can be purchased at gas stations and tourist information centers for approximately DKK 10-20. Paid parking is also available in some areas, costing around DKK 15 per hour.
Discover more about Bornholm
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bornholm
0.0 km
Discover Bornholm, the 'Pearl of the Baltic': Explore dramatic coastlines, sandy beaches, medieval ruins, and a vibrant arts scene on Denmark's sun-kissed island escape in the Baltic Sea.
Kræmmerhuset Kunsthåndværk
2.7 km
Explore Rønne's vibrant handicraft scene at Kræmmerhuset Kunsthåndværk, where creativity meets tradition in a delightful shopping experience.
Spellinge Mose
4.4 km
Discover the serene hiking paradise of Spellinge Mose on Bornholm, where nature's beauty meets tranquil marshlands and scenic trails.
Præstemosen shelter, Klemensker
4.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Præstemosen Shelter in Klemensker, a peaceful campground ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bornholms Sommerrevy
5.0 km
Immerse yourself in the lively performances at Bornholms Sommerrevy, where local talent shines and summer entertainment comes to life in Aakirkeby.
Bornholms Brand Park
5.1 km
Discover the excitement of Bornholms Brand Park, Denmark's premier racecourse, where thrilling races and stunning landscapes await every visitor.
Kongemindet
5.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kongemindet, a must-visit attraction in Aakirkeby, Bornholm, for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
The Sanctuary Rocks
7.2 km
Discover the breathtaking cliffs and caves of The Sanctuary Rocks in Bornholm, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Døndalen
7.5 km
Discover Døndalen, a breathtaking scenic spot on Bornholm, known for its lush forests, stunning cliffs, and tranquil waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers.
Svartingedalen
8.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Svartingedalen in Hasle, Denmark - a natural haven for tranquility and adventure.
Melsted Havn
8.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture at Melsted Havn, a picturesque marina in Gudhjem, Denmark, perfect for nature lovers and sailing enthusiasts.
Kultippen Hasle
10.3 km
Explore Kultippen Hasle, a captivating historical landmark in Denmark that beautifully showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and architectural charm.
Slemmegrav
10.3 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Slemmegrav, a hidden gem in Rønne, Denmark, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Klintebakken
11.2 km
Explore Klintebakken, a historical landmark in Aakirkeby, Denmark, and uncover the geological wonders of Bornholm's stunning landscape.
Bornholms Ø-arkiv
12.1 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Bornholm at Bornholms Ø-arkiv, a historic archive filled with fascinating stories and artifacts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rø Plantage
3.0 km
Discover the diverse landscapes and rich history of Slotslyngen, Bornholm's captivating nature reserve.
Storeborg
4.4 km
Explore the dramatic rift valley of Ekkodalen on Bornholm—where echoing cliffs, lush trails, and legendary stories meet in a uniquely Danish natural setting.
Bornholms Rovfugleshow
4.7 km
Explore Højerup Old Church: A medieval marvel atop Stevns Klint's cliffs, offering history and stunning Baltic Sea views.
Lilleborg
5.0 km
Step into the heart of Bornholm's history at Erichsens Gård, where 19th-century interiors and a tranquil garden reveal the island’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Hans Rømer Memorial Park
5.3 km
Ekkodalen—Bornholm’s iconic echo valley—seduces with dramatic cliffs, ancient legends, and lush woodlands forming Denmark’s most mythical rift valley.
Rytterknægten
5.6 km
Ekkodalen is Bornholm’s legendary rift valley, where sheer cliffs, myth-rich woodlands, and curious echoes create a unique Danish nature experience year-round.
Gamleborg
5.8 km
Snogebæk Strand delivers classic Bornholm seaside charm, with safe swimming, soft white sands, undulating dunes, and local flavors near a lively holiday village.
Bornholms Middelaldercenter
5.9 km
Step into Erichsens Gård, Rønne’s authentic 19th-century merchant home and garden, and uncover Bornholm’s artistic and bourgeois history in a captivating museum setting.
Rokkestenen i Rutsker Højlyng
6.0 km
Slaus Stene offers a whimsical outdoor maze of stone carvings amid Bornholm’s landscape, blending myth, artistry, and local eccentricity in a free-to-explore setting.
Ekkodalen (Indgang/Entrance)
6.1 km
Discover Ekkodalen, Bornholm’s legendary Echo Valley, where dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and folklore come together to create an unforgettable natural experience.
Østerlars Church
6.1 km
Snogebæk Strand is Bornholm’s tranquil white-sand haven, perfect for families and nature lovers, with shallow waters, soft dunes, and local village charm year-round.
Jægergrotten
6.3 km
Step into 19th-century Bornholm at Erichsens Gård, a lovingly preserved merchant’s house and garden in Rønne that beautifully illustrates local cultural heritage.
Ekkodalen
6.3 km
Discover the echoing gorge of Ekkodalen, Bornholm’s legendary rift valley—renowned for its unique acoustic phenomena, lush forests, and folkloric history.
Dronningestenen
6.4 km
Discover Bornholm’s seafaring history, wartime tales, and everyday coastal life in a historic merchant’s warehouse at Nexø Museum, right on the island’s vibrant harbourfront.
New Church
6.7 km
Historic seafaring heritage and coastal resilience at an evocative museum on Nexø’s bustling harbor, revealing Bornholm’s maritime stories and post-war rebuilding.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
3.1 km
Culinary tradition and botanical serenity blend at Restaurant Bolsterbjerg, where local dishes, lush gardens, and Bornholmish warmth create a truly memorable island escape.
Christianshøjkroen
5.0 km
Historic country inn and top restaurant near Aakirkeby, offering contemporary Nordic cuisine in a picturesque rural setting on Bornholm.
Restaurant Ekkodalshuset
6.1 km
Bornholm’s beloved Ekkodalshuset serves up legendary omelettes and classic Danish cuisine at the doorstep of Echo Valley, blending hearty tradition with island hospitality.
Norresan
8.7 km
Waterfront café and bar in Gudhjem, Bornholm, serving regional specialties with panoramic Baltic Sea views, local charm, and a relaxed island atmosphere.
Stammershalle Badehotel
8.8 km
Historic seaside residence offering gourmet cuisine, wellness retreats, and sweeping Baltic Sea views on Bornholm’s dramatic northern coast.
The Ranch
9.5 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at The Ranch in Hasle - where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Hasle Smokehouse
10.6 km
Hasle Smokehouse is Bornholm’s classic fish smokehouse, famous for traditional alderwood-smoked herring and authentic local flavors by the scenic Baltic coast.
Râzapâz
12.3 km
Modern Danish small plates, natural wines, and vibrant atmosphere at Râzapâz—a culinary highlight and social hotspot in the heart of Rønne, Bornholm.
Snurra
12.4 km
Discover Snurra in Rønne - A charming brasserie offering delicious local cuisine in a warm and inviting setting.
Texas Bornholm
12.4 km
Texas Bornholm: Where lively Western barbecue meets island hospitality in downtown Rønne, serving up bold Tex-Mex flavors for adventurous appetites.
Café-Munter
12.4 km
Café-Munter in Rønne—vibrant Danish flavors, welcoming vibes, and a sunny terrace at Bornholm’s central square, perfect for relaxing and soaking up island life.
Det Røde Pakhus
12.6 km
Historic red warehouse restaurant in Rønne, serving creative Nordic cuisine with local Bornholm flair and a welcoming maritime atmosphere.
Le Port i Vang på Bornholm
12.8 km
Cliffside dining in Vang, Bornholm, serving seasonal Danish-French cuisine with sweeping Baltic sunset views and an intimate, refined coastal setting.
Nordbornholms Røgeri Butik & Restaurant
13.4 km
Sea-scented smokehouse and restaurant in Allinge, serving Bornholm’s legendary smoked fish, iconic local dishes, and classic Danish maritime atmosphere.
Restaurant Margeritten
13.5 km
Bornholm’s Restaurant Margeritten serves inventive Danish cuisine in Allinge’s historic heart, blending island flavors, modern style, and authentic local atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Bornholm Farm Shop
5.2 km
Immerse yourself in Bornholm’s vibrant food culture at The Bornholm Farm Shop, where local produce, artisanal treats, and Danish rural tradition meet near Rønne.
Baltic Sea Glass
8.9 km
Discover Bornholm’s acclaimed glass studio, featuring live demonstrations, Nordic artistry, and specialty glassware in a picturesque, light-filled Gudhjem setting.
Klippeøens Gårdbutik
10.0 km
Discover authentic Bornholm crafts and specialties at Klippeøens Gårdbutik, set in the historic Hvide Hus with stunning Baltic Sea views.
Bornholms Valsemølle A/S
10.9 km
Discover Bornholm’s milling heritage and local flavors at Bornholms Valsemølle—a historic flour mill and farm shop nestled in the island’s heart near Aakirkeby.
Torvehal Bornholm
11.6 km
A vibrant island market in Rønne offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic Bornholm flavors—all under one roof, reflecting the island’s food heritage.
Art Box Bornholm
17.8 km
Discover Art Box Bornholm: Svaneke's hub for art supplies, local artworks, and handcrafted jewelry in a welcoming atmosphere.
Karamelleriet ApS
17.8 km
Handmade caramels crafted before your eyes at Svaneke harbor—Karamelleriet ApS offers authentic Bornholm sweetness and a taste of artisanal island tradition.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Spektakel-bar
8.7 km
Experience award-winning burgers and tapas in Gudhjem's charming Spektakel-bar.
Provianten
8.8 km
Seaside bar and eatery in Gudhjem, Bornholm, celebrated for Nordic-inspired hospitality, seasonal cuisine, harbor views, and live local music sessions.
Penyllan Brewery
10.1 km
A standout microbrewery on Bornholm’s Allinge harbour, Penyllan fuses Danish and international craft traditions to serve unique, barrel-aged beers in a historic seaside warehouse.
Dagligstuen
10.6 km
Experience Bornholm's brewing heritage at Dagligstuen, Aakirkeby's cozy beer hall offering local craft beers and Danish snacks.
Den Marinerede Sild
12.4 km
Experience Bornholm's finest craft beers and whiskeys at Den Marinerede Sild, Rønne's cozy pub hub.
Café Lille Per
12.5 km
Experience authentic Danish café culture at Café Lille Per in Rønne's bustling town square.
Terrassen
13.6 km
Savor local wines, inventive cocktails, and Nordic cuisine on an atmospheric terrace blending Bornholm heritage with a lively Allinge social scene.
Ølstauan
13.8 km
Iconic seaside bar and restaurant in Allinge, Bornholm, offering local cuisine, excellent Danish beers, and authentic island atmosphere with harbor views.
Underbar
14.9 km
A contemporary seaside bar in Allinge offering panoramic views, Nordic-style cocktails, and a true taste of Bornholm’s relaxed coastal social scene.
Vinøst wine bar & restaurant
17.6 km
Contemporary wine bar and restaurant in Svaneke’s historic heart, showcasing local ingredients, natural wines, and warm Bornholm hospitality in a charming Nordic atmosphere.
Madvig
17.6 km
Experience the charm of Svaneke at Madvig – a cozy pub and lounge blending historical elegance with modern comfort.
Mikkeller Aarsdale
18.6 km
Atmospheric seaside craft beer bar and eatery in a historic smokehouse, offering rare Mikkeller brews, hearty burgers, and genuine Bornholm hospitality near Svaneke.
Sørens Værtshus
21.9 km
Experience the heart of Snogebæk at Sørens Værtshus: stone-baked pizzas, live music, and authentic Danish 'hygge' by the harbor.
