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
Melsted Havn
8.8 km
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
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
A billion-year geological journey where ancient granite meets younger sandstone at Bornholm's most scientifically significant fault line.
Bornholms Ø-arkiv
12.1 km
Bornholm's premier archive preserving centuries of island genealogy and local history.
Den russiske bjørn
12.3 km
Explore the enchanting Den russiske bjørn in Rønne, a unique tourist attraction steeped in local culture and history, perfect for memorable experiences.
Ronne Lighthouse
12.8 km
A slender white cast-iron lighthouse above Rønne’s harbour, once a vital guiding light and now a simple, elegant symbol of Bornholm’s maritime gateway.
Vang Pier
12.8 km
Granite monument and sandy beach where Bornholm's industrial past meets modern recreation.
Asylcenter Rønne & Segen
12.9 km
Experience community living at Asylcenter Rønne & Segen, a unique apartment-style accommodation in beautiful Bornholm, Denmark.
Destination Bornholm ApS
12.9 km
Discover the enchanting Danish island of Bornholm, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural traditions and unforgettable experiences await.
Louisenlund
13.1 km
Over 50 ancient standing stones in a mystical woodland setting, revealing Bornholm's Neolithic ritual landscape.
Domen
14.2 km
Geometric wooden dome on Allinge’s seafront, blending Baltic views, Folkemødet history and flexible cultural life in one striking, light-filled shell.
Midterpilt
16.0 km
A modest stone cairn marking the highest point of Paradisbakkerne, Midterpilt is a quiet waypoint on Bornholm’s wildest woodland and heathland hiking routes.
Geografisk knudepunkt
19.8 km
Where latitude and longitude meet: Denmark's geographic heart on the Bornholm coast.
Snogebæk Havn
22.0 km
Bornholm's easternmost harbor where fishing tradition, artisan culture, and pristine beaches converge.
Kanonstilling G3
22.4 km
A vast unfinished WWII gun battery hidden in Bornholm’s pines, where moss-covered concrete, dark bunkers and Baltic history meet just behind Dueodde’s dunes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rø Transmitter
1.3 km
Explore Kanonstilling G3, a rare WWII German coastal artillery battery near Nexø, Bornholm—authentic bunkers, artillery, and sweeping Baltic Sea views await history enthusiasts.
Kræmmerhuset Kunsthåndværk
2.7 km
A historic Bornholm schoolhouse where island ceramics, textiles and a 7,000 m² flower garden come together in a relaxed, countryside craft and garden escape.
Rø Plantage
3.0 km
Ancient forests, hidden fortresses, and serene lakes in Bornholm's tranquil woodland sanctuary.
Rokkestenen i Almindingen
4.2 km
A quietly curious glacial boulder hidden in Almindingen Forest, Rokkestenen invites you to step off the path, brace your hands and feel ancient granite gently move.
Spellinge Mose
4.4 km
Quiet Bornholm wetland in a rocky rift valley, where Iron Age ruins, an old railway trail and protected bog habitats meet in a serene pocket of wild nature.
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.
Præstemosen shelter, Klemensker
4.5 km
Free bog-side shelter in Bornholm's moraine landscape—rustic Nordic wilderness for one night.
Bornholms Rovfugleshow
4.7 km
Immersive birds-of-prey shows and evolution-themed encounters on Bornholm, where owls, falcons, reptiles and farm animals turn science into a full, family-friendly day out.
Bornholms Sommerrevy
5.0 km
Denmark's most local summer revue—where island wit meets musical artistry beneath Bornholm's summer sky.
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.
Bornholms Brand Park
5.1 km
Intimate forest-fringed harness racing on Bornholm, blending island tradition, family-friendly fun and close-up action on a compact 580m trotting track.
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
Bornholm’s modest summit in Almindingen Forest, where a royal memorial tower, whispering pines and modern trail facilities meet in a quietly atmospheric hilltop clearing.
Kongemindet
5.6 km
Royal memorial, forest lookout and Bornholm’s highest point in one – a granite-and-steel tower rising above Almindingen with sweeping island and Baltic views.
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.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
3.1 km
Countryside Danish cooking in a leafy Bornholm garden, where classic comfort dishes meet a tranquil event‑ready setting just outside Rønne.
Christianshøjkroen
5.0 km
Historic yellow forest kro on Bornholm serving refined Danish smørrebrød and Skovfrokost in a cosy cottage and garden terrace deep among the trees.
Restaurant Ekkodalshuset
6.1 km
Hearty Danish lunches and giant tartlets served in a cozy forest inn beside Bornholm’s echo valley, perfectly paired with walks in Almindingen.
Restaurant Gudhjem Bakke
8.6 km
Hearty portions and classic Danish comfort food on the sunny slopes above Gudhjem’s harbour, ideal for a generous lunch or relaxed, no‑nonsense dinner.
Norresan
8.7 km
Converted smokery café with sunset views, coffee, ice cream, and unhurried harbor charm.
Spektakel-bar
8.7 km
Leafy courtyard dining in central Gudhjem, where a focused menu, good drinks and only-outdoor seating create one of Bornholm’s cosiest evening hangouts.
Stammershalle Badehotel
8.8 km
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.
The Ranch
9.5 km
Western-inspired group dining and celebrations in a former community hall on Bornholm, blending hearty cooking with relaxed, village-saloon atmosphere.
Hasle Smokehouse
10.6 km
Historic alderwood smokehouses on Bornholm’s west coast, where traditional smoked fish, casual dining and Baltic Sea views meet in one atmospheric seaside stop.
Râzapâz
12.3 km
Natural wine, seasonal plates and bohemian charm come together at this intimate Rønne spiseri, where Bornholm’s culinary energy is poured by the glass.
Snurra
12.4 km
Daytime patisserie-meets-brasserie in central Rønne, serving sourdough buns, cakes, coffee and casual Nordic plates in a cosy, modern café setting.
Texas Bornholm
12.4 km
Hearty American comfort food, cold drinks and year‑round street‑side seating in the middle of Rønne’s bustling pedestrian heart on the island of Bornholm.
Café-Munter
12.4 km
Lively all-day café on Rønne’s main square, serving hearty comfort food, great coffee and cakes with a front-row view of Bornholm’s everyday life.
Hovedvagten
12.5 km
Historic 18th‑century guardhouse turned cozy Danish restaurant, serving Bornholm‑inspired comfort food in the atmospheric heart of Rønne’s old town.
Casa Mia Di Vincenzo Guastafierro
12.6 km
A cosy Italian pearl in the heart of Rønne, serving generous pizzas, pastas and island‑evening warmth under the glow of a neighbourhood trattoria.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bornholmsk Pileflet
2.3 km
A small rural workshop in Klemensker where traditional willow weaving becomes functional art and intimate encounters with Bornholm’s craft heritage unfold.
The Bornholm Farm Shop
5.2 km
Cooperative countryside farm shop near Rønne, bringing Bornholm’s meats, oils, honey, lambskins and island delicacies together in a relaxed rural setting.
Sæbemageriet Bornholm
6.2 km
Intimate soap workshop-boutique in Østerlars, where Bornholm’s landscapes are translated into handcrafted bars, gentle scents and cosy, small-batch island charm.
Janne K
8.6 km
Intimate Scandinavian clothing and lifestyle boutique on Gudhjem’s main street, pairing Nordic style with a Bornholm coastal sensibility in a calm, curated space.
Lifestone
8.6 km
A cosy seaside boutique on Gudhjem’s main street, blending relaxed Scandinavian fashion with the everyday charm of Bornholm’s most dramatic harbour town.
Førder Bornholm
8.7 km
Curated fashion and gourmet finds in Gudhjem's charming harbor village.
Baltic Sea Glass
8.9 km
Renowned Bornholm glass studio and gallery where molten sand, Baltic light, and island-inspired design become elegant, hand-blown works of art.
Klippeøens Gårdbutik
10.0 km
Spacious Bornholm farm shop on the rocky east coast, mixing English country fashion, Italian dresses and homey gifts in a cosy countryside setting all year round.
My Home Furniture Ronne
10.5 km
Quality furniture and home goods at outlet prices in Bornholm's commercial heart.
Sparloppan
10.6 km
Quirky flea market, art gallery and cosy café gathered on one floor above Aakirkeby’s town square, mixing retro treasures, local creativity and relaxed Bornholm hygge.
Bornholms Valsemølle A/S
10.9 km
Working island flour mill and cozy farm shop where Bornholm grain becomes characterful flour and local delicacies in the heart of Aakirkeby.
Torvehal Bornholm
11.6 km
Compact Bornholm food hall and roastery café in Rønne, bringing local flavours, natural groceries and island coffee culture together under one relaxed roof.
Sport Dres Bornholm v/Jesper Schiøtt
11.8 km
Compact but expertly stocked fishing specialist in central Rønne, where Bornholm’s anglers gear up, swap tips and prepare for time on the island’s lakes and coasts.
Dansk
12.2 km
Relaxed, value-focused clothing outlet in Rønne offering practical Danish fashion and everyday basics for the whole family, with a cosy coffee corner on site.
Sct. Nicolai Genbrug
12.2 km
Volunteer-run thrift shop in central Rønne, where low-priced second-hand clothing and curios support local church social work and sustainable shopping on Bornholm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Provianten
8.8 km
Cozy harbor-side wine bar and eatery in Gudhjem, blending thoughtful drinks, simple honest food and Bornholm’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Cabaret Bornholm
9.8 km
Intimate cocktail and tapas bar bringing a touch of cabaret flair and late‑night atmosphere to the quiet coastal town of Allinge on Bornholm.
Penyllan Brewery
10.1 km
Harbourfront craft brewery on Bornholm’s north coast, blending barrel-aged beer, Nordic flavours and Baltic sea views in a relaxed, intimate taproom.
Buddha Bar
10.6 km
Relaxed, Asian‑tinged bar on Aakirkeby’s central square, ideal for casual drinks, simple bites and unhurried people‑watching at the heart of inland Bornholm.
Ølhuzed ApS
10.6 km
Cosy craft beer bar in the heart of Hasle, pouring Bornholm brews and European favourites with simple tapas, nachos and an easygoing neighbourhood vibe.
Dagligstuen
10.6 km
Aakirkeby's unpretentious beer hall and community gathering space on the main square.
Pølse baren på Campus Bornholm
11.4 km
Casual sausage bar on Campus Bornholm serving traditional Danish pølser to students and visitors.
O'Malley
12.4 km
Cosy Irish pub and sports bar in central Rønne, pouring stout and whiskies, screening live games and hosting lively evenings on Bornholm’s main town square.
Den Marinerede Sild
12.4 km
A snug, Bornholm-flavoured pub on Lille Torv in central Rønne, pouring local craft beers and cocktails in a warm, intimate setting with easy island charm.
Café Lille Per
12.5 km
Local bodega charm on Rønne’s central square, where simple drinks, easygoing vibes and everyday Bornholm life meet in one relaxed café-bar.
Krystal Bodega
12.5 km
No‑frills local pub in central Rønne, serving cold beers, bar games and late‑night Bornholm atmosphere in classic Danish bodega style.
Café 18
12.5 km
Casual bodega and cocktail bar where Rønne locals gather for coffee, conversation, and evening drinks.
Pilen bar & bodega
13.5 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Allinge, serving cold beers, hearty plates and laid‑back Bornholm nightlife from lunchtime until late.
Ølstauan
13.8 km
Harbourside Bornholm bar where local craft beers, hearty Danish comfort food and Baltic Sea views come together in a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.
Underbar
14.9 km
Intimate cliffside bar beneath Hotel Nordlandet, where Nordic cocktails, candlelight and big Baltic horizons turn Bornholm’s wild north coast into your living room.