Bornholm Denmark – Top Things To Do For Tourists
Welcome to the charming shores of Bornholm, Denmark’s sunniest gem nestled in the Baltic Sea. During a captivating Baltic-Scandinavian cruise with Princess Cruises, we had the delightful opportunity to spend a day exploring the quaint city of Rønne, the beating heart of the island. Opting to venture on our own, we uncovered the local treasures and unique experiences that make Rønne a delightful destination. If you plan to spend a day visiting Rønne or more parts of Bornholm, read along to learn about the top things to do during your visit to this island.
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Introduction to Rønne, Denmark
Rønne, Denmark, is a picturesque town on the island of Bornholm, steeped in history that dates back to the 13th century. As the largest city on Bornholm, Rønne has been a vital port for centuries, and its maritime heritage is evident in the cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the renowned Rønne Harbor. The small town has a rich past that intertwines with seafaring traditions and strategic importance. Today, Rønne has evolved into a charming destination that welcomes visitors with its unique blend of old-world allure and modern comforts.
Rønne City Center – A Labyrinth of History and Shopping
The city center of Rønne, with its quaint cobblestone streets and historic charm, is a magnet for cruise ship tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the authentic Bornholm atmosphere.
Shuttles were available to take people from the cruise ship into the city center, but we opted to walk as it was pretty close. We walked into the city center from the cruise port early in the morning. We wandered through the quiet streets and admired the brightly colored tiny homes with carefully tended flower gardens.
As we wandered through the bustling heart of the city, it became clear why Rønne is a favorite stop on many Baltic-Scandinavian cruise itineraries.
One of the first things that caught our attention was the vibrant market square, pulsating with life and local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The city center offers a blend of historic charm with a mosaic of cobblestone streets, well-preserved buildings dating to the 19th century, and modern conveniences.
Taking a leisurely stroll through the market, we felt connected to the local culture and history. The town center offers a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can indulge in local delicacies, shop for unique crafts and design items, or enjoy coffee while people-watching.
With numerous shops in this Danish town, we were reminded of Solvang in California – a quaint Danish town. But here, we experienced the authentic version.
Top Things To Do in Bornholm
As you set foot on the enchanting island of Bornholm, you’ll quickly discover there’s no shortage of activities and attractions to fill your day with wonder. From stunning natural landscapes to rich historical sites, Bornholm offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all interests.
In this section of our blog post, we’ve curated a list of the top things to do in Bornholm, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this Baltic beauty. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or someone looking to unwind amidst nature, our guide will help you explore the best that Bornholm has to offer. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the island’s most captivating sights and hidden gems.
1. Bornholms Museum
If you enjoy history, plan a stop at the Bornholm Museum. It offers deep insights into the unique cultural heritage and fascinating history of Bornholm Island. Situated in the heart of Rønne, the museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, exhibits, and stories that span from the Stone Age through the Viking Age, the Middle Ages, and into contemporary times. The museum provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the island’s past and evolution over thousands of years.
This was our first main stop when things began to open for business in Ronne.
When you enter, you’ll see a detailed presentation of Bornholm’s Viking heritage, which includes many Viking artifacts, such as tools, weapons, and jewelry, which paint a vivid picture of the lives of these ancient seafarers who once inhabited the island.
The intricately designed Bornholm clocks are among the museum’s prized collections, a testament to the island’s craftsmanship. We saw so many grandfather clocks in this exhibit.
The curators also proudly present an exhibit showcasing the importance of bicycles in the area – including information on professional cyclists from Denmark. During our visit, they had a local rider representing Bornholm and Denmark in the Tour de France.
The museum’s ethnographic collection provides a glimpse into the everyday lives of Bornholm’s inhabitants, showcasing traditional costumes, household items, children’s toys, and fishing and farming implements.
The museum also delves into Bornholm’s strategic military importance through the centuries, illustrated by exhibits on the island’s fortifications and its role in various regional conflicts. Among the military exhibits was the history of Russian presence during WWII. During WWII, the Germans made their presence on this island, but then the Russians were said to liberate the area – and they continued a communication (propaganda) campaign to make sure the locals didn’t forget that Russia saved them from evil invaders. This was followed by an interesting exhibit about the Cold War and its impact on Denmark.
Our visit to the museum lasted 90 minutes, and we toured its three floors. Most explanations were in Danish; a few had English, but most did not. Placards in some of the rooms were available in English.
2. Bornholms Forsvarsmuseum
Another museum for military history fans is the Bornholms Forsvarsmuseum. This museum displays artifacts representing Bornholm’s military history from the 17th century to the present. As expected, there is a significant focus on the history of local Danish military units. The museum offers WWII exhibits, including weapons, uniforms, and enemy encryption devices.
3. Hjorths Fabrik – Explore Danish Ceramic Heritage
Klugschnacker, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
For culture enthusiasts, Rønne boasts several museums and galleries that highlight the island’s rich cultural heritage and artistic talents.
Hjorths Fabrik or Bornholm Ceramic Museum, located in the picturesque setting of Bornholm, is a remarkable destination for anyone interested in the island’s rich ceramic heritage. Established in 1859, this historic pottery factory continues to produce some of the finest Danish ceramics. It serves as a living museum where visitors can delve into the artistry and craftsmanship that have defined Bornholm’s pottery traditions for over a century.
When visiting Hjorths Fabrik, you can watch skilled potters transforming raw clay into beautiful pieces of art. The workshops and kilns, still operational and used today, offer a unique glimpse into the meticulous process of ceramic making—from shaping and glazing to the final firing.
The attached museum displays a wide array of finished works, showcasing the evolution of styles and techniques through the years. For a truly immersive experience, visitors can also participate in pottery classes, allowing them to get their hands dirty and create their own Bornholm-inspired ceramics. This visit enriches your understanding of local crafts and adds a personal touch to your journey on the island.
4. St. Nicholas Church
St. Nicholas Church is one of the first buildings visible from the cruise port area. We stopped inside this Lutheran Evangelical church, which has stood on these grounds for over 700 years. This historic church stands as a testament to the enduring faith and community spirit of Bornholm.
Its distinguishing features include a strikingly well-preserved medieval fresco adorning the interior walls. The church’s architecture blends Romanesque and Gothic styles with a robust, square tower that dominates the skyline of Rønne, serving as a beacon for the town.
Inside, the sea traditions of the local people are seen through ships that dangle like lamps above your head, numerous artifacts dating back to the 1500s and 1600s, and numerous impressive glass mosaics.
The wooden altar is a creation of the renowned Christian Kofoed crafted in 1918. Adorned with the serene image of the Agnus Dei, the Lamb of God, carrying the triumphant flag of victory, this masterpiece is not just an altar but a silent storyteller of faith and artistry.
Perched above the altar is a stirring painting of the artist Sven Havsteen Mikkelsen. This depiction of Jesus calming the stormy seas from 1912-1999 captures a biblical moment. It reminds worshipers that we can find tranquility even when the storms of life roar at their fiercest.
St. Nicholas Church is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark that hosts concerts and events, enriching the spiritual and cultural life of the community. The church received its first organ in 1638 and has had about nine instrument changes. The most recent was installed in 2010, introducing a sound control system capable of producing over 7,600 sound combinations from the organ. Every year, the church hosts organ concerts with organists worldwide.
5. Østerlars Rundkirke
Hubertus, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Another famous church is the round Osterlars Rundkirke. You’ll find a visit to this church offered on cruise ship excursions. It’s one of four historic round churches on Bornholm, and this one is the biggest. The church dates back to around 1150 and originally served as a place of worship and a fortification against invaders from the sea.
You can see restored frescoes depicting Christ’s birth, the gates of hell, and Judgement Day scenarios. The paintings, which date back to the mid-1300s, were painted over during the Reformation but in 1958 were restored.
This active church holds regular services; you can visit the church if services are not in session.
6. Ronne Food Scene – Eating in the Main Town Square
The culinary scene in Rønne reflects local cuisine. Particularly around the vibrant Main Town Square, you will be surrounded by various inviting eateries where you can indulge in Bornholm’s unique flavors and culinary traditions.
A stroll around the Main Town Square reveals various dining options, from cozy cafés and traditional bakeries to gourmet restaurants. Each venue offers a taste of local ingredients famed for their freshness and quality, such as smoked herring, fresh seafood, and the renowned Bornholm cheese.
During our visit, we wandered among the bustling square lined with stalls displaying many food offerings, fresh produce, and artisanal crafts. Carnivores will find plenty of sausages. And when in Denmark, you may want to go for one of their famous hot dogs. We watched the hot dog vendors make the unique dog-in-the-hole-in-the-bread hot dogs—super popular in Denmark.
One must-try dish is the ‘Sol over Gudhjem’ (‘Sun over Gudhjem’), a local specialty that features smoked herring served on dark rye bread with raw egg yolk, chives, and radishes—an authentic taste of the island!
Another popular Danish dish is Smørrebrød – it’s something you must try when you visit Denmark. This quintessential Danish sandwich is served open-faced and is commonly topped with herring, smoked salmon, or pickled vegetables. The dense rye bread is wonderful and filled with seeds.
We found some open-faced sandwiches at the street market – large bruschetta with eggplant and olives.
As we wandered the market square, most people enjoyed lunchtime beers sitting outside restaurant tables. The weather during our summer visit was perfect – in the high 60s.
In addition to the traditional offerings, the food scene here is marked by its seasonal and innovative cuisine, often infused with a modern twist that delights even the most discerning palates. The atmosphere in the square during meal times buzzes with a mix of locals and tourists, all gathered to enjoy good food and the laid-back island pace.
Dining in Rønne’s Main Town Square is not just about the food; it’s about the experience of soaking in the local culture, engaging with friendly shopkeepers, and enjoying the open-air ambiance that defines summer days on Bornholm.
We listened to live music in the square – first, a Dixieland-style jazz band by the Ronne locals – followed by a local singer. It was a wonderful accompaniment to our lunch.
And very important, public restrooms are available in the middle of the old town—much appreciated—very clean and free.
7. Hammershus Castle Ruins
Helen Simonsson, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A short jaunt from Rønne takes you to the crown jewel of Bornholm, the Hammershus Castle Ruins. It’s the number one attraction in Bornholm on Tripadvisor.
The ancient Viking fortress is Northern Europe’s most extensive castle ruin and Bornholm’s crown jewel attraction. You can wander through the heart of history where medieval battles once raged. Abandoned since 1745, the majestic castle ruins now tell a tale of time, inviting modern adventurers to explore for free year-round. Cruise ship passengers may likely have a visit to Hammershus Castle Ruins as an excursion option.
8. Ronne Theater
If you enjoy theater, you’ll be interested in visiting the enchanting Rønne Theatre. It is Denmark’s oldest working theatre, providing entertainment since 1823. This half-timbered building sits in the quaint old part of town. It presents comedies, and authentic Bornholmian plays brought to life by passionate local amateur performers.
Rønne Theatre is a vibrant community hub and popular summer performance venue.
9. Erichsens Gård
Photo: Robert de Jong, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Erichsens Gård is the town and garden museum of Ronne. It’s where you can get a sense of Bornholm’s life from the end of the 19th century. You’ll see a furnished middle-class house where bread is baked on a wood-burning stove and experience cooking in the old style. The garden of Erichsens Gard showcases varieties of flowers and herbs that were present when the house and garden were initially created. On Saturdays, you can enjoy a one-hour tour of the grounds with the gardener.
10. Architecture – The Smallest House
Nestled in the heart of Rønne, at Vimmelskaftet 11, you’ll discover a charming abode that boasts the distinction of being the tiniest house in town. With its playful pink facade and inviting blue door, this 25-square-meter gem is steeped in character and history.
Initially built in 1683, this petite dwelling offers a glimpse of architectural history.
11. Denmark’s Tallest Waterfall
User: Tine at wikivoyage shared, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In Døndalen on Bornholm, you’ll find Denmark’s tallest waterfall. But set your expectations accordingly. It’s not as epic a waterfall as you can experience in other parts of the world. Still, this 22-meter waterfall is a wonderful sight in a valley where you can experience the beauty of nature.
12. Bornholms Rovfugleshow
Nature lovers will enjoy this attraction, where you can see birds of prey. You can experience a 30-minute show, which is fun for visitors, especially those with smaller kids. You can also feed the birds and take part in flying an owl or falcon.
This is a whole new show that follows the evolution of birds of prey from the primordial swamp to the present. With live snakes and spiders, lizards and all kinds of birds from silky chickens to kookaburras to their lovely bald eagle just back from maternity leave.
A TRIPADVISOR REVIEWER FROM CROATIA
A really special place run by special people who obviously realLy love their animals and take such pride and care.
13. Shopping in Ronne
While exploring Rønne, the shopping opportunities are as rich and varied as the city itself, providing visitors an excellent chance to take home a piece of Bornholm. The town is known for its local crafts and unique boutiques, making it an ideal destination for those looking to discover one-of-a-kind items.
In the heart of Rønne, especially around the Main Town Square and its connecting streets, you’ll find shops offering everything from traditional Danish design to contemporary artisanal products. Bornholm is renowned for its ceramics, glasswork, and textiles, and many local artists have their studios and shops in Rønne. These shops not only sell beautiful handcrafted goods but often provide a peek into the artistic process, with some allowing visitors to see artists at work.
Regularly filled with vendors selling locally produced food items, handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, and unique home decor, the Rønne markets are a treasure trove for purchasing authentic Bornholm souvenirs. Whether you’re searching for a special gift or just want to browse, the shopping scene in Rønne offers an enjoyable complement to the city’s rich cultural offerings.
14. Visiting the Harbor in Ronne
We finished our visit by walking to the harbor area, where you can watch fishing boats and sea vessels coming and going, which are part of the town’s maritime ambiance. The waterfront area is a lovely, peaceful place for a stroll.
Weather in Rønne
Bornholm, often called the “Sunshine Island” of Denmark, enjoys a slightly milder and sunnier climate than much of the Scandinavian region, thanks to its isolated position in the Baltic Sea.
During the summer months, from June to August, visitors can expect pleasantly warm temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F), making it an ideal time for exploring the outdoors and soaking up the sun on the island’s beautiful beaches.
Spring and autumn are cooler, with temperatures typically ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). This offers perfect conditions for hiking and enjoying scenic landscapes without the summer crowds.
Winters on Bornholm are relatively mild compared to mainland Denmark, but they are still chilly and damp, with temperatures often hovering around freezing. Despite the colder weather, winter on Bornholm has its charm, especially when the island’s historic towns are dusted with snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland.
Regardless of the season, weather in Bornholm can be quite variable, so it’s wise to pack layers and be prepared for changing conditions.
Money in Denmark
In Bornholm, as in the rest of Denmark, the official currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). The Krone is subdivided into 100 øre and is often represented with the symbols “kr” or “DKK” when pricing items.
Visitors will find that cash, while still accepted, is less commonly used than credit and debit cards, which are widely accepted throughout the island for everything from museum admissions to dining out. ATMs are readily available in Rønne and other towns in Bornholm, providing convenient access to cash if needed.
It’s also worth noting that while Denmark is a member of the European Union, it has opted not to adopt the Euro, so visitors should be prepared to exchange their currency if they are not already carrying Danish Krones.
Fun Facts About Denmark
PLEASE: You might be surprised to learn that the Danish word “please” does not have a direct translation.
OLDEST FLAG IN THE WORLD: The Danish flag dates back to 1219 and remains the oldest country flag in the world, still used by an independent nation.
LAND OF ISLANDS: Denmark has 444 islands, but only 76 are inhabited. Bornholm is one of the more popular island retreats.
MONARCH: Denmark has the oldest monarchy in the world – more than 1000 years old
Can you visit Bornholm in just one day?
Yes, many visitors choose to concentrate on Rønne in just one day. As the capital of Bornholm, this charming town offers a compact and easily walkable city center that is perfect for a day’s exploration. In a single day, you can enjoy a stroll through the historic streets, visit key attractions like Hjorths Fabrik and the Bornholm Museum, and have a meal in the Main Town Square. You can also shop for local crafts and sample traditional Bornholm cuisine. While a day in Rønne will give you a good taste of the town’s highlights, extending your stay would allow you to uncover more hidden gems and relax into the laid-back rhythm of island life.
If you just do the old town, Bornholm museum, and a bit of wandering, 5-6 hours is likely plenty of time. This was our experience.
Listen to our Bornholm Podcast
Closing – Visiting Bornholm
As our exploration of Bornholm comes to a close, it’s clear that this enchanting island offers far more than just picturesque landscapes. From the rich tapestry of history in the ruins of Hammershus Castle to the cultural delights of Rønne’s bustling city center, Bornholm is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re indulging in the culinary specialties in the Main Town Square, participating in pottery workshops at Hjorths Fabrik, or simply enjoying a sunset by the sea, the memories of your time here will linger long after you’ve returned home.
We hope this guide has inspired you to add Bornholm to your travel list and explore all the unique and captivating activities it has to offer. Each corner of the island tells a story, each dish reflects the richness of the local produce, and every view is a canvas of nature’s finest work.
If you find Bornholm listed on a future cruise itinerary, plan to enjoy a wonderful day in this unique part of Denmark.
Happy travels and we hope to see you at the places where we go.
