The small town and fishing port Gudhjem is a highlights of Denmark's Bornholm Island.
Scandinavians don’t always need to board charter flights to enjoy a summer beach vacation. In fact, they don’t even need a car. Known as the sunshine island, Bornholm invites visitors to experience its beautiful beaches and rustic villages for an authentic Scandinavian summer vacation.
Accessible by ferry or fast catamaran from Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, this Baltic Sea island boasts an efficient network of cycle lanes and buses, making it possible to traverse its scenic routes without a vehicle.
Although off-the-radar to many international tourists, Bornholm is known among Scandinavians as one of the best places to visit in Denmark.
So much so, that Bornholm was crowned Denmark’s favorite domestic vacation destination in the most recent Danish Travel Awards for the second consecutive year. Votes are compiled by an independent research company from a panel of frequent travelers and industry experts.
Whether it’s cycling along coastal paths, sampling gourmet seafood in a charming village, or relaxing on pristine beaches, Bornholm offers family-friendly attractions a world away from the busy cities of Scandinavia.
Arrival In Rønne
Home to 13,000 residents, Rønne is the largest town on Bornholm and the arrival point for all the ferries. But those traveling without a car needn't restrict their trip to the town.
Upon arriving in Rønne, you can access convenient bus services provided by BAT. Buses connect the harbor to major towns and summer cottage areas, coordinating their schedules with ferry arrivals and departures.
You can board or alight the district buses at almost any point along the main roads; simply signal the driver clearly.
The cobbled streets of Bornholm’s oldest part are well worth a wander.
Before moving on from Rønne, it’s worth spending some time exploring. The town's well-preserved architecture, dating back to the 1800s, lines quaint cobblestone streets, inviting visitors to slow down.
Key sights include the Rønne Theater, one of the oldest in Denmark, and several local museums that delve into the island's maritime and wartime past.
Bornholm’s Historic Sites
For history enthusiasts, the medieval fortress of Hammershus provides insights into Denmark's past. Located on the northern tip of Bornholm, Hammershus is the largest castle ruin in Northern Europe and dates back to the 13th century.
It offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval military architecture and the island's strategic importance through centuries of conflict.
Visitors can explore the extensive ruins, which include massive walls and towers overlooking the Baltic Sea, and a visitor center with exhibits detailing the castle's history and the region's cultural heritage.
Østerlars Round Church is one of four famous round churches on the island. These circular designs were originally intended to serve a dual purpose: religious worship and defense against invaders, reflecting the turbulent times during its construction. Inside, there are ancient frescoes and a centrally placed baptismal font that dates back to the medieval period.
Beaches Of Bornholm
For beach enthusiasts, Bornholm does not disappoint. Dueodde Beach on Bornholm's southern tip is renowned for its exceptionally fine, white sand—once used in hourglasses—and expansive stretches that offer both solitude and accessibility.
The beach begins as a narrow strip by Snogebæk and widens significantly near the southern point. Clear, shallow waters near the shore deepen quickly, making it ideal for swimming.
Extensive dunes provide sheltered spots for privacy, and ramps from main parking areas make it accessible for bikes, buggies, and wheelchairs.
Dueodde, the white sandy beach on the south coast of Bornholm, Denmark.
The nearby lighthouse offers breathtaking views, enhancing Dueodde's status as a year-round destination, celebrated for its scenic beauty.
Farther to the east near the town of Nexø, Balka Beach is another popular choice among visitors to Bornholm. Known for its soft sand and shallow waters, Balka is particularly well-suited for families with small children, but keen swimmers will prefer Dueodde.
Beyond The Beaches
Svaneke, located on Bornholm's east coast, is known for its picturesque harbor that draws many visitors. Its well-preserved town center features quaint streets lined with red-roofed, yellow lime-washed, half-timbered houses.
Outdoor activities include extensive footpaths and cycle tracks, and nearby Joboland amusement park provides family entertainment with its waterpark and petting zoo.
Beyond the allure of sunshine, Svaneke and other quaint towns like Gudhjem are culinary hotspots where travelers can indulge in famed local delicacies such as smoked herring, exquisite ice creams, and locally brewed ales.
Gudhjem, in particular, is celebrated for hosting a prestigious national cooking competition, adding a flavorful layer to the island’s appeal.
The island also harbors a rich artistic identity with a creative spirit found in the various small workshops and galleries. This spirit is especially visible in Nexø, which is home to a renowned ceramics school.
How To Travel To Bornholm
For the most authentic Bornholm experience, join the Scandinavian tradition of traveling by ferry. For ferry fares, timetables, and booking, check the website of operator Bornholmslinjen.
The quickest way is to travel from Southern Sweden’s Ystad, from where several daily catamarans whisk passengers to Bornholm in just over an hour. Trains and buses are available from Copenhagen to Ystad.
A 5.5-hour night ferry operates from Køge, an hour south of Copenhagen, while a daily service also runs from Sassnitz in Germany.
It’s also possible to fly to the small airport on Bornholm, located just to the southeast of Rønne. The small Danish airline DAT operates several daily flights from Copenhagen, with less frequent services available from Aalborg and Billund.
Where To Stay on Bornholm
Although day trips to Bornholm are popular, you’ll get more out of your visit by staying at least a night to enjoy the long, summer evenings.
Bornholm features a variety of accommodation options, including the newly established Eco Beach Camp. This beachside glamping site provides a luxurious experience of waking up to the sound of the waves, with supper and breakfast included in rates.
For a more secluded stay, numerous summer houses are available for weekly rental through agencies such as Dancenter. These rentals generally require guests to bring their own essentials, including bed linen.
