Sitting closer to Sweden than to its home country of Denmark, Bornholm offers a unique blend of orderly Nordic charm and relaxed island vibes. Its sandy beaches, lapped by the Baltic Sea, attract sun-seekers in the summer. While postcard-perfect fishing villages, a vibrant art scene, and excellent dining—including a Michelin-starred waterfront restaurant—are year-round attractions. The island’s rugged coastal cliffs and lush inland countryside offer plenty of things to do in Borhholm for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, biking, rock climbing, surfing, diving, or kayaking adventures.
Though the island is inhabited year-round, the most lively season to visit is in summer when the days are warm and sunny enough to enjoy the beaches and water sports, plus the hiking and biking trails and rock-climbing routes. Sol over Gudhjem, Denmark’s largest culinary competition, attracts thousands of foodies each June, and the island hosts a festive traditional Christmas market with arts and crafts stands from late November through the third week of December.
You can reach this Baltic island by taking a short flight from Copenhagen or a ferry from Ystad in Sweden to the port in Rønne. Once on the island, get around by rental car or taxi, take the BAT regional buses that cover the towns and countryside, or rent a bike. The island covers around 205 square miles (580 square kilometers), so you won’t be able to see it all on foot.
For a small island, Bornholm is well-organized for tourists, with several tourist information offices—the largest near the port in Rønne—and a free app. Download the app for information on the local sights, updated event listings, tips, suggestions for your visit, and an interactive map to find attractions, museums, restaurants, galleries, and other highlights. Many of the app’s features work offline, so you don’t need to have data turned on to use it.
