Cruises to Rønne
Rønne - the largest town on the Danish island of Bornholm and the main maritime gateway to the Baltic's “Sunshine Island.” This cozy port town sits on the southwestern coast of Bornholm — an island set apart from mainland Denmark, sitting notably closer to the coasts of Sweden and Germany than to Copenhagen. Cobblestone streets in the old town are lined with brightly painted half-timbered houses, and the town's unhurried pace stands in pleasant contrast to the busy itineraries of Europe's major cruise ports.
For cruise travelers, Rønne is primarily a port of call on Baltic Sea itineraries, with ships sailing onward to Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Klaipeda, or GdaΕsk. In 2022, a record year for the port, Rønne welcomed 65 cruise calls, while another 14 vessels — mostly smaller expedition ships — called at other Bornholm harbors. In 2025 the port opened a new pier measuring 374 meters (1,227 ft) in length with an 11-meter (36 ft) berthing depth, allowing it to accommodate significantly larger ships than before. π’
π Before setting off on a cruise from Rønne or going ashore for a few hours in port, here's what you should know:
π©π° Country: Denmark
π Region: Bornholm Island, Bornholms Regionskommune municipality (part of the Capital Region of Denmark)
π₯ Population: about 14,000 residents (the whole island of Bornholm — about 40,000 people)
π Area: about 29 km² (11 sq mi); the island of Bornholm covers 588 km² (227 sq mi)
π£οΈ Languages: Danish; English is widely spoken in the tourism sector
πΆ Currency: Danish krone (DKK); euros are accepted at some tourist establishments, though change is usually given in kroner
π Time zone: CET (UTC+1), CEST (UTC+2) in summer — one hour behind Kyiv time
βοΈ Climate: temperate Baltic climate, with cool summers (+18…+21 °C / 64…70 °F) and mild winters for this latitude (0…+3 °C / 32…37 °F)
βοΈ Nearest airport: Bornholm Lufthavn (RNN) — 5 km (3 mi) from central Rønne
β Official name of the cruise port: Port of Rønne (Rønne Havn)
πΊοΈ Location note: the island is linked to mainland Denmark by ferry, and to Sweden (Ystad) by high-speed catamaran with a direct train connection to Copenhagen
ποΈ The history of Rønne — from fishing village to Bornholm's main port
β³ More than 700 years between Denmark, the Hanseatic League, and Sweden
The history of Rønne began long before the island became a Baltic tourist gem. Back in 1275, a small chapel dedicated to St. Nicholas was built on the site of today's town center, and a trading settlement with its own mayor and court gradually grew up around it. In the early 14th century, the Danish king, the Archbishop of Lund, and several North German princes competed for control of strategically located Bornholm, which lay right between the German Baltic coast and the Swedish island of Gotland.
In 1525, when Denmark could not repay its debts, the town briefly came under the control of the Hanseatic League: merchants from Lübeck revived the fishing trade but imposed heavy new taxes, sparking discontent among residents. By 1576, Rønne had returned to Danish rule. The 17th century proved especially difficult: plague epidemics in 1619 and 1655 claimed many lives, and in April 1658, under the terms of the Treaty of Roskilde, the island briefly passed to Sweden — only for Bornholm's residents to expel the Swedish garrison that same December, restoring Danish rule.
βοΈ Rebuilding after World War II
The most dramatic chapter in Rønne's modern history unfolded in the final days of World War II: in May 1945, Soviet aircraft bombed the town twice, destroying a significant portion of its historic buildings. Reconstruction took several years, funded in part by Sweden, which donated the money to build around 300 new wooden houses. Today, thanks to this rebuilding effort, the old town blends pre-war half-timbered quarters with neat post-war construction — a combination that gives modern Rønne its distinctive character.
β The Port of Rønne — Bornholm's main maritime gateway
π Scale and development of the port
The Port of Rønne is a multi-purpose harbor handling cargo, ferry, and cruise vessels, as well as logistics for offshore wind energy. Until 2019, the pier could accommodate ships no longer than 240 meters (787 ft), mainly from the fleets of AIDA Cruises and Holland America Line. Following a reconstruction of the berthing infrastructure, the port opened up to a much wider range of cruise brands, and in 2025 a new cruise pier measuring 374 meters (1,227 ft) with an 11-meter (36 ft) depth was brought into service, located a 15-minute walk from Bornholm's visitor center. A multi-stage harbor development program is ongoing in parallel, including breakwater extensions and dredging to improve maneuvering conditions for vessels.
π’ How many liners the port can accommodate
Rønne typically accommodates one cruise ship at a time at its main passenger pier; on peak days, when two ships call simultaneously, the smaller vessel may dock at the cargo or ferry berth instead. The port's record year was 2022, with 65 cruise calls, and the largest liner to have visited the harbor to date remains MSC Preciosa at 333 meters (1,092 ft) in length — though the new pier now allows for even longer ships.
π’ Which cruise lines call at Rønne
Rønne is regularly visited by ships from AIDA Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, TUI Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, and Oceania Cruises — mostly as part of Baltic Sea itineraries calling at Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, or GdaΕsk. π
π‘ Interesting facts about Rønne and Bornholm
Getting to know the island is more rewarding with a few lesser-known details:
βοΈ Bornholm is known as the “Sunshine Island” — it records more hours of sunshine per year than anywhere else in Denmark, and thanks to its heat-retaining granite bedrock, the island has earned a second nickname: the “Rock Island.”
π° Just outside Rønne stand the ruins of Hammershus Castle — the largest castle ruin in all of Northern Europe, parts of which date back to the early 12th century.
βͺ Bornholm is home to 4 of Denmark's 7 iconic round churches — unique fortified medieval churches the island is especially proud of.
π Rønne is home to Denmark's oldest theater, a historic cultural landmark just a short walk from the pier.
π°οΈ Rønne houses the island's largest workshop for Bornholm grandfather clocks — a traditional craft revived after it nearly disappeared during World War II.
πΊ Bornholm was the first place in Europe to be designated a European Region of Craft, and the island is especially known for its pottery and glassblowing traditions.
π² The island has more than 230 km (143 mi) of bike paths, making bicycle rental one of the most popular ways to explore the coastline independently, right from the pier.
ποΈ A large part of Rønne's historic old town was rebuilt with funding from Sweden after the 1945 bombings — that's when around 300 new wooden houses were built in the old quarter.
π Top landmarks in Rønne — must-see for cruise travelers
A cruise ship's stopover in Rønne typically lasts between 6 and 10 hours, so it's worth planning your route in advance. A detailed list with photos, addresses, and opening hours can be found in the “Landmarks & Attractions” section; below is a brief overview of the key sights that define the character of the town and the island.
βͺ St. Nicolai Church (Sankt Nicolai Kirke) — a historic 13th-century church built on the site of the town's oldest chapel; the current building dates from 1918.
ποΈ Bornholm Museum (Bornholms Museum) — the island's main museum, with exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to the Viking Age, located right in the center of Rønne.
πΊ Hjorth's Fabrik — a working ceramics workshop-museum where visitors can watch traditional Bornholm pottery being crafted firsthand.
ποΈ Erichsens Gård — a well-preserved 19th-century merchant's house offering a glimpse into the life of the local well-to-do bourgeoisie.
π Rønne Theatre — Denmark's oldest theater, a classic architectural landmark in the historic center.
π° Hammershus Castle — the largest fortress ruins in Northern Europe, perched on a rocky headland; a popular excursion for passengers with a longer stopover.
ποΈ Lille Torv and Store Torv squares — the commercial heart of the old town, home to shops selling ceramics, glassware, and the famous Bornholm grandfather clocks.
πΆ The historic Gamle Stan quarter — Laksegade and Storegade streets lined with colorful half-timbered houses, the most atmospheric part of old Rønne.
β¨ Why choose a cruise calling at Rønne
Rønne is a rare example of a port where the unhurried pace of island life becomes its greatest asset.
First, the logistics are convenient: the pier is just a 15–20 minute walk from the historic center, with a free shuttle bus running to the main sights. π
Second, it's a genuine escape from the tourist crowds: even during peak season, Rønne retains the feel of a quiet Scandinavian town with clean air and a very low crime rate. π€οΈ
Third, it's an ideal base for active travelers: rent a bicycle and within a few hours you can reach scenic cliffs, beaches, or Hammershus Castle. π΄
The cruise specialists at Four Gates Group can help you choose the best Baltic itinerary calling at Rønne, take care of all transfer and documentation details, and offer exclusive rates from MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and other leading brands we partner with as a priority agency in Ukraine. π€
βΉοΈ Please note: the information on this page is for general reference and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. For up-to-date information, please consult a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or the official websites of the relevant venues.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals
How to Get to the Cruise Port in Rønne
Rønne is the main town of the Danish island of Bornholm and the transport hub of the “Pearl of the Baltic.” Unlike large mainland ports, Rønne is a port of call only: ships receive passengers here for a few hours during a stop, rather than beginning or ending a cruise. The piers sit just steps from the historic town centre, so the logistics here are refreshingly simple. Below is a verified guide to every way of reaching the port and getting back on board, prepared by the cruise specialists at Four Gates Group. π―
π Exactly Where the Cruise Port of Rønne Is Located
The Port of Rønne is a transit cruise port with four berths located almost within the town itself:
• Krydstogtskajen (Piers 31–32) — the main cruise berth, including the new 2025 pier measuring 374 m/1,227 ft in length with a berthing depth of 11 m/36 ft, able to accommodate ships up to 350 m/1,148 ft long
• Tværmolen (Piers 22–23) — an additional berth for medium-sized vessels
• Kulkajen (Pier 13) — a historic coal pier also used for cruise calls
• Multipier (Pier 34) — a multi-purpose berth
π GPS address: Havnen, 3700 Rønne, Denmark
πΆ Distance to the town centre: all berths lie just over 1 km/0.6 mi from central Rønne, and the new cruise quay is a 15–20-minute walk from the main square
β Docking type: the vast majority of ships — from boutique expedition vessels to large ships from MSC or Royal Caribbean — dock alongside the pier. Tender operations at anchor are rare and limited to a handful of small expedition ships.
β Important: the exact berth for your ship is always listed on your cruise voucher. Rønne has four active piers, so confirm your pier number 48–72 hours before arrival.
βοΈ From Bornholm Airport (RNN) to the Cruise Port
Bornholm Airport (RNN) sits just 5 km/3.1 mi southeast of central Rønne — one of the most convenient airport-to-port transfers anywhere in the Baltic. The airport handles scheduled domestic flights on DAT (Danish Air Transport) to Copenhagen, Aalborg, and Billund, plus seasonal charter flights on Alsie Express to Sønderborg. There are no direct international flights, so the most convenient route is via Copenhagen.
π Taxi — the fastest option
Taxis from the local operator Dantaxi wait outside the terminal at all times.
• Travel time: 8–12 minutes
• Booking: 24/7 Dantaxi call centre, tel. +45 48 48 48 48
• Payment: cash (DKK) or card
π BAT Bus — the budget option
The local carrier BAT (Bornholms Amts Trafikselskab) runs routes 3 and 5 from the airport to central Rønne during the season.
• Travel time: around 15 minutes
• Schedule: timed to flight arrivals; check the current timetable at bat.dk
π Private transfer
The best choice for families or groups with luggage — a driver meets you at arrivals and takes you straight to the pier.
π€ Four Gates Group arranges private transfers for clients flying to Bornholm before or after a cruise — simply share your flight number when booking.
β΄οΈ By Ferry from Ystad (Sweden) to Rønne
The most popular route for passengers arriving via Copenhagen and then by train to the Swedish town of Ystad. High-speed ferries operated by Bornholmslinjen connect Ystad to Rønne.
• Crossing time: just 80 minutes
• Frequency: up to 4 sailings a day each way in the low season, up to 16 a day at the peak of summer
• First sailing: departs as early as 6:30 a.m. on weekdays
• Terminal in Rønne: the Bornholmslinjen terminal sits within the main harbour, a few minutes' walk from the cruise berths
• Tip from Four Gates: there is a direct train link from Copenhagen to Ystad — a convenient way to combine a visit to the Danish capital with a ferry crossing to Bornholm
β΄οΈ By Ferry from Køge (Mainland Denmark) to Rønne
For passengers arriving directly from Zealand (the Copenhagen region), Bornholmslinjen also runs a direct route from the port of Køge, about a 40-minute drive from Copenhagen.
• Crossing time: 5 hours 30 minutes
• Frequency: 1 sailing a day each way
• Advantages: no need to cross into Sweden; convenient for travelling with your own car
β΄οΈ Alternative Route — Sassnitz (Germany)
Bornholmslinjen also links Rønne with the German port of Sassnitz (3 hours 20 minutes at sea), from where a rail connection runs to Bergen auf Rügen and onward into continental Europe. This route mainly suits travellers coming from Germany or Central Europe.
ποΈ From Central Rønne to the Cruise Pier
The historic centre of Rønne is so compact that most visitors simply walk to the pier:
πΆ On foot — from the main squares Lille Torv and Store Torv to the piers is a leisurely 15–20-minute stroll through the old town's streets
π Free shuttle bus — the port runs a free shuttle from the cruise pier to the “Welcome Center” (Nordre Kystvej 3), located by the ferry terminal.
• Starts running: 8:50 a.m.
• Frequency: every 20 minutes
• Cost: free of charge
π Taxi — a taxi stand is located right by the ferry terminal and on the main square, Torvet; book 24/7 on tel. +45 48 48 48 48
π² Bicycle rental — Bornholm has over 230 km/143 mi of cycle paths; rentals cost around 50–75 DKK a day — a great way to explore the island independently
π By Private Car and Car Rental
If you are touring Bornholm by car (brought over on a Bornholmslinjen ferry from Køge or Sassnitz) or plan to rent a car right at the port:
π
ΏοΈ Parking near the piers — parking areas are available close to the cruise port; check pricing and availability in advance during peak season
π Car rental — a Europcar office sits right next to the “Welcome Center,” a few minutes' walk from the cruise pier; Avis is available in the town centre as an alternative
π£οΈ GPS route: all of the island's roads converge on Rønne; the entrance to the port is marked with signs reading “Havnen” or “Cruise Terminal”
βΏ Accessibility for Passengers with Reduced Mobility
The Port of Rønne is well adapted for guests with limited mobility:
β
The free shuttle bus is wheelchair-accessible
β
Piers are fitted with level gangways and ramps for ships docking alongside
β
BAT buses have low floors and wheelchair spaces
β
Dantaxi can provide larger-capacity vehicles on request — book by phone at +45 48 48 48 48
β
Cruise terminal staff assist with boarding and disembarkation — notify your cruise line of your needs in advance
β° When to Return to the Ship
Since Rønne is a port of call rather than an embarkation port, there is one golden rule: be back on board well before the published departure time.
π Boarding deadline: typically 60–90 minutes before the ship sails — the exact time is always shown on your cruise pass and announced on board the day before the call
π Independent excursions: build in extra time, keeping in mind that the island's last bus or ferry connection may not get you back before the boarding deadline
β Important: the ship will not wait for late passengers at a port of call — catching up with your ship independently at the next port is far more expensive and complicated than returning on time. Every Four Gates Group voucher includes the exact reboarding time for your specific cruise.
π‘ Insider Tips from the Four Gates Group Experts
Rønne is a compact, easy-going port, but a few details are worth knowing in advance:
β±οΈ Don't cut your excursions too close. The island is small, but BAT buses run on a schedule timed to ferries, not cruise ships — always allow an extra 1–1.5 hours of buffer time.
πΆ Carry some Danish kroner. While cards are accepted almost everywhere, small shops and kiosks on the outskirts may prefer cash in DKK.
π² Consider renting a bicycle. For a few hours in port, it's the best way to see the coastline and town centre without waiting in line for a bus.
π Try smoked fish right by the port. Rønne is famous for its smoked herring — smokehouses can be found just a few minutes' walk from the pier.
π± Download an offline map of Rønne. Mobile coverage on the island is reliable, but an offline map saves time in unfamiliar surroundings.
ποΈ Don't save the main church for last. St. Nicolas' Church is the terminus of the free shuttle and one of the town's landmarks — a great place to begin your walking route.
π Contacts at the Port of Rønne
Port of Rønne (general information):+45 56 95 95 00
Bornholmslinjen (ferries):+45 70 900 100
Dantaxi (island-wide taxi service):+45 48 48 48 48
Denmark emergency services: 112
Four Gates Group cruise specialists (24/7 for clients):+38 097 653 05 53
Getting around in Rønne requires no complicated planning — the island is small, the piers sit almost in the town centre, and a free shuttle plus reliable taxis take all the stress out of it. The one thing that matters is returning to the ship on time. The cruise experts at Four Gates Group help our clients plan every port stop so there's time for both a great excursion and an unhurried return to the gangway. Get in touch with our manager, and your stop in Bornholm will go as smoothly as possible. π³οΈβ¨
βΉοΈ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general guidance and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please confirm current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant providers.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals
Landmarks and Attractions of Rønne: A Complete Guide for Cruise Travelers
Rønne is the largest town on the Danish island of Bornholm, often called the “Pearl of the Baltic” by cruise passengers. Here you'll find cobblestone lanes, colourful half-timbered houses dating from the 17th–18th centuries, a cosy harbour, and Northern Europe's largest castle ruin just a 30-minute drive from the pier. The island of Bornholm covers 588 km² (227 sq mi) of scenic landscapes: rocky cliffs to the north, white sandy beaches to the south, and heathland and forests inland. For a cruise passenger with 8–10 hours in port, the key is balancing time between the intimate town centre of Rønne and a trip further into the island. Below is a verified guide to the key landmarks, with up-to-date 2026 prices, opening hours, and precise directions from the cruise port of Rønne Havn to each site. π―
βͺ 1. St. Nicholas' Church (Sankt Nicolai Kirke)
π‘ Fun Facts and Background:
The green spire of St. Nicholas' Church is the first thing travellers see as their ship sails into Rønne harbour. Perched on a hill right above the port, the church has served as a landmark for sailors for centuries. π§
πΉ Inside hangs “Mary's Bell,” cast in 1434 — one of the oldest pieces of church furnishing on Bornholm.
πΉ The chandelier dates from 1620 and is still used during services today.
πΉ Following Danish tradition, model sailing ships hang from the ceiling — a symbol of protection for sailors and a nod to the town's maritime past.
πΉ A careful 1918 restoration preserved the authentic look of the interior, so the church looks much as it did a century ago.
π History:
The first wooden church on this site dates back to the 12th century, while the stone building visitors see today was built in stages and reached its final form by the mid-18th century. The church has always been the spiritual and visual centre of Rønne: the town grew up around it along Laksegade and Storegade streets. Over the centuries the church survived fires, a Swedish siege, and periods when Bornholm passed between Danish, Swedish, and German control. Today it remains an active parish church that regularly hosts organ concerts and sacred music festivals.
π’ Getting There from Rønne Havn Cruise Port:
• On foot: 15–20 minutes along the waterfront and uphill
• Free shuttle: runs from the pier to the stop by Sct. Nicolai Kirke and the Welcome Centre, first departure 8:50 a.m., every 20 minutes
• Taxi: 5–7 minutes, approximately 60–90 DKK
πΆ Admission and Opening Hours:
• Admission: free (a voluntary donation is welcome)
• Opening hours (2026): Monday–Saturday 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., closed on Sunday (except during services)
β οΈ Tip: access for tourists is limited during the Sunday service — plan your visit on a weekday.
ποΈ 2. Rønne's Old Town
π‘ Fun Facts and Background:
Rønne's historic centre is one of the best-preserved ensembles of half-timbered architecture in Denmark. The main streets, Laksegade and Storegade, are lined with 17th–18th century merchants' and fishermen's houses painted in “sunshine colours” — yellow, ochre, and orange. βοΈ
πΉ The triangular area between Store Torv and Lille Torv squares is considered the most atmospheric part of town.
πΉ Laksegade is home to Bornholm's oldest ceramics workshop, where traditional pottery is still made by hand.
πΉ Rønne was granted town rights back in 1327 and has remained the island's economic hub ever since.
πΉ The lush green courtyards with rose trellises are a signature feature of Rønne's town houses, well worth a leisurely look.
π History:
In the Middle Ages, Rønne's strategic position on the Baltic made it a target of interest for Sweden and various German principalities. The herring trade long formed the backbone of the town's prosperity — fishing spurred commerce and the construction of merchant houses that still shape the old town today. In the 19th and 20th centuries, part of the historic fabric was lost to fires and post-war redevelopment, but the blocks around Laksegade and Storegade have been carefully preserved as a nationally protected architectural monument.
π’ Getting There from Rønne Havn Cruise Port:
• On foot: 20–25 minutes from the pier, the shortest route runs via the waterfront and Snellemark street
• Free shuttle to the stop by Sct. Nicolai Kirke, then a 5-minute walk
πΆ Admission and Opening Hours:
• Walking around the old town: free, accessible around the clock
• Shops on Laksegade and Storegade: usually open Mon–Fri 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., shorter hours on Saturday
β οΈ Note: most shops in the centre are closed on Sundays, apart from a few cafés and souvenir shops during peak season.
ποΈ 3. Bornholm Museum (Bornholms Museum)
π‘ Fun Facts and Background:
The Bornholm Museum is the island's main cultural-history museum, founded in 1893 and one of the oldest regional museums in Denmark.
πΉ It holds Scandinavia's largest collection of gold foil figures (guldgubber) — tiny thin gold plaques depicting people, dating back to the Iron Age. β¨
πΉ A dedicated exhibit is devoted to Bornholm grandfather clocks, a unique local craft that began in 1744 after a Dutch ship carrying clock mechanisms ran aground near the island.
πΉ The museum covers in detail the Soviet bombing of Rønne in May 1945 and the ensuing Soviet occupation of the island, which lasted until 1946.
πΉ The top floor recreates an old-fashioned classroom and features a collection of vintage toys — a great stop for families with children.
π History:
The museum opened in the late 19th century thanks to local historians eager to preserve artefacts from the island's prehistoric and Viking-age past. Over time the collection grew to fill three floors: Stone and Bronze Age archaeology, seafaring and fishing, and the everyday life of islanders through the centuries. Today the Bornholm Museum also administers several branches — the Hjorths Fabrik ceramics factory, Erichsens Gård town house, and the open-air museum Melstedgård.
π’ Getting There from Rønne Havn Cruise Port:
• On foot: 20–25 minutes from the pier, address Skt. Mortens Gade 29
• Taxi: 5–8 minutes, approximately 70–100 DKK
πΆ Admission and Opening Hours:
• Adult ticket: 90 DKK
• Combined ticket for 4 museums (Bornholm Museum, Hjorths Fabrik, Erichsens Gård, Melstedgård), valid for a week: 125 DKK
• Punch card for 6 museums on the island (including NaturBornholm and the Bornholm Art Museum): 170 DKK
• Children and young people under 18: free
• Opening hours (high season, June 27 – August 9, 2026): open daily 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Off-season hours are shorter — check current times before your visit.
πΊ 4. Hjorths Fabrik Ceramics Factory
π‘ Fun Facts and Background:
Hjorths Fabrik is a working ceramics factory and museum in one, where visitors can watch Bornholm's famous pottery being made firsthand.
πΉ On weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., real master potters work in the studios, and visitors can watch the process live. πΊ
πΉ The exhibition traces the evolution of Bornholm ceramics from 19th-century traditional forms to modern design.
πΉ An on-site shop sells pieces made directly at the factory — a popular souvenir for pottery collectors. π
πΉ The venue regularly hosts rotating exhibitions by leading Danish ceramicists.
π History:
The factory was founded by potter Lauritz Hjorth in the second half of the 19th century and became one of Denmark's most important centres of artistic ceramics. Production has passed through several generations of owners and technological changes but has retained handcraft at its core. Today Hjorths Fabrik is a branch of the Bornholm Museum, combining a museum function with a living craft workshop.
π’ Getting There from Rønne Havn Cruise Port:
• On foot: 20–25 minutes, address Krystalgade 5, next to the Bornholm Museum
• Combined route: easy to pair with a visit to the Bornholm Museum — both sites are a 5-minute walk apart
πΆ Admission and Opening Hours:
• Adult ticket: 90 DKK
• Combined ticket for 4 museums: 125 DKK (valid for a week)
• Children under 18: free
• Opening hours (March 30 – October 10, 2026): shop and exhibitions Mon–Sat 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., workshops and studios Mon–Sat 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; closed on Sunday
π° 5. Hammershus Castle Ruin (Hammershus Slotsruin)
π‘ Fun Facts and Background:
Hammershus is the largest castle ruin in Northern Europe and unquestionably the island's premier attraction. The fortress rises dramatically on a cliff 74 metres (243 ft) above the Baltic Sea. ποΈ
πΉ Construction began around the 1290s, ordered by the Archbishop of Lund, who was the island's spiritual ruler at the time.
πΉ The most dramatic episode in the castle's history came in 1660–1661, when Leonora Christina, daughter of Danish King Christian IV, and her husband Corfitz Ulfeldt, were held here for 17 months on charges of treason.
πΉ In 1658–1660, Bornholm was briefly occupied by Sweden — local residents rose up, killed the Swedish commandant, and reclaimed the island for the Danish crown.
πΉ The castle finally lost its military role in 1743, after which islanders spent more than 80 years dismantling the ruin for building stone, until the monument was placed under state protection in 1822.
πΉ The modern Brohuset visitor centre, opened in 2018, is built to follow the contours of the landscape and is connected to the ruin by a wooden bridge across a ravine.
π History:
For nearly five centuries, Hammershus was a key prize in the struggle for control over Bornholm between the Danish crown, the church, and the Hanseatic towns. The castle changed hands many times: the Archbishops of Lund, then Lübeck merchants, and later royal governors. The fortress lost its defensive role for good in the late 17th century, once the island's defence shifted to Rønne and the island of Christiansø. Large-scale restoration began in the late 19th century, and a decisive boost for preserving the monument and building the modern visitor centre came from an A.P. Møller Foundation donation in 2012.
π’ Getting There from Rønne Havn Cruise Port:
• Taxi: about a 30-minute drive, approximately 400–500 DKK one way
• BAT bus (routes running via Allinge–Sandvig to Hammershus): fare depends on the number of fare zones crossed; check the current timetable at bat.dk
• Bicycle rental: 50–75 DKK/day, a scenic coastal route takes 1.5–2 hours one way
• Organized excursion: the most convenient option given limited time in port — guarantees a timely return to the ship
πΆ Admission and Opening Hours:
• Access to the ruin itself: free, open 24 hours a day, year-round
• Brohuset visitor centre (exhibition, shop, café): free admission
• Parking (from the Saturday before Palm Sunday through the autumn school break): 35 DKK for 6 hours; free at other times
• Visitor centre opening hours (2026): open daily from late March to mid-October, roughly 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. in the shoulder season and longer in summer
β οΈ Important: the path up to the ruin is steep and paved with uneven medieval cobblestones — wear comfortable shoes, as the site is not well suited for wheelchairs or visitors with limited mobility.
β² 6. Østerlars Round Church (Østerlars Rundkirke)
π‘ Fun Facts and Background:
Bornholm is home to four of Denmark's seven round churches — unique medieval structures that doubled as both places of worship and fortifications. Østerlars is the largest and best known of them. βͺ
πΉ The church was built in the 12th–13th centuries: its thick circular walls and narrow, slit-like windows allowed villagers to take shelter here during pirate raids and enemy landings.
πΉ Inside are runic stones that had already been used as building material by the time the church was constructed.
πΉ The church's conical roof resembles a Dutch windmill and is an instantly recognisable symbol on postcards and photographs of the island.
πΉ The round churches remain active parish churches today, hosting Sunday services and weddings.
π History:
Bornholm's round churches were built during an era when the island regularly suffered raids by Wendish pirates from the southern Baltic coast. The thick stone walls and compact circular shape provided not only a space for worship but also a refuge for villagers and their livestock in times of danger. Østerlars, the largest of the island's four round churches, has over time become a symbol of Bornholm itself — a combination of defensive architecture and sacred purpose found nowhere else in Denmark.
π’ Getting There from Rønne Havn Cruise Port:
• Taxi or rental car: about a 35–40-minute drive, approximately 450–550 DKK one way
• BAT bus towards Gudhjem via Østerlars — several routes pass the church; check the current timetable at bat.dk
• As part of an island tour: usually combined with Hammershus and Gudhjem on the same itinerary
πΆ Admission and Opening Hours:
• Admission: usually free or for a small voluntary donation
• Opening hours: daily during daylight hours throughout the summer season; off-season hours should be confirmed in advance, as the church is active and may be closed during services
π¨ 7. Other Landmarks Worth a Look
• π Erichsens Gård (Laksegade 7) — a charming 19th-century merchant's town house with authentic period rooms and a lovely flower-filled courtyard. 50 DKK, included in the combined ticket for 4 museums.
• π NaturBornholm (Grønbygaardsvej, outside Rønne) — the island's nature museum with interactive exhibits on geology, earthquakes, and local wildlife. Included in the 6-museum punch card.
• ποΈ Bornholm Defence Museum (Bornholms Forsvarsmuseum) — a collection of military vehicles and an exhibit on the German occupation and the Soviet presence on the island in 1945–1946. Open Wednesday–Saturday 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
• ποΈ Nørrekås Beach — a sandy beach a 10–15-minute walk from central Rønne, ideal for a short stroll or a swim in the warmer months.
• ποΈ Dueodde Beach — one of Denmark's finest beaches, with fine white sand, at the southern tip of the island, roughly a 40-minute drive from Rønne.
• π―οΈ Rønne Lighthouse (Rønne Fyr), built in 1880 — a historic structure near the harbour.
πΊοΈ Three Self-Guided Routes Around Rønne in 9 Hours
A cruise call in Rønne typically lasts 8–10 hours. With good planning, it's entirely realistic to combine a leisurely walk through the old town with a trip out to Hammershus. Below are three options depending on your budget and preferences.
π₯ Route 1. Budget — free or nearly free
β±οΈ Total time: 5–6 hours | π° Estimated budget: 0–150 DKK + food
π 9:00 a.m. — Depart from Rønne Havn pier
Walk along the waterfront or take the free shuttle to Sct. Nicolai Church.
π 9:20–10:00 a.m. — St. Nicholas' Church
Free look inside, plus photos of the harbour from the vantage point on the hill.
π 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — Old Town: Laksegade, Storegade, Store Torv, Lille Torv
A leisurely stroll through the half-timbered streets, browsing ceramics workshops and shops.
π 12:00–1:00 p.m. — Lunch at a café on Store Torv
A classic Danish smørrebrød or dish of the day — approximately 100–150 DKK.
π 1:00–2:00 p.m. — Stroll along Nørrekås Beach
Free, a 10–15-minute walk from the centre.
π 2:00–3:00 p.m. — Return to the port
On foot or via the free shuttle.
π° Cost Breakdown:
• Shuttle, church, old town, beach: free
• Lunch: 100–150 DKK
πΈ TOTAL: about 100–150 DKK per person
π₯ Route 2. Optimal — 600–900 DKK per person
β±οΈ Total time: 9 hours | π° Estimated budget: 700–800 DKK + food
π 8:45 a.m. — Leave the port, taxi to Hammershus
Approximately 450 DKK, a 30-minute drive along the scenic coastal road.
π 9:15–11:00 a.m. — Hammershus Castle Ruin
Self-guided exploration of the ruin (free) and the Brohuset visitor centre exhibition, climbing to the highest point for a view over the Baltic Sea.
π 11:00–11:45 a.m. — Coffee and a light snack at the Brohuset café
Approximately 60–100 DKK.
π 11:45 a.m.–12:15 p.m. — Taxi back to Rønne
Approximately 450 DKK.
π 12:15–1:15 p.m. — Lunch in central Rønne
A classic Danish lunch — approximately 150–200 DKK.
π 1:15–2:30 p.m. — Bornholm Museum and Hjorths Fabrik
Combined ticket for 125 DKK covering both museums, plus watching the potters at work.
π 2:30–3:30 p.m. — Old town and Nørrekås Beach
A walk along Laksegade and Storegade, ending the day at the waterfront.
π 3:30–4:00 p.m. — Return to the port
π° Cost Breakdown:
• Round-trip taxi: about 900 DKK
• Coffee: 60–100 DKK
• Lunch: 150–200 DKK
• Combined museum ticket: 125 DKK
πΈ TOTAL: about 1,250–1,350 DKK per person (more economical if travelling as a group — the taxi fare is per car, not per person)
π‘ If you swap the taxi for a rental bicycle (50–75 DKK/day), the route becomes significantly cheaper, but the round trip to Hammershus will take 3–4 hours instead of one.
π₯ Route 3. Premium — a private island tour from 300 EUR per group
β±οΈ Total time: 9 hours | π° Estimated budget: on request
π What's Included:
• β
Meet-and-greet with a private driver holding a name sign right at the gangway
• β
Comfortable car or minivan for the full day
• β
Professional English- or Ukrainian-speaking licensed guide
• β
Island route: Hammershus, Østerlars Round Church, the fishing village of Gudhjem, and historic Svaneke
• β
Table reservation at a restaurant serving local cuisine (smoked herring, fresh seafood)
• β
Flexible itinerary — adjusted on the go
You can book through your cruise manager, or contact us directly using whichever method is convenient:
Phone numbers:
• Office: +38 (044) 337 82 01
• Mobile (LifeCell): +380 93 653 05 53
• Mobile (Vodafone): +380 66 653 05 53
• Mobile (Kyivstar): +380 97 653 05 53
Email us
π 8:30 a.m. — Meet your driver and guide at the terminal
π 9:00–10:30 a.m. — Hammershus Castle Ruin with a guide
A private tour with a detailed account of the castle's history, its legends, and the imprisonment of Leonora Christina.
π 10:45–11:30 a.m. — Østerlars Round Church
A 20-minute drive. Explore the unique defensive architecture of Bornholm's round churches.
π§ 11:45 a.m.–1:15 p.m. — The fishing village of Gudhjem and lunch
A walk through the picturesque streets of this harbour village, followed by lunch at a local restaurant serving fresh fish — approximately 250 DKK and up per person.
π 1:30–2:30 p.m. — The historic town of Svaneke
One of the island's most picturesque towns: colourful houses, an old town hall, and a local brewery.
π 2:45–3:30 p.m. — Return via Rønne with a stop in the old town
Time for shopping — Bornholm ceramics, glassware, and smoked fish to take home.
π 3:45 p.m. — Return to the port in a comfortable car
π€ Four Gates Group organizes private tours of Bornholm with licensed guides, transfer from the ship's gangway, and a guaranteed return on board. Contact your cruise specialist — and your day on Bornholm will be perfectly tailored to your tastes. π³οΈβ¨
β οΈ Good to Know Before You Go Ashore
π The “all aboard” rule: you must be back on board 60 minutes before departure. If you're late, the ship will not wait, and catching up with it at the next port will be at your own expense.
πͺͺ Documents: bring a photocopy of your passport and your cruise Ship Card.
πΆ Cash: Denmark's official currency is the Danish krone (DKK); carry a small amount of cash for minor expenses, although cards are accepted almost everywhere.
π Clothing: comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets and the rocky path up to Hammershus; a light windbreaker even in summer, as the Baltic breeze can be cool.
π± Internet: free Wi-Fi is available at the Welcome Centre and in most cafés in Rønne. Download an offline map of the island in advance for navigation.
π Safety: Bornholm is one of Denmark's safest regions with a very low crime rate; standard precautions are entirely sufficient.
π« Sundays: most shops in central Rønne are closed. Plan your shopping for weekdays.
π Transport: it's convenient to buy BAT bus tickets in advance via the Rejseplanen app, as only certain ticket types can be bought with cash on board.
βΉοΈ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general reference and is accurate as of the date of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please confirm current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant attractions.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals