Location & Transportation
Cruise ships dock close to the center of Rønne—about 1.5 km from town. In 2015 the cruise quay was extended to accommodate larger ships up to 375 meters. You can catch a free shuttle bus from the dock to the town center, or enjoy a pleasant 30-minute walk to explore the streets at your own pace.
Nearby Lodging
There are several hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs in Rønne, many of which are within walking distance of the port and the historic center.
Nearest Airport
Bornholm Airport is conveniently located just a short drive from Rønne. Whether you’re arriving or departing, taxis and rental cars provide easy access between the airport and the cruise terminal.
Sightseeing
Rønne charms visitors with its historic Gamle Stan, featuring cobblestoned streets and traditional Danish charm. As you wander the town, be sure to check out:
- Laksegade and Storegade: These streets offer a glimpse into old Bornholm with colorful, cross-timbered houses.
- Former Custom-house (Toldboden): Dating back to 1684, it’s the oldest lay building in town.
- The Lighthouse (1880): A scenic landmark that greets visitors.
- St. Michael's Church: Enjoy the beautiful organ concerts in this historic venue.
- The Post-Office Building (1900)
- The Citadel (1650)
- Rønne Teater (1823): The oldest theatre in the provinces.
Museums
- Visit The Bornholm Museum for an insightful look at local history.
- The Defence Museum (Forsvarsmuseet) offers a look into the island’s military past.
- Explore the [Museum of Ceramics (Hjorts Fabrik)] for traditional crafts and modern artistry.
Tours & Excursions
Rønne makes it easy to explore Bornholm with a variety of tours and activities:
- A regular shuttle runs from the cruise ship dock to the Welcome Center (located near the ferry terminal), starting at 8:50 am with departures every 20 minutes.
- From May to September, Bus 7 leaves from the Rønne ferry terminal every two hours between 10 am and 4 pm. This scenic anticlockwise tour stops at Dueodde beach and other coastal highlights before ending at Hammershus—the full circuit takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
- Rent a bicycle for 50–75 DKK per day and wander along scenic bike routes that showcase dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches.
- Compare organized tours through GetYourGuide for a hassle-free excursion experience.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Rønne’s shopping scene is centered around Lille Torv and Store Torv. Here you’ll find:
- Unique items like the famed Bornholmer grandfather clocks—a local craft revived after World War II.
- Boutiques and specialty shops offering Danish design and handicrafts.
Most shops are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays, with Saturday hours typically limited to the morning.
Dining
Rønne offers a delightful range of dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy café or a restaurant serving traditional Danish cuisine, you’ll find plenty to suit your taste. I’ve enjoyed trying the local specialties like traditional Danish open sandwiches and fresh seafood dishes that highlight Bornholm’s maritime heritage—all served in inviting, local settings.
Culture & Local Events
Rønne’s culture is a vibrant mix of maritime history and local traditions, making it a wonderful place to immerse yourself in Danish life. Here are a few insights:
- Currency & Payments: Denmark uses the Danish Kroner (DKK). While most places accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small vendors.
- Language & Communication: Danish is the official language, but you’ll find that English is widely spoken throughout the town, especially in tourist areas.
- Local Events: Particularly lively in the summer, Rønne hosts festivals, open-air concerts, and local markets that celebrate the island’s heritage.
- Opening Hours: Local shops typically operate from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays, with many closing by midday on Saturdays.
Safety & Awareness
Denmark is known for its safe and friendly environment, but as always, keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas. In an emergency, dial 112.