Walk in Nexø – harbour, museums and the fishing character of eastern Bornholm

The walk begins at the harbour waterfront – the heart of the town for centuries. Fishing boats and yachts moor here, and a calm seaside atmosphere fills the marina. Nexø harbour is Bornholm's largest fishing port and still buzzes with life – early in the morning boats return with the catch, and in summer restaurants serving fish and ice cream line the quay.

The town museum tells the story of Nexø from a medieval fishing settlement to modern times. Exhibits include fishing tools, trade documents and ethnographic collections showing daily life on eastern Bornholm through the ages. Entry is optional – you can admire the building from outside and continue.

On the grounds of the former railway station you can find original rolling stock from De Bornholmske Jernbaner – the railway that connected Nexø with Rønne and other towns on the island from 1900. The line operated until 1968. Today, alongside the locomotives and carriages, information boards describe the history of transport on Bornholm – interesting even for those with no particular interest in railways.

A tropical garden with hundreds of exotic butterflies flying freely among lush vegetation. The temperature inside is kept at 25–28°C regardless of the weather. Particularly appealing for families with children, but fascinating for everyone – watching butterflies up close as they land on flowers and hands is a unique experience.

The church in the town centre has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. Its present form dates from the post-war reconstruction – Nexø was heavily bombed by Soviet aircraft in May 1945, making it one of the last places in Europe hit by World War II action. Traces of this history are visible in the architecture throughout the town.

An intimate museum in the house where Martin Andersen Nexø grew up – the author of Pelle the Conqueror, one of the most important novels in Danish literature. The book tells the story of an immigrant boy from Sweden on Bornholm and was adapted into a film in 1987 (Palme d'Or at Cannes). The museum offers insight into the writer's childhood and life on the island in the 19th century.

The central square with cafés, local shops and a relaxed atmosphere. In summer the square hosts markets and events. This is the best spot for a break – coffee, ice cream or a sandwich from a local bakery. The pace of life here is noticeably slower than in touristy Gudhjem or Svaneke, which is part of Nexø's charm.

From the square, take the side streets back to the waterfront – the loop is complete. It is worth returning via a different route than at the start and walking along the yacht marina. In the evening the harbour takes on a special atmosphere – golden light reflects off the water and fishing boats rock gently on the waves.