Making the most of Kalundborg
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Kalundborg Port provides high-quality cruise facilities, with a large quay for smooth shore-excursion operations. A complimentary harbour-to-town shuttle runs every 15 minutes, taking guests and crew quickly into town. It is also possible to walk to the centre, roughly 0.8 miles or 15 minutes on foot.
Kalundborg is the central town of the new municipality, with 20,000 inhabitants in town and 50,000 across the municipality.
One of the world’s rare five-towered churches stands here. Built in the 12th century, it looks like a fortress but never defended Kalundborg. The interior is surprisingly small yet has interesting features, entry is free and doors are open most days.
The church belongs to Medieval Kalundborg, or “Højbyen”, the high town so named for its hilltop setting. Cobbled streets run through the area, which has several well-preserved medieval buildings, including the Old Latin Academy, medieval hospital and nearby Kaalund Monastery.
Kalundborg is a peaceful transit destination, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, small villages and many nearby sights.
Kalundborg museum has exhibits from the town’s important Nordic-crusader period, Viking artefacts and more recent 19th century discoveries from its time as a trading port. Admission costs 75 DKK. It is open Tuesday to Saturday, except at Christmas and New Year.
From this central location, visitors can take a full-day excursion to Copenhagen, Roskilde and its famous Cathedral, or Odense, Hans Christian Andersen’s hometown.
Kalundborg Museum charges Adults 40 DKK.
Getting around
Tourist information is available on the quay.
Cruise ships dock not far from the train station, giving visitors an easy opportunity to explore further afield.
Jyderup is a small town in exceptional natural surroundings. Hikers may enjoy the 20 minute train journey there. Skarresø lake is only a five minute walk from station, and well-marked forest paths offer an easy, rewarding walk. Birdwatchers could spot sea eagles nesting on the small island in the forest, while history enthusiasts may seek the ruins of a 15th century castle once owned by Queen Margaret I. A 20 walk from the station carries you through a typical Danish provincial town and into the…
Nearby places
Svebølle is 10 minutes by train from Kalundborg, though a pre-booked taxi is needed onward to Tissø, one of Denmark’s largest lakes and a Viking site. The lake area has been inhabited since 12,000 BCE and has produced some of the world’s finest prehistoric artefacts, many displayed in Copenhagen’s National Museum. Tissø had a Viking fortress, with parts excavated. Visit the visitor centre, walk around the lake and bird reserve, and see several stone burial chambers.
Roskilde is one hour away by train. Its highlights include UNESCO-listed Roskilde Cathedral, where Danish monarchs are buried. After visiting the stunning Cathedral, walk 10 minutes to peaceful Roskilde fjord and the Viking Ship Museum. Learn how longships were made, step aboard one of the world’s largest reconstructed longships and enjoy lunch before viewing the excavated-vessel collection. Ship Museum admission is 150DKK; Cathedral admission is 70DKK. Private tours are possible. Please ask the…
Food and shopping
Kordilgade, a cobbled pedestrian street, has good shopping: jewellery, home-decor shops for Danish Design pieces and even a yarn shop. The redeveloped harbour front has also gained small cafes and restaurants.
Money
Denmark is outside the EURO-monetary system, though large shops may quote in Danish kroner and EURO (€). Major international credit cards are accepted in Denmark.