Are you fascinated by the sea and maritime history? These are the top maritime museums in Germany
1Brückturm
RegensburgThe Brückturm, located in the old town of Regensburg, is a significant historical landmark. It marks the southern end of the Stone Bridge that crosses the Danube. The tower was constructed as one of several gate towers during the late 13th and early 14th centuries, a period when the medieval city fortifications of Regensburg were being built. 2Gorch Fock (1933)
StralsundThe Gorch Fock, also known as the Russian Tovarichtchi between 1949 and 2003, is a historical three-masted barque. It was constructed in 1933 by the renowned Blohm & Voss shipyards in Hamburg. This ship is a significant part of maritime history and offers a unique insight into the naval architecture of the early 20th century. 3U-461
PeenemündeThe U-461, also known by its Russian identification K'24, is a Soviet submarine that belonged to the Project 651 class, also known as the Juliett class according to NATO classification. Today, it serves as a museum ship and is located in Peenemünde, offering visitors a unique insight into naval history. 4Museum at the sea
BüsumThe Museum am Meer in Büsum is a place where visitors can learn about the history of shrimp fishing and processing in the North Sea, as well as the history of tourism in Büsum. This museum offers a unique insight into the local culture and traditions, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in learning more about the area's past. 5German submarine U-995
LaboeThe German submarine U-995, displayed at the Laboe Naval Memorial, is a significant piece of naval history. This Type VIIC/41 U-boat was a part of Nazi Germany's Kriegsmarine. It was constructed by Blohm & Voss in Hamburg, Germany, and was commissioned on 16 September 1943. This submarine provides a tangible link to the past, allowing visitors to explore a piece of World War II history. 6Hedeby Viking Museum
BusdorfThe Hedeby Viking Museum, located near the historic settlement of Hedeby in the state of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into Viking history. The museum is situated in what was once Denmark's oldest city, providing a rich historical context for the exhibits and reconstructions on display. 7Technik Museum Speyer
SpeyerThe Technik Museum Speyer is conveniently located near the city center of Speyer, situated at the Speyer airfield. This makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, providing an opportunity to explore a vast collection of technical constructions from vehicle and aircraft building. 8Alter Leuchtturm Travemünde
LübeckThe historic Travemünde Lighthouse, constructed in 1827, is a significant technical and architectural monument. It no longer functions as a sea mark but has been transformed into a museum. The lighthouse, made of red brick and built in a classicist style, stands at a height of 31 meters. It is a symbol of Travemünde, along with the Passat, and is open for visitors to explore. 9Schifffahrtsmuseum
FlensburgIn 2012, the Flensburg Maritime Museum underwent a complete renovation and re-conception of its exhibition. The exhibition now extends beyond the former customs warehouse to include the customs office courtyard, featuring exhibits on the West Indies voyage, butter trip, and Flensburg shipyard. Additionally, a newly built exhibition building in the courtyard showcases the evolution of technology and everyday life on board over the last 100 years. 10Museum Ship Rickmer Rickmers
HamburgThe Rickmer Rickmers is a significant historical monument in Hamburg. This three-masted steel cargo sailing ship is now a museum, providing visitors with a glimpse into the maritime history of the city. It is located in the port of Hamburg at the St. Pauli Landing Bridges, a popular tourist area known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment. 11German Maritime Museum
BremerhavenThe Deutsches Schifffahrtsmuseum (DSM), or the German Maritime Museum, is the national maritime museum of Germany. It is situated in the city of Bremerhaven, a location chosen due to the central role played by the port of Bremen in German maritime history, both for trade and as the main port of embarkation for emigration to the Americas. 12German submarine Wilhelm Bauer
BremerhavenThe Wilhelm Bauer was scuttled at the end of World War II, without ever having gone on patrol. In 1957, it was raised from the seabed off Flensburg Firth, refurbished, and recommissioned for use by the West-German Bundesmarine in 1960. This unique history adds to the submarine's intrigue and appeal for visitors. 13Deutsches Marinemuseum Wilhelmshaven
WilhelmshavenThe Deutsches Marinemuseum in Wilhelmshaven is a significant institution that presents the evolution of German naval military since 1848. The museum's primary focus is on the Bundesmarine / German Navy, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of Germany's maritime history and the role of its navy over the years. 14Heimatmuseum Warnemünde
RostockThe Heimatmuseum Warnemünde is a folk museum situated in the Warnemünde district of the Hanseatic city of Rostock. This museum is a significant cultural institution that showcases the rich history and heritage of the region. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the local culture, traditions, and way of life of the people of Warnemünde. 15Regensburg Museum of Danube Shipping
RegensburgThe Regensburg Museum of Danube Shipping is a unique maritime museum situated in the charming town of Regensburg, Germany. The museum focuses on river shipping, particularly on the Danube and other rivers. It provides a comprehensive insight into the history and development of river shipping, making it an interesting destination for those interested in maritime history. 16Fehn- und Schiffahrtsmuseum – Westrhauderfehn
WestrhauderfehnThe Fehn- and Shipping Museum in Westrhauderfehn is a unique institution that provides insights into the history of the Fehn culture, regional shipbuilding, and shipping of the once most important inland port of East Frisia. Visitors can learn about the rich maritime history of the region, including the development of shipbuilding and the significance of the inland port. 17Island Museum Old Lighthouse
WangeroogeThe Old Lighthouse Wangerooge is not just a historical monument, but also a museum. The base of the lighthouse houses a local museum with around 900 exhibits, offering visitors a chance to delve into the rich history and culture of the island. 18International Maritime Museum
HamburgThe International Maritime Museum is housed in a former warehouse. It is a private museum that houses Peter Tamm's collection of model ships, construction plans, uniforms, maritime art and many photographs. Peter Tamm was chairman of the board of the Axel Springer AG, the largest digital publishing 19Passat (ship)
LübeckThe Passat is a historic German four-masted steel barque, and one of the renowned Flying P-Liners. These sailing ships were operated by the German shipping company F. Laeisz. The Passat is one of the last surviving windjammers, making it a significant piece of maritime history. 20German Oceanographic Museum
StralsundThe German Oceanographic Museum, also referred to as the Museum for Oceanography and Fisheries, Aquarium, is situated in the Hanseatic town of Stralsund. It is recognized as the most visited museum in North Germany, attracting a large number of tourists each year. The museum offers a wide range of maritime and oceanographic exhibitions, making it a great destination for those interested in marine life and oceanography. 21Rhein-Museum Koblenz
KoblenzThe Rhein-Museum Koblenz is a cultural-historical museum located in Koblenz. It provides a comprehensive view of life on the Rhine, covering various aspects such as shipping, ecology, hydrology, Rhine romanticism, tourism, economy, and history. This museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich cultural landscape of the Rhine. 22Aeronauticum
Wurster NordseeküsteThe Aeronauticum is the official German maritime aircraft museum, situated in the town of Nordholz, which is in close proximity to Cuxhaven, Lower Saxony. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region. The museum offers a unique insight into the history of German maritime aviation, making it an interesting destination for history and aviation enthusiasts. 23Transport Museum Dresden
DresdenWhat moves you - Dresden Transport welcomes you to an exciting time travel. Impressive locomotives, elegant vintage cars, adventurous flying machines, magnificent ship models and many active stations invite you to discover, to experience and to embark. 24Förderverein Feuerschiff Borkumriff
BorkumThe Borkumriff was a fire ship position from 1875 to 1988. It was originally located at 53° 51′ 0″ N, 6° 26′ 0″ O, but was later moved to position 53° 43′ 0″ N, 6° 23′ 0″ O due to changes in shipping routes. From 1970, it was located at 53° 48′ 0″ N, 6° 22′ 0″ O. The position was about 30 kilometers northwest of the island of Borkum, in one of the main shipping routes of the German Bight. 25Elbschiffahrtsmuseum
Lauenburg/ElbeThe Elbschifffahrtsmuseum, located at Elbstraße 59 in Lauenburg/Elbe, Schleswig-Holstein, is a museum dedicated to the history of shipping on the Elbe from Bohemia to Hamburg. It provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of Elbe shipping, with models, display cases, and original exhibits. 26Altfriesisches Haus
SyltThe Altfriesisches Haus, which has been in use since 1640, is a former residence located in the Keitum district on the island of Sylt. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The house was originally built as a home for a captain, and many of the furnishings reflect maritime themes. Over the years, it has been preserved and maintained, allowing it to retain its historical charm and significance. 27Windstärke 10
CuxhavenThe Windstärke 10 – Wrack- und Fischereimuseum Cuxhaven is a museum located in Cuxhaven. It is housed in two former fish processing halls and a new building connecting these two halls, covering a total area of approximately 4000 m². The museum showcases the challenges and dangers of seafaring, particularly a part of the collections of the former Wrackmuseum and an overview of 100 years of fishing history. 28Förderverein Binnenschifffahrts-Museum Oderberg e.V.
OderbergThe main exhibit of the Binnenschifffahrtsmuseum is the paddle steamer Riesa, a significant piece of maritime history. The museum, which was founded in 1954 as a local history room, has since expanded its collection to include a wide range of archaeological finds from the surrounding area. This provides visitors with a unique opportunity to delve into the past and learn about the region's rich history. 29Museumsschiff Mannheim
MannheimSince 1985, the Mainz has served as the Museum Ship of Mannheim, or Museumsschiff Mannheim. It is moored on the Neckar, near the Kurpfalzbrücke bridge. This location allows visitors to easily access the museum and explore the ship's rich history. 30Schifffahrtsmuseum Roßlau
Roßlau (Elbe)The Schifffahrtsmuseum Roßlau, located on the grounds of the Roßlauer Schiffswerft, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of shipbuilding in Roßlau and the history of shipping on the Elbe. The museum's exhibits include models, drawings, photographs, and practical demonstration materials spread over approximately 300 square meters of exhibition space. This provides a comprehensive overview of the region's maritime history and traditions. 31U-Boot Museum Hamburg
HamburgThe U-Boot Museum Hamburg (Submarine Museum Hamburg) is housed in the Soviet submarine B-515, which was a Tango-class submarine of the Soviet and Russian Navies. The submarine is also referred to as U-434, which derives from the number painted on the vessel. The crew of the submarine consisted of 78 32NordfrieslandMuseum Nissenhaus
HusumThe NordseeMuseum Husum, also known as the North Sea Museum Husum, is the central museum of Nordfriesland and the city of Husum. It is divided into two main areas: cultural history and art history. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the region's rich cultural and artistic heritage, making it a significant destination for those interested in these fields. 33Windjammer-Museum Barth
BarthThe Windjammer Museum, located in Barth, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, is a maritime museum that primarily focuses on the history of sailing. It provides an in-depth look into the evolution and significance of sailing, making it an interesting destination for those interested in maritime history. 34Ditmarsium
Burg (Dithmarschen)The Ditmarsium is a local museum located in Burg, Dithmarschen. It provides an insight into various aspects of life in Dithmarschen, with a focus on the local pharmacy, crafts and trades, and shipping. This makes it an interesting destination for tourists who are interested in learning about the local culture and history. 35Hafenmuseum Hamburg
HamburgThe Hafenmuseum Hamburg (German Port Museum Hamburg) is located in the remaining historical part of the free port built over a 100 years ago and focuses on the commercial and economic history of Germany's largest port, and wider issues of globalization and worldwide trade. 36Schifffahrtmuseum Düsseldorf
DüsseldorfThe Maritime Museum in Dusseldorf (Schifffahrtmuseum Düsseldorf ) is one of the oldest inland navigation museums in Germany and is housed in the castle tower on the banks of the Rhine. The museum features exhibits on the ecology of the Rhine, the history of shipbuilding, and trade and travel on the 37Schifffahrtsmuseum der oldenburgischen Unterweser - Haus Elsfleth
ElsflethThe Schifffahrtsmuseum der oldenburgischen Unterweser, also known as the Schifffahrtsmuseum Brake, is a museum that focuses on the history of Oldenburg shipping. It is situated in Brake and has an additional branch located in the former Villa Steenken in Elsfleth. The museum offers a deep dive into the maritime history of the 19th and early 20th centuries in the Grand Duchy and later Free State of Oldenburg. 38Marinemuseum
StralsundThe Marinemuseum Dänholm is a branch of the Stralsund Museum, located on the small island of Dänholm, nestled between the mainland and Rügen. This location offers a unique setting for the museum, providing visitors with a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. 39Heimatmuseum
Boizenburg/ElbeThe Heimatmuseum Boizenburg is situated in a former residential building at Markt 1, in Boizenburg/Elbe. This location adds a unique charm to the museum, as it allows visitors to experience history in a setting that was once a part of everyday life in the town. 40Heimatmuseum Leer
Landkreis LeerThe Heimatmuseum Leer is a museum that provides insights into the lifestyle and work culture of Leer, as well as the city's history. It offers a unique opportunity to understand the evolution of the city and its people over time. The museum's exhibits cover various aspects of life in Leer, from its early settlement to its modern development. 41Heimatmuseum Göhren
GöhrenThe Mönchguter Heimatmuseum is a local museum situated in Göhren on the Mönchgut peninsula, which is a part of Rügen. The museum is conveniently located at the western end of Strandstraße, at the address Strandstraße 1. This location is directly at the intersection of Thiessower Straße, Poststraße, and Strandstraße, making it easily accessible for visitors. 42German Inland Waterways Museum
DuisburgThe German Inland Waterways Museum (Museum der Deutschen Binnenschifffahrt) is a museum in Duisburg that is housed in Duisburg's former indoor swimming facility, an Art Nouveau building. The museum exhibits complete ships, including a full-size sailing ship and a reconstructed barge. 43Historisches Uetersen e.V.
UetersenThe Stadt- und Heimatgeschichtliche Museum in Uetersen is situated in the old town, close to the monastery. It is housed in a former gas plant from 1855, which is now a protected monument. This location adds a unique historical charm to the museum, making it an interesting place to visit for those interested in architecture and history. 44Schifffahrtsmuseum Nordfriesland
HusumThe Schifffahrtsmuseum Nordfriesland is situated at Zingel 15 in Husum, Schleswig-Holstein. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient starting point for exploring the rich maritime history of the region. 45Küstenmuseum Wilhelmshaven
WilhelmshavenThe Küstenmuseum Wilhelmshaven is a unique coastal museum situated in Wilhelmshaven, Lower Saxony. It provides a comprehensive exploration of the past, present, and future of the coastal region, as well as the history of the city of Wilhelmshaven. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich maritime history and understand the evolution of the coastal city. 46Altonaer Museum - Norddeutsches Landesmuseum
HamburgThe Altonaer Museum - Norddeutsches Landesmuseum tells the story of the Altona district, which used to be an independent centre with sea trade until the 20th century. 47Museumshafen Oevelgonne
HamburgThe Museumshafen Oevelgonne exhibits restored sailing ships & working boats from the 19th & 20th centuries. 48Hafenmuseum
BremenThe Hafenmuseum Bremen Speicher XI is a museum in Bremen that is dedicated to the development of the urban Bremen ports with a local history approach. The museum commemorates the former use of the area, which was characterized by ships, cargo handling and harbor life. The history of the port is told 49Schiffermuseum
ZehdenickThe Schiffermuseum Zehdenick is a unique museum experience, housed in a large Finowmaßkahn named Carola. This museum ship was opened to the public in 2001 and offers a unique insight into the history of shipping and shipbuilding in the region. The ship itself was built in 1916 and was primarily used in the Elbe-Havel waterway area. 50Heimatmuseum Schloss Schönebeck
BremenHeimatmuseum Schloss Schönebeck is a musuem in Bremen that is housed in the Schönebeck Castle, a moated castle built in North German half-timbering. Special exhibitions cover the topics of the history of the former port city of Vegesack, including topics such as sailing, steamboats, herring loggers, 51Norddeich Radio
NordenNorddeich Radio, also known by its former call signs KND, KAV, DAF, was a coastal radio station that facilitated international communication with German ships. Established in 1907, the station was located in Norddeich, North Germany, and played a significant role in maritime communication for nearly a century. 52Heimatmuseum Dykhus
BorkumThe Heimatmuseum Dykhus is conveniently located near the Old Lighthouse on the North Sea island of Borkum. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the island and provides a cultural and historical complement to the natural beauty of the surrounding area. 53Kiel Maritime Museum
KielThe Kiel Maritime Museum, located in the former fish auction hall at Sartorikai, was established in 1978. This historic building, which once served as a bustling hub for the local fish trade, now houses a comprehensive collection of maritime artifacts and exhibits. The museum's location adds a unique charm and historical context to the visitor's experience. 54Henrichenburg boat lift
WaltropThe Henrichenburg boat lift, located in Waltrop Lock Park, is a significant historical site. The park houses several structures, including the old Henrichenburg boat lift constructed in 1899, a disused shaft lock from 1912, the new boat lift built in 1962, and a modern ship lock from 1989. These structures provide a comprehensive view of the evolution of boat lift technology and the history of the Dortmund-Ems-Kanal. 55Museumswerft Flensburg
FlensburgThe Museumswerft Flensburg, founded in 1996, is situated at the Flensburg harbor. After several relocations between 1996 and 2001, the museum has been firmly established at its original location, Schiffbrücke 43, since 2001. This location is steeped in history and provides a unique setting for the museum. 56Schiffahrtsmuseum Unterweser
BrakeThe Schiffahrtsmuseum Unterweser, also known as the Schiffahrtsmuseum Brake, is a museum that focuses on the history of Oldenburg shipping. Located in Brake, the museum also has an external branch in the former Villa Steenken in Elsfleth. The museum's exhibitions primarily focus on the maritime history of the 19th and early 20th centuries in the Grand Duchy and later Free State of Oldenburg. 57Museum of Ancient Seafaring
MainzThe Museum of Ancient Seafaring houses a variety of exhibits that provide a comprehensive insight into the maritime history of the Roman era. These include remains of five Roman warships from the 4th century, full-size replicas, a fragment of a barge, numerous ship reliefs and stone monuments. Additionally, models and display boards offer further information about ancient shipbuilding, construction techniques, and Roman fleet operations in the Germanic provinces and throughout the empire. 58Museum Haus Hansestadt Danzig
LübeckThe Museum Haus Hansestadt Danzig is situated in Lübeck, housed in a brick building that dates back to the end of the 13th century. This historical setting provides a unique backdrop for the museum's exhibits, which aim to provide an insight into the culture of Danzig and the Danzig region up until the end of World War II. 59Museumshafen
LübeckThe Museumshafen Lübeck is a historical harbor located on the Wenditzufer, right on the northwestern edge of the Lübeck old town island. It is situated in the Holstenhafen, nestled between the protected swing bridge at the Engelsgrube and the Music and Congress Hall Lübeck. This location offers a unique blend of historical and modern attractions, making it a fascinating destination for tourists. 60Rendsburger Schifffahrtsarchiv
RendsburgThe Rendsburger Schifffahrtsarchiv museum is a unique place where visitors can explore the history of shipping, with a particular focus on shipyards and shipowners from Schleswig-Holstein. The museum, which spans 550 square meters, has been showcasing this history since the 1940s. It provides a comprehensive overview of the maritime industry in the region, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in maritime history. 61Museumsschiff Greundiek
StadeThe Greundiek is a museum ship that is docked in Stade. This coastal motor ship is owned by the Alter Hafen Stade association. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a piece of maritime history and learn about the ship's past. 62Rheinmuseum
Emmerich on the RhineThe Rheinmuseum Emmerich is a maritime museum situated in Emmerich on the Rhine at the lower Rhine. This location is significant as it provides a rich historical context for the museum's exhibits, which focus on life and work on and around the Rhine. 63Shipping and Shipbuilding Museum Wörth am Main
Wörth am MainThe Shipping and Shipbuilding Museum Wörth am Main is a repository of the historical evolution of inland shipping and shipbuilding on the Main. The exhibits on display have a strong connection to the shipping town of Wörth am Main, providing visitors with a deep understanding of the town's maritime history. 64Mönchgut Coastal Fishing Museum
BaabeThe Mönchgut Coastal Fishing Museum, situated in the beautiful Baltic Sea resort of Baabe, Germany, offers a unique insight into the lives and work of the fishermen and boat builders of Mönchgut. The museum showcases the various production methods these influential individuals used, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich maritime history.- 65
German Port Museum
EppelheimThe Hafenmuseum, also known as the German Port Museum of Hamburg, is a maritime museum situated at the Bremen pier in the Kleiner Grasbrook, within the Port of Hamburg. This museum offers a unique insight into the history of shipbuilding and port operations spanning over 600 years, with a particular focus on the last century up to the present day. - 66
Klepper Museum
RosenheimThe Klepper Folding Boat Museum is housed in the factory-owned exhibition rooms of the Klepper Folding Boat Shipyard. This museum is located in the scenic Klepper Park in Rosenheim, a location that has been home to the renowned boatyard since 1919. This historical setting provides a unique backdrop for the museum, adding to the overall experience for visitors. - 67
Museum Old Customs House
BaltrumThe Museum Altes Zollhaus, located on the North Sea island of Baltrum, is a local history museum that provides a deep dive into the island's past. Managed and operated by the Baltrum Heritage Association, the museum is a testament to the island's rich history and the lives of its inhabitants. - 68
Fischerhausmuseum Norderney
NorderneyThe Norderneyer Fischerhausmuseum is situated in the serene Argonner Wäldchen, to the south of the Conversationshaus and the Weststrand on the North Sea island of Norderney. This location offers a tranquil setting for the museum, making it an ideal spot for tourists seeking a peaceful and enriching cultural experience.