Top 100 best museums in Schleswig-Holstein

The Hospital of the Holy Spirit, or Heiligen-Geist-Hospital, is a significant historical landmark in Lübeck. Constructed between 1227 and 1286, it stands as one of the best-preserved medieval hospices in Germany and is recognized as one of the oldest social institutions in Europe. Its rich history and architectural grandeur make it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in history, architecture, and social institutions.

Burgtor, along with Holstentor, is one of the two medieval city gates that still stand in Lübeck. These gates are a testament to the city's rich history and architectural prowess. They have withstood the test of time and provide a glimpse into the city's past. Tourists visiting Lübeck can explore these gates and learn about their historical significance.

The European Hansemuseum, located in Lübeck, Germany, is a museum dedicated to the history of the Hanseatic League. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the Hanseatic League's history, making it a valuable resource for those interested in learning more about this significant period in European history.

The Behnhaus is an art museum located in the Hanseatic city of Lübeck, Germany. It is part of the city's World Heritage Site, making it a significant cultural landmark. The museum is housed in a neoclassical building, adding to its historical and architectural appeal.

Lyksborg Slot, also known as Schloss Glücksburg in German, is a castle located in northern Germany. It was constructed between the years 1582 and 1587 by Hans the Younger, who was the son of Christian 3. This castle is recognized as one of the most significant Renaissance castles in the North.

The Oldenburger Wallmuseum, often simply referred to as the 'Wallmuseum', is situated in Oldenburg in Holstein. This museum is dedicated to presenting the history of the Slavs in East Holstein. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.

The Günter Grass House, located in the old town of Lübeck, is a museum dedicated to the literary, pictorial, and sculptural work of Günter Grass, a Nobel Prize in Literature laureate. Grass lived near Lübeck in his old age, and the museum serves as a testament to his diverse artistic contributions.

The 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.

Schloss vor Husum, also known as Husum Castle, is a historic building that stands as a testament to Dutch Renaissance architecture. Located in the town of Husum, in the Schleswig-Holstein region of northwestern Germany, the castle was constructed between the years 1577 and 1582. The man behind its creation was Duke Adolf von Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorf, who commissioned the building as his temporary residence during his stay on the west coast.

The 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.

St. Catherine Church in Lübeck is a significant historical site, originally serving as a Brick Gothic church that was part of a Franciscan monastery. The church was dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a revered Christian saint and martyr. Its architectural style and historical significance make it a point of interest for visitors.

The 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.

The Erlebniszentrum Naturgewalten Sylt is an exhibition and event center located in List auf Sylt. Its main goal is to represent and convey the diversity, beauty, and dynamics of the seas and coasts, as well as the experience of natural forces. This makes it an ideal destination for those interested in learning more about the natural world and its phenomena.

The 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.

In 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.

Schloss Ahrensburg, also known as Ahrensburg Palace, is a former mansion situated in the southern region of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Its location is conveniently close to the city of Hamburg, making it an accessible destination for tourists visiting the area.

The Sylt Aquarium, located in the southern part of the city Westerland on Sylt, is a zoological garden that specializes in showcasing fish from the North Sea and tropical fish from coral reefs. This unique focus allows visitors to experience a diverse range of marine life in one location.

Museumsberg is an art museum located in Flensburg. It is situated in a historic park landscape on a hill next to the inner city. This location provides a unique setting for the museum, offering visitors a chance to enjoy both the art exhibits and the surrounding natural beauty.

The St. Anne's Museum Quarter in Lübeck, Germany is a significant historical site, located in a former abbey of the Order of Saint Augustine. This red brick abbey, which is situated next to the Church of St. Giles, was built just before the Protestant Reformation, between 1502 and 1515, in late Gothic style. The abbey was dedicated to St. Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary.

Neumünster Zoo, situated in the region of Schleswig-Holstein, is home to approximately 700 animals. These animals represent a diverse range of 100 different species, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. The zoo is spread over a 24-hectare area, much of which is forested, providing a natural habitat for the animals.

The Multimar Wattforum in Tönning serves as the largest information center for the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park. It provides visitors with comprehensive information about the life in the Wadden Sea across various areas. This makes it an ideal starting point for anyone interested in exploring the national park and understanding its unique ecosystem.

The Bünzer Wassermühle is a historical site located in the Bünzen district of the Aukrug municipality. This well-preserved watermill dates back to the 16th century, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Although the exact year of construction is unknown, there are records of repairs dating back to 1594. Today, the mill is no longer in operation but stands as a testament to the region's rich history.

Wildpark Eekholt is a wildlife park that spans across parts of the municipalities of Großenaspe, Bimöhlen, and Heidmühlen in the Segeberg district of Schleswig-Holstein. This park is a haven for nature lovers and those interested in wildlife, offering a unique opportunity to observe a variety of species in their natural habitats.

The Schleswig-Holstein Open Air Museum, located in the village of Molfsee just south of Kiel, is a significant open-air museum in northern Germany. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical and cultural heritage of the region in an immersive outdoor setting.

The Meereszentrum Fehmarn is a public aquarium situated in Burg on the German Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn. Established in 1994 by a private owner, it moved to a new building in 1997. The aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks and tropical coral gardens, and offers an immersive experience for visitors.

Opened in 2004, Arche Warder spans an impressive 40 hectares, making it the most significant park of its kind in Europe. The park is dedicated to the preservation of endangered domestic breeds, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with a variety of rare and endangered species.

Tierpark Gettorf is a zoo situated in the town of Gettorf, which is near Kiel, in the region of Schleswig-Holstein. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area, offering a unique opportunity to explore a variety of wildlife in a family-friendly environment.

The 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.

The Kunsthalle zu Kiel is an art museum located in Kiel, Germany. With a sprawling 2,000 square meters of exhibition space, it stands as the largest museum in the state capital. This makes it a significant destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, offering a wide range of exhibits to explore.

The ducal Widow's Palace, known as Witwenpalais in German, is located in Plön, in the north German state of Schleswig-Holstein. This historic building has served various purposes throughout its history, including being the widow's seat of Duchess Dorothea Christina and an orphanage. Today, it is home to Plön's district museum, making it a significant site for those interested in the region's history and culture.

The Mühlenmuseum Lemkenhafen is situated in the historic sail windmill, 'Jachen Flünk', in Lemkenhafen on the island of Fehmarn, in the district of Ostholstein, Schleswig-Holstein. This location offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of history in a picturesque setting.

The museum is open to the public all year round on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as on holidays from 2 pm to 6 pm. This makes it a convenient destination for weekend and holiday visits. Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace, taking in the rich history and culture that it has to offer.

The Warleberger Hof is situated at Dänische Straße 19 in Kiel, the capital of Schleswig-Holstein. This location is easily accessible and is a significant landmark in the city.

The 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.

The 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.

The Galileo Wissenswelt is a museum situated on the Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn in Ostholstein. This museum is a unique blend of a traditional collection museum and a children's and youth museum, emphasizing the concept of 'understanding through grasping'. It offers a comprehensive exploration of natural history and technology across its 3,200 square meters of space in the main building in Burg on Fehmarn.

The Friesisches Museum Niebüll-Deezbüll is a local museum situated in the district of Deezbüll in Niebüll. It is housed in a monument-protected Frisian longhouse, which adds a unique historical charm to the museum. This setting provides an authentic backdrop for the exhibits, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The Noctalis is strategically located near the natural monument Kalkberghöhle in Bad Segeberg, which is one of the largest winter quarters for bats in Germany, housing over 30,000 bats. This proximity allows visitors to the Noctalis to also explore this significant natural habitat, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of bats and their environments.

The Deutsches Baumschulmuseum, located in Pinneberg, Schleswig-Holstein, is a unique institution in the German-speaking region. It is dedicated to the nursery economy, providing a deep dive into the industry's history, practices, and significance. The museum is situated in one of the world's largest contiguous nursery areas, making it a fitting location for such a specialized institution.

Today, the Öömrang Hüs is owned by the Öömrang Ferian, a cultural association founded in 1974. The house serves as an archive and museum, preserving the cultural heritage of the region and providing a glimpse into the past for visitors.

Museum Helgoland is a place where visitors can delve into the natural history and local history of the island of Heligoland. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of the island's past, from its geological formation to its cultural development. It's an excellent place for those interested in learning more about the unique characteristics of this North Sea island.

The Museum of Nature and Environment in Lübeck is a natural history museum that was first opened in 1893. It is located in the immediate vicinity of the Lübeck Cathedral and is architecturally connected to the cathedral through a cloister. The original museum building was destroyed in a bombing raid on Lübeck in March 1942 and was rebuilt from 1951 by its director Gotthilft von Studnitz.

The Alt-Segeberger Bürgerhaus is a significant historical site in the city of Segeberg. Built in 1541, it is known as the oldest house in the city and is one of the few preserved small-town bourgeois houses in Schleswig-Holstein from the early modern period. This makes it a unique representation of the architectural style and living conditions of that era.

The 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.

The Heimatmuseum Preetz is situated in the quaint town of Preetz, nestled in the Plön district of Schleswig-Holstein. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the region while enjoying the charm of a small German town.

The Hebbel Museum in Wesselburen, located in the district of Dithmarschen, Schleswig-Holstein, is a tribute to the life and work of the renowned playwright Friedrich Hebbel, who was born in this town. The museum provides an in-depth look into Hebbel's life, showcasing his contributions to the world of drama and literature.

The Ice Age House, located in the Coach House in Christiansen Park, serves as the geological showcase of the Natural Science Museum in Flensburg. This museum is a testament to the rich geological and paleontological history of the region, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the earth's history through its extensive collections.

The Stadtgalerie Kiel, established in 1988, is a hub for art enthusiasts. It showcases a variety of exhibitions that focus on international art from the Baltic Sea region. Additionally, it also features national and regional contemporary art in thematic contexts. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and understand the diverse art forms and themes prevalent in these regions.

The Computermuseum of the University of Applied Sciences Kiel, located in the Neumühlen-Dietrichsdorf district of Kiel, was inaugurated on June 14, 2011. This museum is a unique destination for those interested in the history of computing and technology.

The Alpinum in Kiel is a unique botanical garden that specializes in the collection and cultivation of plant species that naturally grow at high altitudes around the world. This includes regions such as the Caucasus, Pyrenees, Rockies, Alps, and even the Himalayas. This makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in botany, nature, or simply looking to experience a slice of high-altitude flora without the need for strenuous mountain climbing.

The Botanischer Garten der Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, more informally known as the Botanischer Garten Kiel, is a botanical garden and arboretum that spans an impressive 8 hectares. It is managed by the University of Kiel, ensuring that the garden is maintained to a high standard and that the variety of plant species is constantly evolving and expanding.

The enclosures in Kiel are home to more than 200 wild and domestic animals. Visitors can learn about the animals through information boards located in the enclosures. This provides an educational aspect to the visit, making it a great destination for families and animal enthusiasts.

The Theaterfigurenmuseum, also known as the Theatre Puppet Museum, is situated in the historic city center of Lubeck, Germany. It is conveniently located near the Holstentor, in the Kolk alley under the Petrikirche, or St. Peter's Church. This private museum is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for visitors.

The Ernst Barlach Museum Ratzeburg is situated in the very house in Ratzeburg where the artist spent a portion of his childhood. This adds a personal touch to the museum, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the artist's life and work.

The Dithmarscher Landesmuseum in Meldorf is a regional historical museum that provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Dithmarschen. The museum's focus is on the period from just before the founding of the so-called Peasant Republic to the modern era in the 1960s. This allows visitors to gain a deep understanding of the region's history and development over the centuries.

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.

The Nationalpark-Haus Husum serves as a hub for environmental education, nature conservation coordination, and administration of the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park. It is an ideal place for tourists who are interested in learning about the environment and nature conservation efforts in the region.

The Museum of Ethnology at the University of Kiel is one of the museum facilities of the Christian-Albrechts-University in Kiel. It shares its location with the Zoological Museum in the Walter-Gropius building, situated at Hegewischstraße 3 in Kiel. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

The Jewish Museum Rendsburg serves as a cultural meeting place and is one of the few Jewish museums in northern Germany. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about Jewish history and culture in this region.

The Künstlermuseum Heikendorf – Kieler Förde is an art museum located in Heikendorf. It is operated by the Heinrich-Blunck-Foundation and has been open to the public since September 2000. The museum is housed in the former residence and studio of the painter and lithographer Heinrich Blunck.

The Phonomuseum "Alte Schule" is a private institution dedicated to the history and technology of the radio and gramophone industry. It is located in Holzdorf, Schleswig-Holstein, providing a unique insight into the evolution of sound recording and playback devices from 1880 to around 1965.

Phänomenta is a science center and experience museum situated in the heart of Flensburg, adjacent to the North Gate. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum offers a unique blend of science and entertainment, making it an interesting destination for both adults and children.

The Dr.-Carl-Haeberlin-Friesenmuseum Wyk auf Föhr, often referred to as the Friesenmuseum, is a museum that specializes in natural history and ethnology. It places a particular emphasis on the history of North Frisia and the island of Föhr. This makes it an ideal destination for those interested in learning about the region's rich cultural and natural history.

The Naturkundemuseum Niebüll, which opened its doors in 1980, is situated in the quaint town of Niebüll, located in the far northwest of Schleswig-Holstein. This museum serves as a cross-border German-Danish interactive museum, showcasing the regional nature on both sides of the border. It is an official National Park Station, making it a significant point of interest for nature enthusiasts.

The museum consists of five "museum islands" or stations that can be visited on a circular route through Unewatt. This unique setup allows visitors to explore different aspects of the region's history and culture at each station.

The Schleswig-Holstein Agricultural Museum provides a comprehensive view of the agricultural structural changes that took place from the late 19th century to the mechanization of agriculture. Visitors can gain a deep understanding of the evolution of farming practices and technologies over time. The museum's exhibits include tractors, engines, and historical agricultural machinery, which vividly illustrate the transformation of rural working life from soil cultivation and sowing to harvesting.

The Ernst Barlach Museum in Wedel, which opened its doors in August 1987, is situated in the birthplace of the renowned artist Ernst Barlach. This location adds a layer of historical significance to the museum, making it a unique destination for those interested in Barlach's life and work.

Since 1973, the manor house has been home to the Kreismuseum of the Herzogtum Lauenburg district. The museum is dedicated to the history of the city of Ratzeburg and the Duchy of Lauenburg, offering a variety of exhibits on different themes such as the history of the Ascanians, the Duchy during the Thirty Years' War, a collection of mechanical musical instruments, and regional archaeological finds.

The Machinery Museum Kiel-Wik, also known as Mmkw, is situated at Kiel Canal 44, in close proximity to the North-East Sea Canal in the Wik district. This industrial museum, which was inaugurated in 1985, is managed by the Machinery Museum Kiel-Wik Foundation.

The Medical and Pharmaceutical Historical Collection is a part of the Medical Faculty at the Christian-Albrechts-University in Kiel. This collection is a significant part of the university's commitment to preserving and showcasing the history of medicine and pharmacy. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the evolution of these fields over time.

The Wenzel-Hablik-Museum is home to the estate of the German-Bohemian artist Wenzel Hablik (1881–1934). Hablik, who lived and worked in Itzehoe from 1907 until his death, is considered one of the most important representatives of German architectural expressionism. The museum showcases his legacy, which includes his work as a painter, architect, interior designer, designer, and visionary.

The Theodor-Storm-Haus, also known as Theodor-Storm-Museum or Storm-Center, located in Husum in Schleswig-Holstein, is a literature museum dedicated to the poet and writer Theodor Storm. This was the residence of the renowned writer from 1866 to 1880, making it a significant site for those interested in literature and history.

The Museum Tuch + Technik in Neumünster, Schleswig-Holstein, provides a comprehensive overview of the history of cloth making, spanning from the Iron Age to the present day. It also offers insights into the history of the city of Neumünster. The museum's exhibits include more than 400 items that illustrate the basic principles of cloth production throughout the ages and the close connection between the city's history and this craft.