Museums in Schleswig-Holstein

Current Winter Exhibitions

1. Open-Air Museum Molfsee

“Well-Tempered: For Climate-Friendly Architecture!”

The Open-Air Museum Molfsee, Hamburger Landstraße 97, 24113 Molfsee, presents the exhibition “Well-Tempered: For Climate-Friendly Architecture!” from November 15, 2024, to November 2, 2025.

It explores how traditional building methods, materials, and design can help achieve pleasant indoor temperatures without major energy consumption. Data from local weather patterns and regional craftsmanship give this exhibition a unique relevance.

2. Gottorf Castle

“Twilight of the Vikings: A Turning Point in the North”

The State Museums of Schleswig-Holstein invite visitors to Gottorf Castle, Schlossinsel, Gottorfallee 1–2, 24837 Schleswig, for a spectacular archaeology exhibition. “Twilight of the Vikings: A Turning Point in the North” runs from April 16 to November 2, 2025.

On display are finds from the North dating back some 2,000 years, including important artifacts such as the Morsum treasure hoard discovered in 2017. The exhibition sheds light on periods of change during the Viking Age and invites visitors to reinterpret historical contexts.

3. Jewish Museum Rendsburg

“Super Jews: Jewish Identity in the Football Stadium” & Preview “Sigalit Landau: Azkelon”

The Jewish Museum Rendsburg, Schlossinsel 26, 24768 Rendsburg, is currently showing “Super Jews: Jewish Identity in the Football Stadium” through February 1, 2026. Starting October 10, 2025, the exhibition “Sigalit Landau: Azkelon” will open.

These exhibitions combine themes of sports, identity, and society in unexpected ways, while offering space for reflection on belonging and visibility.

Opening hours & visiting tips

Many museums in Schleswig-Holstein adjust their hours during the winter months. For example, the Museum Kunst der Westküste in Alkersum on Föhr is open from November 1 to December 23, 2025, Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Address: Hauptstraße 1, 25938 Alkersum/Föhr).

The Open-Air Museum Molfsee is open daily (except Mondays) until November 2, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

If you’re planning museum visits, it’s best to check for special holiday opening hours in advance, especially around Christmas and New Year. Tickets for special exhibitions such as “Twilight of the Vikings” sometimes need to be reserved in advance.

Why a museum visit is especially worthwhile in winter

When winter fog settles over the lakes or rain lines the streets, museums offer shelter and warmth. They open intellectual spaces during a season when nature and daylight grow more subdued. A visit to an exhibition in a historic castle, a stroll through museum grounds, or a guided tour can make history come alive. With its castles, coasts, and centuries-old traditions, Schleswig-Holstein offers a rich variety of cultural experiences.

Moreover, many new exhibitions launch or popular ones are extended during the winter months. This is often a quieter time in museums — with fewer crowds and a calmer atmosphere. Visitors can take their time to observe details, reflect, and even chat with curators or guides.

Conclusion

Museums are pleasant retreats on grey, cold days. They are places of discovery, thought, and beauty. Whether focused on architecture, archaeology, or social themes, the exhibitions featured here offer inspiring variety. A visit to Molfsee, Gottorf, or Rendsburg goes far beyond the fleeting — for those who wish to experience culture, the darker months of the year are the perfect time to do so.