Bornholm’s Automobilmuseum in Aakirkeby – a fascinating journey through motoring history

Bornholms Automobilmuseum - Aakirkeby

Bornholms Automobilmuseum is a unique motoring museum located at Grammegårdsvej 1, south-east of Aakirkeby on Bornholm. It is the only museum of its kind on the island, presenting a fascinating history of cars, motorcycles, tractors and machinery from the 20th century, largely drawn from the private collection of Ole Hermansen.

The museum is popular with classic car enthusiasts, families and anyone interested in the technical and cultural aspects of motoring history. The exhibition features both well-known models and rare vehicles from different periods and regions of Europe.

Good to know
  • Most of the exhibits come from a single private collection, giving the museum a very personal and authentic character. Some of the vehicles are fully operational and regularly take part in local motoring events.

Visiting and atmosphere

The museum interiors are arranged to allow visitors to move calmly through successive stages in the development of vehicles – from early designs of the early 20th century to classic sports cars and utility vehicles. The atmosphere combines a sense of nostalgia with the educational character of the exhibition – each vehicle has its own story, and many are personally connected with local residents or historical events.

The museum does not focus solely on cars: it also displays motorcycles, scale models and even toys, radio equipment and technical memorabilia, making the visit engaging for younger visitors as well.

Bornholms Automobilmuseum
Bornholms Automobilmuseum

History and collections

The collections of Bornholms Automobilmuseum include more than 80 vehicles – cars, motorcycles and tractors – many of which are rare or distinctive examples of 20th-century motoring. Highlights include the first NSU Prinz on Bornholm, early 20th-century models such as the 1909 Metz Two Runabout, and the only Belsize from 1911 in Scandinavia – true highlights for motoring enthusiasts.

You will also find items of considerable cultural and historical significance, including motorcycles from 1919, classic Ford models from the 1930s, British sports cars, as well as workshop equipment and early motoring technologies.

Did you know?

The museum also features unusual thematic displays, such as a reconstruction of a 1920s workshop, transporting visitors back to a time when the motor car was still a rare luxury.

Younger visitors and model collectors may particularly enjoy the collection of 1:18 scale model cars, which includes replicas of vehicles linked to historical events and well-known figures.

How to get there

Bornholms Automobilmuseum is located on Grammegårdsvej, just a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Aakirkeby. The easiest way to get there is by car or bicycle; parking is available at the museum, and the route is clearly signposted from the main roads in the area.

Location

Bornholms Automobilmuseum
Grammegårdsvej 1 - DK 3720 Aakirkeby