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Museums #5 in Heilbronn

Deutsches Zweirad- und NSU-Museum

4.8 · 1,201 reviews
Technically focused and historically immersive.
Deutsches Zweirad- und NSU-Museum, Urbanstraße 9-11, 74172 Neckarsulm
Interesting facts
1

The museum is located within a 16th-century moated castle, the Deutschordensschloss.

2

The collection features the original 'Benz Patent-Motorwagen' and early NSU-branded automobiles.

3

It houses a comprehensive display of rotary-engine technology, showcasing NSU's pioneering work with Wankel engines.

4

The exhibition includes the 'NSU-Wankel Spider', the world's first production car with a rotary engine.

5

The museum documents the transition of NSU from a knitting machine manufacturer to a global leader in vehicle production.

6

Many motorcycles on display are restored to running condition and are regularly used for vintage rallies.

Overview

The Deutsches Zweirad- und NSU-Museum is housed in the historic Deutschordensschloss, a former castle of the Teutonic Order in Neckarsulm. It holds one of the world's most significant collections documenting the history of bicycles and motorcycles. The exhibition traces the technological evolution from the 1817 draisine to modern high-performance sports motorcycles. A major portion of the museum is dedicated to the NSU company, which was once the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer. Visitors can view rare prototypes, racing machines, and record-breaking vehicles. The collection includes over 300 exhibits displayed across several floors of the castle architecture. It serves as a central archive for the industrial heritage of the Neckar region.

Photo spot

The central courtyard of the castle, which offers a backdrop of historic architecture framed by vintage two-wheelers.

Insider tips

Allow extra time to examine the detailed technical placards provided for the landmark motorcycle models.

Combine the visit with a walk through the surrounding castle gardens.

Check the museum's digital calendar for temporary exhibitions focusing on specific brand eras or mechanical themes.

What to avoid

Do not rush through the lower floors, as the early bicycle evolution models are frequently overlooked.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and weekend crowds.
Address
Deutsches Zweirad- und NSU-Museum, Urbanstraße 9-11, 74172 Neckarsulm
Website
49.192, 9.222
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsNSU Wankel-Spider, historic draisines, and world-record racing motorcycles
Collection focusEvolution of two-wheeled transport and NSU industrial history

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and weekend crowds..

The central courtyard of the castle, which offers a backdrop of historic architecture framed by vintage two-wheelers.

Close by you'll find AQUAtoll Erlebnisbad, Neckarsulmer Stadt Park, VIKZ Imam Azam Moschee Neckarsulm.