Ærø Museum
A 1775 sheriff's house revealing Ærø's maritime heritage and border-crossing history.
Housed in a beautifully preserved 1775 sheriff's house on Brogade in Ærøskøbing, Ærø Museum tells the story of life on this Danish island across centuries. The exhibitions explore Ærø's distinctive history—from its complex position between Schleswig and Denmark to its maritime heritage and modern identity. A charming town garden adjacent to the museum recreates the appearance of a 1920s garden, while interactive elements like a free cat treasure hunt make the experience engaging for families.
A brief summary to Ærøskøbing Bymuseum • Ærø Museum
- Brogade 3, Ærøskøbing, 5970, DK
- +4562522950
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-3 pm
- Thursday 11 am-3 pm
- Friday 11 am-3 pm
- Saturday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the summer season (June–August) when extended hours allow more flexibility, and the adjacent garden is in full bloom.
- Purchase a combined ticket to access both Ærø Museum and Hammerich's House for a more comprehensive view of period life on the island.
- Allow time to explore the 1920s-style market garden adjacent to the museum—it offers peaceful reflection and historical context.
- If traveling with children aged 4–8, ask about the free cat treasure hunt with Storm the house cat for an engaging, interactive experience.
- Book a group guided tour at least 14 days in advance for deeper insights into Ærø's complex history and the building's architectural significance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Ferry from Søby Harbour
From Søby Harbour on Als, take the Ærøskøbing ferry operated by Ærøfærgerne. Journey time is approximately 65 minutes. Ferries run year-round with reduced frequency in winter (typically 1–2 departures daily) and increased service in summer (3–4 daily). Standard adult fare is approximately 180–220 DKK (€24–30) return. Upon arrival at Ærøskøbing Harbour, the museum is a 5-minute walk through the town center via Brogade.
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Ferry from Fåborg Harbour
From Fåborg on Funen, take the Ærøskøbing ferry (approximately 60 minutes). Service runs year-round with 1–3 daily departures depending on season. Standard adult return fare is approximately 180–220 DKK (€24–30). The museum is accessible within 5 minutes on foot from Ærøskøbing Harbour via central streets.
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Car with ferry from Søby or Fåborg
Drive to either Søby Harbour (Als) or Fåborg Harbour (Funen) and board the car ferry with your vehicle. Ferry crossings take 60–65 minutes. Vehicle transport costs approximately 400–500 DKK (€54–67) return for a standard car, plus passenger fares. Upon arrival in Ærøskøbing, drive to the town center and park near Brogade; the museum is steps away. Parking is available in the town center.
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Bicycle with ferry
Bring or rent a bicycle and transport it on the ferry from Søby or Fåborg (approximately 60–65 minutes). Bicycle transport costs approximately 50–70 DKK (€7–9) return. Upon arrival, cycle to Brogade in the town center (under 1 km from the harbour). Ærøskøbing is highly bicycle-friendly with flat terrain and dedicated cycling routes.
Ærøskøbing Bymuseum • Ærø Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Ærøskøbing Bymuseum • Ærø Museum
A Sheriff's House Becomes a Museum
Brogade 3–5 stands as one of Ærøskøbing's finest architectural treasures, built in 1775 by Johan Heinrich Prehn, the island's first sheriff. The position of sheriff was established in 1773 as a royal representative role, similar to positions found in the Faroe Islands and the Danish West Indies. After Prehn's tenure, the house served as residence and office for successive officials and their families, functioning at various times as a post office and district tax office. Around 1840, the building was divided into two units for administrative purposes, which explains the presence of two main doors and two staircases leading to the first floor. The house gained protected status in 1919 and has housed Ærø Museum's exhibitions since 1955, preserving its fine architectural details for visitors to admire.Ærø's Complex Border History
The museum's core narrative centers on Ærø's unique geographical and political position in both the Baltic Sea and the South Funen Archipelago. This location created a distinctive cultural crossroads, with the island's people leaning toward both Schleswig and Denmark throughout history. The border acted as both a resource and a source of complexity, enabling trade and shipping opportunities while creating intricate administrative challenges. The exhibitions showcase weights, measures, and coin finds from Ærøskøbing that document the island's extensive trading relations throughout the Baltic region. Visitors can also explore how the border influenced local building practices and food culture, with the Western Ærø dialect reflecting connections to Als and the South Funen islands, while Eastern Ærø revealed links to Langeland and Lolland.From Past to Present: Life on Ærø
The museum's exhibitions span from the island's medieval past through to contemporary life, with special exhibitions rotating annually to highlight different aspects of Ærø's heritage. Displays feature antiques and paintings from the mid-1800s, providing insight into domestic life and artistic traditions. Thematic sections guide visitors through key historical moments, including Ærø's experience during the Duchy of Schleswig period before the defeat at Dybbøl in 1864, and the emergence of wedding tourism in modern times. The museum also explains distinctive local traditions, such as why islanders boil eggs on the beach on Easter Saturday, and explores the history behind the island's two local flags. These narratives create a comprehensive portrait of how Ærø's residents have adapted to and shaped their island home across generations.The Garden and Interactive Experiences
Adjacent to the main museum building lies a charming market garden planted with species and varieties that would have been cultivated around 1920. This living exhibition provides a sensory connection to the island's agricultural past and offers a peaceful respite during your visit. For younger visitors, the museum offers a free cat treasure hunt featuring Storm, the house cat, designed for children aged 4–8 years and their accompanying adults. The exhibitions themselves are thoughtfully designed to engage children, with numerous artifacts and displays that spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Combined tickets provide access to both Ærø Museum and Hammerich's House, an untouched gem in central Ærøskøbing that offers additional insight into period life on the island.Guided Tours and Group Experiences
Groups can arrange guided tours at Ærø Museum, though bookings must be made well in advance—at least 14 days before your visit. These curated experiences allow for deeper engagement with the museum's collections and narratives, guided by knowledgeable staff who can provide context and answer questions. The museum's administrative building, Dommergården, is located in the Town Square and serves as the operational hub for the institution.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
På Torvet
0.1 km
Experience the unique charm of På Torvet in Ærøskøbing, where historic beauty meets modern comfort in the heart of Denmark.
Danish Island Weddings
0.1 km
Experience the magic of weddings on the enchanting Danish island of Ærø, where love meets scenic beauty and unforgettable memories are made.
Andelen Guesthouse
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Ærøskøbing at Andelen Guesthouse, your cozy retreat in the heart of Denmark's picturesque island.
Ærøfærgerne
0.2 km
Experience the scenic ferry ride to Ærø Island via Ærøfærgerne, where Danish charm meets breathtaking coastal views.
Hotel Ærøhus
0.2 km
Historic hotel in the heart of Ærøskøbing known for its authentic Danish charm, lush gardens, and local island cuisine—a perfect base for exploring Ærø.
Ærø Turist & Erhverv
0.2 km
Explore the beautiful island of Ærø with expert insights and resources from Ærø Turist & Erhverv, your local tourist information center.
Hattesens Konfektfabrik Aps
0.2 km
Discover the sweet artistry of traditional Danish liquorice at Hattesens Konfektfabrik Aps in scenic Ærøskøbing.
Rise Kirke
4.0 km
A quietly beautiful 12th‑century countryside church on Ærø, where whitewashed walls, historic graves and open fields tell the island’s rural and seafaring story.
Forladt skorsten
6.0 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Bregninge Kirke
6.6 km
Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Monument for Danske Sømænd
7.9 km
A modest harbourfront memorial in Marstal that quietly honours generations of Danish sailors who left this island port and never returned from the sea.
Langdyssen "Kong Humbles Grav"
19.9 km
A 55‑metre Stone Age long dolmen in the fields north of Humble, where legend, prehistoric engineering and soft Langeland landscapes meet in quiet simplicity.
Saint Nicolai's Church
22.7 km
Svendborg’s oldest church and a quiet seafaring sanctuary, where red-brick medieval walls and a calm, whitewashed interior meet just off lively Gerritsgade.
Hafenbune Mommark
23.9 km
Discover the laid-back maritime allure and coastal serenity of Hafenbune Mommark, a historic harbour hub on the southeast shores of scenic Als, Sønderjylland.
Hulbjerg | Burial site from the Peasant Stone Age
24.5 km
Explore Hulbjerg Passage Grave on Langeland, a fascinating Neolithic burial site offering a unique glimpse into Denmark's prehistoric past and the lives of the Funnelbeaker culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hammerich House • Aero Museum
0.1 km
A collector's cabinet of curiosities in a half-timbered cottage, brimming with antiques and artistic treasures.
Flaske-Peters Samling
0.1 km
An intimate maritime museum in Ærøskøbing’s old poorhouse, filled with Flaske-Peter’s extraordinary ships in bottles and miniature seafaring worlds in glass.
Ærøskøbing Church
0.1 km
An 18th‑century island church with medieval roots, blue maritime pews and hanging model ships, offering a quiet window into Ærø’s seafaring soul.
Ærø Whiskey Destilleri
0.1 km
Island-crafted single malt whisky with complete grain traceability and legendary local oak maturation.
Ærø Jazzfestival
0.2 km
An intimate summer jazz festival in an old island shipyard, where harbour history, Nordic light and live music blend into long, atmospheric nights.
Det Gamle Værft
0.2 km
A working harbor shipyard turned hands-on maritime hub, where traditional crafts, nautical style, and Ærø’s seafaring heritage come together by the quayside.
Naturlegepladsen & shelters
0.7 km
A modest island playground and shelter spot on Ærø’s edge, blending simple outdoor fun, family-friendly space and back-to-basics overnight stays under open skies.
Badehuse ved Vestre Strandvej
1.2 km
A ribbon of tiny, colourful wooden bath huts on Ærøskøbing’s Vesterstrand, blending living island tradition with one of Ærø’s most scenic, swimmable beaches.
Mindesten for Edvard Biering
3.2 km
A modest roadside memorial on Ærø, honouring district doctor Edvard Biering and offering a quiet glimpse into the island’s everyday history.
Mindesten for Ærøs Samling
3.6 km
Discover Marstal’s colorful beach cabins—historic bathing huts lining the Ærø coast, embodying Danish maritime heritage, island nostalgia, and waterfront charm.
Ærø
3.7 km
Storybook streets, gentle Baltic seascapes and a quietly ambitious island community make Ærø a slow-travel haven in Denmark’s South Funen Archipelago.
Ærø Bryggeri
4.3 km
Craft beer, island heritage, and authentic Danish hospitality in a historic microbrewery.
Ærø Flyveplads
4.8 km
A small grass airfield in Ærø’s countryside, where island tranquillity meets light aircraft, scenic flights and colourful community events under wide open skies.
Strandbyen Havn
5.3 km
Small, scenic marina and beachside hideaway on Ærø’s eastern tip, where simple harbour life, camping and open seascapes meet in a quietly charming setting.
Voderup Klint
5.5 km
Terraced coastal cliffs where Ice Age geology, open sea views and tranquil island farmland meet in one of Ærø’s most distinctive natural landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Hotel The Monica
0.0 km
Experience personalized luxury and island charm at Hotel The Monica in Ærøskøbing.
Badehotel Harmonien
0.0 km
Historic 1850s Danish seaside hotel with Baltic views, Italian dining, and waterfront garden in charming Ærøskøbing.
Arnfeldt Hotel & Restaurant
0.1 km
Small, design‑driven island hotel and ambitious restaurant in the cobbled heart of Ærøskøbing, where fairytale streets meet inventive Nordic cooking.
Cafe På Torvet
0.1 km
Island hospitality and local flavors in Ærøskøbing's beloved main square café.
Bang’s Mad & Vinbar
0.1 km
Intimate Nordic wine bar serving seasonal small plates in charming Ærøskøbing.
Restaurant MUMM
0.2 km
Candlelit steaks, fresh Ærø fish and thoughtful vegetarian dishes served in a cosy, long-loved dining room on cobbled Søndergade in the heart of Ærøskøbing.
Den Hemmelige Café
0.2 km
A cosy “secret” café hidden behind a shopfront in fairytale Ærøskøbing, serving quality coffee, home-baked cakes and light lunches wrapped in pure Danish hygge.
Landbogården
0.2 km
Ærø's oldest restaurant since 1919, where homemade Danish cuisine meets warm island hospitality.
Ærøskøbing Røgeri
0.2 km
Ærø's iconic harbor smokehouse serving freshly prepared smoked fish in a relaxed waterfront setting.
Kraut & Koala
0.2 km
Intimate harbourfront restaurant and wine bar in Ærøskøbing, marrying seasonal island produce with thoughtful European flavours in a warm, candlelit setting.
Havnegrillen Ærøskøbing YST
0.3 km
Honest harbor grill where ferries meet food, and Danish classics taste best by the sea.
Vindeballe Kro
4.0 km
Historic yellow island inn from 1888 in Ærø’s quiet countryside, serving hearty Danish cuisine and offering simple, characterful rooms for slow travelers.
Dunkær Kro
4.5 km
Roadside inn, workers’ pub and countryside stop rolled into one, Dunkær Kro serves hearty Danish fare and local atmosphere on the quiet back roads of Ærø.
Restaurant Udsigten Marstal
7.4 km
Coastal Danish cuisine in a cosy seaside hotel setting, with sweeping views over the South Funen Archipelago from dining room, conservatory and terrace.
Hotel Udsigten Marstal
7.4 km
Laid-back waterfront hotel on Ærø where nearly every room faces the Baltic and Marstal’s maritime charm is just a shoreline stroll away.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ærøskøbing City Museum Kiosk & Bookstore
0.0 km
A cosy little museum shop in Ærøskøbing’s old sheriff’s house, pairing kiosk charm with curated books and souvenirs that tell the story of Ærø island.
Shop
0.0 km
Atmospheric lifestyle and gift shop on Brogade in Ærøskøbing’s old town, blending traditional hardware-store roots with cozy Danish design and island-inspired finds.
Gyden 13
0.1 km
A cosy fashion accessories hideaway on a cobbled lane in Ærøskøbing, where retro-inspired pieces and Danish simplicity meet island charm and slow travel.
Den Gamle Købmandsgaard
0.1 km
Historic island grocer and café where Ærøskøbing's maritime heritage meets contemporary artisanal food culture.
Kunstmågen
0.1 km
Artistic supplies and creative workshops in the heart of Ærøskøbing's charming historic square.
Garna
0.1 km
A serene yarn and design boutique in Ærøskøbing’s old savings bank, where natural fibres, thoughtful details and island calm invite you to slow down and create.
Island Living Ærø
0.1 km
A cosy craft, yarn and leather shop on Ærøskøbing’s main square, where Nordic design, island inspiration and tactile materials come together in one intimate space.
Verdens Mindste Stormagasin
0.1 km
A delightfully tiny “world’s smallest department store” in Ærøskøbing, brimming with island-made crafts, nostalgic curiosities and small-town Danish charm.
Blandede Bolcher
0.1 km
A tiny Søndergade shop where antiques, toys and curiosities spill from every corner, offering a nostalgic, treasure-hunt pause in fairytale Ærøskøbing.
Valk Inter Collection
0.2 km
Intimate Ærøskøbing jewelry studio and gift shop crafting refined, personal pieces in gold and silver amid the cobbled charm of historic Vestergade.
Donna & Miss Daisy
0.2 km
Intimate island boutique in Ærøskøbing’s old town, blending whimsical Scandinavian fashion, thoughtful accessories and personal styling in a cosy, cobbled-street setting.
Søstærk Print & Papir
0.2 km
A tiny Ærøskøbing shop devoted to hand-printed stationery, fine pens and the quiet pleasure of handwritten letters and traditional craftsmanship.
Tøjshoppen
0.2 km
Practical island clothing and home textiles in the heart of Ærøskøbing’s cobbled old town, ideal for topping up your wardrobe or holiday cottage essentials.
Den Gamle Isenkram
0.2 km
Historic boutique blending Danish tradition with contemporary style in Ærøskøbing's charming heart.
Ærø Glaskunst
0.2 km
Handmade glass art, island-inspired design and a cozy café nook, all tucked into a historic street in the heart of fairytale Ærøskøbing.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Arrebo
0.2 km
Island pub where locals and visitors gather for live music, cold drinks, and authentic Ærø atmosphere.
Marstal cafe Den Glade Gris
7.5 km
Cozy island bar in Marstal where locals and visitors share beers, stories and a relaxed slice of Ærø everyday life.
Skipperkroen
7.7 km
Cosy skipper’s bar in central Marstal, serving inexpensive drinks and simple fare in a relaxed, maritime small‑town atmosphere close to the harbour.
Foley's Pub
7.8 km
Marstal's maritime pub where live music, local brews, and seafaring tales create authentic island nightlife.
BALLAST BAR BUTIK
7.9 km
Cozy harborfront cocktail bar and woolly boutique in Marstal’s old ferry waiting room, blending inventive drinks, Nordic knitwear and intimate island atmosphere.
Bar & Café MF Egeskov
8.1 km
Cozy harborfront bar and café on Marstal’s working quay, blending maritime atmosphere, dockside views, and relaxed drinks in the spirit of Ærø’s seafaring life.
Rådhuskælderen
10.9 km
Cosy cellar bar in Søby’s former town hall, offering simple drinks, local atmosphere and a low‑key glimpse of everyday life on the island of Ærø.
Havnekiosken 6kanten
19.6 km
Quirky octagonal harbour kiosk turned cosy café-bar, serving simple Danish fare and cold beer with front-row views of Rudkøbing’s boats and Langelandsbroen.
Havnekiosken v/Ole Damgaard Hansen
19.6 km
A tiny historic kiosk-bar on Rudkøbing’s harbor front, serving simple drinks and snacks with big maritime views and the easy rhythm of island harbor life.
Dybendal
19.8 km
Easygoing local bar on Rudkøbing’s main square, blending billiards, darts and drinks with small‑town atmosphere and summer concerts on the cobbled Torvet.
Sukker
19.8 km
Intimate wine bar where Danish heritage meets Nordic sophistication in historic Rudkøbing.
Kasket karl
19.9 km
A classic Rudkøbing bodega where locals gather for cold beer, warm conversation, and an authentic slice of island everyday life from morning to late evening.
No. 10
20.1 km
Cozy, adults‑only lounge bar in a former butcher’s shop, serving Champagne, craft beer and cocktails with island hygge and a colourful courtyard in central Rudkøbing.
Langelands Jazzklub
20.6 km
Tiny island jazz hub in Rudkøbing, blending close-up concerts, seasonal outdoor gigs and decades of Danish jazz heritage in a warm, community-run setting.
Basicbigband
20.6 km
Local big band headquarters in a quiet Rudkøbing neighbourhood, where brass, reeds and rhythm bring Langeland’s intimate jazz scene to life on select evenings.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Scenic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access