Classic cars are more than just machines; they represent history, craftsmanship, and innovation. For enthusiasts and collectors, visiting a classic car museum is an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the best museums around the world that showcase rare and iconic classic automobiles.
1. Petersen Automotive Museum (Los Angeles, USA)
One of the most famous automotive museums in the world, the Petersen Automotive Museum houses a vast collection of historic and rare vehicles. Highlights include legendary models like the Ferrari 250 GTO, Lamborghini Miura, and Mercedes-Benz 540K. The museum also features a “Vault” tour, offering a glimpse at ultra-rare vehicles not typically on display.
2. Mullin Automotive Museum (Oxnard, California, USA)
This museum specializes in French luxury automobiles, showcasing some of the most exquisite Bugatti, Delahaye, and Voisin models. Designed to look like an art gallery, the museum celebrates the beauty and elegance of Art Deco automotive design. If you are a fan of pre-war classics, this museum is a must-visit.
3. Mercedes-Benz Museum (Stuttgart, Germany)
For fans of German engineering, the Mercedes-Benz Museum is an iconic destination. It traces over 130 years of automotive history, from the very first Benz Patent-Motorwagen (1886) to modern-day Formula 1 race cars. With nine floors and over 160 vehicles, this museum is a paradise for car enthusiasts.
4. Ferrari Museum (Maranello, Italy)
Located near Ferrari’s main factory, this museum is dedicated to the legendary Italian brand. Visitors can explore Ferrari’s Formula 1 heritage, rare production models, and even Enzo Ferrari’s personal cars. You can also take a shuttle to the Ferrari factory in nearby Modena to see where these masterpieces are built.
5. Museo Lamborghini (Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy)
Lamborghini’s official museum showcases every major model from the brand’s history, from the 1960s Miura to modern hypercars like the Aventador SVJ. You’ll also find concept cars, prototypes, and even some of the brand’s lesser-known projects, like the Lamborghini LM002 SUV.
6. The Henry Ford Museum (Dearborn, Michigan, USA)
This museum is not solely dedicated to Ford but rather the history of American innovation and transportation. However, it features some of the most important cars ever made, including the original Ford Model T, Presidential limousines, and even race cars that changed automotive history.
7. Louwman Museum (The Hague, Netherlands)
One of Europe’s finest collections of classic cars, the Louwman Museum features over 250 historic vehicles, some dating back to the late 19th century. Highlights include rare pre-war Rolls-Royce, Bugatti, and Duesenberg models. The museum also has an impressive collection of automotive art and memorabilia.
8. National Automobile Museum (Mulhouse, France)
Also known as the Schlumpf Collection, this museum has the largest collection of Bugatti cars in the world, including the Bugatti Type 41 Royale. With over 400 classic vehicles, it is one of the most significant automotive museums in Europe.
9. Brooklands Museum (Surrey, UK)
Brooklands was the world’s first purpose-built racing circuit, and today, the museum pays tribute to Britain’s automotive and aviation history. It houses historic racing cars, motorcycles, and even early aircraft that played a role in motorsports.
10. The Savoy Automobile Museum (Cartersville, Georgia, USA)
A newer museum that has quickly gained recognition, the Savoy Automobile Museum focuses on rotating exhibitions of classic and custom-built vehicles. With thematic showcases that change throughout the year, every visit offers something new.
Whether you love classic European sports cars, pre-war luxury automobiles, or American muscle cars, these museums offer something for every car enthusiast. Each location preserves a part of automotive history, giving visitors a unique opportunity to see rare and priceless vehicles up close. If you are passionate about classic cars, make sure to add these destinations to your travel list!