A Journey Through Schleswig-Holstein and Beyond

Northern Germany offers a unique blend of economic dynamism and cultural richness — and at the heart of it all lies Schleswig-Holstein, a coastal state between the North Sea and the Baltic, often overlooked but truly unforgettable. Whether you’re visiting for a major trade fair or looking to uncover centuries-old historical sites, this region promises a travel experience that seamlessly blends business with discovery.

🌐 Top Trade Fairs in Schleswig-Holstein and Northern Germany

From renewable energy and agriculture to maritime innovation, Schleswig-Holstein and its neighboring cities are home to several significant trade fairs that attract professionals from around the world.

1. NORLA – Rendsburg, Schleswig-Holstein

When: September (annually)
Industry: Agriculture, Green Energy, Rural Development
Why Visit: As Northern Germany’s premier agricultural fair, NORLA offers insight into modern farming, agri-tech innovations, and sustainability practices. It’s a key event for farmers, engineers, and environmental planners.

2. HUSUM Wind – Husum, Schleswig-Holstein

When: Every two years in September
Industry: Wind Power, Renewable Energy
Why Visit: Located in one of Europe’s most wind-rich regions, this specialized fair showcases the latest in wind energy technology. It’s a hotspot for energy innovators and green infrastructure leaders.

3. Kieler Woche (Kiel Week) – Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein

When: June (annually)
Industry: Maritime, Culture, Sailing
Why Visit: While primarily known as the world’s largest sailing event, Kieler Woche also hosts a broad range of maritime industry exhibitions, networking forums, and innovation showcases — combining sport, business, and culture.

4. HANNOVER MESSE – Hanover, Lower Saxony

When: April (annually)
Industry: Industrial Technology, Automation, Energy
Why Visit: Though not in Schleswig-Holstein, this globally renowned fair is easily accessible from the region and essential for anyone working in manufacturing, robotics, or digitized production.

5. Internorga – Hamburg

When: March (annually)
Industry: Food, Hospitality, Catering
Why Visit: Perfect for hoteliers, restaurateurs, and food-tech entrepreneurs. Hamburg’s proximity to Schleswig-Holstein makes it a natural extension of any business trip in the region.

🏰 Hidden Historical Gems of Schleswig-Holstein and Northern Germany

Beyond boardrooms and business halls, Northern Germany—especially Schleswig-Holstein—is rich in history, from Viking settlements to Hanseatic towns and baroque palaces.

1. Haithabu Viking Museum – Schleswig, Schleswig-Holstein

Once a bustling Viking trade hub, Haithabu (Hedeby) is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore reconstructed Viking homes, ships, and artifacts in one of Europe’s most important early medieval sites.

2. Gottorf Castle – Schleswig, Schleswig-Holstein

This magnificent baroque castle houses two museums: the State Museum of Art and the Archaeological Museum. Don’t miss the famous “Globe House,” a 17th-century rotating globe you can walk inside.

3. Friedrichstadt – The Little Amsterdam

Built by Dutch settlers in the 17th century, Friedrichstadt is a canal-filled town with charming gabled houses and a rare history of religious tolerance. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and ideal for a day trip.

4. Lübeck – The Hanseatic Queen (just south of Schleswig-Holstein)

With its UNESCO-protected old town, Lübeck is a jewel of Gothic brick architecture. The city was once the capital of the Hanseatic League, and its preserved merchant houses and marzipan traditions reflect that proud past.

5. Lüneburg – The Salt City

An hour south of Hamburg, this picturesque town thrived on salt mining and Hanseatic trade. With winding alleys, historical warehouses, and half-timbered houses, it’s a storybook setting frozen in time.

6. Wismar – UNESCO World Heritage Site

A lesser-known but stunning town on the Baltic coast. Wismar’s medieval streets, churches, and restored harbor give visitors a real sense of the Hanseatic spirit.

🧭 Why Choose Schleswig-Holstein?

• ✅ Strategic Location: Between major trade hubs like Hamburg, Denmark, and the North Sea
• ✅ Sustainable Focus: A leader in renewable energy and green innovation
• ✅ Cultural Depth: From Viking museums to Dutch towns and maritime legacies
• ✅ Authentic Travel: Fewer crowds, more genuine experiences

Siamak Ekhtary
Business Developer
Gate of Nations GmbH