Berlin is a city of museums. From its humble beginnings as a centre of collection for art galleries in the late 19th century, it has grown into one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
But what makes Berlin so unique? Why is it worth visiting if you’re interested in Museums? And what do you need to know before you travel to Germany? Stick around to learn all about the best museums in Berlin and more important information.
The Best Museums In Berlin, Germany
Visiting the top museums in Berlin is worth it whether you’re a tourist or planning to stay long-term. Berlin is a city that has everything from world-class museums to great food, and it’s easy to get around.
But if you want to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the best museums in Berlin, here are some of our favourites:
- Gropius Building
If you’re a fan of unique architecture, then you should visit the Gropius building which is considered as one of the finest architectural structures in Germany. It was declared a landmark in 1989 due to its modernist feel. What makes it more special is the actress Marlene Dietrich, she was one of the beneficiaries who funded the project.
2. The Old National Gallery (Altes Nationalgalerie)
Built in 1862, the Altes Nationalgalerie is one of the top museums in Berlin because it houses more than 2000 paintings. It houses some of the most significant pieces of artwork from the 19th century. The Museum is found between the rails of the Berlin Stadtbahn and Bode street.
3. New National Gallery
The new national gallery is one of the cool museums in Berlin because it houses modern art from the 20th century. It was founded in 1968 and is one of the most renowned landmarks in Berlin. It was closed in 2015 for renovation but it was reopened in 2021 for the public.
- 4. Topography of Terror Documentation Centre
This exhibition is one of most visited sites because it holds a remembrance for a time that was filled with terror. At this museum, you’ll be able to see the instruments used during the persecution that took place under the Nazi Germany and the areas where they planned the crimes. From 1930 to 1940, the Nazis used the location to organise their crimes. In 1933, a state police station known as Gestapo imprisoned political prisoners, investigating and torturing them. In 1987, the place was changed to an exhibition.
5. Museum Berggruen
This is one of the best museums in Berlin for modern art. If you adore contemporary art pieces then you need to visit this museum. It also has some of the significant pieces of European modernism. What makes the museum special is the fact that it mentions the importance and influence of African artists when it came to modern art by Europeans artists.
FAQs
What is the Controversy in German Museums?
Regardless of the beauty of the art pieces housed in these Museums, there has been an ongoing debate about the return of the pieces of art purloined from colonised countries especially in museums such as Ethnological Museum and at the Foundation of Prussian Cultural Heritage.
A museum that is central to the debate about if and how pieces should be returned to their respective countries is the Humboldt-Forum that was re-established in Berlin centre.
What Do You Need Before Travelling to Germany?
As a tourist or someone who wants to live in Germany long-term, there are some things that you need to be familiar with. First, check your health insurance. A reliable travel health insurance makes sense, no matter if you come as a short-term tourist or for a longer stay on continental Europe. Then, once you arrive, ensure you understand how the German transport system works. Lastly, even though Berlin is more English-friendly, consider learning at least a few basic German words.