Neue Nationalgalerie

The Neue Nationalgalerie is Berlin’s iconic museum of 20th-century art, housed in a landmark building designed by architect Mies van der Rohe. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions of modern masterpieces, sculpture collections and immersive installations.
This venue is also included in select MegaPass options, making it easy to combine with other Berlin cultural attractions.

Opened in 1968, the museum is considered one of Mies van der Rohe’s architectural masterpieces. Its minimalist steel-and-glass design revolutionized museum architecture. After decades of use, the museum underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2021, preserving its original structure while upgrading its interior systems.

It’s one of Berlin’s top destinations for modern art enthusiasts, offering works from the early 20th century to contemporary movements. The building itself is an attraction—an architectural icon that showcases art in a strikingly open and light-filled space.

Tickets generally provide access to permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. Visitors can explore independently or use supplemental materials such as audio guides through broader Museum Island products. Special exhibitions may require timed entry.

Ticket prices vary based on exhibitions. Reduced fares are available for students, youth and seniors. Combined or city-wide cultural passes may also include entry.

The museum typically opens mid-morning and closes in the early evening. It is usually closed one day per week (often Monday) for maintenance and exhibition changes. Holiday schedules may impact hours.

Located near Potsdamer Platz, the museum is easily reached via U-Bahn, S-Bahn and bus lines. The closest stations include Potsdamer Platz and Mendelssohn-Bartholdy-Park. The area is walkable and close to other cultural institutions in the Kulturforum.

• Mies van der Rohe’s glass pavilion
• 20th-century modern art collections
• Sculpture garden
• Rotating international exhibitions
• Minimalist interior and open gallery spaces
• Landmark architecture of Berlin’s Kulturforum

• Exhibitions change often—check schedules before visiting
• Some installations may have limited capacity
• Photography rules vary by exhibition
• Allow extra time if visiting during major temporary shows
• Combine with nearby museums for a full Kulturforum experience

Most visitors spend 1 to 1.5 hours, while art enthusiasts exploring multiple exhibitions often stay 2 hours or more.

Winter offers peaceful, quiet galleries and excellent lighting for viewing art. The glass structure provides dramatic views of Berlin’s winter sky. Crowds are smaller, making it ideal for art-focused visits.