Altes Museum

The Altes Museum is one of Berlin’s most significant classical art museums, housing remarkable collections of Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities. Located on Museum Island, it offers visitors a deep dive into ancient civilizations through sculptures, pottery, jewelry and historical artifacts.
This venue is also included in select MegaPass options, making it easy to combine with other top attractions on Museum Island.

Opened in 1830 and designed by renowned architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel, the Altes Museum was the first public art museum in Prussia. It pioneered the idea of a cultural museum district and later became the foundation of Museum Island. Its neoclassical façade and grand staircase reflect Enlightenment ideals of education and accessibility.

The museum offers one of Europe’s finest collections of classical antiquities, featuring marble statues, ancient coins, painted pottery and archaeological finds. It's ideal for visitors interested in mythology, ancient history and early Mediterranean cultures.

Tickets generally include full access to permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. Audio guides in multiple languages allow visitors to explore independently and at their own pace. Combination tickets may provide access to other Museum Island museums.

Ticket prices vary by season and ticket type. Discounts are available for students, children and Museum Island pass holders. Special exhibitions may require a separate ticket.

The museum typically operates from late morning to early evening. One day per week is reserved for maintenance closures. Public holidays may affect schedules, and certain galleries may close temporarily for renovation.

Located in the center of Museum Island, the museum is easily accessible via tram, bus, U-Bahn and S-Bahn. Nearby transport hubs include Alexanderplatz, Hackescher Markt and Friedrichstraße. The museum sits near the Lustgarten and Berlin Cathedral.

• Greek, Roman and Etruscan sculptures
• Painted vases and ceramics
• Gold and bronze jewelry
• Ancient coin collections
• Neoclassical Schinkel architecture
• Galleries dedicated to mythology and ancient rituals

• Audio guides are recommended for deeper context
• Start with the ground floor for Greek antiquities
• Larger bags may need to be stored in lockers
• Combine your visit with nearby museums to maximize your day
• Visit early for a quieter experience in the sculpture halls

Visitors usually spend 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the museum, while ancient history enthusiasts may stay 2 hours or more.

Winter offers peaceful galleries and comfortable indoor exploration. Reduced crowds make it ideal for slow-paced visits. Seasonal schedules may include shorter opening times or temporary gallery closures.