The Neue Nationalgalerie (New National Gallery) is an icon of 20th-century architecture and art. Designed by the legendary architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, it is famous for its stunning glass-and-steel “floating” roof. After a massive six-year renovation, it reopened in 2021, shining as the primary home for Berlin’s collection of 20th-century art.
What to expect at Neue Nationalgalerie
- The Architecture: The building is an exhibit in itself. The upper level is a massive, open glass pavilion that is often used for large-scale sculptures or temporary installations. It is filled with natural light and offers views of the surrounding Kulturforum.
- The Collection (Lower Level): The main permanent collection is housed underground. It focuses on Classical Modernism and art from 1900 to 1945.
Key Artists: You will see masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Otto Dix, and Max Beckmann.
“Extreme Tension” (Permanent Exhibition): The current long-term presentation (running until approx. 2027) showcases art from 1945 to 2000, contrasting movements from West and East Germany, the US, and Europe. - Sculpture Garden: At the back of the lower level, there is a beautiful, quiet sculpture garden featuring works that harmonize with nature and the architecture. You can view it through glass walls or enter when weather permits.
- Special Exhibitions: The museum frequently hosts major changing exhibitions. Late 2025/early 2026 highlights include “Radical Harmony: Neo-Impressionists” and upcoming works by Constantin Brancusi.
Where to buy tickets
- Online (Highly Recommended): The best way to visit is to book a time-slot ticket via the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin (SMB) official website. This guarantees your entry and lets you skip the ticket counter line.
- On-Site: You can buy tickets at the counter, but lines can be long on weekends.
- Berlin WelcomeCard: If you have the “Berlin WelcomeCard Museum Island” or “All Inclusive,” entry is included. You may still need to book a free time slot online.
- Museum Pass Berlin: Holders of the 3-day pass get free entry.
Neue Nationalgalerie tickets
- Regular Admission: Approximately €14.00. (Note: Prices may rise to €16.00 during major special exhibitions).
- Reduced Admission: Approximately €7.00. (Students, seniors, disabled persons).
- Children (Under 18): Free. (You must still book a “0.00 EUR” ticket online).
- “Volkswagen Art4All” (Free Thursdays): Entry is FREE for everyone on Thursdays from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Be prepared for long lines, as this is very popular.
How to reach New Nationalgalerie
The museum is located at Potsdamer Straße 50, 10785 Berlin, part of the Kulturforum complex.
- By U-Bahn (Subway): Take the U2 line to Potsdamer Platz. From there, it is a roughly 600-meter (8-minute) walk past the Sony Center and Philharmonie.
- By Bus:
- M29: Stops at Potsdamer Brücke (closest stop).
- M48, M85: Stop at Kulturforum.
- Bus 200: Stops at Philharmonie.
- By S-Bahn: Potsdamer Platz (S1, S2, S25) is the nearest station.
Neue Nationalgalerie’s timings
- Monday: Closed.
- Tuesday – Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Extended hours).
- Friday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Holidays: Generally open on public holidays (even Mondays), but check the website for Dec 24/31 closures.
How long does Neue Nationalgalerie take?
- Average Visit: 1.5 to 2 hours. The collection is compact compared to the Gemäldegalerie next door.
- Architecture Fans: If you are just there to admire the Mies van der Rohe building and the upper hall, 45 minutes is sufficient.
- Detailed Tour: Reading all the descriptions in the permanent exhibit will take about 2.5 hours.
Best time to visit Neue Nationalgalerie
- Thursday Mornings: Since the free entry starts at 4:00 PM, the morning slots on Thursdays are often quieter.
- Sunny Days: The upper glass hall is spectacular when the sun is shining (though it can get warm).
- Avoid: Thursday evenings (4 PM – 8 PM) are free but extremely crowded. Weekend afternoons are also busy.
FAQs about Neue Nationalgalerie
1. Is the cloakroom mandatory?
Yes, for large items. Bags larger than DIN A4 (approx. 20×30 cm) and thick winter coats must be checked in the cloakroom or lockers (requires €1/€2 deposit coin).
2. Is photography allowed?
Yes, for private use without flash, tripods, or selfie sticks. Some special loan exhibits may have “No Photo” signs, so watch out for those.
3. Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the museum is fully barrier-free. There is a ramp to the main entrance and an elevator connects the upper hall to the lower collection rooms.
4. Is there a cafe?
Yes, there is a stylish café inside the museum on the lower level (Café Neue Nationalgalerie), and usually a coffee stand in the upper hall. It’s a great spot to rest after viewing the art.
5. Is the audio guide included?
Usually, yes. It is often provided via an app or a device included in the ticket price, offering background on the architecture and key paintings.
