Discover Munich’s Artistic Treasures
When you think of the art scene in Germany, Berlin often comes to mind as a prominent hub of talent. However, while the capital is an artistic magnet, Munich boasts a rich collection of institutions that equally captivate visitors. Not only does Munich house some of the country’s largest museums, but it also attracts creative minds from all over the globe. Here are essential artistic highlights that you should not miss in this cultural epicenter.
Local Tip: Enjoy admission for just €1 at the first five museums listed here every Sunday as part of Bavaria’s public art collection.
Alte Pinakothek
Encased in a neoclassical building constructed between 1826 and 1836, the Alte Pinakothek houses one of the most important art collections globally, showcasing European art movements from the 14th to the 18th centuries. Be prepared to encounter prominent German artists such as Albrecht Dürer alongside esteemed Renaissance masters.
Neue Pinakothek
The Neue Pinakothek shines a spotlight on the 19th century, showcasing masterpieces from renowned artists like Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Cézanne. Although originally completed in 1853, this building was destroyed during WWII and later redesigned in a postmodernist style, reopening in 1981.
Note: The Neue Pinakothek is currently closed for renovations, yet portions of its collection can be viewed at the Alte Pinakothek and Sammlung Schack until its anticipated reopening in 2025.
Pinakothek der Moderne
The Pinakothek der Moderne is a contemporary marvel designed by German architect Stephan Braunfels. Opened in 2002, this airy space hosts four museums under one roof, focusing on architecture, graphics, applied design, and 20th-century art. It continues the timeline of artistic evolution by showcasing works from 1900 onward.
Museum Brandhorst
Since its establishment in 2009, the Museum Brandhorst has enriched Munich’s contemporary art scene. With over 1200 pieces spanning from the 1960s to the present day, the collection features works from iconic artists such as Cy Twombly, Damien Hirst, and boasts the largest Andy Warhol collection in Europe. The building itself is visually striking, encased in 36,000 multicolored ceramic rods.
Sammlung Schack
Located in the former Prussian Embassy, Sammlung Schack is dedicated to 19th-century and late-romantic German paintings. This collection owes its name to Count Adolf Friedrich von Schack, its esteemed collector.
Haus der Kunst
Situated on the southern edge of the Englischer Garten, Haus der Kunst is hard to miss. Built between 1933 and 1937, this imposing structure was originally designed to showcase art deemed worthy by the Nazi Party. Today, it functions as a contemporary exhibition space with no permanent collection, hosting a variety of impactful installations.
Haus der Kunst remains open until 10 PM every Thursday, offering free admission from 6 PM on the first Thursday of each month. Visitors can also unwind at the stylish Goldene Bar, or enter through a side entrance to P1, one of Munich’s top nightclubs frequented by Bayern Munich players.
The Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art (MUCA)
Located conveniently in the city center, near Marienplatz, MUCA is Germany’s first museum dedicated to street art. This compact venue, while not comparable to Haus der Kunst, displays a dynamic range of urban and contemporary art through frequent exhibitions. It also features a sleek restaurant, Mural, perfect for brunch amid the culture.
Lenbachhaus
The Lenbachhaus is housed in the former residence of artist Franz von Lenbach, a striking yellow villa that is now home to impressive collections from the Blaue Reiter expressionist group and contemporary art. Visitors can enjoy a blend of local and international artistry within its walls.
The gallery’s restaurant, ELLA, features a large terrace overlooking Königsplatz, making it a delightful spot for sunny days.
Museum Villa Stuck
The Museum Villa Stuck presents an insight into Bavarian artist Franz von Stuck’s life through his extravagant home, featuring an array of temporary exhibitions, including special retrospectives like 40 years VOGUE Germany.
Kunstverein München
For a unique experience, visit Kunstverein München. Located in the historical arcades of the Hofgarten, this art association showcases an international array of emerging artists. As one of the oldest institutions of its kind in Germany, it plays a vital role in the Munich art scene while facilitating innovative contemporary expressions.
Where to Find the Galleries
The three Pinakotheks, Museum Brandhorst, and Lenbachhaus are all situated within Munich’s museum quarter, known as the Kunstareal. The remaining museums are easily accessible throughout the city. Note that MUCA is expected to relocate to Dachauer Strasse, though the precise timing remains unconfirmed.
