Museum Island (Museumsinsel) is located in central Berlin in the River Spree. The island derives its name from a collection of five world-class state museums located at the island’s northern end.
The museums were built between 1824 and 1930. Each was designed to reflect the collections it housed. The buildings themselves are highly significant as they reflect the evolution of modern museum development.
A logical way to explore the museums is to work from the oldest to the newest. Start with the Altes Museum, or Old Museum, a neoclassical sandstone structure built in the 1820s to house the private art collection of the Prussian royal family. Step between its 18 classical Greek-style columns and explore its vast collection of antiquities and art from ancient Greece and Rome.
Next stop is the Neues Museum, which focuses on Ancient Egypt. Among the artifacts, furniture and sculptures here is the famous bust of the Egyptian queen Nefertiti from the 14th century B.C.
The Alte Nationalgalerie, or Old National Gallery, houses an impressive collection of neoclassical, romantic and early modernist painting and sculpture, as well as the work of French impressionists such as Claude Monet. The Bode Museum is another neoclassical architectural marvel. Inside there’s Byzantine art, Renaissance sculpture and works by classic European artists such as Donatello.
The final museum in the complex is the Pergamon Museum, completed in 1930. Germany's most famous museum was designed to house monumental pieces of ancient architecture and Islamic Art from the Middle East. Wander through the fabled Gates of Ishtar, the Market Gate of Miletus and climb the steps to the Pergamon Altar.
The central and southern portions of the island contain many other architectural treasures, such as the Berliner Dom and Marstall.
Museum Island is easily accessible by tram, bus, and U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains.
Museum Island Tours and Activities
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Tours & day trips
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Popular places to visit
Neues Museum
You can study the exhibits at Neues Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Berlin. Discover the acclaimed theater scene and shops in this vibrant area.
Old National Gallery
Rich with history, Old National Gallery is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Berlin. Visit the notable monuments and shops in this vibrant area.
Altes Museum
Learn about life in ancient Europe and marvel at antiquities from the Greek and Roman eras in this grand neoclassical building on Berlin’s Museum Island.
Lustgarten
Once a royal garden, this elegant public park is now a perfect resting and picnic spot for city explorers.
Berlin Cathedral
With its soaring sandstone walls and stunning turquoise dome, this cathedral is a highpoint in the city’s skyline and spiritual life.
German Historical Museum
Learn about Germany’s compelling history through this vast collection, which takes an honest and unflinching look at this modern European nation.
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