Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Frankfurt’s Historical Sites
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
The Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt (Museum of Applied Arts) is a landmark institution on Frankfurt’s Museumsufer (Museum Riverbank), dedicated to showcasing applied arts and design from across the globe and throughout history. Founded in 1881, the museum bridges the worlds of art, craftsmanship, and everyday life, inviting visitors to explore over 5,000 years of human creativity. Its collections span European, Asian, and Islamic art, featuring everything from Ming and Qing dynasty ceramics to Bauhaus masterpieces and contemporary design. The museum also stands out for its unique architectural blend, merging the historic Villa Metzler with a luminous postmodern structure by Richard Meier.
This comprehensive guide details everything you need to plan your visit: current opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, collection highlights, special exhibitions, and practical travel tips. Centrally located at Schaumainkai 17, the museum is easily accessible and close to many of Frankfurt’s major historical attractions, making it an essential stop for culture lovers and tourists alike.
Stay informed about ongoing and upcoming exhibitions, educational programs, and community initiatives, such as the museum’s urban beekeeping project and garden installations. For the latest information, including virtual tours and interactive resources, consult the museum’s official website and WhichMuseum.
Historical Development and Cultural Significance
Origins and Evolution
Founded in 1881, the Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt was established during a period of growing appreciation for applied and decorative arts in Germany. Its mission has always been to connect art with daily life, a vision that continues to guide its exhibitions and programming. The museum’s collections have expanded over time, now encompassing diverse objects from Europe, Asia, and the Islamic world. Key highlights include rare ceramics from the Ming and Qing dynasties, Islamic metalwork, and significant examples from the Bauhaus and Art Deco movements.
Restoration after World War II, followed by a focus on internationalism and dialogue between cultures, has allowed the museum to develop into a vibrant center for design and applied arts. Its philosophy is encapsulated in the “Elementarteile” (Elementary Parts) section, which juxtaposes artifacts from different eras and cultures, sparking conversations about the universality and diversity of human creativity.
Collection Highlights
- European Applied Arts: Ceramics, glass, silver and goldsmithing, enamel, furniture, and textiles from the Middle Ages to the 21st century.
- Asian Collection: Chinese ceramics, Japanese paintings, Buddhist sculptures, East Asian lacquer, Iranian metalwork and textiles.
- Book and Graphic Art: Illuminated manuscripts, artists’ books, posters, and engravings.
- Design: 20th- and 21st-century industrial design, including furniture and tableware.
- Icon Museum: Icons from Russian, post-Byzantine, Italo-Cretan, Romanian, and Ethiopian traditions.
- Fashion and Performative Arts: Contemporary explorations of clothing, identity, and culture.
Curatorial highlights include interactive and cross-cultural exhibitions that address sustainability, digital culture, and evolving design paradigms (Museum Angewandte Kunst – Collections).
Architectural Significance
The Richard Meier Building
Completed in 1985, the museum’s main building is a hallmark of postmodern architecture, designed by Richard Meier. The structure’s white façade, geometric clarity, and abundant natural light offer a contemporary counterpoint to the adjacent 19th-century Villa Metzler. This architectural ensemble underscores the museum’s commitment to bridging tradition and innovation (architectuul.com).
Gardens and Outdoor Initiatives
The museum’s landscaped gardens, home to urban beehives managed by the Frankfurt artist collective “finger,” reflect its dedication to ecological responsibility and community engagement.
Accessibility
The museum is fully accessible, with wide corridors, elevators, and barrier-free entrances. All public spaces, including restrooms and café, are wheelchair-friendly. Staff are available for assistance, and guide dogs are welcome. The museum also holds the “Reisen für Alle” certification for accessibility (museumangewandtekunst.de).
Essential Visitor Information
Location and Getting There
- Address: Schaumainkai 17, 60594 Frankfurt am Main, Germany (museumangewandtekunst.de)
- Public Transport: Tram lines 15, 16, and 19 stop at “Schweizer Straße”; the S-Bahn “Frankfurt (Main) Südbahnhof” is a 10-minute walk away.
- Parking: Limited street parking and nearby garages; public transport is recommended.
- Bicycle Access: Bicycle-friendly with racks at the entrance.
Opening Hours (as of June 2025)
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Mondays
- Extended or special hours may apply during holidays or events. Always check the official website before your visit.
Ticket Prices
- Standard Admission: €12
- Reduced Admission: €6 (students, seniors, groups)
- Children under 18: Free
- Family tickets and group rates available
- MuseumsuferCard: Offers unlimited access to over 30 museums in Frankfurt (Frankfurt-Tipp)
- Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Visitor Amenities
- Cloakroom and Lockers: Available for coats, bags, and umbrellas.
- Restrooms and Baby Facilities: Located on each floor.
- Wi-Fi and Digital Resources: Free Wi-Fi and digital guides; tablets available for loan.
- Museum Shop: Design objects, books, catalogues, and gifts.
- Restaurant Emma Metzler: Regional and seasonal cuisine with terrace seating (museumangewandtekunst.de).
Exhibition Experience
Permanent Exhibitions
- Elementary Parts: From the Collections: Cross-cultural highlights from 5,000 years of applied arts.
- Stylerooms: Immersive historical interiors.
- Richard Meier: A Style Room & Dieter Rams: A Style Room: Celebrating iconic 20th-century designers.
- The Frankfurt Kitchen: The pioneering 1920s ergonomic kitchen.
- New Museum for Bees: Exploring sustainability through design.
Temporary and Upcoming Exhibitions (2025–2026)
- 100 Years of The New Frankfurt: Celebrating the New Frankfurt urban planning movement (rheinmainkultur.de).
- Text & Spirit: Illuminated manuscripts in the digital age (March–June 2025).
- A Floating World: Japanese art focused on impermanence (Jan–Apr 2025).
- Jazzklub Frankfurt 2025: Concerts and exhibits on jazz history (Sep–Dec 2025).
- 亞歐堂 meet asian art: Der Erwachte: Buddhist visual culture (until Nov 2025).
- Die dunkle Seite Roms: Roman-era skeletons (until Aug 2025).
- New Realities: Contemporary design perspectives (until Jan 2026).
Refer to the exhibitions page for details.
Guided Tours, Education, and Family Activities
- Guided Tours: Daily tours in German and English; special curator-led tours available.
- Group and School Bookings: Private tours and workshops for groups and educational institutions.
- Children’s Activities: Family days, creative workshops, and interactive stations.
- Stroller Access and Quiet Spaces: Stroller-friendly facilities and quiet areas for families.
- Workshops: Regular activities for all ages, often linked to current exhibitions (museumangewandtekunst.de).
Visitor Comfort, Safety, and Sustainability
- Climate Control: Year-round comfort.
- Security: On-site staff and surveillance.
- First Aid: Available on-site.
- Green Initiatives: Energy-efficient lighting, recycling, and eco-conscious materials.
- Inclusive Programming: Events and exhibitions for diverse audiences.
Multilingual Support
- Exhibition Labels: Most in German and English.
- Audio Guides: Available in English, German, and often French or Japanese.
- Staff: Many are English-speaking and ready to assist international guests.
Nearby Attractions
- Museumsufer: Städel Museum, Liebieghaus, Deutsches Architekturmuseum, and more.
- Frankfurt Old Town (Römerberg): A short walk away.
- Main River Promenade: Ideal for scenic walks.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Plan Ahead: Check hours, exhibitions, and ticket options (museumangewandtekunst.de).
- Visit on Weekdays: Mornings are quieter than weekends or event days.
- Photography: Permitted in most areas (no flash); some exhibitions may restrict it.
- Duration: Allow 2–3 hours for a complete experience.
- COVID-19 Updates: Check the website for current health protocols.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–18:00; closed Mondays. Check for special hours on holidays.
Q: How much are tickets?
A: Standard admission is €12; reduced €6; children under 18 are free.
Q: Is the museum accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with elevators, barrier-free entrances, and accessible restrooms.
Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, book in advance for English-language tours.
Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Non-flash photography is generally allowed; follow exhibition signage.
Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The museum is part of Museumsufer, close to other major museums and Frankfurt’s Old Town.
Digital and Interactive Resources
- Virtual Tour: Explore the museum online (Frankfurt.de).
- Interactive Maps: Available on the museum website for easy navigation.
- Audiala App: Download for interactive guides and exclusive content.
Conclusion
The Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt is a beacon of cultural heritage and contemporary design, enriching visitors with its remarkable collections, inspiring exhibitions, and engaging public programs. Its seamless blend of historical and modern architecture, commitment to accessibility and sustainability, and vibrant location on Frankfurt’s Museumsufer make it an essential stop for anyone interested in art, design, and history.
Plan your visit today by consulting the official museum website and explore additional resources and posts on our platform to enhance your cultural journey in Frankfurt.
Sources
- Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Highlights (Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt)
- Collections and Exhibitions (Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt)
- Visitor Experience and Amenities (Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt)
- Visiting Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt (The Frankfurt Edit)
- Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt Architecture (Architectuul)
- Frankfurt Culture Highlights 2025 (Frankfurt-Tipp)
- Current and Upcoming Exhibitions (Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt)
- Museum Für Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt, Attractions (Lonely Planet)
- Museum Information (WhichMuseum)
