vintage steel engraving of village Rech on the Ahr river with bridge circa 1888

Städelschule

Städelschule Frankfurt: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: History and Significance

Located in the heart of Frankfurt am Main, the Städelschule—formally Hochschule für Bildende Künste–Städelschule—stands as a pillar of artistic innovation and cultural history. Established in 1817 through the vision of Johann Friedrich Städel, the academy was conceived as an inclusive institution fostering creativity, interdisciplinary exchange, and public access to the arts. Today, it is globally recognized for its experimental approach to fine arts, architecture, and new media, as well as its commitment to diversity and openness (Städelschule History).

The school’s influence extends beyond its educational mission. With a strong tradition of public engagement, the Städelschule hosts a vibrant program of exhibitions, lectures, performances, and tours. Its affiliation with the cutting-edge Portikus gallery and its prominent location on Frankfurt’s Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) situate it among Germany’s most important cultural institutions, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and cultural explorers (Städelschule Rundgang 2025).

Johannes Krahn and colleagues with students on a study trip

Welcome and Overview
Practical Visitor Information
Location and Directions
Visiting Hours
Tickets and Admission
Accessibility
Guided Tours and Special Events
Nearby Attractions and Photo Opportunities
Historical Overview
Founding Vision and Institutional Evolution
Notable Faculty and Leadership
Portikus and Public Engagement
Archival Resources and Publications
Contemporary Relevance
Städelschule Monument: Visitor Information
Historical Background
Visiting Details and Accessibility
Nearby Historical Sites
Special Programs
Städelschule Rundgang 2025: Event Guide
Schedule and Activities
Guided Tours and Accessibility Services
Special Events and Awards
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
References

Welcome to Städelschule Frankfurt

Städelschule is not only an educational institution but a vibrant cultural landmark. Visitors are welcomed to explore its dynamic exhibition spaces, attend world-class events, and experience the intersection of historical legacy and contemporary creativity.

Practical Visitor Information

Location:
Schaumainkai 1, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

How to Get There:

Public Transport: Tram lines 11 and 14 stop at Holbeinplatz, a short walk from the campus.
By Car: Ample parking is available nearby.
Nearby Stations: Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (main train station) is a 15-minute tram ride away.

Visiting Hours:

Main exhibition spaces, including Portikus: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Special events may have extended hours—check the official website for updates.

Tickets and Admission:

Admission to most exhibitions and events, including Portikus and the annual Rundgang, is free.
Some programs or guided tours may require advance registration or a small fee.

Accessibility:

All public spaces are wheelchair accessible.
Audio-described tours and additional support can be arranged for visitors with disabilities—please contact the school ahead of your visit.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Städelschule offers curated guided tours, providing insights into its history, educational philosophy, and current exhibitions. The highlight of the year is the annual “Rundgang,” where open studios and presentations by students offer direct engagement with emerging artists. In addition, lectures, workshops, and performances enrich the experience for all visitors (Städelschule Rundgang 2025).

Photo Opportunities and Nearby Attractions

The campus, set along the River Main, offers beautiful photographic vistas. Within walking distance, visitors can explore:

Städel Museum: Renowned art collection from the Middle Ages to the present
Deutsches Filminstitut & Filmmuseum: Film history and screenings
Goethe House: Birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Frankfurt Cathedral: Iconic Gothic structure

Frankfurt’s Museumsufer provides an ideal setting for a day immersed in culture.

Historical Overview

Founding Vision and Evolution

Städelschule was founded in accordance with Johann Friedrich Städel’s philanthropic will, emphasizing equal access and international exchange. Since its formal establishment in 1827, the school has pioneered experimental and interdisciplinary approaches in art and architecture, setting itself apart from traditional academies (Städelschule History; Design Encyclopedia).

Notable Faculty and Leadership

Visionary figures such as Peter Kubelka and Kasper König have shaped Städelschule’s progressive identity. The school has also been at the forefront of gender equity, appointing Christa Näher as its first female painting professor and Yasmil Raymond as its first female rector. The faculty includes internationally acclaimed artists and theorists (Städelschule Profile).

Portikus and Public Engagement

Since 1987, Portikus has served as Städelschule’s public interface for experimental contemporary art, offering exhibitions, talks, and publications that connect local and global audiences (Städelschule Profile).

Archival Resources and Publications

The school’s extensive library and press archive, with over 15,000 articles, is accessible through the K10plus union catalog and Frankfurt’s museum libraries. Key publications, such as “200 Jahre Städelschule,” document its rich history (arthistoricum.net).

Contemporary Relevance

Städelschule remains a leader in art, architecture, curatorial studies, and art criticism, offering public events and open studios that provide visitors access to the next generation of artists (Design Encyclopedia).

Städelschule Monument: Visitor Information

Historical Background

Founded in 1817, the original Städelschule building is a protected monument reflecting 19th-century architecture and Frankfurt’s artistic heritage. The site has evolved alongside the city, serving as a testament to its enduring commitment to art and education.

Visiting Details

Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays and holidays.
Admission: Free for exhibitions and the annual Rundgang open studios.
Guided Tours: Offered on weekends and during special events. Advance booking via the Städelschule website is recommended.

Accessibility

While some historic areas have limited wheelchair access, ramps and assistance are available. Visitors with mobility concerns should contact visitor services in advance.

Nearby Historical Sites

Within walking distance:

Römer (City Hall)
Frankfurt Cathedral
Museumsufer

Photography is encouraged, especially during the Rundgang.

Special Programs

Annual Rundgang: February open studios event with exhibitions, performances, and lectures.
Portikus Exhibitions: Contemporary art in a renowned gallery setting.
Public Lectures and Discussions: Regular programs with artists, curators, and scholars.

Städelschule Rundgang 2025: Event Guide

Event Overview

The Rundgang (February 7–9, 2025) is a highlight of the Frankfurt cultural calendar, offering open studios, exhibitions, performances, readings, and film screenings. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Main Venues and Hours

Dürerstraße 10, 60596 Frankfurt am Main
Daimlerstraße 32, 60314 Frankfurt am Main
DFF – Deutsches Filminstitut & Filmmuseum, Schaumainkai 41

Hours: Daily, 10:00–20:00

Activities

Open Studios & Student Exhibitions: Engage with student artists in diverse media.
Performances, Readings, and Concerts: Interdisciplinary live events.
Film and Video Screenings: Curated student works at DFF.
Guided Tours:
- German: Fri–Sun 13:00 (Dürerstraße), 16:00 (Daimlerstraße)
- English: Sat 13:30 (Dürerstraße), Sun 16:30 (Daimlerstraße)
- Audio-described tours for visually impaired by registration.

Special Events:

Commemorative evening for Kasper König (Feb 7, 19:00)
Student award ceremony (Feb 8, 19:00, Lichthalle)
Portikus exhibition “Adrian Piper. Who, Me?” runs through Feb 9, 2025.

Visitor Tips:

Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
Check the Rundgang Program PDF for schedules.
Engage with students and staff for deeper insights.
Explore nearby museums and historic sites for a full cultural experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Städelschule open to the public?
A: Yes, especially during exhibitions and events. Check the official website for up-to-date information.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, public and private tours are offered in German and English. Audio-described tours are available for visually impaired visitors.

Q: What does it cost to visit?
A: Admission to most events and exhibitions is free.

Q: Is the campus accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Yes, with support services available. Some historic areas have restrictions; contact visitor services for assistance.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Tram lines 11 and 14 to Holbeinplatz; nearby S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations include Schweizer Platz and Willy-Brandt-Platz.

Plan Your Visit

For up-to-date schedules, accessibility details, and event announcements, consult the Städelschule Official Website and Portikus Gallery. Enhance your experience with the Audiala app, and follow Städelschule on social media for real-time updates.