Augustiner Museum Freiburg: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Complete Visitor Guide
Updated: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Nestled in Freiburg im Breisgau’s historic old town, the Augustiner Museum is a cultural landmark that showcases centuries of art, history, and architectural evolution. Once an Augustinian monastery founded in the late 13th century, the site now houses one of southern Germany’s most important art collections, celebrated for its medieval sculptures, Baroque paintings, and extensive graphic arts holdings (de.wikipedia.org). The museum’s Gothic and Baroque architecture, seamlessly blended with modern design through extensive 21st-century renovations, offers an immersive journey through Freiburg’s and the Upper Rhine’s vibrant heritage (architectural-review.com).
This comprehensive guide details the museum’s history, architecture, collections, visitor information, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit. For the latest updates, refer to the official museum website.
Table of Contents
- History & Architectural Evolution
- Collections & Highlights
- Visitor Information
- Special Exhibitions & Events
- Visitor Tips & Policies
- FAQs
- References & Further Information
- Conclusion
History & Architectural Evolution
From Monastery to Modern Museum
The Augustiner Museum began as an Augustinian monastery in the late 13th century, with the first records dating to 1278. Over the centuries, the monastery’s Gothic church and cloister became integral parts of Freiburg’s spiritual and civic life. Even after secularization in the early 19th century, the complex survived various adaptive reuses—including a stint as a municipal theater—before being established as a museum in 1923 (de.wikipedia.org). Key architectural features, such as the timber choir roof and cloister, remain central to the museum’s character.
21st-Century Renovation
By the early 2000s, the need for modernization led to a major renovation led by Christoph Mäckler Architekten. This multi-phase project revitalized the Gothic nave, introduced new exhibition spaces, and added the “Haus der Graphischen Sammlung” for the museum’s graphic arts (e-architect.com). The renovation preserved historic elements while integrating contemporary features such as a dramatic staircase and advanced lighting systems (architectural-review.com). The final phase, scheduled for completion in late 2025, will expand the museum’s galleries further.
Collections & Highlights
Medieval and Early Modern Art
The museum’s core strength lies in its medieval and early modern collections:
- Altarpieces & Panel Paintings: Works by Hans Baldung Grien, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and Matthias Grünewald reflect the religious and artistic currents of the Upper Rhine (Germany Footsteps).
- Stained Glass: Original windows from the Freiburg Minster display Gothic craftsmanship and iconography.
- Sculpture Hall: Monumental figures, choir stalls, and architectural fragments are showcased in the nave, including the renowned Münster Figures.
19th-Century & Impressionist Works
The museum’s holdings extend into the 19th century, with highlights including paintings by Anselm Feuerbach, Hans Thoma, and Franz Xaver Winterhalter. Special exhibitions periodically feature Impressionist and Romantic works, such as the 2025 exhibition focusing on Monet and contemporaries (Breisgau Live).
Graphic Arts
The “Haus der Graphischen Sammlung” houses around 70,000 prints and drawings, including pieces by Albrecht Dürer and Käthe Kollwitz, displayed in rotating exhibitions (museen.freiburg.de).
Decorative Arts & Welte-Orgel
Decorative arts, textiles, and liturgical objects offer insight into daily and spiritual life across centuries. The historic Welte-Orgel pipe organ, still in use for concerts, is a unique feature (Freiburg.de).
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
- Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: Extended until 7:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
- Public Holidays: Closes at 5:00 PM
Check the official site for special hours or temporary closures.
Tickets & Admission
- Standard Day Ticket: €8
- Reduced: €6 (students, seniors, etc.)
- Free Admission: Under 27s, select cards (Museums-PASS-Musées, FreiburgPass, press, etc.), and companions of severely disabled visitors
- Annual Pass: €30 (reduced €25) for all Freiburg municipal museums
Tickets are available onsite or via the museum ticket shop. Tickets are valid for all municipal museums on the same day.
Getting There
- Address: Augustinerplatz, 79098 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- By Public Transport:
- Tram Line 1 (direction Littenweiler) to Oberlinden
- Buses serve city center stops nearby (museen.freiburg.de)
- By Car:
- Park at the Schlossberg car park
- Coaches at Karlsplatz or Stadtgarten
- By Bike: Secure parking available; Freiburg is bike-friendly
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Access: Step-free entry and lifts to all floors
- Accessible Restrooms: Available
- Assistance Dogs: Permitted
- Companions: Free entry for registered companions of disabled visitors
For additional needs, contact the museum directly (Museen Freiburg Accessibility).
On-Site Amenities
- Museum Shop: Art books, souvenirs, and exhibition catalogs (The Tourist Checklist)
- Café: Refreshments with scenic seating; new gastronomy concept opening with the final renovation phase (Freiburg City)
- Restrooms: Modern and accessible
- Cloakroom/Lockers: For coats and bags
Special Exhibitions & Events
- Rotating Exhibitions: Recent and upcoming shows include “Alter! Grafik aus fünf Jahrhunderten” (April–August 2025) and “Licht und Landschaft. Impressionisten in der Normandie” (May–November 2025), featuring works by Monet, Courbet, and others (Breisgau Live).
- Family Events: Interactive tours and workshops every Sunday, plus children’s birthday parties and school programs (freiburg.de).
- Concerts: Regular organ recitals and cultural events enhance the experience (Museen Freiburg Events).
Visitor Tips & Policies
- Plan Your Visit: Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore the collections and exhibitions (whichmuseum.com).
- Photography: Non-flash photography allowed in most areas; some special exhibitions may restrict it.
- Children: Under 10s must be accompanied by an adult.
- Animals: Only assistance dogs permitted.
- Digital App: Download the Museen Freiburg App for digital tours, audioguides, and interactive content.
- Check for Renovations: Some galleries may be temporarily closed as the final phase of renovation completes by late 2025 (Freiburg City).
FAQs
Q: What are the Augustiner Museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (Fridays until 19:00), closed Mondays.
Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: At the museum or online via the official ticket shop.
Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with lifts, accessible toilets, and step-free access.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, for groups and individuals. Booking recommended for groups.
Q: Is there free admission?
A: For visitors under 27, companions of disabled visitors, and select pass holders.
Q: Are there family-friendly activities?
A: Yes, including interactive tours and creative workshops each Sunday.
References & Further Information
- Augustinermuseum Freiburg – Wikipedia
- Augustiner Museum by Christoph Mäckler Architekten – Architectural Review
- Augustiner Museum Freiburg – e-architect
- Museums in Freiburg Highlights of Exhibitions 2025 – Breisgau Live
- Augustiner Museum Freiburg – Museen Freiburg Official Website
Conclusion
The Augustiner Museum Freiburg stands out among Freiburg historical sites for its blend of medieval heritage, architectural innovation, and extensive art collections. Whether you’re captivated by Gothic sculpture, fascinated by Impressionist exhibitions, or exploring with family, the museum offers a rewarding and accessible experience. Plan your visit by consulting current opening hours, booking your tickets online, and downloading the Museen Freiburg App for an enriched, interactive tour.
For the latest updates, special events, and to purchase tickets, visit the official Augustiner Museum website.
Enjoy your cultural journey through the heart of Freiburg!
