Circus Krone

Circus Krone Munich: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Circus Krone, located in the vibrant heart of Munich, stands as a symbol of European circus heritage and innovation. Founded in the late 19th century and officially established as a circus in 1905, it is now one of the largest and most acclaimed circuses in Europe. Its permanent venue, the Kronebau, not only hosts world-class performances but is also a cultural and architectural landmark deeply woven into Munich’s history. This comprehensive guide explores Circus Krone’s fascinating evolution, its visiting hours, ticketing details, accessibility, nearby attractions, and the many ways it continues to enrich Munich’s cultural landscape (Circopedia, Bestourism, Circus Krone official, Munich Travel).

Historical Overview
Visiting Circus Krone: Essential Information
Nearby Attractions
Special Events and Guided Tours
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Related Articles
Conclusion & Final Recommendations
References

Black and white photo of Circus Krone arriving in Rotterdam with circus wagons and people on a street in 1959

Arrival of Circus Krone in Rotterdam on May 26, 1959 with circus trucks and performers

Row of elephants arriving for Circus Krone performance in Amsterdam

Row of elephants arriving for Circus Krone performance in Amsterdam on July 1, 1980

Vintage circus tent from Circus Charles around 1905

Children watching animals at Circus Krone in Amsterdam

Children watching animals at Circus Krone in Amsterdam in 1980

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development

Circus Krone began as a traveling menagerie founded by Carl Krone Sr. in the late 19th century. After the transformative influence of Barnum & Bailey’s European tour, the Krone family expanded their operations, officially launching Circus Krone in 1905 (Circopedia). Early on, the circus became known for its impressive animal acts and innovative three-ring presentations, setting new benchmarks in European circus artistry.

The Kronebau: Munich’s Permanent Circus Building

In 1919, Circus Krone established its permanent home, the Kronebau, in Munich, making it the only fixed circus building in the German-speaking world (Bestourism). The Kronebau hosted regular winter shows and became a cultural stronghold, resilient through wartime destruction and subsequent rebuilding, most notably in 1950 after World War II bombings.

Expansion, Resilience, and Modernization

Throughout the 20th century, Circus Krone expanded its reach across Germany and Europe, weathering the challenges of war, economic crisis, and changing public tastes. The Krone family’s prudent management and dedication to artistic excellence ensured survival and growth. Periods of adversity—including the destruction of the Kronebau and a tragic fire in 1967—were met with determined rebuilding and modernization (Circopedia).

Cultural and Societal Impact

The Kronebau is not just a venue for circus arts; it has played significant roles in Munich’s social and political history, serving as a gathering place for major events and mass meetings in the early 20th century (Historical Sites). Today, Circus Krone remains a family-owned institution, with the Krone lineage continuing its legacy into a new generation.

Visiting Circus Krone: Essential Information

Location and Access

Address: Marsstraße 43, 80335 Munich, Germany
District: Maxvorstadt
Public Transport:

S-Bahn: Lines S1–S8, stop at “Hackerbrücke” (5-minute walk)
Tram: Lines 16 and 17 (“Hackerbrücke”)
Bus: Multiple city bus lines
By Car: Limited parking; public transport is highly recommended (Muenchenticket, Concerts50)

Venue Facilities & Accessibility

Seating: Tiered, with excellent sightlines; early booking recommended for comfort
Wheelchair Access: Barrier-free entrance, reserved wheelchair spaces
Restrooms: Accessible and modern
Cloakroom: Available for coats and bags
Food & Drink: Classic circus snacks, sausages, beer, soft drinks, sweets (Concerts50)

Circus Krone Visiting Hours

Winter Season: December 25 to early April, shows typically at 14:30 & 18:30
Summer Season: April to November, touring schedule varies by city
Box Office: Opens 1.5 hours before showtime; doors open 1 hour before the show
Show Duration: About 2.5 hours, including a 20-minute intermission (Circus Krone Winterspielzeit)

Ticket Prices and Booking

Range: €19–€59 (seat category & event); discounts for children under 12, seniors, and people with disabilities
Children under 3: Free admission, no seat entitlement
Where to Buy:
- Official Circus Krone website
- Muenchenticket
- Box office (opens 1.5 hours before showtime)
Booking Tip: Reserve early for Christmas, weekend, or special shows

Nearby Attractions

Circus Krone’s central location makes it ideal for combining your visit with other Munich highlights:

Olympiapark Munich: Parks, tours, and the Olympic Tower, 10 minutes by tram
BMW Museum: Automotive history near Olympiapark
Deutsches Museum: Science and technology, easily accessible via public transport
Munich City Center: Marienplatz, museums, shops, and restaurants all within reach (Munich Travel)

Special Events and Guided Tours

Christmas Shows: Unique seasonal performances with new programs each winter
Summer Concerts: The Kronebau hosts concerts, comedy, cabaret, and more when the circus tours
Workshops and Children’s Programs: Educational activities and a dedicated school for circus members’ children
Backstage Tours: Occasionally available; check the official website for dates and booking info

Visitor Tips

Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime
Bring a Cushion: Seats can be hard; a small cushion adds comfort
Family-Friendly: Best for children aged 3 and up
Language: Shows are in German, but visual acts are universally engaging
Photography: Check event-specific policies; usually not allowed during performances
Animal Acts: Traditional acts include lions, elephants, horses, and sea lions; animal welfare standards are observed (Destination Munich)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where can I buy Circus Krone tickets?
A: Through the official website or authorized partners like Muenchenticket.

Q: What are the Circus Krone visiting hours?
A: Doors open one hour before the show; showtimes usually at 14:30 and 18:30 during the winter season.

Q: Is Circus Krone accessible for guests with disabilities?
A: Yes, with barrier-free access and reserved wheelchair spaces.

Q: Are children allowed at Circus Krone?
A: Yes, recommended for ages 3 and up. Children under 3 enter free but do not receive their own seat.

Q: Can I take photos or videos during the show?
A: Generally not permitted during performances; always check before recording.

Q: Does Circus Krone feature animal acts?
A: Yes, including lions, elephants, horses, and sea lions. For more on animal welfare, review venue policies.

Conclusion & Final Recommendations

Circus Krone is an enduring cultural treasure that combines over a century of tradition, entertainment, and architectural uniqueness in the heart of Munich. With family-friendly shows, accessible facilities, and a year-round calendar of events—including concerts and special programs—the Kronebau is a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Early booking is advised, especially during peak times. Pair your visit with other central Munich attractions for a truly memorable experience.

Stay informed about upcoming shows, ticket sales, and special events by visiting the official Circus Krone website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for seamless ticketing and exclusive visitor content.