Visiting Die Neue Sammlung – The New Collection, Munich: Ultimate Guide
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction
Nestled in Munich’s renowned Kunstareal museum district, Die Neue Sammlung – The New Collection is a global leader in design museums. Established in 1907 and officially inaugurated as a state museum in 1925, it stands as the world’s oldest dedicated design museum. Housing more than 120,000 objects, its collection spans industrial design, furniture, graphic arts, contemporary jewelry, and more, offering an unparalleled journey through the evolution of design from modernism to the present. Whether you’re a design aficionado, a student, or a curious traveler, Die Neue Sammlung provides a comprehensive, accessible, and engaging experience that highlights the role of design in shaping both society and culture (Die Neue Sammlung official website, Wikipedia, Museen in Bayern).
Table of Contents
- Why Visit Die Neue Sammlung?
- History and Significance
- Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Location
- Guided Tours, Events, and Educational Programs
- Accessibility and Visitor Services
- Collection Highlights
- Exhibitions and Programming
- Nearby Attractions
- Digital Experiences and Visual Resources
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion & Travel Tips
- References
Why Visit Die Neue Sammlung?
Die Neue Sammlung is not only Munich’s premier design museum but also a living archive of design’s impact on daily life. Visitors can expect:
- A world-class collection with over 120,000 objects from the 20th and 21st centuries
- Thematic and rotating exhibitions featuring design icons and contemporary innovators
- Interactive educational programs and hands-on workshops for all ages
- Full accessibility, family-friendly amenities, and a prime location in Munich’s cultural heart
History and Significance
Founded amid the ideals of the German Werkbund, Die Neue Sammlung was established to bridge art, industry, and craftsmanship, championing modernism and contemporary design. Over nearly a century, its collection has grown to be one of the largest and most influential globally, with a strong focus on innovation and the societal role of design. Since 2002, the museum has been housed within the Pinakothek der Moderne, enabling interdisciplinary exhibitions and research (Wikipedia).
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed: Mondays
- Note: Extended hours or changes may occur during special events—check the official website before visiting.
Ticket Prices
- Adults: €10
- Reduced (students, seniors): €7
- Children under 18: Free
- Free admission on Sundays for residents of Bavaria
- Family and group tickets available; free/discounted entry during certain festivals (e.g., Kunstareal Festival)
Purchase tickets online for faster entry: Ticket Info
Location & Getting There
- Address: Pinakothek der Moderne, Barer Str. 40, 80333 Munich, Germany
- Public Transport: U-Bahn (U2/U8 to Königsplatz, U2 to Theresienstraße), trams 27/28, accessible buses
- Parking: Limited on-site; nearby public garages recommended
- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free routes and accessible restrooms
Guided Tours, Events, and Educational Programs
- Guided Tours: Available in English and German; book online or at the museum (official tours)
- Workshops: Upcycling, digital fabrication, jewelry making, and children’s activities, especially during school holidays (museum education)
- Lectures & Symposia: Regular talks with leading designers and scholars, including public events like Munich Creative Business Week (MCBW)
- Community Engagement: Urban design pop-ups, Youth Design Challenge, and partnerships with local schools and design institutions
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Die Neue Sammlung is committed to inclusivity:
- Barrier-free access: Step-free entrances, lifts, accessible restrooms
- Services: Wheelchairs and folding chairs for loan, induction loops, tactile models, large-print and audio guides, sign language tours
- Family amenities: Stroller access, rest areas, family-friendly programs
- Café and Shop: Enjoy refreshments and browse design-focused merchandise
Collection Highlights
Die Neue Sammlung’s collection covers over 20 areas of design:
- Industrial & Product Design: Iconic Braun appliances, stacking plates by Bauscher, and pioneering household objects (SMCK Magazine)
- Furniture Design: Bauhaus masterpieces (Marcel Breuer’s tubular steel chairs, Wilhelm Wagenfeld’s glass lamps), and contemporary pieces
- Graphic Design: Posters, typography, and communication artifacts; highlights include works by Paula Scher (Museen in Bayern)
- Mobility & Transport: Rare automobiles, bikes, and prototypes illustrating the intersection of engineering and aesthetics
- Ceramics & Glass: Tracing developments from artisanal to industrial production
- Contemporary Jewelry: One of the world’s largest collections, including major works by Warwick Freeman and pieces on loan from the Danner Foundation
Exhibitions and Programming
Permanent Exhibitions
- Thematic displays featuring the evolution of design from the Bauhaus era to today
- Notable sections: Industrial Design, Furniture, Graphic Design, Jewelry, Mobility
Rotating & Thematic Exhibitions (2025 Highlights)
- Design for the Future: Sustainable Innovations: Eco-friendly materials and circular design
- Women in Design: Pioneers and Visionaries: Celebrating female designers
- Paula Scher – Type is Image: Retrospective on the American graphic designer
- Hook Hand Heart Star: Jewelry by Warwick Freeman (SMCK Magazine)
- Kitchen Culture (2024–2026): Exploring the kitchen’s role as a site of social and design innovation
For current and upcoming exhibitions: Exhibitions Overview
Nearby Attractions
Take advantage of Die Neue Sammlung’s central location to visit other Munich highlights:
- Pinakothek der Moderne: Modern art, architecture, and design under one roof
- Alte Pinakothek & Neue Pinakothek: Masterpieces from Old Masters to 19th-century art
- Museum Brandhorst: Contemporary art
- Königsplatz: Historic square with neoclassical architecture
Interactive Map of Kunstareal Munich
Digital Experiences and Visual Resources
- Virtual Tours & Online Exhibitions: Explore highlights before your visit (online exhibitions)
- Multimedia Guides: Smartphone app or rental devices offering audio, video, and augmented reality experiences
- Alt Text for Accessibility: All images and online content include descriptive alt text for visually impaired users
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the museum’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; closed Mondays. Special events may offer extended hours.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Adults €10, reduced €7, free for children under 18. Family and group rates available.
Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with barrier-free entrances, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, book in advance for English or German tours.
Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted in permanent exhibitions; restrictions may apply for temporary shows.
Q: Are there activities for children and families?
A: Yes, including family tours, workshops, and children’s holiday programs.
Conclusion & Travel Tips
Die Neue Sammlung offers a vibrant, accessible, and continually evolving window into the world of design. Its extensive collections, educational initiatives, and visitor-friendly approach make it a must-see destination in Munich. For the best experience:
- Book tickets online in advance, especially for special exhibitions or workshops.
- Visit during weekdays or early afternoons for a quieter experience.
- Take advantage of digital resources and multimedia guides for a deeper understanding.
- Explore nearby museums and Munich’s historic sites to enrich your cultural journey.
Plan your visit today via the official Die Neue Sammlung website and enhance your museum experience with the Audiala app for curated audio guides and event updates.
