Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe - a building with a statue in front of it
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Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe

4.5
·4k reviews·Hamburg, Germany

Applied arts museum with ancient artifacts, Bauhaus furniture, and iconic design spaces like the Verner Panton room.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe - a building with a statue in front of it

Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Applied arts museum with ancient artifacts, Bauhaus furniture, and iconic design spaces like the Verner Panton room.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"A very rich selection of themes and collections, from ancient Greece to modern design."

Vertical photo
TIP

✨ Last Hour Discount

Enjoy a reduced entry fee of 5 Euros during the last hour of opening on days other than Monday.

☕ Cafe & Shop Delights

The museum boasts an atmospheric cafe and a well-stocked shop with a great selection of books.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Glitter' Exhibition

The 'Glitter' Exhibition

Special Exhibition Hall

A dazzling exploration of glitter's history in fashion and design, featuring interactive elements and a unique bioglitter installation.

Verner Panton's Spiegel Room

Verner Panton's Spiegel Room

Design Collection

Step into a surreal 1960s design dreamscape created by Verner Panton for the former Spiegel publishing house.

Ancient & Applied Arts

Ancient & Applied Arts

Various Galleries

Discover treasures from ancient Egypt and Greece alongside exquisite European decorative arts and Japanese pottery.

Design & Photography Collections

Design & Photography Collections

Design and Photography Galleries

Explore influential movements like Art Nouveau, Bauhaus, and contemporary graphic design, plus a rich photography archive.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. The museum can get busy on weekends and during special exhibitions like the popular 'Glitter' display. Consider visiting during the last hour for a reduced entry fee.

Navigating the Collections

With diverse exhibits from ancient artifacts to modern design, plan your visit. The 'Glitter' exhibition has received mixed reviews, so prioritize sections that align with your interests, such as the Art Nouveau or the Verner Panton designed Spiegel room.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Last Hour Before Closing
Why
Reduced entry fee, quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (with caution)
Why
Can be busy, but vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨ Glitzer, Nostalgie & pure Kreativität! ✨ Wir waren in der 💜Glitzer-Ausstellung🩷im Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe – und was soll ich sagen? Es war MAGISCH 💫!Von funkelnden Erinnerungen a die Kindheit bis zum coolsten 90er-Glitzer-Kinderzimmer ever – mein Sohn war hin und weg (und ich auch!). Wer hat damals auch Diddl gesammelt? Oder Ü-Ei-Figuren? Ich hab so viele Schätze wiederentdeckt! Aber das a...
nordlichtabenteuer
26 likes • 1.2K views

✨ Last Hour Discount

Enjoy a reduced entry fee of 5 Euros during the last hour of opening on days other than Monday. Instagram

☕ Cafe & Shop Delights

The museum boasts an atmospheric cafe and a well-stocked shop with a great selection of books. Reddit

Noch mehr Glitzer: Die Glitzer-Ausstellung Hamburger Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe (Bericht in Heft 3/2025) ist jetzt um eine große Installation reicher: „Puff Out“ des Künstlerduos @mentalklinik besteht aus modifizierten Staubsaugerrobotern, die in Sisyphus-Manier stetig Bioglitzer einsaugen und zugleich hinter sich wieder auspusten. Dabei entsteht nicht nur ein großes abstraktes Bild auf dem Bode...
art.kunstmagazin
955 likes • 29K views
🪄VERLOSUNG🪄 MUSEUM FÜR KUNST UND GEWERBE | Anzeige Lasst uns die Gestaltung der Welt neu denken, das ist das Motto des MK&G. Das Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe Hamburg ist ein Hotspot für Kunst, Design und Kultur. Hamburgs wahrscheinlich schönstes Museum überzeugt nicht nur mit wunderschönen Räumen und ganz viel Design, sondern auch mit spannenden wechselnden Ausstellungen. Highlights wie die Spieg...
rausgegangenhamburg
215 likes • 21.7K views

bilingual Descriptions

Most exhibits feature descriptions in both German and English, making it accessible for international visitors. Reddit

Glitter Workshop Fun

If visiting with children, check out the glitter workshop for a hands-on creative experience. Reddit

✨ Glitzer? Glitzer! ✨Hast du bereits die Glitzer-Ausstellung in Hamburg besucht?✨✨ werbung | ad Noch bis Oktober kannst du im Museum für Kunst & Gewerbe die spannende Ausstellung besuchen und eine Menge über Glitzer seit 1934 erfahren und sogar selbst zur Glitzer-Designerin werden. Viel Spaß! 😍 #glitzer #ausstellung #museumfürkunstundgewerbe #hamburg #hamburgtipps #hamburgcity #glitzerliebe #glit...
saba.hamburg
519 likes • 6.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

✨ Last Hour Discount

Enjoy a reduced entry fee of 5 Euros during the last hour of opening on days other than Monday. Instagram

☕ Cafe & Shop Delights

The museum boasts an atmospheric cafe and a well-stocked shop with a great selection of books. Reddit

bilingual Descriptions

Most exhibits feature descriptions in both German and English, making it accessible for international visitors. Reddit

Glitter Workshop Fun

If visiting with children, check out the glitter workshop for a hands-on creative experience. Reddit

Plan Your Route

With vast collections, decide which areas to focus on beforehand to maximize your visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe for its superb organization, rich and diverse collections spanning ancient to contemporary art and design, and atmospheric cafe. The bilingual descriptions are a significant plus for international guests. However, some find certain standard exhibits dated and the temporary 'Glitter' exhibition polarizing.

"The space is superbly organised. A very rich selection of themes and collections. Contemporary art is neighbouring with a collection of exhibits from Egypt and ancient Greece. Each exhibit has a bilingual description. Atmospheric cafe. Any visitor will find something of interest. A chic museum shop with a huge selection of books."

Olga Pon

"it was a rainy day in Hamburg. We went to this museum and how fun is it they had a glitter exhibit in a museum of something. I never expect to see They also had many other art deco exhibit and many other important exhibit. It’s a nice way to spend a couple hours and if you have children, they had a workshop that you could make things out of glitter they also have a nice café,
so fun."

harriet miller

"I enjoyed it, plenty of descriptions in English, and some lovely ancient artefacts. Especially good on the early twentieth century, art noveau,etc. Not sure about the (temporary) glitter exhibition. People like and liked to wear glittery things...and...so what. Good cafe, usual German museum thing where you're not sure if your expected to go through a closed door or not (no sign!). But overall great museum. Here's some of my favourites, from the first ever (?) fitted kitchen, by Margarete Schutte-Lihotzky, to a 6000 year old figure, and some lovely pottery."

I L

What People Like

Diverse collections
Bilingual descriptions
Atmospheric cafe

What People Dislike

Dated exhibits
Polarizing glitter exhibit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is conveniently located at Steintorplatz and is easily accessible by public transport. Take the U-Bahn (subway) lines U1, U2, or U3 to the 'Steinstraße' or 'Hauptbahnhof Süd' stations, or various bus lines that stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from the central train station (Hauptbahnhof). Reddit

While there isn't dedicated museum parking, several public parking garages are available in the vicinity, such as the 'Parkhaus Gänsemarkt' or 'Parkhaus Hansaplatz'. However, using public transport is generally recommended due to potential traffic and parking costs. Reddit

Yes, the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe is largely accessible for wheelchair users. Most exhibition areas and facilities are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility impairments. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information.

Strollers are generally permitted within the museum. There are also often cloakroom facilities where you can store larger bags and coats if needed. Reddit

From Hamburg Airport (HAM), you can take the S-Bahn line S1 directly to the 'Hauptbahnhof' (main train station). From there, it's a short walk or a quick transfer to U-Bahn lines that will take you to the museum. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays. Specific hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official museum website before your visit. Instagram

Standard admission prices apply, but there's a special offer: during the last hour of opening on days other than Monday, you can get in for just 5 Euros. Instagram Check the museum's website for current pricing and any potential discounts.

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak times or for popular temporary exhibitions. This can save you time queuing at the ticket counter. Reddit

While there isn't a regular free entry day, the museum offers a discounted entry fee during its final opening hour on most days, making it a more budget-friendly option. Instagram

Your admission ticket typically grants access to all permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, unless otherwise specified for special events. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the dazzling 'Glitter' exhibition,Instagram+2 the iconic Verner Panton-designed Spiegel room,InstagramReddit and extensive collections of applied arts, design, photography, and ancient artifacts. Reddit+1

Reviews are mixed. Some find it a fun, nostalgic, and creative exploration of glitter's cultural impact,Instagram+1 while others feel it's loosely connected and not very inspiring. Reddit It's a unique, albeit polarizing, temporary exhibition. Instagram+1

The museum often offers guided tours in German and sometimes in English. It's advisable to check the museum's schedule upon arrival or on their website for tour times and availability. Reddit

The 'Freiraum' is a special area within the museum, often featuring interactive exhibits or spaces designed for younger visitors and families. Instagram

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted, especially in sensitive exhibition spaces. Always look for signage indicating photography rules. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe has an atmospheric cafe where you can enjoy refreshments and light meals. It's a pleasant spot to take a break during your visit. Reddit+1

The cafe typically offers a selection of cakes, pastries, coffee, and light snacks, fitting the typical German museum cafe experience. Reddit

The museum is located in a central area of Hamburg, so there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the surrounding streets offering a wide variety of cuisines. Reddit

Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into the exhibition halls is not permitted. It's best to consume your own food in designated areas or before entering the galleries. Reddit

The cafe is generally family-friendly, and if there's a workshop for children, it can be a convenient place for them to refuel. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Verner Panton-designed Spiegel room is a highly photogenic space.InstagramReddit The architecture of the museum itself, along with specific art installations and the applied arts collections, also offer great photo opportunities. Instagram

Yes, phone cameras are generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways. Instagram

Flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artworks. Tripods and selfie sticks might also be restricted. Look for specific signage in each gallery. Instagram

The museum has a significant photography collection, showcasing historical and contemporary works, as well as exhibitions that delve into the medium's artistic and cultural impact. Reddit

The 'Glitter' exhibition is designed to be visually striking, so it offers many opportunities for colorful and sparkly photos. Just be aware of any specific rules regarding photography within that particular exhibit. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe offers engaging experiences for families. Beyond the main exhibits, keep an eye out for potential children's workshops, such as the glitter-themed ones that have been available.Reddit These hands-on activities can make the museum visit more interactive and fun for younger visitors. The museum's cafe also provides a convenient spot for a family break.Reddit+1

While some exhibits might be more abstract, the diverse collections, from ancient artifacts to design pieces, can spark curiosity. The 'Glitter' exhibition, despite mixed reviews, is often a hit with children due to its visual appeal and interactive elements.Instagram+1 Ensure to check the museum's schedule for any family-specific events or activities during your visit.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe offers a great value, especially with its late-hour discount. Visiting during the last hour of operation on days other than Monday allows entry for just 5 Euros.Instagram This is an excellent way to experience the museum's collections without a full-price ticket.

Additionally, consider planning your visit on a weekday morning to potentially avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. The museum's central location also means you can easily combine your visit with exploring other free attractions in Hamburg, making it a cost-effective addition to your itinerary. Reddit

🎨 Art & Design Enthusiasts

This museum is a must-visit for anyone passionate about art and design. You'll be captivated by the iconic Verner Panton-designed Spiegel room,InstagramReddit a masterpiece of 1960s interior design. Explore influential movements like Art Nouveau and Bauhaus within the extensive design collections, and delve into the rich history of photography and applied arts.Reddit+1

The museum's commitment to showcasing both historical and contemporary works, from ancient pottery to modern graphic design, provides a comprehensive overview of creative evolution. The temporary exhibitions, like the 'Glitter' show, also offer unique perspectives on materials and cultural trends.Instagram+1 Don't miss the chance to explore the well-curated applied arts sections, which are consistently praised for their depth and quality. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure and Controversy of Glitter

The Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe's temporary 'Glitter' exhibition has sparked considerable discussion. While some visitors find it a fun, nostalgic, and creative exploration of glitter's pervasive influence on fashion, design, and childhood culture,Instagram+2 others feel the connection to broader art and design is tenuous. Critics suggest that a timeline of glitter's use in popular culture doesn't necessarily translate into compelling museum content.Reddit The exhibition does feature innovative elements, such as an installation using modified robot vacuums to continuously suck up and expel bioglitter, highlighting contemporary approaches to the material.Instagram

Despite mixed reviews, the 'Glitter' exhibition taps into a widespread fascination with the material. It touches upon its 'trashy, kitschy, shrill' reputation while also acknowledging the development of more environmentally friendly 'bioglitter' options.Instagram For those interested in pop culture and the evolution of materials in design, it offers a unique, albeit unconventional, perspective. Visitors are encouraged to approach it with an open mind, perhaps even participating in a glitter workshop if available.Reddit

Ultimately, the 'Glitter' exhibition represents a bold choice by the museum to engage with a material that is both ubiquitous and often dismissed. It prompts questions about taste, sustainability, and the definition of art and design. Whether it's a highlight or a lowlight depends heavily on individual expectations and appreciation for the subject matter. Reddit

Design Icons: Verner Panton and the Spiegel Room

One of the most celebrated and visually striking elements within the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe is the Verner Panton-designed Spiegel room. This space, originally created for the SPIEGEL-Verlagshaus (publishing house) in Hamburg in 1969, is a testament to Panton's visionary approach to interior design.Instagram Panton believed that colors and forms could imbue spaces with life and energy, and the Spiegel room is a prime example of this philosophy.

Stepping into this room is like entering a surreal, mid-century modern dreamscape. The design features bold colors, organic shapes, and a playful use of materials that were characteristic of Panton's work. It's a space that immediately captivates visitors and is frequently cited as a must-see attraction, offering a unique glimpse into the design aesthetics of the late 1960s. The room is not just visually stunning but also an important piece of design history, showcasing Panton's influence on interior architecture and furniture design.Reddit

For design enthusiasts and anyone appreciating bold, innovative interiors, the Spiegel room is an absolute highlight. It stands in stark contrast to some of the museum's more traditional exhibits, offering a vibrant and memorable experience. Its presence alone makes a visit to the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe a worthwhile endeavor, providing a tangible connection to a pivotal era in design history. InstagramReddit

A Journey Through Applied Arts and Ancient Treasures

Beyond its temporary exhibitions, the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe is renowned for its extensive and diverse permanent collections. Visitors can embark on a journey through centuries of human creativity, from the ancient artifacts of Egypt and Greece to exquisite examples of European decorative arts. These collections offer a rich historical context, showcasing craftsmanship and artistic expression across different cultures and eras.Reddit+1

The museum also boasts significant holdings in design and photography. This includes influential movements like Art Nouveau and Bauhaus, as well as contemporary graphic design and a substantial photography archive. These collections highlight the evolution of aesthetics, technology, and visual culture. A particular point of interest for many is the first ever fitted kitchen designed by Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky, a groundbreaking innovation in domestic design.Reddit

With bilingual descriptions accompanying most exhibits,Reddit the museum makes its vast array of objects accessible to a broad audience. Whether you're drawn to historical pottery, intricate furniture, or the evolution of everyday objects, the applied arts and ancient collections provide a comprehensive and engaging experience. The sheer breadth of themes and collections ensures that every visitor can find something to pique their interest. Reddit+2

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