Alte Pinakothek
A treasure trove of European masterpieces from the 14th to 18th centuries, housed in a stunning neoclassical building.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
Alte Pinakothek
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A treasure trove of European masterpieces from the 14th to 18th centuries, housed in a stunning neoclassical building.
"An impressive museum with a wonderful art collection set in a beautiful location."
📱 Download the App
Enhance your visit with the 'Alte Pinakothek Unframed' app for audio tours and extra info.
🎒 Bag Check Required
Liquids, sanitizers, and lip balm need to be stored in lockers (2€ deposit).
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Albrecht Dürer's Masterpieces
Old Masters Gallery
Witness the intricate detail and profound artistry of Dürer's iconic works, a cornerstone of Northern Renaissance art.
Rembrandt's Luminous Portraits
Dutch Golden Age Gallery
Experience the dramatic chiaroscuro and emotional depth in Rembrandt's powerful portraits and biblical scenes.
Flemish Baroque Grandeur
Flemish Masters Gallery
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and dynamic compositions of Rubens and Van Dyck, masters of the Flemish Baroque.
Impressionist Gems (Temporary Display)
Special Exhibition Area
Catch stunning works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Manet, often displayed from the Neue Pinakothek during renovations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key
Navigating the Collection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📱 Download the App
Enhance your visit with the 'Alte Pinakothek Unframed' app for audio tours and extra info.
🎒 Bag Check Required
Liquids, sanitizers, and lip balm need to be stored in lockers (2€ deposit).
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the masterpieces.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Two hours is not enough for the Old Masters; plan for at least 3-4 hours.
Yesterday visit at Pinakothek der Modern and Alte Pinakothek. There you have some paintings from Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet, Ernst, Dali, absolutely a must visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
📱 Download the App
Enhance your visit with the 'Alte Pinakothek Unframed' app for audio tours and extra info.
🎒 Bag Check Required
Liquids, sanitizers, and lip balm need to be stored in lockers (2€ deposit).
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the masterpieces.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Two hours is not enough for the Old Masters; plan for at least 3-4 hours.
€ Sunday Special
Entry is just €1 on Sundays, making it a popular, albeit crowded, option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Alte Pinakothek for its magnificent collection of European masterpieces, spanning centuries of art history. The building's neoclassical architecture is also a highlight. While the sheer volume of art can be overwhelming, the €1 Sunday entry makes it an accessible and highly recommended experience for art lovers visiting Munich.
"it was a Sunday so number one it only cost one euro for anybody to come, which I think is a great thing, especially because most things are closed on Sunday when we went to the desk older gentleman was so helpful. I was really overwhelmed with gratitude that he was there to help me get a cab to go back to my hotel to explain where things were so it was very nice. To see the people care about the people that come to their workplace and make them feel comfortable The art is I must see gallery. It has everything you could possibly want to see the major Artist and minor Artist and they had a great special exhibit. Every picture tells the story which I really enjoyed they have a cafeteria. They have a coat room. They have tours in English if you check the website This is a must on your list when you’re in Munich"
harriet miller
"An impressive museum with a nice collection of art spanning the last five centuries. The downstairs gallery includes a few pieces from Van Gogh and other recognizable names. The rotating exhibit is currently about storytelling through paintings and focuses more on religious paintings, which is interesting. Definitely a great spot to see some good art and cool off on a hot day."
Madeline Klein
"There were 18-19th century paintings on the first floor, including famous artists like Claude Monet and Van Gogh.
On the second floor there were Old Masters. There were much more paintings than on the first floor.
Visited it on Thursday at 4 pm, 2 hours before the museum closes. I think you definitely need more time to take a closer look at the old masters on the second floor.
Overall, it was impressive and I would definitely recommend visiting."
Blossom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alte Pinakothek is easily accessible via public transport. Take the U-Bahn (subway) lines U3 or U6 to the 'Giselastraße' or 'Universität' stations, followed by a short walk. Alternatively, several bus lines stop nearby. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from the city center if staying in the vicinity.
While there isn't dedicated visitor parking directly at the museum, several public parking garages are located within walking distance. It's generally recommended to use public transport to avoid parking hassles and costs.
Yes, it's a scenic walk of about 20-30 minutes from Marienplatz, passing through charming streets. This allows you to see more of Munich's architecture and atmosphere.
From Munich Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take the U-Bahn lines U4 or U5 towards 'Arabellapark' or 'Neuperlach Süd' and change at 'Odeonsplatz' to U3 or U6 towards 'Garching-Forschungszentrum' or 'Olympiazentrum', alighting at 'Universität'. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
The museum is generally accessible, and the surrounding area is well-served by public transport. Most U-Bahn stations have elevators, but it's always good to check the MVG (Munich public transport) website for specific station accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Alte Pinakothek is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Standard admission is €7, with concessions available. On Sundays, the entry fee is significantly reduced to just €1, making it a very popular day to visit.
Yes, you can purchase tickets online in advance through the official Pinakotheken website. This is recommended, especially during peak season or for special exhibitions, to save time.
As mentioned, Sundays offer a €1 entry fee. Additionally, certain groups like children under 18 and students from Munich universities often receive free admission or discounts. Check the website for specific eligibility.
This is a digital guide for the museum, offering additional information, audio tours, and insights into the artworks. It can be used on-site or remotely, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the collection.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include Albrecht Dürer's 'Melencolia I' and 'Adoration of the Magi', Rembrandt's 'Self-Portrait with Saskia', and works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Cranach. The collection spans from the 14th to the 18th centuries.
To truly appreciate the extensive collection, especially the Old Masters on the second floor, allocate at least 3-4 hours. Many visitors find 2 hours insufficient.
Yes, the museum offers guided tours in English and German. You can find information about schedules and booking on their official website. The 'Alte Pinakothek Unframed' app also provides audio guides.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted without flash. However, for specific artworks or during special exhibitions, restrictions may apply. Always look for signage.
The Alte Pinakothek offers a cloakroom for coats and bags, restrooms, and a cafeteria. Lockers are available for items like liquids and lip balm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafeteria where you can purchase refreshments and light meals. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit.
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the galleries. There is a cafeteria for dining, and you can store personal items in the cloakroom or lockers.
The museum is located in the Kunstareal (Art District), which has several cafes and restaurants nearby. You can also find numerous dining options in the Schwabing district, a short walk or U-Bahn ride away.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal, non-commercial use is generally permitted without flash. However, always check for specific signage regarding restrictions on certain artworks or temporary exhibitions.
The grand halls and the neoclassical architecture of the building itself offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Capturing the scale of the galleries and the intricate details of the paintings can be very rewarding.
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed inside the galleries to ensure the safety of the artworks and the comfort of other visitors. It's best to leave these items at the cloakroom.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it a treasure hunt for specific animals, characters, or colors within the paintings. The museum's cafeteria provides a good spot for a break, and the cloakroom can store strollers. Remember that Sundays offer a very affordable entry fee, but be prepared for larger crowds.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save further, consider packing your own snacks and water, though you'll need to consume them outside the galleries. Utilizing Munich's excellent public transport system is also more cost-effective than relying on taxis or private cars. The museum's location in the Kunstareal means you can easily combine a visit with exploring other nearby cultural institutions or simply enjoying the city's atmosphere on foot.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Students
Take advantage of the 'Alte Pinakothek Unframed' app for detailed insights and consider booking a guided tour to gain expert perspectives. The temporary exhibitions, often featuring works from the Neue Pinakothek, offer a chance to see renowned Impressionist and Post-Impressionist pieces.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through European Art History
Visitors can trace the development of artistic styles, from the early Renaissance and Gothic periods to the Baroque and Rococo eras. Key artists represented include Albrecht Dürer, Hans Holbein the Younger, Lucas Cranach the Elder, Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, Rembrandt van Rijn, and El Greco. The sheer breadth and depth of the collection mean that each visit can reveal new insights and masterpieces.
The museum's neoclassical building, designed by Leo von Klenze, is also an architectural marvel, providing a grand and fitting setting for the treasures it contains. The spacious galleries and natural light contribute to an immersive viewing experience, allowing visitors to connect with the art on a profound level.
Exploring the Alte Pinakothek Collection Online and On-the-Go
This digital resource is invaluable for navigating the vast collection and understanding the context behind the masterpieces. Whether you're standing in front of a painting or exploring from home, the app aims to make the art more accessible and engaging. It's a testament to the museum's commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the visitor experience and broaden its reach.
Beyond the app, the Pinakotheken also offer online collections, allowing art enthusiasts worldwide to explore their holdings virtually. This digital accessibility is crucial for researchers, students, and anyone interested in art history, providing a window into one of Germany's most significant art collections.
Van Gogh and Impressionist Works: A Special Note
These temporary displays are a significant draw, offering a chance to view iconic pieces that are usually housed in the neighboring museum. It's advisable to check the museum's official website or inquire upon arrival about which works from the Neue Pinakothek are currently on display at the Alte Pinakothek. This can significantly enhance your visit, providing a broader spectrum of art historical periods.
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