Art and more: What you can only discover in Munich museums

Munich is one of Europe's most important museum cities, uniting an extraordinary range of exhibition venues within a relatively small area. In addition to internationally renowned art museums, the city's cultural profile is also shaped by technical and scientific collections, design-oriented institutions, and innovative, interactive concepts.

Museums here function not only as places of preservation, but also as vibrant spaces for dialogue, education, and aesthetic experience. Those who explore Munich's museum landscape will encounter classical masterpieces as well as contemporary works, experimental formats, and innovative exhibition concepts.

The following overview presents five selected museums that exemplify this diversity and offer different approaches to art, culture, technology and perception.

WOW Museum – Interactive illusions and experiences all about perception

The WOW Museum is one of Munich's modern art exhibitions that focuses on the visitor's own experience. Instead of traditional exhibits, visitors encounter a sequence of designed rooms that utilize optical illusions, reflections, light installations, and shifts in perspective. The museum thus addresses a theme that touches upon art, design, and science alike: human perception and its malleability.

The exhibition is intentionally designed to be interactive. Many installations only unfold their full effect through movement, changes of location, or the active participation of the viewers. Photography is not a byproduct, but rather an integral part of the concept, as numerous rooms deliberately create visual disruptions that are only fully revealed in a two-dimensional image. In terms of content, the WOW Museum exists at the intersection of art installation, experiential space, and perceptual experiment.

Within Munich's museum landscape, this institution occupies a special position. It complements traditional collections with a format that focuses less on historical context and more on direct experience, thereby appealing to new audiences. At the same time, it reflects current trends in cultural outreach, where interaction and sensory experience are gaining increasing importance.

A visit to the illusion rooms of the WOW Museum fosters what the museum's educational concept describes as the discovery of the "inner child"—a state of unprejudiced curiosity and wonder that is often lost in adulthood. Here, the museum functions as a therapeutic space for reactivating cognitive flexibility

The Wonder Lab as a haven of education

The "Wonder Lab" in the museum's basement complements the playful approach of the upper floors with an analytical component. While the illusion rooms confront visitors with perplexing phenomena, the Wonder Lab the corresponding scientific explanations. It is a space for experimentation where the workings of optical illusions are revealed.

Thanks to this dual structure – first experience, then analysis – the museum is a valuable place for knowledge transfer, especially for young visitors, but also for team events where the goal is to solve perception puzzles together.

The museum also incorporates modern media elements such as photo booths and puzzle stations , deliberately leveraging the connection between physical experience and digital documentation. The opportunity to photographically capture one's own confusion is not merely fun; it is an important part of the learning process: numerous illusions only reveal their full effect through the two-dimensional medium of the camera, demonstrating that our perception is dependent on technical devices.

feature	Detailed description	Relevance for the visitor
Illusionary spaces	12 individually designed themed areas	Radical change in spatial perception
Wonder Lab	Educational experimentation area in the basement	Understanding the physical and psychological background
interaction	Puzzle stations and competitions	Active involvement and promotion of problem-solving behavior
Target audience	Suitable for all ages, ideal for team events	Strengthening social cohesion through shared experiences
Location	Tal 27, centrally located in Munich	Easy accessibility as part of a city tour

German Museum – Science and Technology Considered Globally

The Deutsches Museum is one of the world's leading institutions for science and technology and is renowned far beyond Munich as a benchmark for science communication. Since its founding, the museum has strived not to present technological and scientific developments in isolation, but to place them within their social, historical, and cultural context. This approach continues to shape its current exhibition structure.

The thematic scope ranges from physics, chemistry, and energy to mobility, communication, and space travel, as well as current issues surrounding the environment and future technologies. A characteristic feature is the combination of historical objects, working models, and interactive experiment stations. Visitors thus gain insights not only into technological achievements but also into their origins and their impact on everyday life.

The Deutsches Museum sees itself as both a museum and an educational institution. Its exhibitions are clearly structured from a didactic perspective and are aimed at a broad audience without oversimplifying the subject matter. Within Munich's museum landscape, it deliberately forms a counterpoint to art history institutions, broadening cultural horizons with scientific perspectives that make technology comprehensible as part of human culture.

Icons in the interim: The mine and the submarine U1

The Deutsches Museum boasts two very special attractions that make it unique and underpin its reputation: the historic mine and the U1 submarine . Since June 29, 2022, these areas have unfortunately been closed to the public due to ongoing renovations, which is important information for potential visitors to know. The mine and a realistic replica of the underground world are located in the second half of the building, the upgrade of which is scheduled for completion by the museum's 125th anniversary in 2028. The U1, the first German military submarine, is also housed there, dating back to 1906.

Although physical access is currently prohibited, the museum has created innovative digital bridges. The 42-meter-long engineering marvel, the U1 subway line, can be explored virtually via a high-resolution 360° tour. The mine has a similar concept; there, a playful 3D experience called "cuub" has been created, allowing users to virtually collect ores and examine geological formations.

These digital surrogates are far more than simple stopgap solutions; they demonstrate the museum's ambition to make knowledge of the history of technology accessible even during structural limitations, using state-of-the-art means.

Active exhibitions: Geodesy, power engineering and aviation

Despite the ongoing construction work, a significant part of the museum remains open to visitors and displays exhibits that are world-leading in their originality. Geodesy is the task of measuring the Earth; historical mapping instruments are exhibited there alongside state-of-the-art satellite technologies.

In the Power Machines department, visitors experience the development of energy generation, from old water wheels to huge steam engines that are set in motion at certain times.

The focus is particularly on aviation and aerospace. The "Historical Aviation" exhibition features original aircraft from the first half of the 20th century, while the "Modern Aviation" section documents developments since the 1950s, including helicopters and jet aircraft.

The space exhibition not only allows visitors to admire original capsules and rocket parts; it also offers virtual 3D tours that enable a detailed exploration of the exhibits from anywhere in the world.

The Future Box and AI-ME: A preview of what's to come

Until March 2026, the "Future Box" an exclusive highlight in the forum of the Deutsches Museum at the Ludwigsbrücke. In this interactive exhibition, visitors can explore questions about the future in a laboratory for the future. It examines technological innovations that could shape our lives in the coming decades. A special feature of this exhibition is that it is accompanied by an artificial intelligence called "AI-ME," which was programmed specifically for this purpose.

During the tours, this AI takes on the roles of curator and conversation partner; it illustrates the transition from the mechanical to the artificial intelligence era, a topic that the Deutsches Museum is increasingly addressing.

Department / Exhibit	Current status (2026)	Special highlight / Virtual offer
mine	Closed until 2028	360° tour & 3D experience “cuub”
Submarine U1	Closed until 2028	Virtual tour of the basement of the shipping hall
Future Box	Open until March 2026	Interaction with the AI ​​“AI-ME”
Space travel	Open	Original exhibits & 3D browser navigation
geodesy	Open	Instruments for global surveying
Power machines	Open	Demonstrations of historical steam engines
Z3 (Konrad Zuse)	Computer Science department closed	Replica of the 1984 model, virtually experienceable in 360° mode

Pinakothek der Moderne – Art, design and architecture under one roof

The Pinakothek der Moderne forms a central part of Munich's art district and unites several collections dedicated to the art and design of the 20th and 21st centuries. Its distinctive profile arises from the connection between modern art, graphic design, and architecture, which are not presented separately but rather in relation to one another. This interdisciplinary approach allows for a nuanced examination of modern design as a comprehensive cultural phenomenon.

In the field of visual arts, the spectrum ranges from classical modernism to contemporary works. This is complemented by an internationally significant design collection that illuminates product and industrial design in its aesthetic, functional, and social dimensions. The architecture collection, in turn, presents models, drawings, and concepts that illustrate the transformation of the built environment.

The exhibitions are clearly structured and deliberately understated, allowing the artworks and their content to take center stage. Rotating special exhibitions delve deeper into specific themes or introduce new perspectives. Within Munich's museum landscape, the Pinakothek der Moderne plays a mediating role, presenting art not in isolation but as part of a broader creative and cultural context.

The New Collection: Design over a Century

The Neue Sammlung (New Collection) occupies a special position within this ensemble. With approximately 100,000 objects from the fields of industrial design, applied arts, and graphic design, it is the most comprehensive collection of its kind worldwide. This museum is a must-see for visitors, as it impressively tells the story of everyday objects that have become cultural icons, ranging from the earliest designs of the Bauhaus to the highly polished products of Apple.

To mark its 100th anniversary, Die Neue Sammlung is planning a major exhibition with 100 objects, running until May 2027, showcasing the richness and diversity of its collections. The Danner Rotunda is another permanent highlight: this internationally acclaimed forum for jewelry art has been bridging the gap between craftsmanship and fine art in the field of contemporary jewelry since 2004.

Works of art from classical modernism and expressionism

The exhibits in the Modern Art Collection . The holdings of Classical Modernism and Expressionism are of international renown. Key works include Henri Matisse's "Still Life with Geraniums" (1910), August Macke's "Girl under Trees" (1914), and Franz Marc's "Fighting Forms" (1914) and "The Mandrill" (1913).

Furthermore, the house possesses one of the world's most comprehensive collections of Joseph Beuys' drawings and watercolors, which Bernd and Verena Klüser have amassed over a period of more than 40 years.

Museum Brandhorst – Contemporary Art and International Positions

The Museum Brandhorst complements the Pinakothek der Moderne with a clear focus on international contemporary art, thus significantly shaping the profile of Munich's art district. The collection originates from the private collection of Anette and Udo Brandhorst and comprises important works of art from the second half of the 20th century to the present day. Thematically, it focuses on key movements such as Pop Art, Minimal Art, and Conceptual Art .

A defining characteristic of the museum is its high concentration of key works by individual artists, which allows for an in-depth exploration of their artistic development. The collection is complemented by rotating special exhibitions that address current trends or further develop art historical developments. The building's architecture supports this approach with its clear sequence of spaces and a calm, focused presentation.

Within Munich's museum landscape, the Museum Brandhorst serves as a forum for current artistic debate. It caters to an art-loving audience while remaining open and accessible. At the same time, it strengthens Munich's role as a center for contemporary art of international relevance.

The most important international Warhol collection

A major reason to visit the Museum Brandhorst is its collection of Andy Warhol's works , which is among the most important in Europe. The collection includes over 100 individual works, among them significant pieces such as "Mustard Race Riot" (1963) – a profound work from his series on death and disaster – "One Dollar Bill (Front)" "Ladies and Gentlemen" series (1975).

Warhol's development from graphic designer to pop art superstar can be traced seamlessly through these holdings, and his engagement with themes such as consumer culture, fame, and social violence can be critically examined.

Cy Twombly: Abstraction's Poetry

The works of Cy Twombly are uniquely concentrated worldwide. The entire upper floor of the Museum Brandhorst is dedicated to the American artist; the exhibition spaces were designed in close collaboration with him. The absolute centerpiece is the "Lepanto Cycle" (2001), a monumental ensemble of twelve paintings. This visualizes the historic naval battle of 1571 between the Holy League and the Ottoman fleet in a dramatic color composition of yellow, red, and turquoise.

These rooms possess a meditative power that stands in stark contrast to the hectic pace of Warhol's spaces. Twombly's close connection to Munich, dating back to the 1960s, is given high praise in this permanent exhibition.

Other highlights

In addition to these two major works, the museum presents important pieces by Louise Lawler, Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Cady Noland. The exhibition “Long Story Short” (October 2025 to January 2027) will illuminate the history of the collection's acquisitions, while the “Spot On” will focus specifically on individual artists such as Roni Horn.

The Museum Brandhorst therefore functions not only as an archive of Pop Art, but also as a vibrant space for exchange on issues of contemporary art.

BMW Museum – Design, Technology and Industrial Culture

The BMW Museum broadens the perspective on Munich's museum landscape by offering an exploration of the intricate interplay between technology, design, and industrial culture. Its focus is not solely on the history of an automobile manufacturer, but rather on the evolution of mobility as a cultural and social phenomenon. The exhibition is structured as a chronological and thematic narrative, connecting technological innovations with their design and economic context.

The exhibition showcases historic vehicles, concept cars, and prototypes, as well as production models, illustrating design history and engineering expertise. This is complemented by multimedia installations that demonstrate production processes, future visions, and technological revolutions. The presentation is deliberately dynamic and incorporates principles of modern exhibition design without compromising its informative value.

Among Munich's museums and exhibitions, the BMW Museum occupies a mediating role between a technology museum and a design exhibition. It is aimed at visitors who understand industrial development as part of cultural identity and who view design not only as an aesthetic but also as a functional discipline.

The BMW Art Cars: A meeting of high performance and high culture

The BMW Art Cars collection is a globally exclusive highlight that can only be experienced in Munich. Since 1975, renowned artists such as Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein, and Andy Warhol have transformed BMW vehicles into "rolling sculptures.".

Special attention is given to the BMW M1: Andy Warhol painted it himself in just 28 minutes in 1979 to embody the idea of ​​speed through blurred contours and colors. This vehicle is one of the rare Art Cars to have participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it achieved a respectable sixth place.

The collection will be given special recognition in 2025 and 2026 to mark its 50th anniversary, including an exhibition of Julie Mehretu's latest Art Car (2024). The Art Cars demonstrate that art and technology are not contradictory, but can inspire each other to new heights.

Milestones and prototypes: From the Turbo to the GINA

The BMW Museum is a must-see, especially for its rare prototypes and design studies. The BMW Turbo, designed by Paul Bracq in 1972, is a significant milestone in automotive history and is considered the predecessor of the legendary M1. The BMW GINA Light Vision concept car (2008) is equally impressive; its body consists of a flexible fabric skin that dynamically adapts to aerodynamic requirements.

The permanent exhibition “Belle Macchine” also shows how much Italian design has influenced the Bavarian brand, especially through the collaboration with Giorgetto Giugiaro, who designed the wedge shape of the M1.

In addition to these technological masterpieces, the museum also presents icons of reconstruction, such as the BMW Isetta, which ensured the company's survival in the 1950s, and the BMW 507, which is still considered one of the most beautiful automobiles of all time.

Practical tips for museum visitors

A museum visit in Munich is easy to plan, as many museums are located close to each other or are well-connected by public transport. Especially in the Kunstareal (art district), several museums can be conveniently combined in one day. It is advisable to check opening times and special exhibitions in advance, as these will affect the time required.

The 1-euro Sunday

A valuable tip for museum visitors in Munich is the €1 Sunday . At the state museums – including the Pinakothek der Moderne, the Museum Brandhorst, the Alte Pinakothek, and the Antikensammlungen – admission costs only one euro on Sundays. For a symbolic price, you gain access to the world's magnificent permanent collections.

However, it should be noted that special exhibitions are often exempt from this regulation and that higher visitor numbers are to be expected on Sundays.

The combination ticket for €12, available on weekdays, is ideal for visitors who want to see several museums in one day; it grants access to the Pinakothek der Moderne, the Museum Brandhorst, and other institutions in the Kunstareal (art district). Children and young people under 18 generally have free admission to most state museums.

Accessibility, audio guides, and multilingual information are now standard features in most museums. Those wishing to delve deeper into specific topics can benefit from guided tours or accompanying educational programs that offer more in-depth insights.

Photography and digital accompaniment

In most houses, private photography is permitted, but without flash or tripod. At the WOW Museum, a camera is even an essential tool for capturing the optical illusions on display.

The Deutsches Museum has its own app with audio guides, which offers particularly helpful additional information about the closed areas during the renovation work.

museum	1-Euro Sunday	Free entry (under 18 years)	Special regulation
WOW Museum	No (private)	No	Online time slot booking recommended
German Museum	No	Partially / Reduced	App download recommended for audio guides
Pinakothek der Moderne	Yes	Yes	Combined ticket for art district available
Museum Brandhorst	Yes	Yes	Thursday evening opening until 8 pm
BMW Museum	No	Partially / Reduced	Professional photos only with permission

Munich's museums: places of dialogue and experience

Munich's museum landscape is characterized by its thematic diversity and varied approaches to education. From interactive spaces for experiencing the world through learning and scientifically oriented exhibitions to international contemporary art, the city offers numerous points of access to cultural and social issues.

The five museums presented here exemplify this diversity and demonstrate how differently knowledge, art, and design can be experienced. A museum visit in Munich thus offers insights not only into collections, but also into ways of thinking, developments, and perspectives that extend far beyond individual exhibitions.