Berlinische Galerie in Kreuzberg presents art made in Berlin from the late 19th century to the present. Its collection brings together painting, photography, sculpture, architecture and other media, with works linked to movements including Dada, Expressionism and New Objectivity. Temporary exhibitions occupy the ground floor; upstairs, the permanent collection traces Berlin’s art from 1880 to 1980. The former industrial building has a bright, open layout, and bilingual labels help put works in context. Allow around two to two and a half hours, and consider pairing the visit with the nearby Jewish Museum.
A collection rooted in Berlin
Berlinische Galerie collects art created in Berlin, spanning from 1870 to the present. Its focus links works across different periods and disciplines, including painting, graphic art, sculpture, photography, architecture and media art. The collection gives space to movements associated with the city, including the Berlin Secession, Dada, Expressionism and New Objectivity, as well as the Eastern European avant-garde.
The works also connect art to the city’s history. Berlin’s artistic life unfolded through major changes, from the Kaiser’s era and the Weimar Republic to dictatorship, division during the Cold War and German reunification. The gallery’s collection provides a way to follow those shifts through art made in Berlin.
How the exhibitions are arranged
Temporary exhibitions are presented on the ground floor, while the permanent collection is upstairs. The permanent display covers Berlin art from 1880 to 1980 and includes paintings, prints, sculpture and architecture. Exhibitions change, so the works on view can differ between visits.
The gallery includes work by artists such as Hannah Höch, Max Liebermann and Georg Grosz. Other artists represented in the collection include Jeanne Mammen, Otto Dix, El Lissitzky and Naum Gabo. Photography is another substantial part of the museum’s holdings, with images spanning portraiture, documentary, fine-art and urban photography.
The building is a former glass warehouse converted for the gallery. Its high ceilings and open, bright interior accommodate works in several formats, including large-scale installations. The layout is clear, with space to move between exhibitions without rushing.
Planning your visit
Most exhibition labels are in German and English. Some works also have QR codes that link to digital archive or project material. The gallery provides tactile versions of some works for visitors with visual impairments, and has wheelchair-accessible entrances, lifts, seating and restrooms.
Free lockers are available for belongings. The gallery has an on-site restaurant, and advance ticket booking is recommended. It is closed on Tuesdays and open on Mondays, which can be useful when planning a museum day. The Jewish Museum is nearby, so the two can be combined if you have time.
FAQ
How long do you need at Berlinische Galerie?
Allow about two to two and a half hours for a thorough visit.
Is Berlinische Galerie open on Mondays?
Yes. The gallery is open on Mondays and closed on Tuesdays.
What can you see at Berlinische Galerie?
The museum presents Berlin-made art from 1870 to the present, including painting, photography, sculpture, architecture and media art. Its permanent collection covers 1880 to 1980, alongside changing exhibitions.
Is Berlinische Galerie wheelchair accessible?
The gallery has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, elevator, seating and restroom.
