The GDR Museum in Berlin
Immerse yourself in East German daily life in Berlin's DDR Museum, where history comes alive through interactive exhibits and authentic experiences.
Feel, Explore, and Discover: The DDR Museum
What does it feel like to be watched? Is a prefab apartment cozy, and what’s it like behind the wheel of a Trabant? The DDR Museum in Berlin answers these questions and more with its permanent exhibition Everyday Life of a Vanished State. This interactive display brings the positive and negative facets of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) to life. Far from the traditional museum experience, exhibits aren’t confined to glass cases; instead, they invite visitors to engage with the era’s many dimensions.
Location and Surroundings
The DDR Museum is located in Berlin-Mitte, the city's central district. Nestled in the former East German government quarter, it sits along the River Spree, opposite the iconic Berlin Cathedral and near the Museum Island. This cultural hub is home to renowned institutions such as the Pergamon Museum (closed) and the Old National Gallery. A short walk away lies the bustling Alexanderplatz, a hotspot for shopping and entertainment.
Step into the Everyday Life of the GDR
What was it like to live in a society under constant surveillance? What did daily life in a prefab apartment look like, and how did it feel to drive the iconic Trabant? The DDR Museum vividly explores these aspects and more. With exhibits ranging from public life to state ideology and the intimate details of prefab housing life, it offers visitors a comprehensive view of East German society. An original apartment setup allows you to experience the atmosphere of the time, while the Trabant simulator offers a hands-on driving experience that delights visitors of all ages.
Founded in 2006 by ethnologist Peter Kenzelmann, the museum quickly became one of Berlin’s must-visit attractions. Its collection, sourced primarily from private households, gives the museum a uniquely personal touch. With over 1,000 square meters of exhibition space and 45 thematic areas, it tells the story of the GDR in an engaging and authentic way.
The Baltic Sea as a Dream Destination
Beyond its permanent exhibition, the DDR Museum hosts special exhibitions. From July 24, 2024, to March 31, 2025, the museum presents The Baltic Sea: Holiday Destination, Border Area, Place of Longing. This exhibition explores the dual identity of the Baltic Coast as the GDR’s favorite holiday destination and a tightly controlled border zone. Highlights include a life-sized sandcastle recreation from Usedom’s Ückeritz Beach.
A Brief History of the DDR Museum
The DDR Museum was conceived by ethnologist Peter Kenzelmann, who, after failing to find a museum dedicated to East German life during a visit to Berlin, decided to create one himself. It opened on July 15, 2006, with Gordon Baron of Godin. The museum’s collection mainly comprises donations from private households, adding a deeply personal dimension to its exhibits. By November 7, 2017, it had welcomed its five millionth visitor, cementing its status as one of Berlin’s top attractions.
Address, opening hours...
Address: Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1, 10178 Berlin
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, including holidays
Admission: €12.50, reduced to €7.00
Public transport: Alexanderplatz (S-Bahn and U-Bahn), Hackescher Markt (S-Bahn), Tram M4, M5, M6, Bus 100, 200, 248, M48, TXL
River cruises: Disembark at the "DomAquarée" pier
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