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Alte Pinakothek vs Gemӓldegalerie (or Munich vs. Berlin)

I am traveling to Germany and have stops in both Munich and Berlin.

After watching Rick’s segments on “Art for Travelers” I have planned to see some historic art pieces. Both the Alte Pinakothek (in Munich) and the Gemӓldegalerie (in Berlin) cover overlapping time periods. I do not want to see both but cannot decide on which museum to visit.

My question is, which one would be better for someone who would only recognize a few ‘big name’ artists?

Posted by
26841 posts

I cannot help as to museum contents, unfortunately. On the off-chance that you don't get a clear answer from anyone else (and there may not be one), this is how I would think about it:

  • Look at maps of the two cities and see whether one of these is a lot more isolated from other desired sights than the other and thus would need more travel time.

If that doesn't help, consider the cost of each. Still stuck?

  • Hold off on the decision until you get to Germany and observe the weather. Bad day? Go to the art museum.
Posted by
4684 posts

The Alte Pinakothek is only partially open at present due to renovation work, so I'd go to Berlin instead.

Posted by
75 posts

I visited Alte Pinakothek two times and it is amazing. It is very close to the city centre. Yes there is some renovation ongoing so part of the building/collection might be closed. However renovation was ongoing when the film below was made and still most of the collection could be visited. Equally important Neue Pinakothek is just 50 m away. You can see the atmosphere in Alte and some of the paintings from min 13 of the film below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3ws7Axe6wQ

Posted by
4137 posts

There are " big name " artists in both places , indeed all over Europe . One way that would aid in your selection would be to get your hands on a current Rick Steves Germany book - get the full book , not " The Best of " . He gives a good outline of the high points in both museums , that will help you make an informed decision , if your knowledge of art is limited . As an example , The Alte Pinakotek has several very important Italian Renaissance paintings by Raphael and Botticelli - if you think you would like that sort of painting , they are a must - if not , then you must choose accordingly

Posted by
1357 posts

The AP has Leonardo's Madonna with Child - go there! Visit the Pergamon in Berlin (especially if the alter renovation is finished) - ancient architecture not paintings.