Things to Do at Sprengel Museum

Complete Guide to Sprengel Museum in Hanovre

About Sprengel Museum

The Sprengel Museum Hannover stands as one of Germany's most prestigious institutions for modern and contemporary art, renowned for its exceptional collection spanning from early 20th-century avant-garde movements to cutting-edge contemporary works. Founded in 1979 and named after chocolate manufacturer and art collector Bernhard Sprengel, the museum houses an impressive array of masterpieces including works by Picasso, Klee, Kandinsky, and Nolde, alongside significant collections of German Expressionism and international contemporary art. The museum's striking modernist architecture, designed by Peter and Ursula Trint and Dieter Quast, provides a perfect backdrop for its world-class exhibitions. Beyond its permanent collection, the Sprengel Museum is celebrated for its innovative temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and its commitment to showcasing both established and emerging artists. The institution also houses the Kurt Schwitters Archive and features an impressive photography collection, making it a comprehensive destination for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

What to See & Do

German Expressionist Collection

Explore masterworks by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Emil Nolde, and other pioneers of German Expressionism, featuring bold colors and emotional intensity that defined early 20th-century German art

Picasso and Modern Masters

Admire an outstanding collection of Pablo Picasso works alongside pieces by Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and other modernist giants that shaped contemporary art

Kurt Schwitters Archive

Discover the world's largest collection of works by Dadaist Kurt Schwitters, including his famous Merz collages and reconstructions of his revolutionary art environments

Contemporary Art Galleries

Experience cutting-edge contemporary works by international artists, featuring rotating exhibitions that showcase current trends and innovative artistic expressions

Photography Collection

Browse through significant photographic works spanning from early 20th century to contemporary digital art, including works by renowned photographers and photo-based artists

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday 10:00-20:00, Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-18:00, closed Mondays (except public holidays)

Tickets & Pricing

Adults €7, reduced €4, children under 18 free, family tickets available, free admission on Fridays after 14:00 for visitors under 27

Best Time to Visit

Tuesday through Thursday mornings for fewer crowds, or Friday afternoons for free youth admission

Suggested Duration

2-3 hours for main collection, full day with temporary exhibitions

Getting There

The Sprengel Museum is easily accessible via public transportation, located near Hannover's city center at Kurt-Schwitters-Platz. Take tram lines 1, 2, or 8 to 'Sprengel Museum' stop, or buses 100, 200 to 'Aegidientorplatz' followed by a 5-minute walk. The museum is also within walking distance from Hannover Hauptbahnhof (main train station) - approximately 15 minutes on foot. For those driving, paid parking is available at nearby facilities, though public transport is recommended due to limited street parking in the area.

Things to Do Nearby

Maschsee Lake
Artificial lake perfect for walking, cycling, or boat trips, just a few minutes from the museum with restaurants and recreational activities
Hannover State Opera
Historic opera house offering world-class performances in a beautiful 19th-century building, located in the nearby city center
Aegidienkirche Memorial
Ruins of a Gothic church destroyed in WWII, now serving as a war memorial and peace monument with powerful historical significance
Kestner Museum
Museum of applied arts and design featuring ancient cultures, decorative arts, and design from antiquity to present day
Lower Saxony State Museum
Natural history and ethnology museum with diverse collections including archaeology, natural sciences, and regional history

Tips & Advice

Download the museum's free app for audio guides and detailed information about artworks in multiple languages
Check the museum's website for special events, artist talks, and workshops that often accompany temporary exhibitions
Visit the museum shop for unique art books, prints, and design items related to the collections
Consider purchasing a Hannover Museum Card for discounted access to multiple city museums if planning to visit several cultural sites

Tours & Activities at Sprengel Museum