Things to Do at Sprengel Museum

Complete Guide to Sprengel Museum in Hanover

About Sprengel Museum

The Sprengel Museum Hannover stands as one of Germany's most prestigious contemporary art museums, renowned for its exceptional collection of 20th and 21st-century art. Founded in 1979, the museum was made possible through the generous donation of chocolate manufacturer Bernhard Sprengel, who contributed over 300 works including pieces by Picasso, Klee, and German Expressionists. The museum's striking modernist building, designed by Peter and Ursula Trint, provides an ideal setting for its world-class collection. The museum houses an impressive array of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Max Beckmann, Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Pablo Picasso. Its collection spans various movements including German Expressionism, Dadaism, Surrealism, and contemporary installations. The Sprengel Museum is particularly celebrated for its extensive collection of works by Kurt Schwitters and Niki de Saint Phalle, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and cultural travelers exploring Hanover.

What to See & Do

German Expressionist Collection

Explore masterpieces by Max Beckmann, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, and other leading figures of German Expressionism, showcasing bold colors and emotional intensity

Kurt Schwitters Archive

Discover the world's largest collection of works by Dadaist artist Kurt Schwitters, including his famous Merz collages and assemblages

Niki de Saint Phalle Gallery

Marvel at the colorful and playful sculptures and paintings by French-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle, known for her Nana figures

Pablo Picasso Collection

View significant works by the Spanish master, spanning different periods of his artistic evolution from the museum's impressive holdings

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Experience rotating exhibitions featuring cutting-edge contemporary art from international and German artists in specially designed gallery spaces

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Thursday until 8:00 PM. Closed on Mondays except public holidays

Tickets & Pricing

Adults €7, reduced €4, children under 18 free. Special exhibition tickets may cost extra. Audio guides available for €3

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds. Thursday evenings offer extended hours with a more relaxed atmosphere

Suggested Duration

2-3 hours for the permanent collection, add 1-2 hours if visiting special exhibitions

Getting There

The Sprengel Museum is conveniently located near Hanover's city center at Kurt-Schwitters-Platz. Take the U-Bahn (subway) lines U1, U2, or U8 to Steintor station, then walk 5 minutes. Alternatively, use tram lines 4, 5, or 6 to Christuskirche stop. If driving, limited parking is available nearby, but public transportation is recommended. The museum is easily accessible by foot from Hanover's main train station (Hauptbahnhof) in about 15 minutes.

Things to Do Nearby

Maschsee Lake
Large artificial lake perfect for walking, cycling, or boat trips, just a 5-minute walk from the museum
New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)
Impressive early 20th-century city hall with a dome offering panoramic city views, 10 minutes away
Lower Saxony State Museum
Natural history and cultural museum featuring archaeology, ethnology, and art collections, within walking distance
Hanover Opera House
Historic opera house hosting world-class performances, located in the nearby city center
Georgengarten
Beautiful English-style landscape garden perfect for leisurely strolls, about 15 minutes north of the museum

Tips & Advice

Visit on the first Friday of each month when admission is free after 2:00 PM for permanent collections
Download the museum's app for detailed information about artworks and self-guided tour options
Check the museum's website for special events, artist talks, and workshops that enhance the visiting experience
The museum shop offers excellent art books and unique gifts related to the collection and current exhibitions

Tours & Activities at Sprengel Museum