
DDR Museum
Dive into a fascinating journey through life in the former East Germany! The DDR Museum in Berlin doesn’t just show history—it lets you experience it firsthand. Climb into the legendary Trabant, explore an original GDR-era apartment, or try on East German clothing in a digital mirror—here, history becomes tangible. With interactive stations and unique exhibitions such as “The Baltic Sea – Holiday Destination, Border Zone, Place of Longing,” the museum offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Don’t miss this highlight in the heart of Berlin!
table of contents
Das DDR Museum – Ihre interaktive Reise in die Vergangenheit
The DDR Museum in Berlin offers a unique, hands-on journey into the former East Germany. Here, visitors can experience life in the German Democratic Republic up close, explore history through original artifacts, and interact with immersive exhibits. The museum is divided into three main themes: public life, state and ideology, and private life in a typical GDR apartment block. Highlights include the iconic Trabant driving simulator, an authentic recreation of a Plattenbau apartment, and the monumental mural “Praise of Communism.”
A rotating special exhibition complements the permanent collection. Currently on display until March 2025 is “The Baltic Sea – Holiday Destination, Border Zone, Place of Longing,” offering a fascinating look at one of the DDR’s most cherished yet restricted regions. Located on the Spree waterfront directly across from Berlin Cathedral, the DDR Museum invites visitors of all ages to explore socialism’s everyday realities in an engaging and interactive way—making it an ideal destination for families.
History of the DDR Museum
The DDR Museum was founded on the initiative of Freiburg ethnologist Peter Kenzelmann, who was surprised during a visit to Berlin that no museum offered a comprehensive look at everyday life in East Germany. This idea led to the opening of the museum on July 15, 2006. Since then, it has become one of Berlin’s most popular attractions and has been nominated multiple times for international museum awards.
Visitors can step inside an authentic GDR apartment, explore original household items, and experience the history of divided Germany firsthand. After a severe water damage incident caused by the AquaDom collapse in December 2022, the museum underwent extensive modernization. Since reopening in April 2023, it offers even deeper insights into life under the socialist regime. With more than 6.5 million visitors to date, the DDR Museum is a true highlight for anyone traveling to Berlin.
Exhibitions and Collections
The DDR Museum is one of Berlin’s most exciting museums! Immerse yourself in the history of the GDR and experience what daily life was really like.
Interactive and Immersive Displays
The museum is designed to let you experience history rather than merely observe it. Through interactive elements and authentic objects, the past becomes tangible—an engaging experience for all ages.
Experience East Germany up close!
The GDR at a Glance: 45 themed areas across 1,000 m²
Exhibition Highlights
- Trabant Driving Simulator: Sit behind the wheel of an original Trabant P 601 and test your driving skills.
- Plattenbau Apartment: Explore a meticulously reconstructed GDR apartment filled with authentic household items.
- Interactive Stations: Try on East German clothing using a digital mirror or rummage through cabinets filled with historic artifacts.
- Monumental Mural: “Praise of Communism”: An impressive example of socialist art and ideology.
Three Main Exhibition Areas
- Public Life – What did everyday life in the GDR look like?
- State & Ideology – How did the Party, Stasi, and propaganda shape society?
- Life in the Plattenbau – What was private life really like?
The DDR Museum is ideal for families. Children can explore interactive games, try DDR toys, or sit in the driver’s seat of the Trabi simulator. Its engaging, hands-on approach makes history accessible and exciting. The museum’s popularity is also reflected in its recognition: it has been nominated twice for the European Museum of the Year Award and is considered one of the most beloved museums among international visitors by the German National Tourist Board.
Special Exhibition: The Baltic Sea – Holiday Destination, Border Zone, Place of Longing
July 24, 2024 – March 31, 2025 Learn how the Baltic Sea coastline balanced between dream vacation spot and heavily controlled border zone. A special highlight is an authentic GDR-style sandcastle reconstruction.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Address
Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1 10178 Berlin
Tickets
Tickets for the DDR Museum can be purchased conveniently online or at the on-site ticket counter. Advance online reservations are recommended to avoid waiting times. Discounted tickets are available for students, children, and seniors.