1. Berlin – Neue Nationalgalerie: “The Collection – Modern 1900–1945”
Mies van der Rohe’s iconic glass temple presents one of Europe’s strongest modern art collections. The winter rotation includes works by Kandinsky, Klee, Beckmann, Kirchner, and the German Expressionists.
A must-visit for lovers of early modernism and the turbulent artistic movements shaped by the 20th century.
2. Berlin – Hamburger Bahnhof: “Expanded Contemporary”
Germany’s leading museum of contemporary art presents a fresh line-up of installations, large-scale sculptures, and video works. December often includes new commissions and updates to the museum’s long-term contemporary program.
3. Munich – Pinakothek der Moderne: “Design Display Winter Edition”
4. Munich – Haus der Kunst: “The Image of Now”
Haus der Kunst’s winter exhibition focuses on the global language of contemporary painting and how artists respond to politics, digital life, and identity. Known for its bold curatorial decisions, the museum is a key stop for anyone following international trends.
5. Hamburg – Kunsthalle Hamburg: “Masters of the North”
A seasonal exhibition featuring Nordic and German Romantic painting. Dramatic landscapes, winter atmospheres, and themes of solitude and nature dominate this beautifully curated show — perfect for December’s reflective mood.
6. Frankfurt – Städel Museum: “Highlights of the Collection”
The Städel offers an exceptional winter program spanning Old Masters, Impressionists, and contemporary artists. The December lineup includes special guided tours and evening programs showcasing treasures from the permanent collection.
7. Cologne – Museum Ludwig: “Photography Winter Routes”
Museum Ludwig hosts one of Germany’s strongest photography exhibitions in December, featuring both classic 20th-century work and contemporary visual narratives. A highlight for fans of documentary and experimental photography.
8. Dresden – Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister: “Baroque Winter”
One of Europe’s greatest painting collections — including Raphael’s “Sistine Madonna” and masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Titian — presents a themed winter program, focusing on light, shadow, and the visual drama of the Baroque period.
9. Düsseldorf – K20 Kunstsammlung NRW: “Avant-Garde Voices”
A focused exhibition on early avant-garde movements and their impact on later generations. December is an excellent time to explore works by Picasso, Matisse, Mondrian, and groundbreaking post-war German artists.
10. Stuttgart – Staatsgalerie: “Color & Form”
A winter exhibition highlighting modern abstraction, with works from post-war Europe, American abstract expressionism, and contemporary minimalist movements.
Why Germany in December?
December is one of the best months for art lovers in Germany. Museums extend hours, host evening programs, and offer limited-time exhibitions that attract visitors from across Europe. Many institutions introduce winter editions of their collections — making it an ideal moment to experience Germany’s artistic diversity.
Editorial Note
Germany in December is not only about festive lights and markets — it is one of the strongest cultural destinations in Europe during winter. Whether you love Old Masters, photography, modernism, or contemporary installation art, the country offers an impressive range of exhibitions that are absolutely worth the trip.
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