Pergamon Museum Accessibility Guide

Overview

The Pergamon Museum (Pergamonmuseum) is one of the most visited museums in Germany and sits on Museum Island (Museumsinsel), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses monumental archaeological reconstructions including the Ishtar Gate of Babylon and the Market Gate of Miletus. The museum is currently undergoing a major renovation that has been ongoing since 2013. This renovation significantly affects accessibility, as some wings and galleries are closed and temporary barriers are in place. Check the museum website before your visit for the latest information on which sections are open. The museum earns a "Partially Accessible" rating because of the renovation disruptions combined with some older sections that have steps.

Getting There

• S-Bahn: Friedrichstraße station (S1, S2, S25, S26) has elevator access. Museum Island is a 10-minute roll east along Unter den Linden and across the bridge. The route is flat and paved.
• U-Bahn: Museumsinsel station (U5) is the closest, with elevator access. The museum is a 3-minute roll from the station exit.
• Bus: Routes 100 and 200 stop at Lustgarten, directly adjacent to Museum Island.

Wheelchair Accessibility

• The accessible entrance is on the ground floor facing Bodestraße. A ramp provides step-free access from street level. Look for accessibility signage near the main entrance.
• An elevator connects the accessible floors. Not all floors are currently reachable due to renovation work.
• The Ishtar Gate gallery and the Market Gate of Miletus are on the accessible route when open. These are the museum's most famous exhibits.
• Some older galleries have 2 to 3 steps at entrances without ramps. Staff can advise which galleries are step-free on the day of your visit.
• Free wheelchair loan is available at the entrance. First come, first served.
• Tactile models of key artifacts are available in several galleries. Ask at the information desk for locations.

Accessible Toilets

Accessible toilets are located on the ground floor near the main entrance and cloakroom area. They have grab rails, emergency cords, and adequate turning space. During renovation, some toilet facilities may be temporarily closed.

Museum Island Access

Museum Island itself has a mix of surfaces. The main paths are paved, but some side paths and bridge approaches have cobblestones. The bridge from Unter den Linden to the island has a smooth surface and gentle slope. A combined ticket (Museumsinsel ticket, 22 EUR) covers all five museums on the island and is valid for the full day, giving you flexibility to visit at your own pace.

Tips for Visitors with Disabilities

• Visitors with disabilities receive reduced admission. A companion enters free with a "B" marking on a German disability pass (Schwerbehindertenausweis) or equivalent documentation.
• Visit on a Thursday evening (open until 8:00pm) for smaller crowds.
• The museum shop and cafe on the ground floor are step-free.
• The Pergamon Museum: Das Panorama, a temporary exhibition space across the street, is fully accessible and features a 360-degree panorama of ancient city life. It is included with some tickets.
• Allow 2 to 3 hours for a visit. The accessible route covers the highlights but does require backtracking due to renovation closures.
• Audio guides are available in multiple languages and can be used from a wheelchair.