Background

St. Nicholas' Church Museum: Berlin's Medieval Heart

Discover Berlin's origins at the Nikolaikirche Museum, a journey through 800 years of history, art, and architecture in the heart of the city.

4.4
A question is required

Explore Berlin's oldest church, the Nikolaikirche, now a museum showcasing the city's medieval origins and rich history. See the Gothic architecture, historical artifacts, and learn about the church's transformation from a religious center to a vital part of Berlin's cultural landscape.

A brief summary to St. Nicholas' Church Museum

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Wednesday of the month for free admission, as part of the City Museums' program.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide available in multiple languages to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
  • Explore the surrounding Nikolaiviertel with its narrow alleys, restaurants, and shops that evoke the atmosphere of old Berlin.
  • Consider purchasing a combined ticket for access to the Museum Nikolaikirche, Museum Ephraim-Palais, and Museum Knoblauchhaus over two consecutive days.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The St. Nicholas' Church Museum is easily accessible via Berlin's extensive public transport network. From Alexanderplatz, a major transportation hub, it's a short walk down Rathausstraße. You can reach Alexanderplatz by U-Bahn (U2, U5, U8), S-Bahn, tram, or bus. Several bus lines (200, 248, 300, N2, N42) also stop near the Nikolaiviertel. A single ride ticket within Berlin AB zone costs €3.80. A short trip ticket, valid for three U-Bahn or S-Bahn stops or six bus/tram stops, is €2.60. Consider a 24-hour ticket for €10.60 if you plan to make multiple trips.

  • Walking

    Located in the heart of the Nikolaiviertel, the St. Nicholas' Church Museum is easily reachable on foot from many central Berlin locations. From the Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall), walk south towards the Spree River and you'll find the church in the historic quarter. From Alexanderplatz, head southwest along Rathausstraße. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from either landmark.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Berlin. A taxi ride to St. Nicholas' Church Museum from Alexanderplatz will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The base fare for a taxi in Berlin is €4.30, plus €2.80 per kilometer for the first 3km. A short ride from Alexanderplatz should cost around €10-€15. Keep in mind that there may be surcharges for large-capacity taxis or bulky luggage.

Unlock the Best of St. Nicholas' Church Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

q

Discover more about St. Nicholas' Church Museum

The St. Nicholas' Church Museum, or Nikolaikirche, stands as a testament to Berlin's rich and complex history. Located in the heart of the Nikolaiviertel, Berlin's oldest residential area, this museum is housed within the city's oldest church, dating back to around 1230. Originally a Roman Catholic church, it became Lutheran following the Reformation in 1539. Over the centuries, the Nikolaikirche served not only as a place of worship but also as a burial site for prominent Berlin families and a significant municipal center. Important historical events unfolded here, including the swearing-in of the first city council assembly in 1809 and the meeting of the first freely elected Berlin-wide city parliament in 1991. The church was also a place of musical importance, with hymn writer Paul Gerhardt and composer Johann Crüger working here in the 17th century. Badly damaged during World War II, the church remained in ruins until its reconstruction in 1987, marking Berlin's 750th anniversary. Today, the Nikolaikirche functions as a museum, showcasing the architectural, ecclesiastical, and musical history of the building and the urban development of Berlin in the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore exhibits such as the large-scale model of medieval Berlin, religious artworks, and liturgical objects. The museum also delves into Berlin's burial culture and displays a trove of rediscovered coins. A free audio guide is available in multiple languages, offering insights into the church's past.

Popular Experiences near St. Nicholas' Church Museum

Popular Hotels near St. Nicholas' Church Museum

Select Currency