
Arithmeum Bonn
Explore thousands of calculating machines, from ancient abacuses to early computers, in this unique interactive museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more exploration time

Arithmeum Bonn
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more exploration time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore thousands of calculating machines, from ancient abacuses to early computers, in this unique interactive museum.
"Perhaps one of the best museums in Germany. No trip to Bonn is complete without a visit to the Arithmeum."

Start from the Top ⬆️
Begin your journey on the top floor and work your way down for a chronological exploration of calculating history.
Embrace Hands-On Fun :handshake:
Don white gloves and freely interact with many of the machines for a truly engaging experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Calculator Wall
Ground Floor
A vibrant display of modern calculating devices, offering a glimpse into the evolution of computation.

Mechanical Computing Machines
Upper Floors
Marvel at intricate gears and levers of historical calculators and computing devices from bygone eras.

Ancient Calculating Instruments
Top Floor
Explore the origins of calculation with abacuses and other early mathematical tools.

Art and Science Fusion
Throughout the museum
Admire modern paintings in corridors and rooms, creating a unique blend of art and scientific history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Arithmeum
Tickets & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
A fully mechanical binary calculator in the Arithmeum in Bonn, Germany.
Start from the Top ⬆️
Begin your journey on the top floor and work your way down for a chronological exploration of calculating history.
Embrace Hands-On Fun :handshake:
Don white gloves and freely interact with many of the machines for a truly engaging experience.
Reccomendations for Bonn
German Math Tourism?
Allocate Ample Time :clock1:
Don't rush! You might spend 3-4 hours here if you're a math enthusiast.
Cash is King :money_with_wings:
Be prepared to pay your entry fee in cash, as card payments may not be accepted.
Going to Europe: What math history museums/landmarks to see in London, Paris & Rome?
Tips
from all over the internet
Start from the Top ⬆️
Begin your journey on the top floor and work your way down for a chronological exploration of calculating history.
Embrace Hands-On Fun :handshake:
Don white gloves and freely interact with many of the machines for a truly engaging experience.
Allocate Ample Time :clock1:
Don't rush! You might spend 3-4 hours here if you're a math enthusiast.
Cash is King :money_with_wings:
Be prepared to pay your entry fee in cash, as card payments may not be accepted.
English Info Available :uk:
Leaflets and explanations are available in English, making it accessible for international visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Arithmeum Bonn for its unique and fascinating collection of calculating machines, offering a journey through computational history. The interactive nature of the exhibits, where visitors can handle historical devices, is a major highlight. It's praised for being educational, engaging for all ages, and incredibly affordable, making it a standout museum experience.
"The exhibition themed on computing technics from ancient era and early days of mechanical computing machines in modern era before the electronic calculator introduced.
Well preserved machines or their replica are interesting for all the ages particularly of the young mind. Ticket cost very little."
samir kumar nath
"Awesome and fascinating. Very well displayed, great staff , self explanatory books available in english as well. It is 4 floors, if you are curious to see how arithmatic was done in the past, you will spend a lot of time.
A must visit. Not very expensive, 8 euros family ticket, and individual 3 euros"
Chayashree Pathak
"Perhaps one of the best museums in Germany. No trip to Bonn is complete without a visit to the Arithmeum - so much to tickle your brain with - from interactive lectures on ancient computers to absolutely thrilling historical calculators which, if I had discovered earlier, may have saved me from dropping out of a mathematics degree.
Staff were incredibly kind and well-read. Getting around all the exhibitions can be a bit confusing - start from the very top and working your way down the stairs is the best way for getting about it though!
I'd recommend spending a few hours here - I was hoping to only spend an hour at most, but ended up spending ~3-4 hours since there was simply so much to do (it's especially interesting for mathematicians/academics).
I was hoping to bump into Peter Scholze but unfortunately had no luck. Maybe next time!"
Avesta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arithmeum is located in Bonn, Germany. It's accessible via public transport. Many visitors arrive by tram or bus, with stops conveniently located near the museum. If driving, check for local parking options, though public transport is often recommended for ease.
Yes, the Arithmeum is generally easy to find within Bonn. It's situated in a central area, and following signs for the University of Bonn, where it's affiliated, can help guide you.
For a day trip to Bonn, consider taking a train to Bonn Hauptbahnhof (main station) and then using local trams or buses to reach the Arithmeum. This is often the most efficient and stress-free method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Arithmeum website before your visit. Generally, it's open during typical museum hours, often closed on Mondays.
Admission is very affordable. Individual tickets are around 3 EUR, and a family ticket is approximately 8 EUR. This makes it a budget-friendly attraction.
While some museums offer online booking, it's advisable to check the Arithmeum's official website for the most current ticketing information. Cash payment is often preferred for entry.
For most visits, especially outside of peak times, booking in advance might not be necessary. However, if you're visiting with a large group or during a special event, it's wise to inquire.
Yes, there are discounts available, particularly for families. The family ticket offers excellent value. Check for potential student or senior discounts as well.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Arithmeum features four floors of exhibits showcasing the history of calculating machines, from ancient abacuses to early electronic computers. Many exhibits are interactive, allowing you to touch and try them out. There's also an art gallery integrated into the museum.
Absolutely! The museum is highly interactive. You'll be given white gloves to handle many of the historical calculating machines and try them out, offering a unique hands-on learning experience.
Most visitors recommend spending at least 2-3 hours, and enthusiasts or mathematicians might easily spend 3-4 hours exploring the extensive collection and interactive elements.
Yes, the Arithmeum is considered suitable and fascinating for children, especially those with a curious mind. The interactive nature of the exhibits makes learning fun and engaging for younger visitors.
Currently, there are no audio or video guides available. However, explanations are provided next to exhibits, and staff are on hand to answer questions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Arithmeum does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are advised to explore the many dining options available in the surrounding Bonn area after their visit.
It's generally recommended not to bring outside food and drinks into museum exhibits to protect the historical artifacts. There are lockers available for storing belongings.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography, which might be prohibited to protect the exhibits.
The 'calculator wall' on the ground floor offers a visually striking backdrop. The intricate details of the mechanical calculators on the upper floors also make for fascinating photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Start your visit on the top floor to follow the chronological journey of calculation. The 'calculator wall' on the ground floor is also a hit with younger visitors, offering a colorful and modern display. While there's no dedicated play area, the hands-on nature of most exhibits keeps children entertained and curious for hours. The affordable ticket prices make it an accessible option for a family day out.
🤓 Math Enthusiasts & Academics
Be prepared to spend a significant amount of time here – many reviewers mention spending 3-4 hours or even more, especially if you delve into the details of how each machine operates. The staff are often noted as being knowledgeable and kind, adding to the enriching experience. The museum's affiliation with the University of Bonn also hints at its academic depth.
💰 Budget Travelers
This low entry fee allows you to immerse yourself in a unique museum without a significant financial commitment. Combine your visit with exploring other free or low-cost attractions in Bonn to create a full day of affordable exploration. Remember to bring cash, as card payments may not be accepted for entry.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of Calculation
Visitors begin their exploration on the top floor, encountering abacuses and other early mathematical instruments that laid the groundwork for complex calculations. As you descend, you'll encounter increasingly sophisticated mechanical devices, including intricate slide rules and early adding machines with complex gear systems. The museum excels at showcasing these machines not just as artifacts, but as functional tools that shaped commerce, science, and daily life.
The ground floor brings you into the modern era, featuring the impressive 'calculator wall' and interactive displays on 19th, 20th, and 21st-century computing. This section highlights the transition from mechanical to electronic computation, including early computers and microchips. The Arithmeum's commitment to making these concepts accessible, even for those without a strong math background, is a key part of its appeal.
Hands-On Learning and Interaction
Imagine turning the cranks on an old mechanical calculator or manipulating the beads of an abacus – these are the kinds of experiences that make the Arithmeum so memorable. The museum provides clear explanations for how each machine works, allowing visitors to grasp the underlying principles of arithmetic and computation. This direct engagement fosters a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity behind these devices.
This interactive philosophy extends to the modern exhibits as well, with games and displays designed to engage visitors with contemporary computing concepts. The blend of historical artifacts and modern interactive elements ensures that there's something to captivate every age group and level of technical understanding.
The Artful Connection: Science and Art
The vibrant and intriguing artworks provide a colorful counterpoint to the often intricate and mechanical nature of the calculating machines. This juxtaposition enhances the overall atmosphere of the museum, making it a visually stimulating environment. It encourages visitors to see the connections between different fields of human creativity and intellect.
This dual nature of the Arithmeum—part historical museum, part art gallery—offers a richer and more multi-faceted experience. It appeals to a broader audience, drawing in those interested in art as well as those fascinated by the history of technology and mathematics. The result is a truly unique and inspiring cultural destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit