Bauhaus Dessau
Explore the iconic Bauhaus Dessau, a UNESCO World Heritage site and cradle of modern design, architecture, and art education.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Bauhaus Dessau
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the iconic Bauhaus Dessau, a UNESCO World Heritage site and cradle of modern design, architecture, and art education. +1
"A living monument of architectural and educational history, profoundly illustrating the singular vision of Walter Gropius. "
Stay Overnight! 🛌
Experience life as a Bauhaus student by booking a room in the restored Master Houses.
Guided Tours are Key 🔑
Gain deep insights into the Bauhaus's history and philosophy with knowledgeable guides.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bauhaus Building
Dessau
Walter Gropius's iconic 1920s masterpiece, a living monument to modern design and education.
Master Houses (Meisterhäuser)
Dessau
Stunning residential homes designed for Bauhaus masters, showcasing innovative living spaces.
Bauhaus Museum Dessau
Dessau
Home to the second-largest Bauhaus collection globally, featuring iconic objects and exhibitions.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Embrace the Bauhaus Spirit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Stay Overnight! 🛌
Experience life as a Bauhaus student by booking a room in the restored Master Houses. +1
Guided Tours are Key 🔑
Gain deep insights into the Bauhaus's history and philosophy with knowledgeable guides.
Capture the Lines :camera:
The building's geometric forms and clean lines are incredibly photogenic.
Explore the Surroundings :park:
Don't miss the nearby parks and other architectural gems in Dessau.
Tips
from all over the internet
Stay Overnight! 🛌
Experience life as a Bauhaus student by booking a room in the restored Master Houses. +1
Guided Tours are Key 🔑
Gain deep insights into the Bauhaus's history and philosophy with knowledgeable guides.
Capture the Lines :camera:
The building's geometric forms and clean lines are incredibly photogenic.
Explore the Surroundings :park:
Don't miss the nearby parks and other architectural gems in Dessau.
Souvenir Shopping :gift:
The gift shop offers beautifully designed Bauhaus-inspired items.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bauhaus Dessau as a masterpiece of vision and a profound historical experience, highlighting Walter Gropius's singular genius in creating the movement and its iconic buildings. The architecture is described as revolutionary and inspiring, with the Master Houses offering a unique immersive stay. While some areas may be inaccessible, the overall experience is deeply educational and moving.
"A Masterpiece of Vision: A Review of the Bauhaus Dessau
My recent visit to the Bauhaus building in Dessau, Germany, was more than just a tour; it was a journey into a living monument of architectural and educational history. The experience profoundly illustrated the singular vision of one man, Walter Gropius, who, against incredible odds, brought the modern art and design movement to life. It is nothing short of astonishing to consider how he single-handedly managed to fund, design, and create the entire institutional framework, all while navigating the tumultuous political landscape between the two world wars.
The moment you step into the building, you are immediately struck by its revolutionary design. The famous staircase, the sun-drenched workshops, and the seamless integration of various functions speak to Gropius's genius. I was particularly moved by visiting his personal office, located in the bridge connecting the two main buildings. This space, a hub of creativity and leadership, felt like the very heart of the movement. Seeing the workshops where masters and students collaborated, and the student hostel where they lived and breathed art, brought the curriculum to life. The building is a manifesto in itself, a physical embodiment of Gropius’s belief in the unity of art and technology.
The self-sufficiency of the institution is a testament to Gropius's strategic mind. He devised a curriculum that drew students from around the world, creating a vibrant, international community. He hand-picked a legendary faculty, including Paul Klee and Wassily Kandinsky, and created a marketing machine to attract global talent. This was all done while facing immense political pressure and shifting ideologies, which ultimately led to the school's closure. Despite these challenges, Gropius’s unwavering commitment ensured that the Bauhaus's influence would endure. The tour is incredibly well-curated, and I highly recommend taking it to truly appreciate the scale of this achievement. The theater, the student cafeteria, and even the gift shop—which is filled with beautiful designs—all contribute to an experience that is both educational and deeply inspiring.
For anyone with an interest in art, architecture, or history, the Bauhaus Dessau is a must-see. It's a powerful reminder that with clear vision and relentless determination, one person can shape the course of history."
rma ymleh
"The ticket for Bauhaus+Museum+Master's Houses is 27€ and it's completely worth it. The place is amazing, and the temporary exhibitions are always really good. Will visit again!"
Lourdes Berridi
"I love this place. This place answered me plenty of questions about the why, the where, the what, the who and the when. It is great to learn about the motivations, learn about the who were these people, to learn about the where and when have the gone after Dessau. I have spent two days and three guided tours and I will for sure come again."
Michael S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bauhaus Dessau is easily accessible by train from major German cities like Berlin and Leipzig. From Dessau Hauptbahnhof (main station), you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach the Bauhaus building and museum.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the Bauhaus Dessau site. However, using public transport is often more convenient and environmentally friendly.
Absolutely! Bauhaus Dessau is a popular day trip destination from Berlin, with train journeys typically taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Many visitors recommend a combination of guided tours and self-exploration to see the various Bauhaus buildings and other architectural highlights in Dessau.
While specific apps might vary, using general map applications and checking the official Bauhaus Dessau website for site maps is recommended for navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary depending on what you wish to see. A combined ticket for the Bauhaus Museum and Master Houses is around 27€. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and package deals.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for guided tours or if you plan to stay overnight in the Master Houses, as these can sell out. +1
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for specific exhibitions. Always check the official Bauhaus Dessau website for the most up-to-date information on opening times.
While some areas might be accessible freely, access to classrooms, student flats, and specific exhibitions usually requires a ticket.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. It's best to inquire directly with the Bauhaus Dessau ticket office or check their website for details.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The iconic elements include the famous staircase, the bridge connecting the main buildings (housing Gropius's office), the workshops, and the student hostel.
Yes, you can! The historic Master Houses have been restored and offer a unique opportunity to stay overnight in a Bauhaus-designed environment. +1
The museum hosts exhibitions on the Bauhaus movement, its history, key figures, and its lasting influence on design and art. Temporary exhibitions are also frequently featured.
Accessibility information can vary. It's recommended to contact Bauhaus Dessau directly or check their official website for specific details regarding accessibility for visitors with mobility impairments.
Walter Gropius was the founder and first director of the Bauhaus. He designed the iconic Dessau building and was instrumental in shaping the school's philosophy and curriculum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most public areas, but restrictions may apply in certain exhibition spaces or for commercial purposes. Always check signage or ask staff.
The exterior of the main building, the iconic staircase, the Master Houses, and the museum exhibits offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
While specific photography tours might not be standard, guided tours often highlight visually interesting aspects of the architecture and design.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the architecture, while a prime lens can be great for details and interior shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and public areas due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Staying overnight in the Master Houses could be an exciting adventure for older children, allowing them to experience a different way of living. The Bauhaus Museum's collection, with its diverse objects, might also spark curiosity. Encourage kids to sketch their favorite designs or look for patterns in the architecture.
🎨 Design & Architecture Enthusiasts
Consider booking an overnight stay in the Master Houses for a truly immersive experience. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the museum's extensive collection and any temporary exhibitions that showcase the breadth of Bauhaus influence. Photography is a must here, so bring your best gear to capture the iconic structures and designs.
📚 History Buffs
Learn about Walter Gropius's incredible feat of establishing and funding the school against significant odds. Explore how the Bauhaus movement reflected and influenced the broader societal changes of its time. The museum's collection provides tangible evidence of the era's artistic and technological advancements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Walter Gropius
+1The Dessau building, with its distinctive glass curtain walls, asymmetrical layout, and functional spaces like workshops, studios, and student housing, was revolutionary for its time. It embodied the idea of 'form follows function,' a core tenet of the Bauhaus movement. Gropius's strategic mind also extended to the institution's self-sufficiency and global outreach, ensuring the Bauhaus's influence would spread far beyond Dessau. Despite facing political pressures that eventually led to its closure, Gropius's unwavering commitment ensured the Bauhaus's legacy would endure.
Visiting Gropius's office, located in the bridge connecting two main structures, offers a tangible connection to his leadership and creative process. This space was the nerve center of the Bauhaus, where ideas were born and decisions were made that would shape modern design for decades to come. The entire complex serves as a testament to Gropius's singular vision and his profound impact on 20th-century art and architecture.
Experiencing the Master Houses
Today, some of these historic houses have been meticulously restored and are available for overnight stays. This provides an unparalleled opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the Bauhaus atmosphere, living and sleeping in spaces designed by the pioneers of modernism. Imagine waking up in a room that once housed a legendary artist, surrounded by the clean lines and functional aesthetics that defined the era.
Staying in a Master House is more than just accommodation; it's a journey back in time and a deep dive into the Bauhaus philosophy. It allows you to appreciate the details of the design, the quality of the materials, and the overall living experience that Gropius envisioned for his faculty. It's a truly unforgettable way to connect with the legacy of the Bauhaus.
The Bauhaus Museum Dessau Collection
Visitors can expect to see iconic pieces that exemplify the Bauhaus ethos of functionality, simplicity, and mass production. The museum's exhibitions often explore the interdisciplinary nature of the Bauhaus, highlighting the collaborations between masters and students. It provides a comprehensive overview of how the movement aimed to unify art, craft, and technology to create a new aesthetic for the modern age.
+1Beyond the permanent collection, the Bauhaus Museum Dessau frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that delve deeper into specific aspects of the Bauhaus or its contemporary relevance. These exhibitions offer fresh perspectives and keep the museum experience dynamic and engaging for repeat visitors. The museum's design itself also reflects Bauhaus principles, creating a harmonious space for appreciating the collection.
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