About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, I’ve spent way too many years tracking lead conversion rates and worrying about seasonal occupancy to tell you that every museum is a "must-see." Most are just dusty warehouses for things people forgot. But the Berlin Museum für Naturkunde is a bit different; it’s one of the few places where the R&D—the actual science—isn’t hidden behind a "Staff Only" door. While the rest of the industry tries to distract you with flashy VR headsets and overpriced gift shops, this place actually uses its 30 million items to tackle real-world questions. It’s raw, it’s a bit intimidating, and honestly, it makes you realize that our current "modern" life is just a tiny blip on the radar. If you're tired of the same old curated tourist traps, this is where you go to feel small in the best way possible.
About the Tour
Step into a world where the past isn't just a memory, but a living laboratory. Your journey at Berlin’s Natural History Museum follows the legacy of giants like Alexander von Humboldt and Charles Darwin, but it doesn't stop in the history books. Today, a team of roughly 200 scientists are on-site, using a massive collection of 30 million items to find answers to the ecological challenges of our future.
The Giants of the Jurassic
The centerpiece of the museum is undoubtedly the Dinosaur Hall. Here, you are greeted by the Giraffatitan brancai, which holds the record as the tallest mounted dinosaur skeleton on the planet. It’s a staggering sight that sets the tone for the rest of the Upper Jurassic exhibits.
Not to be outdone by size, the hall also houses the Archaeopteryx lithographica. Often referred to as the "Mona Lisa of natural history," this fossil is displayed in a specialized safety showcase, offering a glimpse into the evolution of flight and feathered dinosaurs.
Beyond the Fossils: The Research Collection
One of the most provocative parts of the museum is the East Wing. Unlike traditional exhibits, this area showcases a genuine scientific research collection.
- The Wet Collection: Home to about one million animal specimens preserved in 80 tonnes of alcohol. It’s a visually striking, slightly eerie testament to the diversity of life.
- The Biodiversity Wall: This installation features 3,000 different species at a single glance. It serves as a powerful visual starting point for discussions on biodiversity loss and the human impact on our planet.
A Dynamic Experience
The museum isn't just a static display of bones. It’s a vibrant hub for education and current research. With a constant rotation of temporary exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours, the museum ensures that its insights into the natural world are always evolving. Whether you are interested in the deep time of the Jurassic or the urgent conservation issues of today, this is a venue that demands your attention. Truly, it’s a place where science feels alive, rather than just archived.
Highlights
- Discover the answers to some of the greatest mysteries in history
- Marvel at prehistoric giants like the world's tallest mounted dinosaur skeleton
- See the museum's wet collection with 1 million animals preserved in alcohol
- Admire the biodiversity wall, a display with more than 3,000 different species
- Meet Tristan Otto, one of the few original skeletons of a T. rex in E
Know before you go
- For reduced tickets, proof of age/status will be required upon entry.