House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany

The new permanent exhibition traces Germany’s journey since 1945, and it does so in a way that feels anything but dry. Right at the entrance, visitors become part of a powerful media installation, blending their own silhouettes with historic moments like the fall of the Berlin Wall. You feel involved from the very first second. Instead of focusing only on politics or major events, the exhibition highlights people and their stories. Contemporary witnesses share experiences of courage, loss, hope, and new beginnings. More than 3,800 objects — from a self-built escape aircraft to a treehouse from the environmental movement — bring these stories vividly to life. A standout highlight is the original 1949 Basic Law, paired with the interactive “Your Fundamental Rights” trail, showing how hard-won these freedoms truly are. Families with young children can easily explore history through hands-on stations along a dedicated family path. The journey ends in the “Today” section, where current issues and debates take center stage. On the Voting Island, visitors can make their own views visible and literally become part of the exhibition. In short: a modern, moving, and highly engaging time travel experience that makes history tangible. Highly recommended!

For understanding modern German history in Bonn, I think this is a great place; it presents the period from post-war years up to reunification in a clear, chronological way, plus it’s free to visit and very easy to reach. Unfortunately, when we went, the permanent exhibition was under renovation, so we couldn’t see the main display and only visited the temporary exhibitions. Still, the atmosphere and overall organization were nice; for those planning a visit, I’d recommend checking on the official website in advance to see whether the permanent exhibition is open.

The exhibition atm is smaller than expected. The upper floors were under construction & the lowest floor was about Roman period. After Hilter exhibition is on the ground floor. Educates you about Germany after WWII and quite informative on historical events that remain relevant to today's unfortunate time. Their cafe is pricey but the museum's admission is free, staff are friendly, and their lounge is perfect for students or remote work - quiet and modern. I would love to come back for the other parts of the museum.

By the time I visited, only the exhibition about second world war was open to visitors, the rest was under construction they said. You can find sections divided generation by generation. Very informative readings, interactive medias and striking photos take you through the near history from that times’ perspective. I love the way the content presented in a very objective. Definitely a museum to visit to grasp a different perspective on that era. I only wish there were more source books also in English as well.

I must see when in Bonn - definitely buy tickets in advance. When we were there, There was low traffic and the museum is currently being re-organised but it is definitely worth it. The café is nice. We had cake and coffee there which was a nice early afternoon / mid afternoon break And lots of history that you just were not really aware of. I must see when in Bonn

I find the visit very impressive. It’s an educative place, though currently there’s only one temporary exhibition since the main exhibition is under renovation. I’m thankful that there’s English translation everywhere.

The exhibition about the second world war was open to visitors when I visited the museum. It was really interesting to learn more about antisemitism and what people experienced from generation to generation

A really sobering exhibition, and essential visiting for anyone who considers themselves politically interested. Lots of things to think about, especially how the 'elders' of a nation holds on to ideas of the past and steer youth towards it.

It is free, it is extensive, it has evil Russian propaganda. Do I need to say more? I do have to take off a star for not accommodating stupid Americans like me. Even with the audio guide, there are some parts of the museum that you will just have to squint at intelligently, take pictures thinking that you will translate when you get home (you won't), and move on with the other children to the big tank. Big tanks require no translation. Neither does the life-sized canoe crashing through the wall with life jackets pouring out of it (bet you're going now, aren't you?)

This is one of the best museums to visit if you are at all interested in contemporary German history (WWII and on). While it is a bit frustrating if you don't know German (only the major captions on signs are translated into English, though I heard you can ask for an English guide), the fact that it's free more than makes up for it. Regardless of my utter lack of German language ability, I still managed to spend hours in this museum. The best part? Admission is absolutely FREE. Definitely a must-see attraction in Bonn. Go with German locals if you can; it'll likely make your visit much more meaningful. Note: You will be asked to turn in your personal belongings at the coat check. Also, there is a direct entrance to the museum from the Heussallee/Museumsmeile U-Bahn station, on the western side of Friedrich-Ebert-Allee -- going through this entrance will actually allow you to see a neat car and train.

The Museum about German history. Sometimes Americans wonder if Germans talk about the war and things that happened at this time. When you enter this museum you will see that everything is an open book in German history. The history starts at the beginning of Germany and when you follow the trail you will see all the important steps this country made. As said before it is free, so what else could you ask for? By the way, in case you don't understand what a display says, as it's in German, just ask someone there, most people in Germany speak English quite well.

My boyfriend and I spent an afternoon in this museum at a Bonn visit. I enjoyed the well prepared exhibition and liked the many interactive stations. In the museum you get a pretty detailed overview on German history from WWII to the present time. Most signs are in German and I think that the English texts are a lot shorter but I have to admit that I didn't pay too much attention. We will definitely return! Oh, and it's free :)

A great overview of German history from 1945 to the present, focusing on political history but also social history. Free entrance (donations welcome) and a reasonably priced cafe to boot. Definitely worth a visit.

If you are interested in german history after WW II is this a great opportunity. Main focus is on politics and the split and reunification of east and west germany are depicted in a vivid manner. Great museum in the former capitol.

I have visited this museum at least 4 times, mostly with out-of-town visitors. While all of the exhibits are in German, it's relatively easy to translate for those with moderate language experience. You can also ask the information desk for an English guide, although it doesn't cover every exhibit. I always find something new and interesting with each visit.