September 6, 2026, 10:26 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Hidden structures, historical transportation facilities, and unusual cultural sites: Once a year, visitors gain access to monuments that are usually not open to the public. Those looking to explore can choose from thousands of options nationwide–including some true rarities.
More than 6,500 Monuments Invite Visitors
On September 13, the “Day of Open Monuments” is once again on the agenda across Germany. According to the organizers, more than 6,500 monuments are participating in the event. Visitors can tour buildings, facilities, and sites that are often closed to the public.
The offerings range from protected subway stations in Berlin to a historic airport in Karlsruhe and a ship over 90 years old in Kiel. The events are aimed at both locals and tourists.
Quickly Find Suitable Offers Nearby
Interested parties can find out which monuments in their region are participating through the website of the event day using the location search. There, you can find brief descriptions of each monument and information on possible registrations.
It’s important to check the specific participation conditions: Some tours require registration deadlines that end several days before the event. Additionally, a free app is available, where all information can be accessed in one place.
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Germany’s Largest Cultural Event
The “Day of Open Monuments” is coordinated by the German Foundation for Monument Protection and takes place every year on the second Sunday in September. According to the foundation, it is the largest cultural event in Germany.
Inspiring Beyond the Event Day
Even those who cannot attend a tour on the event day will find numerous suggestions for future excursions on the website. The offerings in Hamburg illustrate the diversity: In addition to well-known sights like the Michel, you can discover former soap and wire nail factories and a large gas station built in the 1950s that has since been repurposed.
With material from dpa