Bonn
Lennéstraße 2, 53113 Bonn, Deutschland
Arithmeum Bonn | Exhibitions & Tours
The Arithmeum Bonn is a museum that not only deals with numbers but with the entire cultural history of calculation. As a central institution of the University of Bonn and part of the research environment for Discrete Mathematics, it connects science, art, and technology in a way that is rare in Germany. Visitors experience one of the world's most comprehensive collections of historical calculating machines, complemented by books, design objects, geometrically constructive art, and a regular event program. The architecture of steel and glass emphasizes this idea of transparency and makes the building itself a statement for modern scientific culture. Those looking for an exhibition, a tour, a family destination, or a culturally demanding day program in Bonn will find in the Arithmeum a place that presents knowledge in a vivid, elegant, and surprisingly accessible manner. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
Exhibitions at Arithmeum Bonn: Collection, Highlights, and Current Topics
At the heart of the Arithmeum is the permanent exhibition focusing on the development of mechanical calculation. It is structured chronologically and leads through several levels from early calculating aids, through abacuses and calculating tables, to the large mechanical machines of modern times. Particularly important stations include early counting stones, Mesopotamian clay tablets, Napier's calculating rods, Schickard's machine, the machines of Morland and Grillet, and Leibniz's four-species calculating machine. This presentation is not dry or purely technical but is staged in such a way that visitors understand the history of calculation as part of European cultural and knowledge history. The Arithmeum thus shows not only objects but a development that directly leads to modern computers and microprocessors. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/exhibition/permanent-exhibition.html?utm_source=openai))
The museum is particularly strong in its changing exhibitions. Currently, the Arithmeum features several special and art exhibitions, including the Pohl-Goldschmidt art chamber with mathematical and scientific instruments from the Renaissance, the exhibition on Léon Bollée and his inventions, the art exhibition by Hans Jörg Glattfelder, and the presentation “Thought in Three Corners” on slide rules and surveying. This mix of the history of technology, art, and scientific culture is what makes the location appealing: a visit is never just a museum tour, but always also an encounter with different perspectives on calculation and its consequences. Since current topics are usually maintained through the event calendar and exhibition pages, it is worthwhile to take a look at the program before visiting. This way, the museum visit can be specifically combined with a special exhibition, a tour, or an event. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/ausstellungen/aktuelle-ausstellungen-auf-einen-blick.html?utm_source=openai))
Tours, Children's Programs, and Workshops at Arithmeum Bonn
Those who do not want to explore the Arithmeum alone have several options for tours. The public Sunday tours are particularly popular: the permanent exhibition “calculating then & now” is guided every Sunday at 11 a.m., the current art exhibition every Sunday at 3 p.m. Additionally, on the first Friday of each month at 6 p.m., there is a tour of the showcase “Early Computers and PCs.” These formats are public, do not incur any additional tour fees, and make the museum attractive for spontaneous visitors. Especially for people interested in the history of technology, design, or knowledge culture, this is a good opportunity to not only see the collection but to receive professional context. For families with children, there is also a special tour for children aged 7 and up on the last Saturday of the month at 3 p.m., which requires registration. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/fuehrungen-workshops/oeffentliche-fuehrungen.html))
The Arithmeum is also well-equipped for groups and school classes. Groups of 7 to a maximum of 60 people can visit the museum only as part of a tour or after prior registration. Tours for groups usually last 60 to 90 minutes and are organized by arrangement; they can also be conducted in English upon request, but only with prior registration. There is no tour fee for school classes, and the content is conveyed in a didactically appropriate manner. Additionally, the Arithmeum offers children's programs and workshops, for example, for preschool, primary school, lower and middle school, upper school, or adults. The topics range from calculating with machines to abacuses and calculating tables to cryptography and geometrically constructive art. For families with children of preschool age, there are rally books that playfully guide them through the permanent exhibition. This very mix makes the museum a very suitable destination for school projects, family outings, and knowledge-based group visits. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Opening Hours, Admission, and Tickets at Arithmeum Bonn
For planning a visit, the practical data is clear and uncomplicated. The Arithmeum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; it is closed on Mondays. The admission fee is 3 euros regular, 2 euros reduced for students, trainees, and apprentices, and 8 euros for the family ticket, which is relatively low. Free admission is granted to children up to school entry and severely disabled persons and their indispensable companions. This makes the visit easy to plan, especially for families and individual guests. Those wishing to book a tour, a group visit, or a workshop format should register in advance by phone or email, as some offers only take place with prior registration. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/visitor-information/information.html))
Also regarding tickets, the Arithmeum is very visitor-friendly organized: the public tours themselves are free, only the regular museum admission applies. The tours of the permanent exhibition, the art exhibition, and the showcase are therefore a good opportunity to gain more background knowledge without incurring additional costs. However, special arrangements apply for English-speaking group tours, and workshops have their own fees, which vary depending on the format. Those coming with a larger group should definitely note that visits of seven or more people are only possible with a tour or prior registration. This keeps the process pleasant and clear for all guests. Overall, the pricing model is transparent, family-friendly, and very fair for a specialized museum like the Arithmeum. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Directions and Parking at Arithmeum Bonn
The Arithmeum is located at Lennéstraße 2 in 53113 Bonn, in a well-accessible location near the city center and in the vicinity of the university. For public transport, the museum mentions the subway stop “Universität / Markt” as well as the stop “Bonn Hauptbahnhof” for bus, DB, and tram. This makes the Arithmeum easily reachable from various directions without long walks or complicated transfers. Especially for visitors who are already planning a city stroll or a cultural day in Bonn, the location is practical because the museum can be easily combined with other destinations in the city center. The official visitor information also recommends using the location map on the website when arriving by car. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
When it comes to parking, the information is clear: there are no parking facilities in the immediate vicinity of the Arithmeum. Visitors are therefore advised to use the parking garages in Bonn's city center; wheelchair users can reserve a parking space by phone in advance, which significantly facilitates barrier-free use. The museum itself is described as barrier-free, which is an important point for many guests. Therefore, those coming by car should definitely plan for parking in advance and not assume they can park directly in front of the entrance. At the same time, the location is so central that arriving by train, subway, or bus is often the less stressful solution. Especially for tours or events in the evening, this can be the best choice. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Concerts, Events, and the Shop at Arithmeum Bonn
The Arithmeum is not just a museum but also a venue. Particularly well-known is the concert series “concerto discreto,” which has been supported by Deutschlandfunk and the Arithmeum since 1999 and now regularly takes place in the glass foyer of the building. Annually, there are six to eight concert evenings where old, classical, and contemporary music resonates in an extraordinary environment. The special atmosphere of the space significantly shapes the experience: the boundary between stage and audience is deliberately made more open, and the place itself becomes a resonance space. This makes the concerts a strong complement to the museum visit, as they make the connection between art, science, and sound immediately tangible. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/concerts/concerto-discreto.html?utm_source=openai))
Beyond the concerts, the Arithmeum regularly lists additional events, including public tours, children's programs, workshops, and special formats as part of the event calendar. Many of these offerings are public, some must be booked early, and not all are conducted in English. However, private events or workshops can also be booked in English. This is interesting for guests from abroad as well as for companies, school groups, or families looking for a tailored format. Additionally, it is worth taking a look at the Arithmeum's shop: there, publications and exhibition catalogs are offered that deepen the content of the collection. This fits well with the profile of the house, as the library and historical prints are also an important part of the overall history of the place. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/events.html?utm_source=openai))
Therefore, those visiting the Arithmeum experience more than just a classic museum. The house is a place for discoveries where the history of technology, aesthetic design, and educational work combine very organically. The visit is particularly worthwhile for people interested in mathematics, architecture, design, science communication, or the history of computers. At the same time, the Arithmeum also works without specialized knowledge, as the exhibition is structured in such a way that it arouses curiosity and makes connections visible. Whether one comes for a tour, a special exhibition, a family activity, a concert, or simply out of interest in an unusual cultural venue in Bonn: the Arithmeum delivers a dense, well-structured, and content-rich experience that goes far beyond a quick tour. This is precisely where its special strength as a location in Bonn lies. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
For a successful visit, it is advisable to plan a bit more time than for a normal city museum. The combination of permanent exhibition, special exhibition, possible tour, shop, and event program unfolds its charm especially when one does not just look at individual objects but lets the narrative of the house as a whole take effect. Especially in the Arithmeum, it becomes clear that calculation is not merely a technical function but a cultural topic with history, aesthetics, and social impact. Anyone visiting Bonn and looking for a location that combines content depth with clear visitor guidance should definitely add the Arithmeum to their list. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
Sources:
- Arithmeum - The Arithmeum as a Museum ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Information for Visitors ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/visitor-information/information.html))
- Arithmeum - Your Visit with Us ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
- Arithmeum - Public Tours ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/fuehrungen-workshops/oeffentliche-fuehrungen.html))
- Arithmeum - Exhibition ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/exhibition.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Current Exhibitions at a Glance ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/ausstellungen/aktuelle-ausstellungen-auf-einen-blick.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - concerto discreto ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/concerts/concerto-discreto.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Shop ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/shop.html?utm_source=openai))
Mehr anzeigenWeniger anzeigen
Arithmeum Bonn | Exhibitions & Tours
The Arithmeum Bonn is a museum that not only deals with numbers but with the entire cultural history of calculation. As a central institution of the University of Bonn and part of the research environment for Discrete Mathematics, it connects science, art, and technology in a way that is rare in Germany. Visitors experience one of the world's most comprehensive collections of historical calculating machines, complemented by books, design objects, geometrically constructive art, and a regular event program. The architecture of steel and glass emphasizes this idea of transparency and makes the building itself a statement for modern scientific culture. Those looking for an exhibition, a tour, a family destination, or a culturally demanding day program in Bonn will find in the Arithmeum a place that presents knowledge in a vivid, elegant, and surprisingly accessible manner. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
Exhibitions at Arithmeum Bonn: Collection, Highlights, and Current Topics
At the heart of the Arithmeum is the permanent exhibition focusing on the development of mechanical calculation. It is structured chronologically and leads through several levels from early calculating aids, through abacuses and calculating tables, to the large mechanical machines of modern times. Particularly important stations include early counting stones, Mesopotamian clay tablets, Napier's calculating rods, Schickard's machine, the machines of Morland and Grillet, and Leibniz's four-species calculating machine. This presentation is not dry or purely technical but is staged in such a way that visitors understand the history of calculation as part of European cultural and knowledge history. The Arithmeum thus shows not only objects but a development that directly leads to modern computers and microprocessors. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/exhibition/permanent-exhibition.html?utm_source=openai))
The museum is particularly strong in its changing exhibitions. Currently, the Arithmeum features several special and art exhibitions, including the Pohl-Goldschmidt art chamber with mathematical and scientific instruments from the Renaissance, the exhibition on Léon Bollée and his inventions, the art exhibition by Hans Jörg Glattfelder, and the presentation “Thought in Three Corners” on slide rules and surveying. This mix of the history of technology, art, and scientific culture is what makes the location appealing: a visit is never just a museum tour, but always also an encounter with different perspectives on calculation and its consequences. Since current topics are usually maintained through the event calendar and exhibition pages, it is worthwhile to take a look at the program before visiting. This way, the museum visit can be specifically combined with a special exhibition, a tour, or an event. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/ausstellungen/aktuelle-ausstellungen-auf-einen-blick.html?utm_source=openai))
Tours, Children's Programs, and Workshops at Arithmeum Bonn
Those who do not want to explore the Arithmeum alone have several options for tours. The public Sunday tours are particularly popular: the permanent exhibition “calculating then & now” is guided every Sunday at 11 a.m., the current art exhibition every Sunday at 3 p.m. Additionally, on the first Friday of each month at 6 p.m., there is a tour of the showcase “Early Computers and PCs.” These formats are public, do not incur any additional tour fees, and make the museum attractive for spontaneous visitors. Especially for people interested in the history of technology, design, or knowledge culture, this is a good opportunity to not only see the collection but to receive professional context. For families with children, there is also a special tour for children aged 7 and up on the last Saturday of the month at 3 p.m., which requires registration. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/fuehrungen-workshops/oeffentliche-fuehrungen.html))
The Arithmeum is also well-equipped for groups and school classes. Groups of 7 to a maximum of 60 people can visit the museum only as part of a tour or after prior registration. Tours for groups usually last 60 to 90 minutes and are organized by arrangement; they can also be conducted in English upon request, but only with prior registration. There is no tour fee for school classes, and the content is conveyed in a didactically appropriate manner. Additionally, the Arithmeum offers children's programs and workshops, for example, for preschool, primary school, lower and middle school, upper school, or adults. The topics range from calculating with machines to abacuses and calculating tables to cryptography and geometrically constructive art. For families with children of preschool age, there are rally books that playfully guide them through the permanent exhibition. This very mix makes the museum a very suitable destination for school projects, family outings, and knowledge-based group visits. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Opening Hours, Admission, and Tickets at Arithmeum Bonn
For planning a visit, the practical data is clear and uncomplicated. The Arithmeum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; it is closed on Mondays. The admission fee is 3 euros regular, 2 euros reduced for students, trainees, and apprentices, and 8 euros for the family ticket, which is relatively low. Free admission is granted to children up to school entry and severely disabled persons and their indispensable companions. This makes the visit easy to plan, especially for families and individual guests. Those wishing to book a tour, a group visit, or a workshop format should register in advance by phone or email, as some offers only take place with prior registration. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/visitor-information/information.html))
Also regarding tickets, the Arithmeum is very visitor-friendly organized: the public tours themselves are free, only the regular museum admission applies. The tours of the permanent exhibition, the art exhibition, and the showcase are therefore a good opportunity to gain more background knowledge without incurring additional costs. However, special arrangements apply for English-speaking group tours, and workshops have their own fees, which vary depending on the format. Those coming with a larger group should definitely note that visits of seven or more people are only possible with a tour or prior registration. This keeps the process pleasant and clear for all guests. Overall, the pricing model is transparent, family-friendly, and very fair for a specialized museum like the Arithmeum. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Directions and Parking at Arithmeum Bonn
The Arithmeum is located at Lennéstraße 2 in 53113 Bonn, in a well-accessible location near the city center and in the vicinity of the university. For public transport, the museum mentions the subway stop “Universität / Markt” as well as the stop “Bonn Hauptbahnhof” for bus, DB, and tram. This makes the Arithmeum easily reachable from various directions without long walks or complicated transfers. Especially for visitors who are already planning a city stroll or a cultural day in Bonn, the location is practical because the museum can be easily combined with other destinations in the city center. The official visitor information also recommends using the location map on the website when arriving by car. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
When it comes to parking, the information is clear: there are no parking facilities in the immediate vicinity of the Arithmeum. Visitors are therefore advised to use the parking garages in Bonn's city center; wheelchair users can reserve a parking space by phone in advance, which significantly facilitates barrier-free use. The museum itself is described as barrier-free, which is an important point for many guests. Therefore, those coming by car should definitely plan for parking in advance and not assume they can park directly in front of the entrance. At the same time, the location is so central that arriving by train, subway, or bus is often the less stressful solution. Especially for tours or events in the evening, this can be the best choice. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Concerts, Events, and the Shop at Arithmeum Bonn
The Arithmeum is not just a museum but also a venue. Particularly well-known is the concert series “concerto discreto,” which has been supported by Deutschlandfunk and the Arithmeum since 1999 and now regularly takes place in the glass foyer of the building. Annually, there are six to eight concert evenings where old, classical, and contemporary music resonates in an extraordinary environment. The special atmosphere of the space significantly shapes the experience: the boundary between stage and audience is deliberately made more open, and the place itself becomes a resonance space. This makes the concerts a strong complement to the museum visit, as they make the connection between art, science, and sound immediately tangible. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/concerts/concerto-discreto.html?utm_source=openai))
Beyond the concerts, the Arithmeum regularly lists additional events, including public tours, children's programs, workshops, and special formats as part of the event calendar. Many of these offerings are public, some must be booked early, and not all are conducted in English. However, private events or workshops can also be booked in English. This is interesting for guests from abroad as well as for companies, school groups, or families looking for a tailored format. Additionally, it is worth taking a look at the Arithmeum's shop: there, publications and exhibition catalogs are offered that deepen the content of the collection. This fits well with the profile of the house, as the library and historical prints are also an important part of the overall history of the place. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/events.html?utm_source=openai))
Therefore, those visiting the Arithmeum experience more than just a classic museum. The house is a place for discoveries where the history of technology, aesthetic design, and educational work combine very organically. The visit is particularly worthwhile for people interested in mathematics, architecture, design, science communication, or the history of computers. At the same time, the Arithmeum also works without specialized knowledge, as the exhibition is structured in such a way that it arouses curiosity and makes connections visible. Whether one comes for a tour, a special exhibition, a family activity, a concert, or simply out of interest in an unusual cultural venue in Bonn: the Arithmeum delivers a dense, well-structured, and content-rich experience that goes far beyond a quick tour. This is precisely where its special strength as a location in Bonn lies. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
For a successful visit, it is advisable to plan a bit more time than for a normal city museum. The combination of permanent exhibition, special exhibition, possible tour, shop, and event program unfolds its charm especially when one does not just look at individual objects but lets the narrative of the house as a whole take effect. Especially in the Arithmeum, it becomes clear that calculation is not merely a technical function but a cultural topic with history, aesthetics, and social impact. Anyone visiting Bonn and looking for a location that combines content depth with clear visitor guidance should definitely add the Arithmeum to their list. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
Sources:
- Arithmeum - The Arithmeum as a Museum ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Information for Visitors ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/visitor-information/information.html))
- Arithmeum - Your Visit with Us ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
- Arithmeum - Public Tours ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/fuehrungen-workshops/oeffentliche-fuehrungen.html))
- Arithmeum - Exhibition ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/exhibition.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Current Exhibitions at a Glance ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/ausstellungen/aktuelle-ausstellungen-auf-einen-blick.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - concerto discreto ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/concerts/concerto-discreto.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Shop ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/shop.html?utm_source=openai))
Arithmeum Bonn | Exhibitions & Tours
The Arithmeum Bonn is a museum that not only deals with numbers but with the entire cultural history of calculation. As a central institution of the University of Bonn and part of the research environment for Discrete Mathematics, it connects science, art, and technology in a way that is rare in Germany. Visitors experience one of the world's most comprehensive collections of historical calculating machines, complemented by books, design objects, geometrically constructive art, and a regular event program. The architecture of steel and glass emphasizes this idea of transparency and makes the building itself a statement for modern scientific culture. Those looking for an exhibition, a tour, a family destination, or a culturally demanding day program in Bonn will find in the Arithmeum a place that presents knowledge in a vivid, elegant, and surprisingly accessible manner. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
Exhibitions at Arithmeum Bonn: Collection, Highlights, and Current Topics
At the heart of the Arithmeum is the permanent exhibition focusing on the development of mechanical calculation. It is structured chronologically and leads through several levels from early calculating aids, through abacuses and calculating tables, to the large mechanical machines of modern times. Particularly important stations include early counting stones, Mesopotamian clay tablets, Napier's calculating rods, Schickard's machine, the machines of Morland and Grillet, and Leibniz's four-species calculating machine. This presentation is not dry or purely technical but is staged in such a way that visitors understand the history of calculation as part of European cultural and knowledge history. The Arithmeum thus shows not only objects but a development that directly leads to modern computers and microprocessors. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/exhibition/permanent-exhibition.html?utm_source=openai))
The museum is particularly strong in its changing exhibitions. Currently, the Arithmeum features several special and art exhibitions, including the Pohl-Goldschmidt art chamber with mathematical and scientific instruments from the Renaissance, the exhibition on Léon Bollée and his inventions, the art exhibition by Hans Jörg Glattfelder, and the presentation “Thought in Three Corners” on slide rules and surveying. This mix of the history of technology, art, and scientific culture is what makes the location appealing: a visit is never just a museum tour, but always also an encounter with different perspectives on calculation and its consequences. Since current topics are usually maintained through the event calendar and exhibition pages, it is worthwhile to take a look at the program before visiting. This way, the museum visit can be specifically combined with a special exhibition, a tour, or an event. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/ausstellungen/aktuelle-ausstellungen-auf-einen-blick.html?utm_source=openai))
Tours, Children's Programs, and Workshops at Arithmeum Bonn
Those who do not want to explore the Arithmeum alone have several options for tours. The public Sunday tours are particularly popular: the permanent exhibition “calculating then & now” is guided every Sunday at 11 a.m., the current art exhibition every Sunday at 3 p.m. Additionally, on the first Friday of each month at 6 p.m., there is a tour of the showcase “Early Computers and PCs.” These formats are public, do not incur any additional tour fees, and make the museum attractive for spontaneous visitors. Especially for people interested in the history of technology, design, or knowledge culture, this is a good opportunity to not only see the collection but to receive professional context. For families with children, there is also a special tour for children aged 7 and up on the last Saturday of the month at 3 p.m., which requires registration. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/fuehrungen-workshops/oeffentliche-fuehrungen.html))
The Arithmeum is also well-equipped for groups and school classes. Groups of 7 to a maximum of 60 people can visit the museum only as part of a tour or after prior registration. Tours for groups usually last 60 to 90 minutes and are organized by arrangement; they can also be conducted in English upon request, but only with prior registration. There is no tour fee for school classes, and the content is conveyed in a didactically appropriate manner. Additionally, the Arithmeum offers children's programs and workshops, for example, for preschool, primary school, lower and middle school, upper school, or adults. The topics range from calculating with machines to abacuses and calculating tables to cryptography and geometrically constructive art. For families with children of preschool age, there are rally books that playfully guide them through the permanent exhibition. This very mix makes the museum a very suitable destination for school projects, family outings, and knowledge-based group visits. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Opening Hours, Admission, and Tickets at Arithmeum Bonn
For planning a visit, the practical data is clear and uncomplicated. The Arithmeum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; it is closed on Mondays. The admission fee is 3 euros regular, 2 euros reduced for students, trainees, and apprentices, and 8 euros for the family ticket, which is relatively low. Free admission is granted to children up to school entry and severely disabled persons and their indispensable companions. This makes the visit easy to plan, especially for families and individual guests. Those wishing to book a tour, a group visit, or a workshop format should register in advance by phone or email, as some offers only take place with prior registration. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/visitor-information/information.html))
Also regarding tickets, the Arithmeum is very visitor-friendly organized: the public tours themselves are free, only the regular museum admission applies. The tours of the permanent exhibition, the art exhibition, and the showcase are therefore a good opportunity to gain more background knowledge without incurring additional costs. However, special arrangements apply for English-speaking group tours, and workshops have their own fees, which vary depending on the format. Those coming with a larger group should definitely note that visits of seven or more people are only possible with a tour or prior registration. This keeps the process pleasant and clear for all guests. Overall, the pricing model is transparent, family-friendly, and very fair for a specialized museum like the Arithmeum. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Directions and Parking at Arithmeum Bonn
The Arithmeum is located at Lennéstraße 2 in 53113 Bonn, in a well-accessible location near the city center and in the vicinity of the university. For public transport, the museum mentions the subway stop “Universität / Markt” as well as the stop “Bonn Hauptbahnhof” for bus, DB, and tram. This makes the Arithmeum easily reachable from various directions without long walks or complicated transfers. Especially for visitors who are already planning a city stroll or a cultural day in Bonn, the location is practical because the museum can be easily combined with other destinations in the city center. The official visitor information also recommends using the location map on the website when arriving by car. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
When it comes to parking, the information is clear: there are no parking facilities in the immediate vicinity of the Arithmeum. Visitors are therefore advised to use the parking garages in Bonn's city center; wheelchair users can reserve a parking space by phone in advance, which significantly facilitates barrier-free use. The museum itself is described as barrier-free, which is an important point for many guests. Therefore, those coming by car should definitely plan for parking in advance and not assume they can park directly in front of the entrance. At the same time, the location is so central that arriving by train, subway, or bus is often the less stressful solution. Especially for tours or events in the evening, this can be the best choice. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
Concerts, Events, and the Shop at Arithmeum Bonn
The Arithmeum is not just a museum but also a venue. Particularly well-known is the concert series “concerto discreto,” which has been supported by Deutschlandfunk and the Arithmeum since 1999 and now regularly takes place in the glass foyer of the building. Annually, there are six to eight concert evenings where old, classical, and contemporary music resonates in an extraordinary environment. The special atmosphere of the space significantly shapes the experience: the boundary between stage and audience is deliberately made more open, and the place itself becomes a resonance space. This makes the concerts a strong complement to the museum visit, as they make the connection between art, science, and sound immediately tangible. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/concerts/concerto-discreto.html?utm_source=openai))
Beyond the concerts, the Arithmeum regularly lists additional events, including public tours, children's programs, workshops, and special formats as part of the event calendar. Many of these offerings are public, some must be booked early, and not all are conducted in English. However, private events or workshops can also be booked in English. This is interesting for guests from abroad as well as for companies, school groups, or families looking for a tailored format. Additionally, it is worth taking a look at the Arithmeum's shop: there, publications and exhibition catalogs are offered that deepen the content of the collection. This fits well with the profile of the house, as the library and historical prints are also an important part of the overall history of the place. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/events.html?utm_source=openai))
Therefore, those visiting the Arithmeum experience more than just a classic museum. The house is a place for discoveries where the history of technology, aesthetic design, and educational work combine very organically. The visit is particularly worthwhile for people interested in mathematics, architecture, design, science communication, or the history of computers. At the same time, the Arithmeum also works without specialized knowledge, as the exhibition is structured in such a way that it arouses curiosity and makes connections visible. Whether one comes for a tour, a special exhibition, a family activity, a concert, or simply out of interest in an unusual cultural venue in Bonn: the Arithmeum delivers a dense, well-structured, and content-rich experience that goes far beyond a quick tour. This is precisely where its special strength as a location in Bonn lies. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
For a successful visit, it is advisable to plan a bit more time than for a normal city museum. The combination of permanent exhibition, special exhibition, possible tour, shop, and event program unfolds its charm especially when one does not just look at individual objects but lets the narrative of the house as a whole take effect. Especially in the Arithmeum, it becomes clear that calculation is not merely a technical function but a cultural topic with history, aesthetics, and social impact. Anyone visiting Bonn and looking for a location that combines content depth with clear visitor guidance should definitely add the Arithmeum to their list. ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
Sources:
- Arithmeum - The Arithmeum as a Museum ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/arithmeum/museum.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Information for Visitors ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/visitor-information/information.html))
- Arithmeum - Your Visit with Us ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/ihr-besuch-bei-uns.html))
- Arithmeum - Public Tours ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/fuehrungen-workshops/oeffentliche-fuehrungen.html))
- Arithmeum - Exhibition ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/exhibition.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Current Exhibitions at a Glance ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/ausstellungen/aktuelle-ausstellungen-auf-einen-blick.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - concerto discreto ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/en/concerts/concerto-discreto.html?utm_source=openai))
- Arithmeum - Shop ([arithmeum.uni-bonn.de](https://www.arithmeum.uni-bonn.de/besucherinfo/shop.html?utm_source=openai))
Upcoming Events
Discrete and Secret, Part 1 - From Small Secrets to the Great Enigma
Secrets come alive at the Arithmeum Bonn: Cryptography, Enigma, and historical codes on an exciting afternoon. 10.10.2026, 6 Euros. #Bonn #Arithmeum
Colorful Columns
Colorful family afternoon at Arithmeum Bonn: Children create their own miniature columns and discover architecture playfully. 07.11.2026, 15:00, 6 €. #Bonn #FamilyEvent
Calculating with Machines
Mechanics, mathematics, and moments of awe in the Arithmeum Bonn: Calculating with machines brings history to clicking and turning. 05.12.2026, 6 Euro. #Bonn #Arithmeum
Frequently Asked Questions
Reviews
Alexey Tonyushkin
30. October 2025
The best museum in Bonn! The staff is very friendly and speak English. They can assist you with your luggage putting it in storage. It has the largest collection of arithmometers including schety. The other part is dedicated to the history and technology including mathematical algorithms of making chips. One can easily spend several hours in this museum.
Andrew Vandekerckhove
2. February 2026
If you like Calculators… then this will probably literally be your favorite place in the entire world! Lots of very detailed and interesting history and science about this important topic. It is a deeper dive than I ever expected to take! It’s very interesting to see how both the theory and the mechanical aspects were advanced over time. Worth a visit! There are a lot of interactive games and activities to check out.
samir kumar nath
23. July 2025
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.
Avesta
15. August 2023
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!
Pavel D.
15. July 2025
Very unique museum displaying thousands of calculating machines! The self-guided tour starts on the top floor with exploration of abacus and other mathematical instruments of ancient times and continues all the way to the ground floor where current technology such as computers and microchips can be found. It is very interactive museum, so visitors can touch, try and play with many of museums items and machines and learn how our ancestors used these instruments to calculate in daily life - that is also a reason why visitors get to wear white gloves at the beginning of the visit so they can freely touch the machines and have truly hand-on experience. All necessary explanations were available next to the exhibits and/or in the English leaflets at the beginning of each section. Some of the calculations on the old machines and cogwheels were not easy to comprehend, therefore you need to be prepared to spend some time at the museum if you want to figure out how it works (we spent over two hours in the museum). There is unfortunately no audio/video guide for visitors to learn from, but the staff is available to explain if needed. At the ground floor that is dedicated to the modern 19th, 20th and 21st century, ''calculator wall'' can be found and many interactive and interesting games to play. The whole museum is also a large art gallery (not by an accident) and many modern types of painting can be admired on the corridors and in the rooms. Very colorful and intriguing indeed - creating a beautiful atmosphere of connection between art and science. The museum was pretty much empty on Sunday afternoon, therefore we had plenty of time to explore all the machines and calculators without waiting. Definitely an amazing place to have fun and learn something new at the same time! One of the most inspiring museums! Entry fee was very cheap, only 3 EUR (cash payments possible only) and we had to lock our backpacks in the locker room (the lockers were however narrow so we had to squeeze our belongings to fit them in). Face masks were still mandatory during our visit in July 2022.