Augsburger Puppenkiste

The basics

Whether you’re indulging in the nostalgia of a historic puppet show or looking for a fun alternative to keep the kids entertained, Augsburger Puppenkiste is one of Augsburg’s quirkiest attractions. Book tickets in advance to catch a puppetry show at the historic theater or visit the adjoining Puppet Box museum (Augsburger Puppenkiste Die Kiste), where you can meet all the beloved puppet characters from the live theater and TV shows and enjoy a glimpse behind the scenes.

Things to know before you go

• While it may not be well-known among foreigners, Augsburger Puppenkiste is a household name in Germany.

• There are separate admission fees for the theater shows and museum.

• The puppet shows are in German, but the stories are typically simple enough to follow, even if you don't speak the language.

• There is a souvenir shop and restaurant on-site.

• Both the museum and theater are accessible for people using wheelchairs, but as they are listed as historic buildings, assistance may be required in some areas.

How to get there

Augsburger Puppenkiste is about 1 kilometer southeast of downtown Augsburg for about a 5-minute drive. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the central Rathausplatz, or you can take tram lines 2, 3, or 6 to the Rotes Tor stop, from where it’s a 2-minute walk to the theater.

When to get there

The Puppet Theater and Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday in the afternoon. Opening hours are typically midday to evening, and theater performances generally are held twice in the afternoons on select days. Look out for special events and temporary exhibitions in summer and over the festive period.

The characters of Augsburger Puppenkiste

Germany’s best-known puppet theater produced a hugely popular series of kids' TV shows and films featuring puppet adaptations of popular dramas, fairy tales, and pantomimes. Generations of German children grew up with the shows, so the many puppet characters are familiar to locals. The nostalgic museum features memorable characters like Jim Knopf, Urmel, and Cat Mikesch.