Abstract: A device and method for the automatic milking of animals is disclosed. The device includes at least two milking stalls that are positioned one after the other in a lengthwise direction. The stalls are provided on one of the long sides with an entrance door and exit door, each movable with a drive device. Animals can walk via the exit door and a passageway out of the milking stall to an accommodation area. The access to the second and subsequent stalls crosses the passageway. The device further includes an access gate through which the entrance door of the milking stalls is directly accessible from the waiting area.