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Olympic Park, Deutschland - Things to Do in Olympic Park

Things to Do in Olympic Park

Olympic Park, Deutschland - Complete Travel Guide

Olympic Park, located in Munich, Germany, stands as a magnificent testament to modern architecture and sporting excellence. Built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, this iconic complex has transformed into one of Munich's most beloved recreational and cultural destinations. The park's distinctive tent-like roof structure, designed by architect Günter Behnisch, creates a stunning canopy over the Olympic Stadium, Hall, and Swimming Pool, making it an architectural marvel that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. Today, Olympic Park serves as a vibrant hub for sports, entertainment, and leisure activities. Beyond its historical significance as an Olympic venue, the park offers panoramic city views from the Olympic Tower, hosts major concerts and events, and provides extensive green spaces for relaxation and recreation. The seamless blend of cutting-edge 1970s architecture with beautiful landscaping and the nearby Olympic Lake creates a unique urban oasis that perfectly embodies Munich's progressive spirit and love for outdoor activities.

Top Things to Do in Olympic Park

Olympic Tower Observatory Visit

Ascend the 290-meter Olympic Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of Munich and the Bavarian Alps on clear days. The observation deck and revolving restaurant provide unique perspectives of the city's landmarks and the Olympic Park's distinctive architecture. The tower also features exhibitions about Munich's history and the 1972 Olympics.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost around €9-11 for adults, with discounts for students and families. Visit during late afternoon for optimal lighting conditions, and check weather forecasts as the tower may close during storms. Book online to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist season.

Olympic Stadium and Roof Climbing

Experience the architectural wonder of the Olympic Stadium with its revolutionary tent roof design, and for the adventurous, participate in guided roof climbing tours. The stadium continues to host major sporting events and concerts, while the roof climbing experience offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure with spectacular views. The guided tours also provide fascinating insights into the stadium's innovative construction and Olympic history.

Booking Tip: Stadium tours cost €8-12, while roof climbing experiences range from €35-45 per person. Roof climbing requires advance booking and has age restrictions (minimum 10 years). Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as tours operate in most weather conditions.

Olympic Lake Recreation

Enjoy the serene Olympic Lake, perfect for paddleboating, swimming during summer months, or simply relaxing on its shores. The artificial lake, created for the Olympics, now serves as a popular recreational spot with beach areas, waterfront cafes, and scenic walking paths. In winter, parts of the lake may freeze over, creating beautiful winter landscapes.

Booking Tip: Paddleboat rentals cost around €12-15 per hour during summer season (May-September). Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography. Swimming is free, but facilities and changing rooms may have small fees.

BMW World and Museum Exploration

Located adjacent to Olympic Park, BMW World showcases the latest BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce models in a stunning architectural setting. The BMW Museum traces the company's history from its aviation beginnings to its current automotive innovations. Interactive exhibits, historic vehicles, and futuristic concept cars provide an immersive experience into German automotive excellence.

Booking Tip: BMW World entry is free, while museum tickets cost €10 for adults. Factory tours cost €8-15 and require advance booking, often selling out weeks ahead. Consider combination tickets for museum and factory tours for better value, and allow 2-3 hours for the full experience.

Olympic Park Guided Historical Tours

Join comprehensive guided tours that explore the park's Olympic legacy, architectural significance, and the tragic events of 1972. These tours provide deep insights into the park's design philosophy, construction challenges, and its role in Munich's urban development. Expert guides share stories about the athletes, architects, and the lasting impact of the Munich Olympics on the city.

Booking Tip: Official guided tours cost €8-12 per person and run several times daily in multiple languages. Book through the Olympic Park official website or visitor center for authentic experiences. Private group tours are available for €120-180 and can be customized to specific interests.

Getting There

Olympic Park is easily accessible from Munich city center and Munich Airport. From the city center, take the U3 subway line directly to Olympiazentrum station, which takes about 15 minutes and deposits you right at the park entrance. From Munich Airport, take the S1 or S8 S-Bahn to Marienplatz, then transfer to U3, or take the S1 to Oberwiesenfeld station and walk 10 minutes. By car, the park is located just off the A9 Autobahn with ample parking available for €5-8 per day. Taxis from the city center cost approximately €15-20, while ride-sharing services offer similar pricing.

Getting Around

Olympic Park is designed for pedestrians and cyclists, with well-marked paths connecting all major attractions within the 85-hectare complex. The park offers free maps at information points, and most attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. Bicycle rentals are available at several locations for €12-15 per day, providing an excellent way to explore the extensive grounds and nearby English Garden. The park's compact design means you can walk from one end to the other in about 20 minutes, and the flat terrain makes it accessible for visitors of all mobility levels.

Where to Stay

Schwabing-West
Maxvorstadt
Milbertshofen-Am Hart
Munich City Center
Neuhausen-Nymphenburg
Bogenhausen

Food & Dining

Olympic Park offers diverse dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants with panoramic views. The Olympic Tower's revolving restaurant provides fine dining with spectacular city vistas, while the park's various cafes and beer gardens offer traditional Bavarian fare and international cuisine. Food trucks and seasonal outdoor vendors provide quick bites during events and peak seasons. The nearby Schwabing district, just a short walk away, expands dining options significantly with trendy restaurants, traditional beer halls, and international cuisine. For a unique experience, pack a picnic to enjoy by Olympic Lake or in the park's numerous green spaces, with several supermarkets and delis located within walking distance.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Munich

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Trattoria Bellini

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Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

Olympic Park is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from May through September when the weather is warmest and all outdoor activities are fully operational. Summer months offer the longest daylight hours for sightseeing, lake activities, and outdoor events, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colors. Winter visits have their own charm with potential snow-covered landscapes and clear mountain views from the Olympic Tower, plus indoor attractions remain open year-round. Major events and concerts typically occur during warmer months, so check the events calendar when planning your visit.

Insider Tips

Visit Olympic Tower just before sunset for the best photography opportunities and stay for the city lights after dark - the revolving restaurant doesn't require dinner reservations for drinks only.
Free outdoor fitness equipment is scattered throughout the park, and joining the morning joggers around Olympic Lake is a great way to experience local culture while staying active.
The park hosts free outdoor movie screenings and concerts during summer months - check the official website's event calendar for schedules, and arrive early with blankets for the best spots on the grass.

Explore Activities in Olympic Park