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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 (Olympiapark München) in Munich, Germany, stands as one of the world's most innovative and architecturally stunning sports complexes, built for the 1972 Summer Olympics. This 85-hectare site in northern Munich features the iconic tent-like roof structure designed by Frei Otto, which has become synonymous with modern Munich's skyline. The park seamlessly blends sports facilities, cultural venues, recreational spaces, and residential areas into a cohesive urban landscape that continues to serve as a model for Olympic legacy planning. Today, Olympic Park functions as much more than a sports venue – it's a vibrant cultural and recreational hub that attracts millions of visitors annually. The complex includes the Olympic Stadium, Olympic Hall, Olympic Swimming Pool, and the famous Olympic Tower (Olympiaturm), offering panoramic views of Munich and the Alps. Beyond its sporting heritage, the park hosts major concerts, festivals, and cultural events throughout the year, while its expansive green spaces provide a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike, making it an essential destination for understanding Munich's modern identity and Olympic legacy.

Top Things to Do in Olympic Park

Olympic Tower Observation Experience

Ascend the 291-meter Olympic Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of Munich, the Bavarian countryside, and on clear days, the majestic Alps. The tower features a revolving restaurant and observation deck, making it one of Munich's most popular attractions. The elevator ride takes just 30 seconds to reach the top, where interactive displays provide information about the landmarks visible below.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost around €9-15 for adults, with discounts for students and families. Visit during late afternoon for optimal lighting and consider combining with dinner at the revolving restaurant. Book online in advance during peak season and check weather conditions for the best visibility.

Olympic Stadium and Sports Complex Tour

Explore the architectural marvel of the Olympic Stadium with its revolutionary tent roof design and learn about the 1972 Olympics history. Guided tours provide behind-the-scenes access to areas normally off-limits to the public, including the athletes' areas and VIP sections. The stadium continues to host major sporting events and concerts, maintaining its status as one of Europe's premier venues.

Booking Tip: Stadium tours cost approximately €8-12 per person and run several times daily. Book in advance during event days when access may be limited. Consider combining with Olympic Park walking tours for a comprehensive experience, and check the events calendar as some areas may be restricted during preparations.

Olympic Lake Recreation Activities

Enjoy various water activities on the artificial Olympic Lake, including pedal boating, swimming, and lakeside relaxation. The lake serves as the park's central recreational feature, surrounded by walking and cycling paths with stunning views of the Olympic facilities. During winter, parts of the lake may freeze over, creating opportunities for ice skating and winter photography.

Booking Tip: Pedal boat rentals cost around €8-15 per hour depending on boat size and season. No advance booking required – rent directly at the lakeside kiosks. Best visited during warm months (May-September) for swimming and water activities. Bring sunscreen and consider packing a picnic for lakeside dining.

Rock Climbing at Olympic Climbing Wall

Challenge yourself on one of the world's first artificial climbing walls, built for the 1972 Olympics and still operating today. The facility offers routes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers, with equipment rental and instruction available. This historic climbing venue provides a unique opportunity to experience Olympic sports in an authentic setting.

Booking Tip: Day passes cost around €15-25 including equipment rental, with discounts for students. Beginners should book introductory sessions in advance (€35-50 for 2-hour courses). Open year-round with indoor and outdoor sections. Check operating hours as they vary seasonally, and wear comfortable athletic clothing.

Olympic Park Cultural Events and Concerts

Experience world-class entertainment at the Olympic Hall and Stadium, which host major international concerts, festivals, and cultural events throughout the year. The venues have welcomed legendary performers from rock stars to classical orchestras, maintaining their reputation as premier entertainment destinations. The park also features smaller cultural events, outdoor cinema screenings, and seasonal festivals.

Booking Tip: Ticket prices vary widely from €30-200+ depending on the event and seating. Book through official venues or authorized dealers to avoid counterfeit tickets. Check the Olympic Park events calendar regularly as popular shows sell out quickly. Consider public transportation as parking can be limited during major events.

Getting There

Olympic Park is easily accessible from Munich city center and Munich Airport via excellent public transportation connections. Take the U3 subway line directly to Olympiazentrum station, which provides immediate access to the park's main attractions – the journey from Marienplatz takes approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, several bus lines (including 144, 173, and 177) serve the area. If driving, the park is well-connected to major highways (A9, A99) with clear signage, though parking can be expensive (€5-15 per day) and limited during events. From Munich Airport, take the S1 or S8 S-Bahn to the city center, then transfer to U3, or take a direct taxi (approximately €60-80).

Getting Around

The Olympic Park is designed for pedestrian exploration, with well-marked walking paths connecting all major attractions within the 85-hectare site. Most visitors can easily walk between venues in 10-15 minutes, and the park provides excellent accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility devices. Bicycle rentals are available at several locations within the park (€8-12 per day), offering an efficient way to cover longer distances and explore the surrounding residential areas. During major events, free shuttle buses operate between parking areas and main venues. The park's compact layout and clear signage make navigation straightforward, with information centers located near the main entrances providing maps and current event information.

Where to Stay

Olympic Park Area
Schwabing District
Maxvorstadt
Munich City Center
Lehel Quarter
Bogenhausen

Food & Dining

Olympic Park offers diverse dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, with the revolving restaurant in Olympic Tower providing the most unique experience alongside panoramic city views. The park features several beer gardens and outdoor cafes perfect for traditional Bavarian cuisine, including the popular Olympiaalm with its alpine atmosphere and local specialties. Food courts near major venues serve international cuisine, while numerous snack bars and ice cream stands cater to families and casual visitors. The nearby Schwabing district, just a short U-Bahn ride away, expands dining options significantly with trendy restaurants, traditional Bavarian taverns, and international cuisine representing Munich's cosmopolitan food scene.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Munich

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Trattoria Bellini

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When to Visit

Olympic Park is a year-round destination, but the optimal visiting period is from May through September when weather is ideal for outdoor activities, lake recreation, and the full range of attractions are operational. Summer months offer the longest daylight hours for tower visits and the best visibility for Alpine views, plus the warmest weather for enjoying the lake and outdoor events. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and often clearer air for photography. Winter visits have their own charm with potential snow-covered landscapes and festive atmosphere, though some outdoor activities may be limited. Major events and concerts occur throughout the year, so check the events calendar when planning your visit to either catch special performances or avoid crowds.

Insider Tips

Visit the Olympic Tower just before sunset for the best lighting conditions and stay for the city lights at dusk – the revolving restaurant rotates once every 53 minutes, providing changing perspectives throughout your meal
Combine your Olympic Park visit with nearby attractions like the BMW Museum and BMW Welt, both within walking distance and offering package deals for multiple venues
Check the park's event calendar before visiting, as major concerts or sporting events can significantly impact crowd levels, parking availability, and access to certain areas – but also provide unique entertainment opportunities

Explore Activities in Olympic Park