Oberwiesenfeld

Oberwiesenfeld Munich Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: Oberwiesenfeld Munich—A Historic and Modern Urban Landmark

Situated in Munich’s northern district, Oberwiesenfeld is a remarkable testament to the city’s layered history and innovative urban development. What began as a military training ground in the 18th century evolved into Munich’s first commercial airport, played a strategic military role during and after World War II, and later became the vibrant heart of the 1972 Summer Olympics. Today, Oberwiesenfeld is best known as Olympiapark München, an 85-hectare complex renowned for its striking architecture, major cultural events, and family-friendly recreational spaces.

Whether you are keen to explore the Olympic Stadium’s pioneering tent-like roof, ascend the Olympic Tower for panoramic city views, or enjoy open-air festivals and green landscapes, Oberwiesenfeld stands as a must-visit site for travelers. The area is also a model for sustainable and inclusive urban renewal, with the “Am Oberwiesenfeld” project shaping a new era of eco-friendly city living. Excellent public transport links and barrier-free facilities ensure accessibility for all.

This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticket options, tours, amenities, and nearby attractions to help you make the most of your visit. For the latest updates, interactive planning tools, and event schedules, refer to the Olympiapark Munich website and Munich’s official tourism portal. Embark on a journey through Munich’s past and present—where tradition meets innovation. (source, source)

Historical Overview: From Military Grounds to Olympiapark
Visitor Information: Opening Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Architectural and Urban Planning Highlights
Cultural and Recreational Activities
Getting There: Transportation and Travel Tips
Amenities, Accommodation, and Accessibility
Best Times to Visit and Safety
Essential Visitor Tips: Etiquette, Payments, Health, and Sustainability
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nearby Attractions and Photo Spots
References and Official Sources

Oberwiesenfeld: A Journey Through History

Early Origins and Military Significance

The name “Oberwiesenfeld” can be traced back to “Wiesenfeldt” in 1792, but the area’s military use began even earlier. As of 1784, it was a training site for the Electoral Bavarian artillery. Throughout the 19th century, Oberwiesenfeld played a central role in Bavarian military exercises, expanding with new facilities such as a teaching forge and military prison by 1900.

Aviation Pioneer and Munich’s First Major Airport

By the late 1800s, Oberwiesenfeld began hosting hot air balloons and airships. In 1909, it was officially designated as an airfield, and by 1912, it became the founding site of the Royal Bavarian Flying Corps. The 1920s saw the construction of permanent runways and passenger terminals, leading to its inauguration as Munich’s first commercial airport in 1931. Passenger numbers soared until 1939, when operational constraints led to the airport’s relocation to Riem.

Postwar Use and Olympic Transformation

During World War II, Oberwiesenfeld remained a strategic site. After the war, it was used by the US Army until 1957, with limited civilian flights continuing until 1968. The area’s most dramatic transformation came in the late 1960s when it was redeveloped for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games, marking the emergence of Olympiapark and its iconic venues.

Visiting Olympiapark: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

Olympiapark Grounds: Open daily, typically from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM (subject to change during special events).
Olympic Stadium & Facility Tours: Usually 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Check Olympiapark’s official site for specific venues and event schedules.
Olympic Tower: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM (last elevator at 7:30 PM).
Swimming Hall & Ice Rink: Hours vary seasonally; visit the official website for details.

Tickets and Admission

Park Entry: Free for general access to green spaces and walkways.
Attractions:
- Olympic Tower: ~€9 adults, discounts for children and seniors.
- Stadium Tours & Roof Climb: ~€10–€16 per person; advance booking recommended.
- Ziplining, Guided Tours, Special Events: Prices vary.
BMW Museum: ~€10 adults; free for children under 18. BMW Welt is free to enter.

Tickets are available online or at venue ticket offices. Booking ahead is advised, especially during peak seasons or major events.

Accessibility

Olympiapark is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and step-free paths throughout. Public transport (U-Bahn U3, Olympiazentrum station) and most local hotels also offer barrier-free access. For detailed accessibility information, consult resources like Mappy Munich. (Wheelchair Travel)

Architectural and Urban Planning Highlights

Olympiapark is internationally acclaimed for its innovative design, particularly the tent-like stadium roof engineered by Günter Behnisch and Frei Otto. The park’s layout integrates natural landscapes with multifunctional public spaces, reflecting a vision of openness and sustainability. The ongoing “Am Oberwiesenfeld” urban quarter, designed by Christoph Ingenhoven and scheduled for completion in 2027, will accommodate over 1,000 residents with a focus on green roofs, renewable energy, and social inclusion. (Ingenhoven Architects)

Cultural, Recreational, and Family Activities

Events and Attractions

Olympiastadion: Concerts, football matches, and festivals.
Olympiaturm: Panoramic views from 291 meters, revolving restaurant, and Rock Museum.
Olympiahalle: Indoor arena for concerts and exhibitions.
Olympic Swimming Hall & Ice Rink: Public swimming, wellness, and seasonal skating.
Olympiaberg: Artificial hill with cityscape views, ideal for sunset photos.
Guided Tours: Behind-the-scenes access, roof climbs, ziplining—bookable online.

Seasonal Festivals

Sommerfestival: Live music and local cuisine (August).
Tollwood Festival: Cultural and sustainability focus (summer and winter).
Theatron-Pfingstfestival: Free concerts (June).
Sports Events: Marathons, open-air competitions.

Family-Friendly Options

Playgrounds, paddleboats, and expansive green lawns make Olympiapark ideal for families. The adjacent BMW Welt and BMW Museum offer interactive automotive exhibits for all ages.

Getting There: Transportation and Travel Tips

U-Bahn: U3 line to Olympiazentrum (13 minutes from Marienplatz); frequent service.
Bus & Tram: Multiple lines serve Milbertshofen-Am Hart district.
Taxi: Fares from city center ~€27–33; 11-minute ride (Rome2Rio).
Cycling/Walking: Flat, well-marked paths and extensive bike rentals.

Oberwiesenfeld is pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly, with clear signage and direct connections between attractions.

Amenities, Accommodation, and Shopping

Food & Drink: Beer gardens, cafés, and the Olympic Tower’s revolving restaurant.
Shopping: Olympia-Einkaufszentrum (OEZ) is a major mall within walking distance, featuring international brands and essentials (Trek Zone).
Accommodation: Options range from serviced apartments (Timehouse, H.ome) to hotels like Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor and Hotel Königstein. Advance booking is recommended, especially during events (Rome2Rio).
Restrooms: Available at all major attractions and transport hubs. Accessible toilets are mapped by CBF Munich.

Best Times to Visit and Safety

Weather: Best in late spring to early autumn (April–October) for mild temperatures and vibrant events (Munich Travel).
Crowds: Summer is busiest, especially during festivals. Avoid Oktoberfest (mid-September–early October) for a quieter experience and lower hotel rates (Travellers Worldwide).
Safety: Munich is very safe, with low crime rates. Exercise standard precautions—secure valuables, use certified taxis, and stay alert in crowds. Emergency number: 112 (Travel Like a Boss, Qeepl).

Essential Visitor Tips

Language: German is official; English widely spoken in tourist zones.
Tipping: Round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants and cafés.
Dress Code: Casual is fine, but dress respectfully in churches.
Payments: Euro (€) is standard. Cards are accepted, but carry some cash for small purchases.
Health: Pharmacies are common; dial 112 for emergencies. Travel insurance is recommended.
Sustainability: Use public transport, recycle, and support responsible tourism initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Olympiapark’s main opening hours?
A: Park grounds: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM; attractions may vary—check official site.

Q: How much are tickets for the Olympic Tower and BMW Museum?
A: Olympic Tower: ~€9 adults; BMW Museum: ~€10 adults (children under 18 free).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes—stadium, roof climbs, and historical tours are available, often requiring advance booking.

Q: Is Oberwiesenfeld wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms at all major facilities.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: Late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and events; avoid Oktoberfest for smaller crowds.

Nearby Attractions and Photo Spots

BMW Museum & BMW Welt: Automotive history and interactive exhibits.
Nymphenburg Palace: Baroque palace and gardens a short drive away.
Englischer Garten, Allianz Arena, Munich City Center: Easily accessible by public transport.

Best photo locations include the Olympic Tower, stadium roofline, Olympiaberg at sunset, and the lakeside paths. For maps and virtual tours, see the interactive Olympiapark map.

References and Official Sources

Final Tips and Call to Action

Oberwiesenfeld—anchored by the iconic Olympiapark and BMW Museum—offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, innovation, and recreation. Plan your visit by checking official sources for tickets and schedules, and consider downloading the Audiala app for guided tours and event updates. Embrace the dynamic spirit of Munich where past and present converge to create unforgettable experiences.