Veröffentlicht von The Olympic Tower (Olympiaturm) is one of Munich’s most recognizable landmarks and one of the best places in the city for panoramic views. Located inside the Olympic Park, the tower rises high above the skyline and offers visitors a spectacular 360-degree view over Munich and, on clear days, even the Bavarian Alps.
If you want to see Munich from above, understand the city’s layout and enjoy a memorable viewpoint experience, the Olympic Tower is a top choice.
Munich Attractions & Experiences
Combine your visit to the Olympic Tower with guided tours of Munich or nearby attractions.
Where Is the Olympic Tower?
The Olympic Tower stands in the northern part of Munich within the Olympic Park complex. The entire area was built for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games and remains one of the city’s most important recreational and cultural spaces.
Nearby attractions include:
- Olympic Stadium
- Olympic Lake
- BMW Welt and BMW Museum
The tower’s height makes it visible from many parts of Munich, serving as a geographic reference point.
Height and Architecture
The Olympic Tower reaches approximately 291 meters (955 feet), making it one of Germany’s tallest structures. It was completed in 1968, four years before the Olympic Games, and functions primarily as a telecommunications tower.
The design is functional yet elegant, reflecting the modern architectural spirit of the late 1960s. Unlike medieval church towers such as the Frauenkirche, the Olympic Tower represents Munich’s modern era.
Observation Deck
The main attraction for visitors is the observation deck located about 185 meters above ground. High-speed elevators take you up in seconds.
From the deck you can see:
- Munich’s historic city center
- The twin towers of Frauenkirche
- The Allianz Arena in the distance
- The Bavarian Alps on clear days
- The Olympic Park’s unique tent roof structures
Information panels help you identify landmarks.
Great video visit to the Olympic Tower (Youtube)
Revolving Restaurant
The Olympic Tower also features a revolving restaurant. While dining, the platform slowly rotates, offering changing panoramic views of the city.
Highlights of dining here:
- Unique perspective of Munich
- Romantic sunset atmosphere
- Special event dinners and celebrations
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
History of the Olympic Tower
The tower was constructed as part of the preparations for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games. Munich wanted to present itself as a modern, forward-looking city.
The Olympic Park complex symbolized transparency and openness, contrasting with Germany’s earlier history. The tower became both a functional broadcasting facility and a tourist landmark.
Best Time to Visit
Morning
- Fewer crowds
- Clear visibility on sunny days
Sunset
- Warm light over the city
- Great photography conditions
Evening
- City lights atmosphere
- Romantic dining experience
Weather plays a big role. On cloudy days, the view may be limited.
How Long Should You Plan?
- 30–45 minutes for the observation deck
- 1.5–2 hours if dining at the restaurant
- Half a day if exploring the entire Olympic Park
Many visitors combine the tower with a walk around the park or a visit to BMW Welt.
Ticket Information
Tickets are available on site and sometimes online. Prices vary depending on age and special promotions. Family discounts are often available.
During high season and sunny weekends, waiting times can increase.
Accessibility
The tower is generally accessible via elevator. However, always check in advance for updated accessibility information, especially if traveling with reduced mobility.
Olympic Tower vs. Other Viewpoints in Munich
Munich has several viewpoints, including:
- St. Peter’s Church Tower
- Frauenkirche towers (limited access)
- Monopteros in the English Garden
Compared to these, the Olympic Tower offers the highest and most expansive panoramic view.
Photography Tips
- Bring a camera with zoom capability
- Visit on a clear day for Alpine views
- Avoid reflections by positioning close to glass panels
- Golden hour provides best lighting
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Highest public viewpoint in Munich
- Panoramic Alpine views
- Unique dining experience
- Located in beautiful park area
Cons
- Weather dependent
- Can be busy on weekends
- Outside the Old Town (requires transport)
Is the Olympic Tower Worth Visiting?
Yes. If you want to understand Munich’s layout and see the city from a unique perspective, the Olympic Tower is absolutely worth visiting. It combines history, architecture and breathtaking views into one memorable experience.
Munich city tour on the subject of the Third ReichFrom our point of view a well done and interesting city tour: Munich was the beginning of the Nazis, Adolf Hitler lived in the city for many years. Munich is known for the resistance of the White Rose group. At the end of the war the city lay in ruins. Start of the tour at Marienplatz, guided tour on foot, duration about 2.5 hours. |
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Day excursion from Munich There are great day tours by bus to the world famous Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich. The best tour also stops at other famous places in the area like Linderhof. |
Our recommendation: Best city tours in Munich
3 bus-lines, all with one ticket: Be sure to buy tickets for CitySightseeing Munich cheaply online using this link
You can get out on the way and continue on the next bus (hop-on hop-off)
Bookable online with a discount using this link
All 3 lines depart directly opposite Munich main station