Discover The Ultimate Guide To Berlin's Olympic Stadium: Insider Tips & Insider Insights

Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is a city that has a rich history and a plethora of attractions to explore. One of the most iconic landmarks in Berlin is the Olympic Stadium, also known as the Olympiastadion Berlin. This magnificent stadium has been a symbol of the city's sporting excellence and has hosted numerous international events, including the 1936 Summer Olympics. In this article, we will delve into the ultimate guide to Berlin's Olympic Stadium, providing you with insider tips and insider insights to make the most of your visit.

The Olympic Stadium is a masterpiece of modern architecture, designed by Werner March, Wolfgang Schäuble, and Werner Peiner. Completed in 1936, it was built to host the Summer Olympics, which were boycotted by several countries due to the political tensions in Europe at the time. Despite this, the stadium was officially opened by Adolf Hitler in July 1936, and it went on to host the football final, as well as other events, including athletics and gymnastics. The stadium's design was influenced by the art deco style, with a distinctive design that has been preserved to this day.

Today, the Olympic Stadium is not only a source of pride for the city of Berlin but also a popular tourist destination. Visitors from all over the world flock to the stadium to catch a glimpse of its grandeur and to experience the excitement of sporting events. With a seating capacity of over 74,000, the stadium is one of the largest in Europe, and its design has been praised for its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

History of the Olympic Stadium

The Olympic Stadium has a rich history that spans over 80 years. From its construction in the 1930s to its current status as a state-of-the-art sports venue, the stadium has been the scene of numerous international events. Here are some key events in the history of the Olympic Stadium:

• 1936 Summer Olympics: The stadium hosted the football final, as well as other events, including athletics and gymnastics.
• 1966 World Cup: The stadium was used as a venue for the World Cup, hosting the semi-finals and the final.
• 1974 European Football Championship: The stadium hosted the final, which was won by the Netherlands.
• 1980s: The stadium underwent significant renovations, including the addition of a new roof and the installation of modern facilities.
• 1990s: The stadium was the scene of numerous international events, including concerts and football matches.

Architecture and Design

The Olympic Stadium is a masterpiece of modern architecture, designed by Werner March, Wolfgang Schäuble, and Werner Peiner. The stadium's design was influenced by the art deco style, with a distinctive design that has been preserved to this day.

• The stadium's design is characterized by a distinctive ring-shaped structure, with a central track and several tiers of seating.
• The stadium's roof is made of steel and is designed to provide optimal shade and ventilation for spectators.
• The stadium's façade is adorned with iconic designs, including a large globe and a series of flags representing different countries.

Tourist Attractions

The Olympic Stadium is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit:

• The Olympic Stadium Tour: This guided tour takes visitors through the stadium's history, highlighting its architectural features and notable events.
• The Museum of Olympic History: This museum is located inside the stadium and features exhibits on the history of the Olympics and the stadium's role in it.
• The Stadium's Exterior: Visitors can take a stroll around the stadium's exterior, taking in its grandeur and admiring its design.

Access and Tickets

The Olympic Stadium is easily accessible by public transportation, with several buses and trams stopping nearby. Here are some tips for accessing the stadium and purchasing tickets:

• Getting There: Visitors can take bus number 175 or tram number 15 to the stadium's main entrance.
• Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online or at the stadium's ticket office. Prices vary depending on the event, but most tickets range from €20 to €100.
• Accessibility: The stadium is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing easy access to all areas.

Events and Activities

The Olympic Stadium is not just a popular tourist destination but also a vibrant sports venue, hosting numerous events throughout the year. Here are some of the top events and activities to enjoy:

• Football Matches: The stadium is home to Hertha Berlin, one of Germany's top football clubs, and hosts numerous football matches throughout the season.
• Concerts: The stadium has hosted some of the world's top performers, including the likes of AC/DC and Queen.
• Athletics Events: The stadium is a popular venue for athletics events, including track and field competitions.
• Special Events: The stadium hosts various special events throughout the year, including the annual Berlin Marathon and the German Grand Prix.

Upcoming Events

Here are some of the top upcoming events at the Olympic Stadium:

• Football Match: Hertha Berlin vs. Bayern Munich: This highly anticipated match is scheduled to take place in February 2023.
• Concert: The Rolling Stones: The legendary rock band will be performing at the stadium in May 2023.
• Athletics Event: German Grand Prix: This prestigious athletics event will take place in June 2023.

Insider Tips

Here are some insider tips for making the most of your visit to the Olympic Stadium:

• Arrive Early: Get to the stadium early to avoid long queues and enjoy the pre-match atmosphere.
• Bring a Waterproof Jacket: The stadium's roof can be prone to leaks, so it's a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket.