The 'bowl' structure, designed by Karl Schwanzer, was originally opened for the 1972 Summer Olympics.
The interior museum space does not feature any right-angled walls, relying on a continuous spiral path.
The museum's architecture is protected as a listed building due to its significance in late-modernist design.
The collection includes the BMW 'Isetta', the bubble car that helped the company recover from financial crisis in the 1950s.
The museum facade consists of a double-skin construction that helps regulate internal temperature.
The 'Museum Bowl' roof features the BMW logo, which is visible from the Olympiaturm above.
The displays include original technical drawings and wind tunnel models used during the development of iconic aerodynamic chassis.
The BMW Museum is a modernist architectural landmark located near the Munich Olympic Park, housed in a distinctive 'bowl' shaped building. The interior layout utilizes a spiral ramp system that guides visitors through various historical exhibition zones. It displays the evolution of BMW engineering, covering over 100 years of automotive and motorcycle production. The permanent collection features rare concept cars, classic models like the 328, and internal combustion engine technology. The museum building is connected via a pedestrian bridge to the BMW Welt, a separate center for brand experience and vehicle delivery. Extensive sections are dedicated to motorsport history, specifically touring car racing and F1 contributions. The exhibits transition through chronological themes, from early aircraft engine manufacturing to contemporary electric vehicle design.
The interior ramp looking upward toward the bowl's ceiling provides the most iconic geometric perspective of the architecture.
Visit the connecting BMW Welt across the bridge to see current production models and the architecture of the double-cone hall.
Use the audio guides provided, as they offer significant depth on specific engine technologies and historical milestones.
Plan your visit to allow time for the cafe located inside the museum complex.
Do not mistake the museum for the BMW Welt; while they are connected and both feature vehicles, the museum is the historical site and requires a ticket, whereas the Welt is a showroom and free to enter.
Closed on Mondays.
