How to visit and what to do in Tollwood Sommerfestival, Munich, Germany – Practical Information and Best Tips

Edson Amorina Jr

3 days ago

How to visit and what to do in Tollwood Sommerfestival, Munich, Germany – Practical Information and Best Tips

The Tollwood Sommerfestival is more than a festival—it’s an experience. Set in the heart of Munich, it blends music, food, art, and activism. If you’re planning a visit, this is the guide you need. Forget cookie-cutter tips. Here’s real advice, sharp and simple.

Whether it’s your first time in Munich or you’re returning, Tollwood Sommerfestival deserves a full day on your itinerary. From how to get there to where to sleep, what to eat, and what to see, you’ll find it all right here.

Brief History of Tollwood Sommerfestival, Munich, Germany

Started in 1988, the Tollwood Sommerfestival had one mission: bring culture to everyone. It began small, in a few tents. Locals showed up for the music, stayed for the vibe, and came back every year.

By the 2000s, the event had turned into a full cultural movement. Each year adds more layers—environmental talks, workshops, street art, and cutting-edge performances. It’s not just a party. It’s a platform for green ideas, global voices, and fresh talent.

Unlike other big festivals, Tollwood keeps a low ticket price and includes many free performances. That’s the soul of the festival—accessible art for all.

Where Is Tollwood Sommerfestival and How to Go

Tollwood Sommerfestival takes place at the Olympiapark München, a green space built for the 1972 Olympics. It’s huge, scenic, and easy to reach.

How to Get There:

By Metro: Take the U3 to Olympiazentrum. It’s a short walk from the station.
By Tram: Tram lines 20 and 21 go nearby. Get off at Leonrodplatz and walk 15 minutes.
By Bus: Lines 173, 180, and 144 all stop close.
By Bike: Munich is a bike-friendly city. There are paths right into the park.
By Car: Parking is tight. If you must drive, use park-and-ride services.

Tip: Public transport runs late during the festival. Use a day pass for unlimited travel.

Services that can help with your transfer and visit:

Find the best deals and options for flights and airport transfers to your hotel.

What Are the Best Times to Visit

The Tollwood Sommerfestival usually runs from mid-June to mid-July. That’s summer in Munich—warm, lively, and filled with outdoor events.

Weekdays (Mon–Thu): Quieter crowds, easier to find space at events.
Evenings: The festival lights up at dusk. Come around 6 p.m.
Opening Weekend: Big performances, fresh energy.
Last Days: Final shows and discounts at food and craft stalls.

Avoid midday sun. It can get hot, and some tents don’t have much shade. Morning visits are peaceful, perfect for slow exploring.

Where to Stay Close to Tollwood Sommerfestival – Best Areas and Region

Choosing where to stay makes a big difference. You’ll want quick access to the festival but also food, shops, and transit nearby.

Best Areas:

Olympiapark Area: Closest to the site. Great for walking access.
Schwabing: Lively, creative, full of bars and young energy.
Maxvorstadt: Art museums, cafes, and central connections.
Neuhausen-Nymphenburg: Family-friendly and relaxed, with easy trams.

Munich offers diverse neighborhoods and has something for everyone, with different options to match how you like to travel. Here’s a look at some best parts of the city:

Old Town & Lehel(Altstadt-Lehel): Stay in the heart of the action in the historic Old Town or fancy Lehel area. Cozy hotels and charming bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) are close to famous sights like Marienplatz and the Frauenkirche church.
Schwabing: Dive into Munich’s artsy side in Schwabing. This trendy area has lots of art galleries, cafes, and cool guesthouses. You can also explore the huge English Garden nearby if you want some fresh air.
Haidhausen: Escape the busy center in Haidhausen, a calm neighborhood with old buildings and comfy guesthouses. Relax in a nice local spot after sightseeing and enjoy the peaceful vibes.
Maxvorstadt: If you love art, Maxvorstadt is your place. This area has a young feel and is close to amazing museums and galleries. Stylish hotels are perfect for those who want a modern and design-focused stay.

There are various accommodation options in hotels, hostels and inns, be sure to check them out at Booking.com page.

What to Do in Tollwood Sommerfestival

The Tollwood Sommerfestival isn’t just about music—it’s a full cultural experience with art, global food, creative workshops, and interactive events that invite you to explore, taste, and take part in something new all day long.

Activities to Try:

Explore the Market of Ideas—handmade goods, art, and eco products.
Join a creative workshop. Paint, make jewelry, or try pottery.
Watch street theater that surprises you around every corner.
Stretch out for a yoga class under the sky.
Get into a dance tent with live world music beats.
Join a public talk at the Green Pavilion—topics range from climate to creativity.

Don’t rush it. Spend time. Wander. Every tent or corner has something unexpected.

Line Up

The Tollwood Sommerfestival lineup is always diverse. Big acts, unknown talents, and alternative voices all share the stage.

You’ll find:

Global musicians from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Local Munich bands playing everything from jazz to indie pop.
Theater performances—some in German, others international and visual.
Environmental films, poetry slams, and open mic nights.
Spontaneous parades or fire shows at night.

Check the festival program online about one month before it begins. Shows are spread across tents and open-air stages.

How to Buy Tickets

Many Tollwood Sommerfestival events are free. But for big shows, you’ll need a ticket.

Where to Buy:

Official website (tollwood.de) – the safest and fastest way.
Box office at the park – good for last-minute plans.
Local ticket resellers – check places like München Ticket.

Most paid shows are in the Musik-Arena, a large covered venue. Tip: Buy early—headliners sell out. Bring printed or mobile tickets.

Main Artists

Each year brings new names to Tollwood Sommerfestival. Past performers include:

ZAZ (France), a soul-pop icon.
Xavier Rudd (Australia), roots and world fusion.
Die Fantastischen Vier (Germany), pioneers of German hip-hop.
KT Tunstall (UK), alt-rock and folk.

But it’s not all big names. Discover new favorites in the side tents. You might stumble into a violinist from Venezuela or a blues singer from New Orleans.

Top 10 Attractions of Tollwood Sommerfestival

Here are the top attractions that make Tollwood Sommerfestival unforgettable:

Musik-Arena – See major international and local artists perform in the festival’s biggest venue.
Andechser Lounge – Enjoy live jazz, cabaret, and relaxed evening shows in an intimate tent.
Market of Ideas – Shop for handmade art, eco-products, and unique gifts from global vendors.
Food Village – Taste organic meals and street food from around the world in one lively area.
Silent Disco – Dance under the stars with headphones while DJs spin live sets.
Art Installations – Discover large-scale sculptures and creative displays scattered across the park.
Green Pavilion – Join talks, exhibits, and films focused on the environment and sustainability.
Kid’s Tent – Let children explore crafts, shows, and hands-on activities designed just for them.
Free Stage – Catch rising artists, open mic performances, and surprise acts throughout the day.
Light Sculptures – Walk through glowing artwork that transforms the park after sunset.

Suggestions for touristic attractions, activities and guided tours in Munich, Capital of Bavaria, Germany:

Tip Itineraries for 1 Day to Visit the Tollwood Sommerfestival

If you only have one day, here’s how to make the most of it:

Morning
- Arrive early, ideally by 10 a.m., to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Start your day with a fresh coffee from one of the festival’s mobile stands. Take your time exploring the Market of Ideas, where you’ll find handmade crafts, art, and eco-conscious products.
Afternoon
- Head to the Food Village for a late lunch and choose from a wide mix of international and organic meals. After lunch, join a one-hour art or yoga workshop to unwind and try something new. Catch a live street theater act or a short performance happening in one of the open spaces.
Evening
- Find a seat at the Musik-Arena for one of the main shows and enjoy top-level live music. Later, stop by the Andechser Lounge for drinks and relaxed evening entertainment like jazz or cabaret. Wrap up your night dancing at the Silent Disco or watching a fire show light up the park.

Where to Eat – Tips for Bars and Restaurants

Tollwood Sommerfestival is a dream for food lovers. You’ll find options for every diet and taste.

Onsite Favorites:

Vegan burgers with craft toppings.
Thai curries and Asian fusion.
Traditional German fare like dumplings and spaetzle.
Organic beers and fruit smoothies.

Bars Inside the Festival:

Wine tents with seating and live jazz.
Craft beer corners.
Pop-up cocktail huts with themed nights.

Nearby Options:

Neuhauser Augustiner – German beer and plates.
Café am Olympiasee – Sit by the water, snack or brunch.
Schwabing Bistro Strip – Local bites, late-night drinks.

Hofbräuhaus Tour – Discover the most famous pub in the world with an official guide of the City of Munich and enjoy a fresh “Mass” of beer afterward.

Key Tips and Practical Information of Tollwood Sommerfestival

Before you go, keep these tips in mind:

Bring cash – Many food and craft stalls don’t take cards, so carry small bills and coins.
Use sunscreen and hats – The sun gets strong in Munich, so protect your skin and stay cool.
Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll walk a lot on mixed terrain, so good shoes are essential.
Carry a tote or backpack – Pack light, but bring water, sunscreen, and something to sit on.
Follow signs and maps – The festival is big, but clear signs and maps make it easy to navigate.
Check event times in advance – Some performances happen only once, so plan ahead to catch them.
Stay late – The festival becomes even more exciting at night with lights, music, and fire shows.
No large bags allowed – Security is strict, so avoid big bags or anything that might delay entry.
Bring a reusable cup or bottle – You’ll save money, cut waste, and find refill stations across the site.
Keep your ticket or wristband safe – Hold on to your entry pass for paid shows to avoid problems.

The Tollwood Sommerfestival is not just another event. It’s a full cultural world tucked into Munich’s Olympiapark. You’ll hear music, see art, taste global food, and meet people from everywhere.