SAP Garden

SAP Garden is an impressive embodiment of modern architecture and high technology, becoming the new jewel of the Olympic Park in Munich. Opened in 2024, this multifunctional indoor venue can accommodate up to 12,500 spectators. Its appearance, designed by Danish architects, stands out with a unique facade of vertical aluminum ribs that blend harmoniously into the landscape of Germany's historic park.

Garden Arena. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The primary purpose of the complex is to serve as the home for two legendary sports teams: the ice hockey club EHC Red Bull Munich and the basketball club Bayern Munich. However, it is more than just a stadium; it is a high-tech space where sound is provided by two hundred acoustic systems and lighting by thousands of LED fixtures, creating a unique atmosphere during shows.

One of the building's main features is its sustainability. The vast roof, measuring over 13,000 square meters, has been partially transformed into a flowering meadow, while additional ice rinks are hidden underground, topped by a man-made green hill. This makes the structure not just a sports facility but an organic extension of the park area.

To check the event schedule or book a table at the restaurant, you can use the official communication channels. Please note that tickets are usually purchased online via the venue's website or the resident clubs' websites.

The main magnet for visitors is, undoubtedly, the thrilling sporting matches. During the season, it hosts up to 40 DEL German ice hockey league games and at least 20 EuroLeague basketball matches. Additionally, the arena serves as a venue for major handball tournaments. Spectators can enjoy the action with excellent views from any point in the stands, complemented by powerful sound and dynamic lighting.

For those who prefer active recreation, three practice ice rinks are located below the main hall. During certain hours, they are open for public skating, giving everyone the chance to take to the ice within the same walls where professionals train. Families with children will appreciate the dedicated kids' club, where young guests can have fun.

The gastronomic side of the complex deserves a special mention. You can enjoy classic Bavarian snacks like currywurst or crispy pretzels at the kiosks, or visit the full-service restaurant with a terrace that is open year-round. Don't forget to stop by the fan shops to pick up exclusive merchandise from your favorite teams or commemorative souvenirs with the arena's branding.

Getting to SAP Garden is quite simple thanks to the well-developed transport network of the Bavarian capital. The venue is located at Toni-Merkens-Weg 4, in the western part of the famous Olympic Park. The most convenient way is to use public transport: the U3 subway line or tram numbers 12, 17, 18, 20, and 21 will take you to the Olympiazentrum stop, from where the arena is a 5–10 minute walk away.

For those who prefer to travel by car, the Olympic Stadium parking lot is available, offering 3,500 spaces. If you are getting around the city by taxi, the ride from Munich city center will take about 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Special attention is given to eco-friendly transport: a modern 600-space bicycle parking facility is located directly by the arena building. The path to the complex runs through the park's scenic pedestrian and bike trails, making the journey to the event a pleasant addition to your leisure time.

The history of this futuristic venue began with the need for a modern home ground for the city's leading sports clubs. In 2014, the authorities decided to build the complex on the site of the old Radstadion velodrome. Interestingly, the name "SAP Garden" was chosen by the citizens themselves: in an open vote, this option received 45% of the votes, beating out more than ten thousand other suggestions.

The architectural concept was entrusted to the Danish firm 3XN and the landscape designers from LATZ+PARTNER. The foundation stone was laid in February 2021, and construction lasted more than three years. The scale of the engineering work is impressive: approximately 13,500 tons of steel and 55,000 cubic meters of concrete were used, and the building's roof is partially covered with a living flower meadow to minimize the impact on the park's ecology.

The official opening of SAP Garden took place on September 27, 2024, and was a true celebration for sports fans. An inaugural exhibition match featured Munich's Red Bull Munich against the legendary NHL team, the Buffalo Sabres. Despite the guests' victory, the stands remained electric, welcoming a new era in the city's sporting life.

When planning your visit to SAP Garden, you should consider the type of event. If your goal is to attend an ice hockey or basketball match, we recommend setting aside about 3–4 hours. This allows enough time to go through security without rushing, explore the fan shops, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the game itself, which usually lasts between two and three hours.

If you are simply walking through the Olympic Park and want to appreciate the building's unusual architecture from the outside, walk along the green hills, and take some photos, one hour will be sufficient. For a full dinner at the local panoramic restaurant with a view of the park, you should factor in an additional hour.

The SAP Garden operating schedule depends directly on the calendar of planned events: matches, concerts, or exhibitions. There is no single daily schedule for general public access to the internal halls, so it is essential to check the information on the venue's official website before your visit.

At the same time, the complex's restaurant and the surrounding park areas are accessible more frequently, though their opening hours may also change on major match days. It is recommended to purchase event tickets online in advance, as they may not be available at the box office on match days.

A visit to the modern sports arena can be perfectly combined with other attractions that this area is rich in. The Olympic Park itself is a massive recreational zone where everyone can find something to enjoy — from peaceful walks to active recreation.

Exploring the surroundings will help you get to know the modern rhythm of Munich and its entertainment industry better. Below are some interesting locations situated within easy reach of the sports complex.