BMW World is administered by BMW, or Bayerische Motoren Werke (“Bavarian Motor Works”). This company has been involved in the manufacture of automobiles, motorcycles and engines since 1916. The BMW headquarters are housed in the landmark four-cylinder tower near Olympia Park in the north of Munich. The BMW Plant, the BMW Museum and BMW World are situated next to the headquarters, and BMW encourages visitors to tour these in order to experience the history, the reality and the future vision of the brand.
BMW World was designed as a futuristic structure by the architect firm Coop Himmelb(l)au, and it opened its doors in 2007. BMW World serves both as a location for exploring the brand and also as a delivery center for the lucky locals who purchase a new car there. BMW motorbike, MINI and Rolls Royce Motor Cars all have their own experience area. In these zones, you will be able to learn about all kinds of automobiles and motorcycles, watch dynamic product exhibitions and play with interactive components such as driving simulations.
The BMW Museum, opened in 1973, is located adjacent to BMW World. Learn about the company’s history, which dates back more than 90 years of social and technological change. Admire the collection of more than 100 valuable automobiles, motorcycles, and engines. The exhibition is arranged by theme rather than chronology, so you can get a better idea of specific developments in the history of the BMW motorcar.
The BMW Plant, also located near BMW World, is the home plant of manufacturing for the whole BMW Group. Over 900 cars are built every day at this facility. Take a guided tour of the plant to gain an inside look at BMW’s production technologies and assembly methods. Guided tours are extremely popular, so make a reservation in advance.
BMW World is open daily until late. The BMW Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and unlike BMW World, it charges for admission. Visitors can take a short walk from the U-Bahn (subway) station Olympiazentrum, or park at the complex for a fee.
