In southern Munich, Germany, the Theresienwiese – home of Oktoberfest – is also where you’ll find the Bavaria statue in Munich. But just beyond the festival grounds stands one of the city’s most unique attractions: the Bavaria statue in Munich.
At the edge of this massive festival ground, a woman stands watch. Nearly 61 feet tall, the Bavaria statue wears a classically draped Greek gown. A lion sits loyally at her side while her left arm is outstretched with a wreath of oak leaves. She represents Lady Bavaria, the symbolic figure of Bavaria, often referred to as “Lady Bavaria Munich” by visitors today. It would be easy to draw comparisons to another famous female: the Statue of Liberty. But the Bavaria statue is older.
And Lady Bavaria has a bit of a secret that makes visiting her a fun Munich sightseeing attraction: you can actually climb inside the statue for panoramic views over the Theresienwiese.
This is one of the best hidden gem attractions in Munich, especially if you’re looking for unique views and something beyond the typical sightseeing list. Yes: you can go inside the Bavaria statue in Munich by climbing a narrow staircase to the top for panoramic views.
Essential Visitor Information for 2026
- Opening Season: From 2026, open March 28th through October 19th
- 2026 Entry Fees: €5.00 (or included in the Bavarian Palace Pass)
- Operating Hours: 9 am to 6 pm with last entry at 5:30 pm (open until 8 pm during Oktoberfest)
- Location: Theresienwiese, Munich
- Can you go inside? Yes, seasonally
- Climb Time: About 10–15 minutes to the top
Climbing Inside the Bavaria Statue in Munich: What to Expect
- Total steps: ~170
- Space: Very narrow spiral staircase
- Difficulty: Moderate, not suitable for claustrophobia
- Highlight: Views over Munich and the Theresienwiese
Expect the climb to take about 10–15 minutes at a steady pace.
The Secret Spiral Staircase
While Bavaria is impressive from the outside, the real surprise is inside. Inside, a spiral staircase leads all the way to the top.
The staircase winds tightly through the dark interior, making the climb feel more like an adventure than a typical viewpoint.
It is a very narrow climb that makes any lighthouse that I’ve been to seem spacious. It takes 48 steps to ascend the base of the statue and reach her feet. From there, it’s another 126 steps to reach the top.
It is a tight squeeze but well worth the trip. Just take my advice: watch your head when you are inside Bavaria’s!
The Bronze “Couches” and Interior Art
Once at the top, there are more surprises. Couches have cleverly been cast in bronze as a seat for visitors. Take a rest and then peek out one of several small windows for wonderful views over the Theresienwiese and the city of Munich. It’s a surprise you won’t expect, and it has a good sense of humor. Who knew Bavaria was so cheeky?
The Best Views of Munich and the Alps
From there, you can take in lovely views of the city of Munich, from the instantly recognizable double domes of the Frauenkirche and even the Alps.
Pro tip: If you’re visiting during Oktoberfest, go early in the day to avoid long lines—and for the best photos before crowds fill the grounds.
History and Technical Achievement of the Monument
King Ludwig I’s Vision
Ludwig I was known for commissioning large-scale works to demonstrate the unity and greatness of Bavaria. This includes Walhalla near Regensburg and the Hall of Liberation (Befreiungshalle), and the Bavaria statue.
The Bavaria statue was assembled, unveiled, and dedicated in 1850. It would have celebrated 25 years of Ludwig I’s reign. But he abdicated in 1848 following the March Revolutions, which were made worse by his mistress, Lola Montez, whose presence was unpopular. Ludwig I’s son, Maximilian, then took the throne.
A Masterpiece of Bronze Casting
The Bavaria statue is a masterpiece and a technical achievement because of its sheer size and the fact that it is entirely cast out of bronze. It was designed by Ludwig Schwanthaler and cast by J. B. Stiglmair and his nephew Ferdinand von Miller.
The more than 60-foot statue was cast in four main sections: the head, the mid-section, the hips, and the bottom of the lion and Bavaria.
For even more Bavaria, visit the Deutsches Museum to see a recasting of Bavaria’s hand up close.
The Ruhmeshalle (Bavarian Hall of Fame)
Bavaria sits in front of the Ruhmeshalle, or Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is a massive open-air, columned hallway designed by Leo von Klenze in order to show off busts of famous and notable Bavarians.
While less visited than the statue itself, the Ruhmeshalle adds context to Bavaria’s symbolic role and is worth a quick stop, especially for architecture lovers. The Ruhmeshalle is also free to visit.
Timing Your Visit: Festivals and Events in 2026
If there’s an event going on at the Theresienwiese, such as Oktoberfest or the Frühlingsfest (spring festival), you can enjoy a fun aerial view that makes for great photos.
Best Time to Visit the Bavaria Statue
For fewer crowds, visit earlier in the season or in the morning. During Oktoberfest, expect larger crowds, but the view over the festival grounds is especially memorable.
Tips for Visiting the Bavaria Statue
- Bring cash for entry, as small attractions may not always accept cards
- Wear comfortable shoes for the narrow staircase
- Avoid large bags—they can make the climb more difficult
The Bavaria statue and the Ruhmeshalle are both operated and maintained by the Bavarian Palace Department. Visitors to the state of Bavaria that plan to visit several of the palaces and gardens operated by the department can save money by purchasing a palace pass.
How to Get to the Bavaria Statue in Munich
Public Transportation (MVV)
The easiest way to get to the Bavaria statue and the Hall of Fame is via public transportation using the Theresienwiese stop of the U4 and U5 lines. Or, you can take the S-Bahn to Hackerbrücke and walk a short distance to reach the festival grounds.
Why Visiting the Bavaria Statue in Munich Is Worth It
The Bavaria statue in Munich is one of those attractions that surprises you—not just for its size and history, but for the unexpected experience inside. Whether you’re visiting during Oktoberfest or exploring Munich at a quieter time of year, it’s a unique stop that offers a completely different perspective on the city, especially when combined with other top things to do in Munich.
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Make the most of your visit with these guides:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you go inside the Bavaria statue in Munich?
Yes, visitors can go inside the Bavaria statue in Munich during the open season, typically from spring through fall. A narrow spiral staircase leads to viewing windows at the top of the statue.
How tall is the Bavaria statue in Munich?
The Bavaria statue stands just over 60 feet (approximately 18.5 meters) tall, making it one of the largest bronze statues of the 19th century.
Where is the Bavaria statue located?
The Bavaria statue is located at the Theresienwiese in Munich, Germany, the same grounds where Oktoberfest takes place each year.
Is the Bavaria statue open year-round?
No, the interior of the Bavaria statue is typically open seasonally from late March through October. Visitors can view the exterior year-round.
Is visiting the Bavaria statue worth it?
Yes, visiting the Bavaria statue is worth it for its unique perspective over Munich, especially if you climb inside. It is also less crowded than many of the city’s more famous attractions.
All photos and opinions are my own.
