Messestadt Ost Munich: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction: Messestadt Ost Munich – Significance and Visitor Experience
Messestadt Ost, located in Munich’s eastern district, epitomizes Munich’s commitment to sustainable urban transformation. Once the site of Munich-Riem Airport (1939–1992), the area has been redeveloped into a dynamic urban quarter and serves as the crucial gateway to Messe München—one of the world’s foremost trade fair and congress centers. Visitors can expect a seamless combination of historical roots, innovative architecture, abundant green spaces such as Riemer Park, and world-class transport connectivity. Whether attending global exhibitions like Bauma, IFAT, or Electronica, or simply exploring Munich’s evolving urban landscape, Messestadt Ost offers accessibility, cultural richness, and modern amenities.
The district’s evolution, underpinned by the “Perspective Munich” master plan, emphasizes energy-efficient residential zones, vibrant public spaces, and mixed-use developments. The Munich Trade Fair Center (Neue Messe München), opened in 1998, anchors the area and is directly accessible by the U2 subway line at the architecturally significant Messestadt Ost station. With Riemer Park’s 210 hectares of recreational facilities and the district’s excellent public transport links—including accessible U-Bahn stations and clear wayfinding—Messestadt Ost is both a destination and a hub for exploring Munich.
This guide delivers detailed, organized insights into Messestadt Ost’s history, attractions, transportation, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and practical visitor tips, enabling travelers to plan an efficient and memorable visit. For official travel and event information, consult the Messe München website (messe-muenchen.de) and Munich’s MVV transport platform (mvv-muenchen.de).
Table of Contents
- Discover Messestadt Ost: Munich’s Dynamic Urban Quarter and Historical Site
- Messestadt Ost U-Bahn Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide
- Welcome to Messestadt Ost: Your Gateway to Messe München
- Messestadt Ost Station: Transportation Guide
- Summary & Recommendations
- References
Discover Messestadt Ost: Munich’s Dynamic Urban Quarter and Historical Site
Brief History
Messestadt Ost occupies the grounds of the former Munich-Riem Airport. After the airport’s closure in 1992, the city transformed over 560 hectares into a sustainable, mixed-use district as part of the “Perspective Munich” urban plan. The result is a thriving quarter integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
Key Attractions & Architecture
- Riemer Park: At the heart of Messestadt Ost, Riemer Park spans 210 hectares with an artificial lake, spacious lawns, walking trails, and playgrounds—ideal for relaxation and recreation.
- Munich Trade Fair Center (Neue Messe München): Since 1998, this modern landmark has hosted major international exhibitions. Its innovative architecture and expansive halls are directly connected to public transport.
- Urban Design: The district features energy-efficient, mixed-height residential buildings, open plazas, and community centers, encouraging a vibrant, neighborly atmosphere.
Visitor Information
- Visiting Hours: Riemer Park is open daily from dawn to dusk. Public areas are freely accessible.
- Tickets: Riemer Park and most public spaces are free. Entry to trade fair events requires tickets, available on the Messe München website.
- Guided Tours: Special tours of the trade fair center and selected architectural highlights are available via Messe München and local tourism offices.
Getting There
- Public Transport: Take the U2 subway line to Messestadt Ost station (terminus), offering direct access to the district and trade fair center. Travel time from Munich Central Station is about 20 minutes.
- By Car: Use the A94 motorway with dedicated exits and ample parking, especially during trade fairs.
- Park & Ride: Recommended to minimize traffic and simplify arrival.
Best Times to Visit
Spring through autumn is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities in Riemer Park. Check the Messe München event calendar for special exhibitions and fairs to coordinate your visit.
Accessibility
Messestadt Ost is designed for accessibility, offering barrier-free public transport, pedestrian pathways, and facilities for visitors with reduced mobility.
Nearby Attractions
Beyond Messestadt Ost, easy access to Munich’s historic city center, the Deutsches Museum, and the Englischer Garten enriches the urban experience.
Events & Photo Opportunities
- International trade fairs at Messe München
- Scenic lake views and landscaped areas in Riemer Park
- Seasonal festivals and community events in plazas
FAQs
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Riemer Park is open from dawn to dusk; public areas are always accessible.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No fee for public spaces. Trade fair events require tickets.
Q: How do I reach Messestadt Ost by public transport?
A: Take the U2 line to Messestadt Ost station.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, for the trade fair center—check the Messe München website.
Q: Is the district accessible for those with disabilities?
A: Yes, infrastructure is designed for accessibility.
Messestadt Ost U-Bahn Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide
Location & Urban Context
Messestadt Ost U-Bahn station is beneath Willy-Brandt-Allee, connecting Messe München, Riem Arcaden, and residential Messestadt Riem. The station is a model of modern transit architecture, reflecting the area’s aviation history.
Opening Hours & Tickets
- Opening Hours: Daily, approximately 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM (aligning with U-Bahn schedules).
- Tickets: Purchase at station machines or via the MVG app. Standard Munich public transport fares apply.
Architectural Highlights
Designed by Busse & Partner and opened in 1999, the station’s “refined raw construction” features exposed concrete, aluminum, and glass. Notable elements include linear light tubes, a central granite platform, and corrugated aluminum wall panels referencing aviation heritage.
A unique feature is Blasius Gerg’s funnel-shaped sundial at the Messe entrance, channeling sunlight and casting time-telling shadows inside.
Accessibility & Facilities
Messestadt Ost is fully accessible with elevators, ramps, tactile guidance paths, ticket machines, restrooms, and clear signage.
Entrances & Unique Features
The eastern mezzanine concourse displays photographs of the station’s construction and the Messestadt Riem development, blending transit function with local history.
Travel Tips
- Use the MVG app for real-time updates.
- Arrive early during major events to avoid congestion.
- Park+Ride facilities support car-to-subway transfers.
- Explore Riemer Park for relaxation after events.
Nearby Attractions
- Messe München: International trade fairs and industry events.
- Riemer Park: Walking trails and lakeside leisure.
- Riem Arcaden: Major shopping center.
- Kopfbau Cultural Center: Community events and rotating exhibitions.
Special Events & Tours
While the station itself does not offer tours, Messe München events often include guided experiences. Watch official websites for event-specific opportunities.
Photography
The interplay of light, concrete textures, and the sundial provide striking photo opportunities for architecture and design enthusiasts.
FAQs
Q: What are the station hours?
A: 4:00 AM–1:00 AM daily.
Q: Is the station accessible?
A: Yes, with comprehensive accessibility features.
Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: At ticket machines or via the MVG app.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Not for the station itself, but available for Messe München events.
Q: Is there parking?
A: Yes, Park+Ride facilities are available.
Welcome to Messestadt Ost: Your Gateway to Messe München
Strategic Location & Urban Development
Messestadt Ost is the principal access point to Messe München, developed on the former Munich-Riem airport site. The U2 subway terminus ensures direct, frequent connections to the exhibition complex (messe-muenchen.de).
Messe München Overview
Messe München hosts over 11 major international trade fairs annually, including Bauma, IFAT, and Electronica, across 18 halls and 614,000 m² of exhibition space (dixifuar.com).
Visiting Hours & Tickets
- Visitor Hours: Most events run 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Check specific event pages for details.
- Tickets: Available online or at the venue. Public transport is not always included—verify your ticket benefits (messe-muenchen.de).
Transportation & Accessibility
- U-Bahn: U2 line runs every 5 minutes during peak, reaching Messestadt Ost from the Hauptbahnhof in under 20 minutes.
- Airport Access: S1 or S8 S-Bahn to city, then U2 to Messestadt Ost (45–60 min). Taxi and shuttle services are available (messe-muenchen.de).
- By Car: Accessible via A94 motorway, with 5,000 parking spaces and over 80 e-charging stations (dixifuar.com).
- Cycling/E-Scooters: Dedicated parking and infrastructure for sustainable mobility.
Major Events & Economic Impact
- Bauma: World’s largest construction fair, 600,000+ visitors.
- IFAT: Environmental technologies, 140,000+ visitors.
- Electronica: Electronics industry, 80,000+ visitors.
The district’s infrastructure supports efficient event logistics and crowd flow.
Visitor Services
- Multilingual information desks
- Diverse dining options
- Business amenities (Wi-Fi, lounges)
- Barrier-free access throughout
Accommodation
Hotels range from budget to luxury within walking distance or a short U-Bahn ride. Book early during large events (dixifuar.com).
Practical Tips
- Buy MVV tickets unless your event ticket covers public transport.
- Anticipate crowds during major events—arrive early.
- Luggage storage is at Hauptbahnhof, not Messestadt Ost.
- Embrace sustainable practices in line with Munich’s initiatives.
FAQs
Q: What are Messe München’s visiting hours?
A: Usually 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, but check event details.
Q: Where can I buy event tickets?
A: Online via Messe München or at the entrance.
Q: How do I get from Munich Airport?
A: S-Bahn (S1/S8) to the city, then U2 to Messestadt Ost (45–60 min).
Q: Is Messestadt Ost accessible?
A: Yes, barrier-free throughout.
Q: Are hotels nearby?
A: Yes, within walking distance or one U-Bahn stop.
Nearby Attractions
- Riem Arcaden: 120+ stores and eateries.
- Messesee: Artificial lake for relaxation.
- Riemer Park: Urban park with trails and a bathing lake.
- Munich City Center: Historic sites and museums via U-Bahn (thecrazytourist.com).
Messestadt Ost Station: Transportation Guide
Location Overview
Messestadt Ost station is beneath Willy-Brandt-Allee, serving the heart of Messestadt Riem and Messe München.
Visiting Hours & Tickets
- Station: 4:30 AM–1:30 AM.
- Messe München: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (event-dependent).
- Tickets: Event tickets may include MVV transport; otherwise, purchase tickets separately (MVV Visitor Guide).
Getting There
- U-Bahn (U2): Direct from Hauptbahnhof, every 3 minutes at peak.
- S-Bahn & Bus: S2 to Riem + Bus 190, or S4 to Trudering + U2.
- From Airport: S8/S1 to city, then U2; or event shuttle buses.
- Car: A94 motorway, Exit 5 (München-Riem) or 6 (Feldkirchen-West); e-charging and ample parking.
Accessibility
All stations, trains, and exhibition halls are barrier-free, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Nearby Attractions
- Riem Arcaden
- Riemer Park
- Guided walking tours of the former airport site
Practical Tips
- Expect peak-time congestion during major events.
- Use the MVGO Fahrinfo München app for transit updates.
- Luggage storage is at Hauptbahnhof.
- E-scooters are allowed around Munich, but not inside Messe grounds.
Transport Summary Table
| Mode | Route/Details | Approx. Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| U-Bahn (U2) | Hauptbahnhof → Messestadt Ost | 20–25 min | Direct, frequent, accessible |
| S-Bahn + Bus | S2 to Riem, Bus 190 to Messestadt Ost | 30–40 min | Alternative route, may require transfer |
| Airport Shuttle | Airport ↔ Messe München (North Entrance) | 45 min | €11 one-way, €17 return, every 15 min during events |
| Taxi | City/Airport ↔ Messestadt Ost | 25–45 min | Fixed fares for airport route; convenient for groups |
| Car | A94, Exit 5 or 6 | Varies | Ample parking, dynamic guidance, e-charging available |
| MVV Ticket | Zones M–5 (city/airport) | — | Check if event ticket includes free public transport |
Visuals & Maps
Access interactive maps on the Messe München website and use the MVV app for station maps and travel planning.
FAQs
Q: What are Messestadt Ost station hours?
A: 4:30 AM–1:30 AM daily.
Q: How do I buy transport tickets?
A: At MVV stations, via the MVV MobileTicket app, airport kiosks, or online.
Q: Is Messestadt Ost accessible?
A: Yes, fully barrier-free.
Q: Do event tickets include public transport?
A: Many do; check for the MVV logo on your ticket.
Summary & Recommendations
Messestadt Ost demonstrates Munich’s innovative urban planning, blending historical transformation with modern infrastructure and vibrant community life. As the eastern gateway to Messe München, it is both a pivotal event hub and a welcoming district for all visitors. With accessible transport, varied amenities, and proximity to both trade fairs and green spaces, it is an ideal base for exploring Munich’s broader attractions.
For the latest event schedules, ticketing, and travel updates, consult the official Messe München (messe-muenchen.de) and MVV platforms (mvv-muenchen.de). Download apps like Audiala or MVG Fahrinfo München for real-time information. Embrace Messestadt Ost’s unique blend of history, culture, and urban innovation as you discover Munich.
