Messestadt West, Munich
Messestadt West is a district in Munich’s eastern Messestadt Riem area, blending residential, commercial, cultural and recreational spaces. The neighborhood occupies the former Munich-Riem Airport site and includes Riemer Park, preserved airport landmarks and Messe München, an international exhibition venue. Its pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly layout and U2 U-Bahn connection make it accessible from Munich’s city center.
History
Munich-Riem Airport operated from 1939 until its closure in 1992. For over five decades, it was an important aviation hub; growing air traffic demands led to its eventual replacement and redevelopment.
Redevelopment began in the mid-1990s, guided by sustainable urban planning. The former airport site became a district combining homes, shops, green spaces and the Neue Messe München exhibition grounds. Messe München moved to the area in 1998 and now hosts over 190 events annually.
What to see
- Riemer Park A large green space for leisure and sports.
- Preserved airport landmarks Former airport buildings remain as notable features and are used for events. The airport tower, Wappenhalle and views across Riemer Park and Messesee are photographic highlights.
- Messe München and the International Congress Center Munich (ICM) Exhibition halls, congress facilities and outdoor event spaces.
- Messesee The lake sits among the district’s modern residences, retail outlets and restaurants.
The district also hosts cultural festivals, concerts, community gatherings and markets. Guided tours are offered at select events and may cover historical sites, former airport facilities or Messe München’s operations and architecture.
Practical visiting information
Hours and tickets
- Messestadt West The district is open year-round, 24/7, without an entry fee.
- Riemer Park and preserved airport landmarks Freely accessible.
- Messe München Exhibition hours vary by event. One schedule is typically 8:00 AM to 6:00/8:00 PM; another lists 9:00 AM–6:00 PM as typical event hours. Check the event information before visiting.
- Tickets Required for exhibitions; available online or at the venue. Many event tickets include public transport, so check the ticket or event website.
Getting there
- U-Bahn Take the U2 to Messestadt West. The journey from Hauptbahnhof is about 20 minutes. The U2 runs daily from 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM, with trains every five minutes during peak hours.
- S-Bahn Take the S4 to Trudering, then change to the U2.
- Bus and bicycle Bus routes and well-developed bicycle lanes serve the area.
- By car Use the A94 motorway and exits 5 or 6. Parking options include Parkhaus West and outdoor lots, with dynamic parking guidance.
- From Munich Airport Travel to Hauptbahnhof or Ostbahnhof, then take the U2; the journey takes approximately 50–60 minutes.
Fares and accessibility
- Zone M A single ticket costs about €3.90; a day ticket costs about €9.20.
- Airport to Messe The Airport-City-Day-Ticket for Zones M–5 costs about €14.80.
- Tickets are available at stations, online or through the MVV app. Validate tickets before travel.
Messestadt West station and Messe München are accessible, with elevators, ramps, tactile guidance, accessible toilets and step-free access. The station also has wide platforms, escalators and bilingual signage. Ticket machines offer MVG, MVV and Deutsche Bahn tickets. Real-time travel updates are available through the MVGO app.
Messe München facilities and services
The venue is the primary destination served by Messestadt West station and the U2, and includes:
- 18 column-free exhibition halls covering more than 200,000 m²
- The ICM Congress Center, with capacity for up to 6,000 participants
- Outdoor event spaces
- Free Wi-Fi, cloakrooms, ATMs, dining and business services
- Information desks and mobile apps for navigation
- Restaurants and nearby hotels, cafés and shops
- On-site parking, including Parkhaus West and outdoor lots, and more than 80 e-charging stations
- Solar arrays and sustainability measures that include renewable energy, recycling and encouragement of public transport
The venue also has security and surveillance measures, as well as medical services.
Events
Messe München hosts international exhibitions and other events, including:
- BAU Munich Architecture and construction, including building materials
- Productronica Electronics and production technology
- IAA Mobility Automotive and mobility innovations
- Other global expositions and cultural events
Tollwood Summer Festival is also listed among the area’s event options, with eco-cultural programming. Event schedules vary.
Tips
- Arrive early during major events to avoid crowds.
- Check whether your event ticket includes public transport; some Messe München tickets include complimentary MVV transport within zones M–6.
- Book accommodation early. City-center accommodations offer direct U-Bahn access.
- Public transport is an option for getting to the venue; explore Riemer Park and local dining while in the district.
- Consult the city tourism office or event schedule for guided-tour times.
Nearby places
Riem Arcaden offers shopping, dining and entertainment. Other nearby destinations include Olympiapark, the Deutsches Museum and Munich’s city center. The Munich Residenz has a royal palace and museums; Marienplatz is a historic city square; and Nymphenburg Palace has gardens and baroque architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Messestadt West free to visit?
The district and its parks are open access. Entry to Messe München events requires a ticket.
How do I get there from the city center?
Take the U2 to Messestadt West.
Are the facilities accessible?
Yes. The station and Messe grounds have accessible facilities, including step-free access.
Do event tickets include public transport?
Many do. Check your ticket or the event website.
Are guided tours available?
Tours are available during select events and exhibitions; consult the event schedule.
