Riem-Arcaden

“Did you hear about the time they had to close the entire Riem-Arcaden because of a runaway cow?” a young boy whispered to his friend, their eyes wide with mischief. We are now standing right at the edge of the Riem-Arcaden, one of Munich’s largest and most modern shopping malls. You might not guess it by looking at this sleek, glass-and-steel structure, but it stands on what used to be the Munich-Riem Airport. Though the airport closed in 1992, remnants of its lively past still linger. This very spot was once part of the airport’s bustling tarmac. The boy’s story, though highly embellished, hints at the area’s transformation from a hub of international travel to a shopper’s paradise. Today, the Riem-Arcaden is home to over 140 stores, cafes, and restaurants spread across three sprawling floors. Designed by the Allmann Sattler Wappner firm, the same architectural masterminds behind Munich Airport’s Terminal 2, the Riem-Arcaden seamlessly blend functionality with contemporary design. Inside, you’ll find everything from high-street fashion brands to independent boutiques, electronics to homeware. And if you need a break from shopping, the food court offers a variety of cuisines to satisfy every taste bud. But the Riem-Arcaden is more than just a shopping mall. It is a social hub for the community, hosting numerous events throughout the year and actively participating in charitable projects with local organizations. As you browse the shops and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, remember the ghosts of runways past and the incredible transformation that led to the creation of this modern marvel, the Riem-Arcaden.