Lewandowski has expressed a desire to leave the Allianz Arena after eight successful years at the club.
The 33-year-old Poland international has a contract in Bavaria until the summer of 2023 and Bayern Munich have no intention of letting him go this summer.
Lewandowski favours a move to Barcelona as he seeks a new challenge.
Ribery, who starred alongside Lewandowski for five seasons at the German champions, believes the reigning FIFA Men's player of the year should be allowed to depart if he wishes.
"There is such a risk [for Bayern]," Ribery told Wirtualna Polska. "A footballer forced to stay can be frustrated and angry.
"However, I would love to find a solution that will make everyone happy. I understand the club because it will be very difficult to find a new Lewandowski.
"We are talking about the best striker in the world in recent years. Nobody sells such a player willingly.
"But Lewandowski wants this change; he is looking for a new spark, he needs a new challenge. This situation is not easy. May there be a good solution for everyone.
"If Robert leaves, nobody and nothing will erase what he has done for Bayern. But I would also like him to leave in style."
"Barca is Barca," he added. "Sure, they have their problems, but even if they are not as strong as five or six years ago, they are still big.
"It is known that then they had an amazing team, players who played together for many years. [Lionel] Messi, Xavi, [Andres] Iniesta, [Gerard] Pique, [Dani] Alves, [Jordi] Alba.
"It's different now, but there is no shortage of talent there. Yes, if Lewy were to leave Bayern, Barcelona would be a good choice."
