Just around 80 kilometres north of Munich lies Ingolstadt – a city that combines history, culture and a modern economy, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.
- Ingolstadt: A historic town on the Danube
- Explore the Old Town
- History and Science
- The modern economy and innovation
- Nature and relaxation on the Danube
- Ingolstadt: Getting there from Munich
Just 80 kilometres north of Munich lies Ingolstadt – a city that combines historic architecture, cultural tradition and a modern economy. Situated right on the banks of the Danube, Ingolstadt boasts a charming old town, numerous green spaces and a fascinating history dating back to the Middle Ages. The city is ideal for both a day trip and a longer stay, offering a perfect blend of history, culture and leisure activities.
The historic centre of Ingolstadt is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Around Rathausplatz and along the winding alleyways, you’ll find numerous historic buildings, small shops and cafés. A particularly striking feature of the townscape is the imposing Neues Schloss Ingolstadt, which today houses the Bavarian Army Museum and tells an important part of the town’s history.
Just a few steps away is the Liebfrauenmünster Ingolstadt, one of the largest late-Gothic churches in Bavaria. With its impressive architecture and tall towers, it is one of the city’s most striking buildings. A stroll through the old town also reveals numerous remains of the historic fortifications that made Ingolstadt an important fortified town for many centuries.
Ingolstadt looks back on a long academic tradition. Bavaria’s first university was founded here as early as 1472. Over time, it developed into a major centre for science and education. Today, the Ingolstadt University of Technology continues this tradition and, together with research institutions and businesses, shapes the modern cityscape. Culturally, too, Ingolstadt offers fascinating insights into the past. The well-preserved fortifications, museums and historic buildings tell the story of the city’s development from a medieval trading centre to a modern university and industrial city.
As well as its history, the city is now best known as a major business hub. The car manufacturer Audi, whose headquarters are in Ingolstadt, plays a particularly significant role. The associated Audi Forum Ingolstadt offers visitors an insight into the brand’s history, modern vehicle technology and the evolution of mobility. In this way, Ingolstadt combines tradition with innovation and ranks among Bavaria’s most economically dynamic cities.
As well as historical sights, Ingolstadt also offers plenty of opportunities to relax in green spaces. Klenzepark is particularly popular; situated right on the banks of the Danube, it boasts extensive green spaces, walking paths and views of historic fortifications. The park was created as part of the State Garden Show and is now a central meeting place for locals and visitors alike.
You can also enjoy lovely walks or bike rides along the Danube. The combination of nature, historic buildings and modern neighbourhoods gives Ingolstadt a special atmosphere.
Train connection: about 50 minutes. More information under bahn.de
Car: about 1 hour via the A9 motorway
