Exploring Munich Airport And Its Surroundings

what to see around munich airport

Munich Airport is located in an area with a lot to offer. If you have a 2-4 hour layover, you can explore the airport landside and get some fresh air. The city of Freising is a charming little suburban town with a wonderful main street and great restaurants. It is only a 10-minute drive from the airport. Erding is another option, as well as the city of Munich itself, which is 50 minutes away by public transportation. If you have 4-6 hours between flights, you can explore Munich's fascinating sites and its surroundings. You can get to the city centre by train in 10 minutes, or by taxi in 50 minutes.

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Explore the city of Freising, a 10-minute drive from the airport

If you're looking for a quick trip outside the airport during your layover, the city of Freising is a great option, located just a 10- to 15-minute drive from Munich Airport. Here are some ways to get there and things to see and do in Freising:

Getting to Freising

There are several ways to get to Freising from Munich Airport, depending on your preference for convenience and cost.

  • By train: The train station is located between Terminals 1 and 2 at the airport. Trains to Freising run regularly, and the journey takes around 15 minutes.
  • By taxi: You can use a taxi service like SIXT ride, which offers a convenient app-based service with transparent pricing. The taxi ride will take approximately 12 minutes.
  • By car: If you prefer the freedom of driving yourself, car-sharing or rental services like SIXT are available. You can rent a car through the SIXT app by uploading your driver's license and browsing the available cars around the airport.
  • By bus: There is also a bus service that connects Munich Airport and Freising.

Exploring Freising

Once you're in Freising, here are some must-visit attractions:

  • Freising Cathedral (St. Mary and St. Corbinian Cathedral): This Romanesque and Gothic masterpiece dates back to the 12th century. Admire the intricate architecture and artwork, including the famous "Freisinger Madonna."
  • Diözesanmuseum: Located within the cathedral, this museum houses the most extensive collection of religious art in Germany, as well as a spectacular library.
  • Weihenstephan Brewery: Discover the world's oldest continuously operating brewery at Weihenstephan. Take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process and sample their exceptional beers.
  • Munich's Oldest Beer Hall: Step into history in this 400-year-old beer hall, which has served beer drinkers for centuries.

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Visit Landshut, a city with a castle and 500-year-old buildings, a 30-40 minute drive away

If you're looking for a change of scenery from Munich Airport, consider visiting Landshut, a city brimming with historical charm and architectural wonders. Located just 25 miles from the airport, Landshut is a 30 to 40-minute drive away, depending on traffic and your mode of transportation.

Getting to Landshut

You can get to Landshut by train, bus, taxi, or car. The fastest way is by taxi, which takes around 29 minutes and costs $110 to $140. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider taking the train or bus, which costs between $11 and $16. The train journey takes approximately 34 to 36 minutes, while the bus takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can drive yourself, which is the cheapest option, costing around $6 to $10 for the trip.

Exploring Landshut

Landshut is a treasure trove of medieval architecture and historical landmarks. Start your exploration at the heart of the city, where you'll find the 500-year-old Landshut Residence, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Stroll through the historic Old Town, admiring the colourful burgher houses and the impressive St. Martin's Church.

No visit to Landshut is complete without a trip to the majestic Trausnitz Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the city. This 13th-century fortress is a testament to Landshut's rich history and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Explore the castle's grand halls, intricate frescoes, and well-preserved medieval architecture.

As you wander through Landshut, you'll be surrounded by historical landmarks at every turn. The city boasts numerous churches, each with its unique charm, such as the Church of St. Jodok, the Church of St. Ignatius, and the Church of St. Wolfgang. Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Isar River, or explore the city's many museums, including the City Museum, the Sculpture Museum, and the Castle Museum.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing day trip from Munich Airport, Landshut is a captivating destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

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Discover the world of aviation with a Munich Airport tour

Munich Airport offers a range of options to discover the world of aviation, especially if you have a long layover. The airport itself is quite far from the city, so if you have a shorter layover, you may want to stay within the airport or its immediate surroundings. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your time and explore the world of aviation.

Airport Tours

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the airport's operations by joining one of the airport tours. These tours put you right in the heart of the action, offering a perfect view of the airport apron and runways. You can also explore the shops, restaurants, and services within the security area, including the acupressure massage service, which can help ease muscle tension and jet lag.

Nearby Towns and Villages

If you have a longer layover, you can explore the beautiful region around Munich Airport. The charming town of Freising, just a 10-minute drive from the airport, offers a glimpse into typical German suburban life. It has a wonderful main street, great restaurants, and accommodation options like the Marriott. Another option is the town of Landshut, known for its well-preserved 500-year-old buildings, castle, and cathedral. It's about a 30-40 minute drive from the airport.

Munich City

For those with a layover of 4-6 hours, you might consider venturing into Munich city centre. You can reach the city centre in about 50 minutes by public transportation or taxi. Once there, you can explore the different quarters, visit Marienplatz, or try Bavarian specialties and beer at Hofbräuhaus. Remember to keep an eye on the time and check your flight status to ensure you make it back to the airport.

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Enjoy a beer and Bavarian food at Airbräu between the two terminals

If you have a layover at Munich Airport, you can make the most of your time by enjoying a beer and some Bavarian food at Airbräu, conveniently located between the two terminals. Airbräu is the world's first airport brewery, offering a unique and memorable experience for travellers. Here are some tips to enhance your time at Airbräu:

Explore the Brewery: Airbräu is renowned for its on-site brewery, where you can witness the art of beer-making. Take a tour of the brewery, learn about the history and process of brewing, and, of course, taste the freshly brewed beer. The brewery's signature beer, the "Aviator Beer," is a must-try for beer enthusiasts.

Indulge in Bavarian Cuisine: Along with its beer, Airbräu is known for its delicious Bavarian food. Treat yourself to traditional dishes such as pork knuckles, Bavarian pretzels, and Obatzda, a creamy cheese speciality. Sample the various beers and find the perfect pairing for your meal. The restaurant also offers a cosy atmosphere, providing a welcoming break from your travels.

Relax and Unwind: Airbräu provides an ideal setting to relax and unwind during your layover. Take a seat in the beer garden, especially pleasant during the warmer months, and soak in the lively atmosphere. If you're travelling during the colder season, the indoor seating offers a comfortable and rustic ambiance. Enjoy your beer and food while socialising with fellow travellers or simply unwinding before your next flight.

Shop for Souvenirs: Don't forget to browse the Airbräu shop, where you can purchase unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit. From beer glasses and mugs to branded apparel and beer-themed gifts, you're sure to find something to remind you of your enjoyable stopover at Airbräu. You can also explore the shops within the airport, offering a wide range of products, including souvenirs and jewellery.

Plan Your Time: Depending on the length of your layover, you can plan your time at Airbräu accordingly. If you have less than two hours, you may want to stay within the security area, enjoying the food, drinks, and shopping at Airbräu. With a longer layover, you can consider exploring the airport landside or even venturing into the city of Munich or the nearby towns of Freising or Erding. Just remember to keep an eye on the time and check your flight status using the available resources, such as the InfoGate stations or the Passngr app.

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If you have 4-6 hours, take a train to Munich city centre and explore

If you have 4-6 hours between your arrival at Munich Airport and your next flight, you can take a train to Munich city centre and explore. Two train lines connect the airport to the city centre, stopping at the Central Station and Ostbahnhof in Munich, with trains running every 10 minutes.

Munich is a city that combines old-town charm with modern attractions. You can start your sightseeing at Marienplatz, a large square in the heart of the old town, and admire the ornate and imposing Rathaus. From Marienplatz, you can stroll through the different quarters of Munich, exploring the city's unique blend of old and new.

For a dose of culture and history, you can visit the Diözesanmuseum within the cathedral of St. Maria and St. Corbinian in Freising, which is located about 20 minutes from the airport. The cathedral houses an extensive collection of religious art and a spectacular library. Alternatively, you can step into Munich's oldest beer hall, dating back 400 years, and sample some of the city's famous beer.

If you're looking for something more modern, the Olympiapark, built for the 1972 Olympic Games, offers several attractions, green spaces, and fantastic views. You can also explore the BMW Museum and BMW Welt, which showcase the city's sleek and modern side. For a unique dining experience, head to Alte Utting, a decommissioned boat turned buzzy bar and food spot sitting on a railway bridge.

Finally, Munich also offers a range of tours and activities, including scenic railroads, walking tours, food tours, and beer tastings, allowing you to discover the city's culinary delights and beautiful sights in a short amount of time.

Frequently asked questions

If you have 2 hours or less between your arrival and boarding your next flight, it is recommended that you stay airside and explore the shops, restaurants and services within the security area. You can also indulge in an acupressure massage, which is charged at €1 per minute.

Yes, you could visit the city of Freising, which is a 10-minute drive from the airport. It is a charming little town with a wonderful main street and good restaurants. Alternatively, you could visit Erding, or explore Munich Airport landside and get some fresh air.

Some people say that 5 hours is not enough time to leave the airport, explore Munich City and get back again. However, others suggest that it is possible to take the train to the city, eat at Hofbräuhaus and return to the airport.

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