Look no further than Germany for eye-catching attractions and old-world charm. The country boasts plenty of gardens, churches, historic sites, castles, museums, wineries, and breweries to visit.
Consider visiting some of the scenic towns in upper Bavaria during your trip. For a lovely town with a pleasing atmosphere, Freising offers lots of overwhelmingly scenic spots to see.
Freising is a historical Bavarian town that presents its top attractions with a mixture of ancient and modern places. Visitors have many options for city attractions to add to their German travel itinerary.
The lively ambiance, warm smiles, and colorful sceneries are some of the highlights of the picturesque old town of Freising. Traveling and experiencing a tour in Freising allows you to see hidden gems and history you might not have heard of. Check out this list of things to do in Freising and see what this quaint European city has to offer.
Things to do in Freising, Germany
1. Freising Cathedral
Address: Domberg 35, 85354 Freising, Germany
Freising Cathedral, or “Mariendom” in German, is an impressive Roman-style basilica building in upper Bavaria. Some may refer to the cathedral as Saint Mary or Corbinian Cathedral.
The cathedral is known for being Pope Benedict XVI’s ordination as a priest took place. During the Baroque Period in 1619, the church underwent a major reconstruction. A total overhaul began in 1621. Consecration of the high altar took place in January 1624.
Before the consecration, Prince Bishop Veit Adam von Gepeckh of Freising contracted Hans Rottenhammer to create a large altarpiece painting. It was believed that Rottenhammer was an alcoholic and entering his final days.
Eventually, the altarpiece was reassigned to Peter Paul Rubens. He finished the Woman of the Apocalypse painting, which became a prevalent subject in German iconography from the 15th century.
See Related: Driving in Germany
2. Mariensäule
Address: Marienplatz, 85354 Freising, Germany
The Mariensäule, known in English as Mary’s Column, is a Merian column in Freising. The essence of the column comes from the belief that Mary is the protector of Bavaria. Because of this, the locals call her “Patrona Bavaria.”
The column was constructed in 1638 to commemorate the Swedish occupation during the Thirty Years’ War. Perched on the column is the gold sculpture of a crescent moon carrying the Blessed Virgin Mary.
At the four corners of the column are statues created by Ferdinand Murmann. Each statue battles a different beast representing the city’s triumph over hardships. The lion symbolizes war, the serpent represents heresy, the dragon signifies famine, and the cockatrice stands for pestilence.
See Related: Must-See Castles in Germany
3. Sichtungsgarten Weihenstephan
Address: Am Staudengarten 9, 85354 Freising, Germany
If you have a green thumb, Sichtungsgarten Weihenstephan is an attractive point of interest and free admission. The 7-hectare botanical garden is filled with copious plant life. Previously a 19th-century villa garden, it’s now open to the general public.
The grounds were established as a park in 1948 by Richard Hansen. A sculpture of Richard Hansen is also displayed within the gardens.
Currently, Sichtungsgarten Weihenstephan is preserved by the Faschhonchschule Weihehstephan’s Research Institute for Horticulture. Its purpose is to educate people and students about food technology and horticulture.
Enjoy the vibrant colors during any season, as the ground floor and courtyard gardens are accessible year-round. Sit down, take some pictures, and enjoy the stunning scenery in the garden. From May to October, guided tours of Weihenstephaner Berg are available.
See Related: Best Colleges in Germany for Military Spouses
4. Plantage Restaurant and Biergarten
Address: Plantage 2, 85354 Freising, Germany
Despite being a small town, with only 50,000 people living within its city limits, Freising boasts many activities that anyone would enjoy during their visit.
Plantage Restaurant and Biergarten is a perfect choice for a fun place to indulge and drink. The restaurant is in the heart of the city, so you can see all the sights and do everything you want throughout your trip.
The old town is a great atmosphere—you’ll feel like you’re in a different world when you go there. The music is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Plantage Restaurant is a fantastic place to dine while enjoying drinks with friends and family. Plantage Freising has entertainment for all ages. The Biergarten comes equipped with a soccer field and a playground.
Adults can relax, feast, and enjoy a refreshing beer while the kids burn off their energy. After your bellies are full, take a leisurely stroll down the Forest Adventure Trail.
See Related: History of The Cuckoo Clock
5. Weltwald Freising
Address: Domberg 1, 85354 Freising, Germany
If you are interested in wildlife and nature, this is one of the top places to visit. The vast area of Weltwald Freising is covered with beautiful trees, magnificent flowers, and incredible natural surroundings. Hiking throughout Weltwald Freising is a perfect weekend trip.
In an area of around 100 hectares, be surrounded by more than 400 species of trees. The first trees were planted in 1987. The Weltwald Freising offers ample car parking space at the entrance for easy access.
The park has several themed paths: eastern North America, western North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Central and East Asia. See vegetation from all over the world as each themed trail contains plant life respective to that region.
Towards the entrance, some pavilions include informational presentation boards with elaborate descriptions. Within the forest, you will find several art installations as well.
There’s an app called the Weltwald App, which helps visitors navigate the park and provides basic information about several species of plants.
6. Altes Gefängnis
Address: Obere Domberggasse 16, 85354 Freising, Germany
If you want to check out some Freising museums, Altes Gefängnis is a stellar choice. Here you can have the perfect balance of food, wine, art, and history. Many visitors compliment the cozy ambiance and state the wine is delicious.
Altes Gefängnis opened its doors in 2014 and is constantly expanding. Tour the old jail museum from May to October. Guided tours are only available on Saturdays at 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm.
From time to time, Altes Gefängnis also hosts shows, events, and live music. These festivities rotate from month to month.
Where to Stay in Freising, Germany
Conveniently, the town of Freising is just over a 15-minute drive away from Munich Airport. Plenty of accommodations are available nearby to suit your needs.
Munich Airport Marriott Hotel
Address: Alois-Steinecker-Straße 20, 85354 Freising, Germany
This 4-star hotel and an excellent choice for families. Children under 12 get to eat and stay for free. Airport shuttles must be booked in advance but are available for a small fee.
Wine and dine in the hotel’s three restaurants and bars. Indulge your tastebuds in authentic German cuisine, beer, and cocktails. While the hotel says it’s located in Munich, it’s actually in Freising.
During your visit to Freising, immerse yourself in the city center and local nature. Nearby, enjoy the greenery at Rosengarten, just a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Plenty of restaurants are within a 10-minute radius, so you can indulge in local Bavaria cuisine and German beer.
Isar Hotel
Address: Isarstraße 4, 85356 Freising, Germany
If you want to support locals, this quaint hotel is family-run and just minutes away from the Isar River. This hotel has unique, country-style rooms. Isar Hotel offers guests a buffet breakfast, and gluten-free options are also available.
Isar Hotel is in the middle of all the action. Take a walk or even a bike ride down by the Isar River.
Nearby, spend some time at the Domberg Museum or the Freising Cathedral. Both attractions are just a short 15-minute walk away.
Novotel München Airport
Address: Nordallee 29, 85356 Freising, Germany
For those that have a far journey to Germany, consider staying at Novotel München Airport. This hotel is conveniently located right by the Munich Airport. The rooms are soundproofed because of their proximity to the airport, but windows can’t be opened due to safety issues.
Novotel also has glowing reviews from TripAdvisor guests and is a fantastic choice for those traveling with children. Up to two children aged 15 or younger can stay and eat at the breakfast buffet for free.
Providing they are in the same room as the rest of the family. Sofa beds are also available upon request.
When it comes to variety, Novotel’s onsite restaurant takes the crown. The FLAVE of Munich provides international cuisine for hotel guests. The menu boasts a variety of options, such as vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free meals.
FAQ
What are the best attractions to go to when in Freising?
If you’re looking for a tranquil setting to experience German culture, head to Weltwald Freising. The land boasts plenty of pavilions, trees, numerous plants, and a vast space to breathe in nature. It’s one of the town’s most popular places to visit in Freising.
What are the best things to do in Freising on a rainy day?
The old town of Freising has much to offer and lots of history. During rainy days, a day trip isn’t complete without going to Freising Cathedral, perched atop Cathedral Hill. As one of the most historic sites around the town, tourists should visit it and view its magnificent architecture no matter the weather.
Which historic sites should I visit when in Freising?
It can be challenging to select just a few historical landmarks from Freising’s old town because there are so many. Mariensäule, erected in 1638, is a must-see during your Freising trip.
Where to go in Freising with kids?
A fun location for kids is the Sichtungsgarten Weihenstephan, where you can walk around the gardens without needing admission tickets. Pique their interest with beautiful flower beds while munching on their favorite snacks. The gardens are a stunning free attraction.
Related Resources