Munich serves not only as a fantastic destination but also as a convenient starting point for exploring the surrounding region. The area is easily accessible via the city's efficient transportation network, which includes local S-Bahn and regional train services. These options are both cost-effective and reliable, providing quick connections to numerous nearby attractions. For example, travellers can reach Freising, the oldest town in Upper Bavaria, in less than an hour by taking the S-Bahn S1. Additionally, you can get to the royal Schleissheim Palace in Oberschleissheim via the same train line, making for a convenient and enjoyable day trip from Munich.
So, let’s start! First, take the S-Bahn S1 or the regional train to Freising, which will get you there in less than 30 minutes.
Freising
Established in 739, Freising holds the distinction of being the oldest town in Upper Bavaria. 
It is home to a significant cathedral and the world's oldest operational brewery. Domberg served as the residence of the prince-bishops of Freising for over a thousand years, beginning with St Corbinian, a Frankish bishop who later became the first bishop and patron saint of the diocese. The town's coat of arms, featuring a bear carrying a pack, is inspired by the legend of St Corbinian commanding a bear to carry his load after his horse died during a journey.
Situated on the banks of the River Isar and close to Munich, Freising is just a short distance from Munich Airport, making it an ideal stopover for travellers at the start or end of their visit to the area.
Freising's Old Town
Freising's Old Town, situated at the foot of two hills, features rows of impressive houses that wealthy residents and cathedral officials once owned. The vibrant facades with intricate decorations give the area a captivating atmosphere. 
The Upper Old Town is where the farmers' market is held twice a week, surrounded by charming shops, cafes and restaurants. Marienplatz, with its Marian column dated 1674, is the focal point of the historic area and a popular spot for city celebrations. The Town Hall, built in 1905, and the Church of St George, known for its beautiful Baroque tower, are key landmarks of the square. Unfortunately, the tower was hidden behind scaffolding during my visit.
Cathedral Hill
A short walk from the busy historic area will lead you to Cathedral Hill, where Bishop Otto of Freising, a renowned philosopher from the medieval era, once resided. 
His monument now overlooks the cathedral square. Across from the cathedral stands the former residence of the prince-bishops, with other nearby buildings serving various church functions. The prince-bishopric of Freising was a significant hub of spiritual and intellectual activity in Old Bavaria for many years, and Cathedral Hill remains a key location for both religious and cultural events in the city. The Diocesan Museum houses an extensive collection of religious art, second only to that of the Vatican.
Practical tip: Cathedral Hill has historically been difficult to access due to its terrain. However, the recently installed Cathedral Hill lift allows Freising's residents and visitors to conveniently and effectively reach the hill. The lift ride takes just over a minute, making it a quick and comfortable option.
Address: Bahnhofstrasse 14.
Freising Cathedral
St Mary's Cathedral, also known as Freising Cathedral, is a Romanesque basilica built in the 13th century. Positioned on a hill overlooking the town, the cathedral, with its two towers, is easily visible. 
Despite its simple Romanesque exterior, the interior of the cathedral showcases Baroque splendour, following a redesign in 1724 to commemorate the millennium of the bishopric. This renovation was done by the renowned Asam brothers, leading figures in Old Bavarian religious art at the time. Visitors to the cathedral are treated to a stunning display of art and architecture, including intricate stucco work by the Asam Brothers and a high altar with an altarpiece by Peter Paul Rubens depicting the Blessed Virgin Mary. The original altarpiece is housed in the Alte Pinakothek in Munich, while its copy is on display in the cathedral. 
Of particular interest is the crypt, which features the unique Beasts’ Pillar, crafted in the 12th century and depicting knights battling dragons. Notably, Freising Cathedral is where Pope Benedict XVI was ordained a priest in 1951.
After visiting Freising in the morning, take a train to Oberschleissheim to explore the Schleissheim Palace complex. 
From there, you can reach the palace complex by bus No. 292 or 295, or by walking in less than 20 minutes.
Schleissheim Palace complex
Located just a short distance north of Munich, Schleissheim is a prime example of stunning Baroque architecture in Germany. The palace complex, which includes three magnificent palaces and an extensive Baroque garden, is one of the largest and most impressive residences of the Wittelsbach dynasty in Bavaria. This complex, built in the 17th and 18th centuries, showcases exemplary court architecture and garden design. Spanning approximately 100 hectares, the property's origins date back to Wilhelm V of the Wittelsbach dynasty, who initially commissioned a simple manor house in the late 16th century. His son, Duke Maximilian, later replaced the manor house with the grand Old Palace.
Elector Max Emanuel further expanded the complex in the late 17th century by constructing Lustheim Palace. Flanked by two pavilions, the palace resembles a German 'casino' in the Italian style. Today, Lustheim houses a remarkable collection of 18th-century Meissen porcelain.
In the early 18th century, Elector Max Emanuel aimed to become emperor and commissioned the construction of the New Palace to reflect his intended status. Although the project was never completed as planned, it remains a prime example of a European residential palace.
The ceiling frescoes at the palace marked a new era in South German ceiling painting, and the interiors are considered among the most splendid. 
Schleissheim Park, designed in alignment with Lustheim and the New Palace, is a significant Baroque garden in Europe. Initially influenced by Dutch garden design, it was later converted into a French Baroque garden by Dominique Gerard, a French garden expert and waterworks engineer. The design includes embroidered parterres, pools, fountains and cascades that have remained largely unchanged over time.
Practical information
The Schleissheim Palace complex is closed on Mondays. If you plan to visit the palace complex, make sure to come between April and October, as that is when it operates under extended opening hours. Visitors can easily spend four hours or more exploring the museums and grounds.
If you wish to visit Lustheim, number 2 on the map, please be aware that it is located more than a kilometre from the New Palace. After exploring Lustheim, it is recommended to exit the palace grounds and take bus No. 292 from the Sonnenstrasse stop back to Oberschleissheim S-Bahn station, rather than walking back to the New Palace.
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Author: Anita Sane
About the author
Anita is a part-time traveller, passionate photographer and a retired career woman from Latvia, travelling mostly solo for more than 15 years. She is a skilled travel planner who plans and executes her travels by herself. Anita wants to show you how to travel the world and open your mind to new experiences. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter and Bloglovin.
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