You check in, drop your suitcase and then wonder: what is there to actually do around here? Fair question. Because Erding’s attractions have far more to offer than its most famous flagship – the world’s largest thermal spa – might suggest. And since our Hotel Kastanienhof is less than two minutes from the train station, you can get everywhere from here: on foot, by S-Bahn or by bus. No rental car, no stress, no excuses. Here are our five favourite day-trip ideas in and around Erding – for families, wellness lovers, and anyone who wants to experience Bavaria without the tourist crowds.
1. Erding Old Town & City Park – your first walk starts right outside the hotel door
Erding’s historic old town is within walking distance of the Kastanienhof – and that’s not an exaggeration. The Schöner Turm (also known as the Landshuter Tor), a Gothic gate tower from the 15th century, is the city’s landmark and a must-have photo for any smartphone. Right next to it stands the impressive Stadtturm – at 46 metres, the oldest building in Erding. Anyone who tackles the 163 steps is rewarded with a panoramic view all the way to the Alps on a clear day. Worth it. Truly.
Afterwards, stroll through the old town lanes, discover the parish church St. Johann with its late Gothic core and Baroque additions, and then take a break in the City Park (approx. 12 hectares, two playgrounds, green tranquillity right in the centre). Ideal for families with children.
- Distance: approx. 5 minutes on foot from the Kastanienhof
- Recommended duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Getting there: on foot, no transport needed
- In the rain: churches & Stadtturm (sheltered)
- With children: the playgrounds in the City Park are perfect
2. Therme Erding – wellness on a grand scale (with 5% off for hotel guests!)
Yes, it really is the world’s largest thermal spa. 35 saunas and steam rooms, 27 slides, 34 pools – and all just a few minutes away from the Kastanienhof by bus or taxi. Therme Erding is the heart of our region and an experience that works brilliantly both for wellness guests and for families with kids.
Our tip: As a guest of Hotel Kastanienhof, you receive 5% off day tickets – just ask at reception.
- Distance: approx. 15 minutes by bus/taxi (Line 530)
Recommended duration: half day to full day
- Getting there: Bus 512 from Erding station (2 minutes from the hotel)
- In the rain: the perfect bad-weather plan!
- With children: wave pool & slides – guaranteed excitement
3. ERDINGER Weißbräu – brewery tour with tasting
You can stay in Erding without ever drinking a bottle of Erdinger. But should you? The brewery tour of the world’s largest wheat beer brewery is one of the region’s most fascinating experiences – and not only for beer lovers. Seeing behind the scenes of a traditional operation producing millions of bottles a year is simply impressive.
At the end of the tour, there’s a hearty Bavarian snack with a tasting – the highlight of the day for many guests. Tours can be booked, places are limited. Best to reserve in advance!
- Distance: approx. 8 minutes by car
- Recommended duration: approx. 2 hours incl. tasting
- Getting there: by car or bus from the station
- In the rain: perfect – completely indoors
- With children: recommended from around age 12
4. Munich – “world city with a heart”, just 45 minutes away
If you’re staying in Erding, Munich is practically on your doorstep. Around 55 minutes by S-Bahn from Erding station and you’ll find yourself in one of Europe’s most exciting cities. Marienplatz, the English Garden, Viktualienmarkt, the Pinakothek museums, Hofbräuhaus: you can easily explore Munich for a full day and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.
Especially recommended for families: the Deutsches Museum, Olympic Park, or Hellabrunn Zoo. For culture lovers: the Alte Pinakothek, the Munich City Museum, or a walk through Schwabing. And yes – the Hofbräuhaus is a sight, too. Even if you’re mostly there for the beer.
- Distance: approx. 42 km (approx. 55 min on S-Bahn S2)
- Recommended duration: full day
- Getting there: S-Bahn S2 from Erding (2 minutes to the station)
- In the rain: museums, shopping, cafés – no problem
- With children: zoo, Deutsches Museum, Olympic Park
5. Freising & Weihenstephan – Bavaria’s oldest town with the world’s oldest brewery
If you know Erding and want to take it up a notch, head to Freising: Bavaria’s oldest town, founded in 739 AD. The Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Korbinian sits high on the Domberg hill and offers a view that reaches the Alps in clear weather. Inside: Baroque splendour by the Asam brothers, a mysterious Romanesque “beast column” in the crypt – and a calm atmosphere that impresses even non-believers.
On the neighbouring Weihenstephan hill, another superlative awaits: the Bavarian State Brewery Weihenstephan. Founded in 1040, it’s the oldest brewery in the world still in operation. The beautiful show gardens of the Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences are free to enter and a real highlight in spring and summer. Finish the day with beer and Obatzda at the Bräustüberl. Day saved.
- Distance: approx. 25 km (approx. 60 min by direct bus or S-Bahn)
- Recommended duration: half day to full day
- Getting there: Bus 512 or S-Bahn via Munich
- In the rain: cathedral, diocesan museum, Bräustüberl
- With children: Domberg hill, gardens, historical discoveries
Frequently asked questions about attractions in Erding
Can I reach all these day-trip destinations without a car?
Yes, and that’s one of the big advantages of our location. Erding station is just a two-minute walk from the hotel. From there, S-Bahn trains and buses run in all directions. Munich, Freising and the airport are easy to reach by public transport.
Which destination is best in bad weather?
Therme Erding is the perfect rainy-day plan. Alternatively: the Erding brewery (completely indoors), the Erding museum, or the museums in Munich. We’re happy to advise you at reception.
What do you recommend for a short trip with children?
For families, we recommend a combination of the City Park (playgrounds, free), Therme Erding the next day, and the visitors’ park at Munich Airport. That beats any theme park.
Are there any discounts for hotel guests?
Yes! Guests of Hotel Kastanienhof receive 5% off day tickets for Therme Erding. Just ask at reception.
Ready for your Erding getaway? Kastanienhof Erding is your perfect base for all these attractions in and around Erding – centrally located, two minutes to the train station, and with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming you!