Cycling through Ingolstadt - the best routes for your stay

If you are staying in Ingolstadt for a while, a bicycle is almost essential. The city is flat, the cycle path network is well-developed, and distances are short enough that you are often faster by bike than by car. No traffic jams, no searching for parking, and you get to see more of the city along the way.

This guide highlights the best routes, whether you need to get to one of the Audi sites, want to explore the old town, or simply wish to clear your head after work.

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Why cycle in Ingolstadt?

Ingolstadt is situated in the flat Danube plain. There are no significant inclines, making for a pleasant ride even without a racing bike or e-bike. Furthermore, the city has invested noticeably in cycling infrastructure in recent years: wide bike paths, clear signage, and secure parking facilities in the city center.

For long-term guests and business travelers, the bike is often the smarter alternative to the car. Parking in the city center is scarce and expensive, whereas a bike can simply be parked right outside your destination. If you are arriving by car, you can find all the options in our Parking Guidep for Donaustraße.

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Route 1: City Center Loop

Length: approx. 6 km | Duration: 30 to 40 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

The classic route for anyone wanting to get to know Ingolstadt. Start at Rathausplatz, then head along Donaustraße towards the Kreuztor, one of the most impressive medieval city gates in Bavaria. Continue through the pedestrian zone—which is accessible by bike outside of business hours—past the city theater, and back via Paradeplatz.

Along the way: Kreuztor and city wall, Bavarian Army Museum, Asam Church Maria de Victoria, plus the old town with its historic half-timbered houses.

Early in the morning or in the evening, the old town is almost deserted, which is when this loop is most enjoyable. To see what you can discover along the way, check out our 48-Hour Plan for Ingolstadt.

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Route 2: To the Audi sites

Length: approx. 4 to 7 km | Duration: 15 to 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Important note: Audi has two locations in Ingolstadt. The main plant is in the north of the city, while the Audi Campus is in the south, near the MediaMarkt. You can reach both from the city center in about 20 minutes by bike. To get to the main plant, follow the signs for Audi or Audi Forum from the old town; for the Audi Campus, head south. For the most part, the bike paths on both routes are separated from car traffic.

There are guarded parking areas at the Audi entrances. Please allow a few minutes in the morning to park your bike. You can find everything else you need to know for a project assignment in our Guide for project staff, and information on what the Audi Forum offers visitors in our Visitor Guide.

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Route 3: Danube River bike path

Length: approx. 12 km (round trip) | Duration: 45 to 60 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

The most beautiful route in and around Ingolstadt, and part of the long-distance Danube Cycle Path that runs from the source to the mouth. The section through Ingolstadt is paved, well-signposted, and runs directly along the riverbank. With the Danube on your right and meadows, riparian forests, and the occasional beer garden on your left.

You can ride in either direction, upstream or downstream, depending on your time and preference. 45 minutes is enough for a relaxed evening ride. If you have more time, simply keep going.

Along the way: Klenzepark with sunbathing lawns right by the water, views of the Danube bridges, riparian forests, and nature reserves, plus riverside beer gardens in the summer.

At sunset, this route is hard to beat. It is also easy to navigate in the evening because the path is wide and clear.

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Route 4: Ingolstadt Village and Shopping

Length: approx. 8 km | Duration: 25 to 35 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

For errands without a car: Ingolstadt Village and the large retail stores in the north of the city are easily accessible by bike. From the city center, follow the signs heading north; the route is signposted and safe. Along the way, you will find large supermarkets, the designer outlet, and several electronics and specialty stores.

However, you don't actually have to travel that far for your daily shopping. Everything within walking distance of the old town, from supermarkets to the weekly market, is featured in our Shopping Guide.

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Where can I get a bicycle?

Renting: There are several rental providers in Ingolstadt, some of which offer e-bikes. There is a rental station at the train station. Please feel free to ask us, and we will be happy to recommend the most convenient station near you.

Bringing your own bike: We have a secure, lockable bicycle storage room in the building. Your bike will be kept safe and dry, and you won't have to carry it up the stairs every day.

Laundry after your ride: You can use the washing machines and dryers via the digital laundromat in the basement, which can be booked and paid for via an app. It is very convenient after long rides or your daily commute.

Combining train and bike: Arriving by train and using a rental bike locally is a popular option, especially for weekly commuters. You can find more information on worthwhile train destinations from Ingolstadt in our article Day trips by train.

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Practical information

Helmet: Not mandatory in Bavaria, but recommended for busier roads in the north.

Lighting: Mandatory. It gets dark quickly in the evenings and early mornings, so don't forget your front and rear lights.

Weather: It can get cold and foggy from November to March, and some routes can become slippery when there is frost. Please plan for weather-appropriate clothing. You can find out what else the city has to offer during the colder months in our article Ingolstawdt in winter.

Theft protection: Use a high-quality lock in the city center and always secure your bike to a fixed object.

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Conclusion

It doesn't take long to realize that Ingolstadt is a cycling city. It is small enough to reach almost anywhere in 20 minutes, yet large enough to keep discovering new routes.

From our apartments in the heart of the city center, you can reach all four routes directly. No car, no parking stress, no traffic jams.

Planning a longer stay? You can find all the information on our Temporary living page, or book directly: fully furnished, centrally located, and featuring a secure bike storage room in the building.