It is bounded by (from the south and clockwise) the districts of Eichstätt, Kelheim, Freising, Dachau and Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, and the city of Ingolstadt.

In early medieval times the region was partially property of the powerful monasteries of Ilmmünster and Münchsmünster, and partially divided into tiny secular states.

The counts were ancestors of the Wittelsbach family, who in 1180 became rulers of Bavaria.

The district is located in the Hallertau Plains between the Isar and Danube rivers.

The coat of arms displays: Towns Municipalities These are the official sister cities