Best Places for Families to Travel in Germany

Germany offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and fun, making it an ideal destination for families traveling with kids. From fairy-tale castles to interactive museums and sprawling parks, there's something to spark the imagination of children and adults alike. When planning your family trip to Germany, consider visiting during the summer for outdoor activities or during the festive Christmas market season. To save on costs, look for family passes or group discounts at attractions, and consider staying in family-friendly guesthouses or vacation rentals. Here are some of the best cities and towns in Germany that cater to families with kids, offering a blend of educational experiences and pure fun.

Berlin

Berlin, the capital city of Germany, is a vibrant and family-friendly destination with a plethora of activities for children. The city boasts numerous parks, such as the Tiergarten, where families can enjoy picnics and boat rides. The Deutsches Technikmuseum is a hit with curious minds, offering interactive exhibits on technology and science. For a taste of adventure, visit LEGOLAND Discovery Centre or the Berlin Zoo, one of the oldest and most prestigious zoos in the world. Berlin is a city that can be enjoyed year-round, with indoor attractions for colder months and numerous outdoor festivals and events in the summer.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to see the giant pandas at the Berlin Zoo. They are part of a conservation program and are a rare sight outside of China.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz is known for its family-friendly amenities, while the L'Osteria restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that caters to all ages.

Munich

Munich is not only famous for its Oktoberfest but also for its family-oriented attractions. The Englischer Garten is one of the largest urban parks in the world, perfect for a family stroll or a paddleboat ride on its serene lakes. The Deutsches Museum in Munich is a must-visit, with its kid-friendly exhibits on natural science and technology. For a magical experience, take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle. Munich is delightful in the summer and during the Christmas season when the city is aglow with festive markets.

Travel Tip: In the Deutsches Museum, make sure to check out the Kid's Kingdom (Kinderreich) where children can engage in hands-on scientific experiments.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Hotel Cocoon Hauptbahnhof has a playful design that appeals to families, and the nearby Augustiner Bräustuben offers traditional Bavarian dishes in a family-friendly setting.

Hamburg

Hamburg, with its beautiful lakes and canals, is another great city for families. Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway exhibit, is a fascinating attraction for all ages. The city's Hagenbeck Zoo is a unique experience with its open enclosures and the opportunity to get up close with animals. For a bit of culture, visit the Hamburg Dungeon for a humorous yet educational look at the city's history. The best times to visit are spring through fall when you can enjoy boat tours on the Alster Lake and outdoor playgrounds.

Travel Tip: At Miniatur Wunderland, don't miss the miniature airport where you can watch planes take off and land—it's a highlight for both kids and adults.

Where to Stay & Eat: Families often choose the Superbude Hotel & Hostel for its quirky, kid-friendly rooms, and Café Koppel offers delicious vegetarian options in a relaxed setting.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a picturesque town that feels like it's straight out of a storybook, making it perfect for families. The Heidelberg Castle is a must-see with its stunning views and rich history. The town also has a great zoo and several family-friendly museums, including the Kurpfälzisches Museum. The Philosopher's Walk is a lovely trail for families to explore and enjoy panoramic views of the town. Heidelberg is charming year-round, but especially in the fall when the foliage is spectacular.

Travel Tip: Take the funicular railway up to the castle and enjoy the ride as much as the destination itself—it's a hit with the kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Hotel Holländer Hof is located right by the old bridge and offers family rooms, while Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus serves hearty German fare in a cozy atmosphere.

Rust (Europa-Park)

Rust may be a small town, but it's home to Europa-Park, Germany's largest theme park and a major draw for families. With themed areas based on different European countries, thrilling rides, and shows, it's a fun-filled day out for all ages. The park also has a water world called Rulantica, which is perfect for cooling off in the summer. Europa-Park is open from spring to early winter, with a special winter wonderland theme during the Christmas season.

Travel Tip: Stay at one of Europa-Park's themed hotels for early park access and to fully immerse your family in the experience.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Bell Rock Hotel at Europa-Park offers nautical-themed rooms and has several restaurants with kid-friendly menus.

Potsdam

Just a short train ride from Berlin, Potsdam is a great day trip or destination in its own right. The city is known for its palaces, particularly Sanssouci, which has beautiful gardens that are perfect for a family picnic. The Filmpark Babelsberg offers a behind-the-scenes look at movie-making, with interactive exhibits and stunt shows. Potsdam is lovely in the spring and summer when you can fully enjoy its parks and gardens.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Biosphäre Potsdam, an indoor tropical garden with over 20,000 plants, where kids can learn about the rainforest ecosystem.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Waveboard Boardinghouse offers spacious apartments suitable for families, and Restaurant Am Pfingstberg provides a scenic dining experience with a menu that caters to all ages.

Dresden

Dresden is rich in art and architecture, but it's also a city that will captivate kids. The Zwinger Palace has fountains and a large courtyard where kids can run around, and the palace's Old Masters Gallery will impress art-loving parents. The Dresden Transport Museum is interactive and educational, showcasing vehicles of all types. Visit during the summer for the best weather, or in December to experience the magic of the Dresden Christmas Market.

Travel Tip: Take a paddle steamer ride on the Elbe River for a unique view of Dresden's skyline and a fun experience for the whole family.

Where to Stay & Eat: Aparthotel Neumarkt offers spacious accommodations with kitchenettes, and Sophienkeller im Taschenbergpalais serves up traditional Saxon cuisine in a historic setting that kids will find enchanting.