Germany Family Travel Guide 2025
Everything families need to know for a successful trip to Germany with kids.
Germany blends medieval castles, fairy-tale villages, and vibrant cities with world-class museums, beer gardens, and Christmas markets. From the Black Forest to Berlin's contemporary art scene, experience rich history, excellent public transport, and hearty cuisine in the heart of Europe.
Top Family Activities
The best experiences for families in Germany.
Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg
World's largest model railway covering 16,000 square meters with 1,040 trains, 260,000 figures, and interactive airport. Accessible for all ages with children captivated by the detail and operating features.
Europa-Park Rust (near Freiburg)
Germany's largest and Europe's second-most-visited theme park with 100+ rides, 13 European themed areas, and shows. Roller coasters for thrill-seekers and gentler rides for younger children in a well-designed park.
Neuschwanstein Castle Day Trip from Munich
The fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney creates unforgettable memories for children. Combine with Hohenschwangau Castle and the Alpine lake for a complete magical Bavarian experience.
Munich Deutsches Museum
World's largest science museum with hands-on exhibits on aviation, mining, mathematics, and technology spanning 68km of corridors. Kids can operate interactive displays in the mining and chemistry sections.
Legoland Deutschland Günzburg
Germany's dedicated LEGO theme park near Ulm with over 55 rides and 75 million LEGO bricks used in the park's models and attractions. Particularly suited for younger children aged 3-12.
Berchtesgaden Salt Mines (Salzbergwerk)
Slide down wooden miners' slides, ride a mine train, and float across an underground salt lake on a raft in this fascinating historic salt mine. Children absolutely love the slides and underground boat ride.
Activities by Age Group
Find activities suited to your children's ages.
👶 Toddlers (0-3)
- Parks with shaded play areas
- Short, stroller-friendly walks
- Swimming pools at family hotels
- Animal encounters
🧒 Young Kids (4-7)
- Interactive museums
- Easy outdoor adventures
- Cultural shows and performances
- Market explorations
🧑 Older Kids (8-12)
- Historical site tours
- Adventure activities
- Cooking classes for kids
- Nature excursions
👦 Teens (13+)
- Adventure sports
- Photography walks
- Cultural immersion experiences
- Food tours
Complete Family Travel Guide
Family itineraries, packing checklists, and activity planning tips.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Where to stay with kids.
Schloss Elmau Bavaria
Luxury family resort in the Alps with a dedicated Family Spa area, children's activities program, and supervised childcare so parents can also relax. Multiple restaurants accommodate all ages.
Novotel Hotels Germany (multiple cities)
Reliable international hotel chain with family rooms accommodating 2 adults and 2 children, kids eat free at breakfast, and central locations near attractions. Consistent quality across Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt.
Europa-Park Themed Hotels (Rust)
Stay on-site at Germany's largest theme park in Portuguese, Spanish, or Scandinavian themed hotels with early park access and short walk to all rides. Europa-Park themed rooms delight younger guests.
Center Parcs Germany (multiple parks)
Forest holiday villages with self-catering bungalows, massive subtropical swimming paradise, and organized activities for all ages. Excellent for families with toddlers who need independence and safety.
What to Look For
- Family rooms or connecting rooms
- Swimming pool (supervised)
- Restaurant with kids' menu
- Babysitting/kids' club services
- Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces
- Proximity to attractions
Kid-Friendly Dining
Where to eat with children.
German restaurants generally welcome children and most traditional restaurants provide Kinderstühle (high chairs) and Kinderkarte (children's menus) with smaller portions at €5-9
Bavarian beer gardens are family-friendly outdoor spaces where children can run freely - you only need to purchase drinks, you can bring your own food
Bakeries (Bäckereien) are perfect for family breakfasts and snacks - fresh Brötchen, pretzels, and pastries at €1-3 per item
Viktualienmarkt in Munich and Christmas markets everywhere offer diverse food options satisfying even picky eaters with sausages, pretzels, and sweet treats
Many larger cities have food courts in shopping centers (e.g., MyZeil Frankfurt, Galeria Kaufhof) with diverse options for families with varied tastes
Family Travel Tips
Make traveling with kids easier.
Children under 6 ride free on public transport in most German cities; under 15 with a parent free on many regional trains
German pharmacies (Apotheken) have excellent English-speaking staff and can provide children's medications and advice without a doctor's visit
Health & Safety
- Check recommended vaccinations for children
- Pack enough prescription medications
- Bring sun protection and stay hydrated
- Research nearest hospitals/clinics
- Get travel insurance covering the whole family
Plan Your Family Adventure
Get our complete family travel guide with kid-friendly itineraries, packing lists, and activity recommendations.
Download Family Guide