Germany for
Families
Planning a family holiday? You’ll be spoilt for choice in Germany. Escape to the country for wonderful outdoor adventures, stay close to the cities for a cultural calendar that’ll captivate young minds or simply enjoy some sun and sand at the seaside – whatever you do, Germany won’t disappoint.
t Beachlife on Usedom island, in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
By the Seaside
Sandy beaches and a wide selection of spas and wellness centres for weary parents – Germany’s Baltic coast is ideal for a relaxing break. After something a little more active? Baltic islands like Rügen have plenty of walking and cycling trails, as do nearby natural parks like Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park. Go wildlife spotting, take a ride on a steam train or simply set out on foot on a mini adventure. If it’s raining, head a little inland to Schwerin for a turn around a Disney-esque castle or a museum.
Fun at the Museum
Topping an impressive list of kid-friendly museums is Munich’s Deutsches Museum – head straight for Kid’s Kingdom where children can explore the world of science and technology. Berlin has plenty to offer, too: try the Legoland® Discovery Centre, Computer Spiele Museum (perfect for gamers) or the Deutsches Technikmuseum.
Bountiful Bavaria
Home to cultural Munich, and one of the most pictured castles in the world, Alpine retreats and lakeside havens, Bavaria is simply a visitor’s paradise. Set up camp in a forest and take your pick from an array of outdoor activities – hiking, climbing, swimming, skiing, the choice is almost endless. Mini princes and princesses can make-believe at spectacular fairytale castles – there are more in Bavaria than in any other German state – or let off steam at a waterpark.
Down to the Woods
The Schwarzwald (or Black Forest) is a vast expanse of woodland that offers abundant walking trails through and past meadows, lakes, valleys and vineyards. And there’s more: activity parks, climbing areas, and kayaking, canoeing and sailing opportunities on the lakes, plus cute towns like Baden Baden, keep all of the family happy. Winter is an ideal time to visit, too: snowy slopes and trails make for excellent downhill and cross-country skiing.
Kindercafes in Berlin
Berlin’s kindercafes, mostly situated in innercity areas popular with young families such as Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg, are unique spaces that cater to both children and parents. The former get dedicated play areas, which often include indoor sand pits, ball pools, mazes and the like, while the whole family can tuck into a decent array of coffees, teas, cakes and snacks.
Germany for Families
theme parks
The largest theme park in Germany.
Legoland® Discovery Centre
⌂ Günzburg ∑ legolandholidays.de
Children can indulge in various Lego-themed activities here.
Playmobil Land
⌂ Zirndorf ∑ playmobil-funpark.de
This park has fun activities and adventures.
Tropical Island
⌂ Krausnick ∑ tropical-islands.de
A tropical rainforest set in an aircraft hangar.