Top Family Adventures in Germany: Castles, Science, and Unforgettable Fun

Germany offers an exciting mix of family friendly activities, rich history, cutting-edge attractions, and thrilling theme parks. Parents will love the watching kids’ faces light up with fun, (not to mention the country’s renowned beer and wine offerings), while kids will enjoy the interactive experiences and magical destinations. From the stunning castles of Bavaria to the festive Christmas markets, Germany has something for every member of the family. Here’s a family travel guide to help you make the most of your trip, complete with food highlights and treats for adults and kids alike!

Most renown, Explore the Fairy-Tale Castles of Bavaria

Bavaria’s castles are straight out of a storybook, offering fascinating history, stunning views, and a magical atmosphere.

• Neuschwanstein Castle: Inside, the ornate rooms and murals captivate visitors of all ages, while the surrounding trails and bridges provide perfect photo ops. The walk to up to the top of the hill can be daunting but the trip is worth it! Buy tickets early as crowds get big and would hate to miss the experience if the castle is booked. There are several souvenir vendors on the walk up and worth the stop. The Neuschwanstein Castle Restaurant is near the top and great for a refreshment or enjoy traditional desserts like apple strudel or Kaiserschmarrn, a shredded pancake served with fruit compote. It is a great place to rest on the way up or wait for the ticket reservation time.
• Hohenschwangau Castle: This lesser-known gem offers smaller crowds but equally stunning scenery. This is the complete original King Ludwig family castle complete with family belongings and heirlooms. There is also a walk to the top but the scenery is worth it. The Neuschwanstein castle is not completely finished but Hohenschwangau Castle is and totally worth the trip to learn the history and background before heading up the big hill! At the base of the castle path, a nearby authentic Bavarian restaurant, Schloss Bräustüberl Hohenschwangau, serves fare such as schnitzel, spätzle (soft egg noodles), and pretzels at local beer gardens. Parents can sip on Bavaria’s famous Weißbier (wheat beer), brewed locally to perfection.
• Linderhof Palace: After exploring the palace’s lavish interiors and beautiful gardens, relax at a local Gasthaus (inn) serving hearty dishes and locally crafted lagers.

Mom Pro Tip: Make sure to book a combo ticket to both castles early and together. The public parking, tour bus, and public transport locations are a short walk to the ticket center and it will be a long walking day so plan ahead!

Dad Pro Tip: A cold Weißbier on a warm day makes the hikes up both hills much more enjoyable;)

Berlin: Science and Fun at the Deutsches Technikmuseum, German Museum of Technology

Berlin’s science and technology attractions are perfect for inquisitive families. When you see it, you will know it’s the one, it has full DC3 on top the entrance.

• German Museum of Technology: Interactive exhibits on transportation, communication, and space exploration provide endless entertainment.
• Food Options: For a quick and satisfying meal, visit a local currywurst stand for Berlin’s iconic sausage dish, served with fries and ketchup. Nearby cafés also offer hearty stews and kid-friendly pasta dishes.
• Parents’ Treat: Berlin is home to a thriving craft beer scene, so don’t miss the chance to try a local Berliner Weisse, a light, fruity beer, while kids enjoy fresh baked goods like Berliner Pfannkuchen (Berlin doughnuts).

Dad Pro Tip: Also, Berlin has several more adult history type activities like Checkpoint Charlie, The museum of German Violence, and the Berlin Wall Memorial. These attractions are great, but not always kid friendly. Each museum is classy and well done but lots of standing and reading making it difficult to sometimes finish each attraction.

Experience the Magic of Christmas Markets

Germany’s Christmas markets are a sensory delight, perfect for families visiting during the Christmas season. Who can say no to authentic gingerbreads, hot coco, rides, gifts, and glühwein!

• Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt: The market’s famous Lebkuchen (gingerbread) is a must-try, along with roasted chestnuts and bratwurst. Adults can enjoy a mug of warm, spiced Glühwein while kids sip on hot chocolate.
• Munich’s Marienplatz Market: Parents will appreciate Munich’s rich beer culture, including seasonal Bock beers, while kids explore craft stalls and enjoy carousel rides. Try the local roasted almonds and Schupfnudeln (potato dumplings).
• Dresden Striezelmarkt: Named after Stollen, a sweet fruit-filled Christmas bread, this market also offers delicious mulled wine and hot apple cider.

Mom Pro Tip: Check the schedule of each market before traveling. Most markets open around American Thanksgiving time and abruptly close on Christmas.

Dad Pro Tip: Most markets are Euro cash only with some STEEP ATM fees in the area, so plan ahead. Try the orange glühwein, an orangey egg nogg that is satisfyingly sweet!

Tropical Islands: A Water Paradise in a WWII Air Hanger

Tropical Islands Resort, located in Krausnick, is an all weather family favorite. This place is huge and worth the trip. You can’t miss it, it’s the HUGE balloon type building visible for miles!

• Activities: Beyond water slides and pools, the resort features a tropical-themed village with shops and eateries. The newer Tropical Islands AMAZONIA are (2016) is something most westerners will enjoy. Open year round, the water temperatures are pleasant most times of the year and features an amazing white water rapids type slide without a tube. Tumble, fall, and slide down the river rapids only to do it again. Kids can join treasure hunts or explore the indoor rainforest while parents relax in the spa.
• Food Options: Dine on family friendly international cuisine, from pizza and pasta to tropical inspired dishes like coconut curry.
• Parents’ Treat: Enjoy tropical cocktails at the lagoon bar or unwind with German wine selections from the Mosel or Rheingau regions. The adult spa area is modern and expansive but remember this is Europe, clothing is not allowed inside.

Dad Pro Tip: The unlimited refillable soda bottles are actually time-delayed. If you have a big crew, its worth purchasing several to keep everyone hydrated.

Munich: BMW Museum, Olympic Park, and Traditional Germany

Munich combines world-class automotive history, classic German food, and outdoor fun.

• Hofbräuhaus München: The original and best example of classic German food and fun. Yes, this is a traditional German beer hall but totally kid appropriate with a great outside garden area and full polka band playing their hearts out. Servers also travel throughout the restaurant serving face sized pretzels and fresh gingerbread cookies.
• BMW Museum: The museum features interactive exhibits, futuristic concept cars, and a kids’ corner with creative activities. Hop up on a super bike and pose with a picture and see the history of this famous auto manufacturer. Nearby, parents can take a factory tour to see BMWs in production.
• Olympic Park: After climbing the Olympic Tower (great views!) or paddle boating on the lake, head to a nearby biergarten for Weißwurst (white sausage) and freshly baked pretzels.
• Parents’ Treat: Munich’s beer culture is legendary, so make time for a refreshing stein of Helles lager. The nearby Olympic Village also has wine bars offering German Rieslings and Silvaners.

Dresden: VW Electric Car Factory

The Volkswagen Transparent Factory offers an inside look at cutting-edge automotive technology.

• Activities: The interactive exhibits include a kid friendly robot building area and virtual reality car design. The tour walks the actual production floor that is, wooden planked. Everything is spotless and a true example of precision manufacturing.
• Food Options: Dresden’s riverside cafés are ideal for family meals, serving traditional dishes like Sauerbraten (marinated pot roast) and sweet Eierschecke (custard cake).
• Parents’ Treat: Pair your meal with a glass of Saxon wine, known for its delicate and crisp flavors, grown in the surrounding Elbe Valley.

LEGOLAND Germany: A Builder’s Paradise

LEGOLAND Germany, located in Günzburg, offers endless fun for LEGO enthusiasts.

• Activities: Kids will love exploring themed zones, building stations, and gentle rides, while parents enjoy the park’s thoughtful amenities.
• Food Options: The park has plenty of family friendly restaurants serving pizza, burgers, and healthier options. LEGO themed snacks, like brick-shaped cookies, are a fun bonus for kids.
• Parents’ Treat: End your day with a cold Bavarian beer or a refreshing Radler (beer mixed with lemonade), a light and tasty choice for hot days.

Europa-Park and Rulantica Water Park in Rust

Rust’s twin attractions, Europa-Park and Rulantica, promise non-stop thrills and relaxation. As avid theme park connoisseurs, Europa-Park is near the absolute top. WOW! What a park, with cutting edge roller coasters with amazing theming that gives Orlando and Anaheim parks, a run for their money for less. Visit our Theme Park page to see how this park stands up to others in Europe.

• Europa-Park: Themed zones bring Europe’s countries to life (think the 2^nd Orlando Florida park) with rides, food, and cultural details. Families can enjoy everything from gentle boat rides to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters. Lots of walking so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the fun! The seasonable themeing is great including a German Christmas market inside the park complete with lights, shows, and nighttime parade.
• Rulantica Water Park: This Nordic-themed water park offers lazy rivers, wave pools, and towering slides, perfect for cooling off after a day at Europa-Park. Rulantica is also great on cold snowy days in December.
• Food Options: Enjoy international cuisine at Europa-Park, from French crêpes to Italian pasta. At Rulantica, Nordic-inspired dishes like smoked salmon and hearty soups keep everyone energized.
• Parents’ Treat: Rust is surrounded by the Baden wine region, known for its Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris). A glass of local wine is the perfect way to unwind after an action-packed day.

Dad Pro Tip: With a past history of building some of Orlando Florida’s best attractions, this park on par! The focus of each attraction switches from incredible theming to a nice balance thrill ride and theming. Each ride has a story to tell and they do it well. They have a virtual cue option on the app and it is FREE, a major plus!

Final Thoughts

Germany is a perfect destination for families, offering everything from fairy tale castles and cutting-edge science exhibits to thrilling theme parks and magical Christmas markets. With delicious food, world-class beer, and exceptional wines, parents can indulge while kids explore, play, and learn. Plan your itinerary to include these top adventures for a truly unforgettable family trip!