Top 5 Destinations for Family Holidays in Germany

1. Black Forest (Schwarzwald)

The Black Forest is one of Germany’s most picturesque regions, great for outdoor adventures, exploring pretty villages and enjoying fun activities for families.

Nearest Airport: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) – 27 km from central Berlin

Top Things to do with Kids:

• Europa-Park – Germany’s largest theme park, enjoy thrilling rides and themed areas.

• Triberg Waterfalls – One of Germany’s highest waterfalls, with scenic hiking trails.

• Schwarzwald Open Air Museum – A fascinating look back in time at rural farm life as far back as 600 years ago.

• Mummelsee Lake – A fairy-tale-like lake perfect for boat rides and nature walks, a popular stop along the Black Forest High Road.

• Black Forest Adventure Park – A treetop ropes course for adventurous families.

2. Hamburg

Hamburg offers a mix of maritime history, green spaces and family-friendly attractions, making it a great destination for children.

Nearest Airport: Hamburg Airport (HAM) – 10 km from the city centre 

Top Things to do with Kids:

• Miniatur Wunderland – The world’s largest model railway exhibition, featuring entire miniature cities.

• Hagenbeck Zoo – A zoo and aquarium with an open-concept design where animals roam in large enclosures.

• Elbphilharmonie Plaza – The concert hall's stunning observation deck with panoramic views of the city.

• Planten un Blomen Park – A beautiful park with playgrounds, botanical gardens and water light shows.

• International Maritime Museum – A fascinating museum where kids can learn about ships, pirates and sea exploration, great for rainy days.

3. Munich

Munich is a great city for families, with a good mix of cultural landmarks, lush parks and activities for children.

Nearest Airport: Munich Airport (MUC) – 38 km from the city centre 

Top Things to do with Kids:

• Deutsches Museum – The world’s largest museum of science and technology with interactive exhibits for children. Prepare to spend a good few hours here as the kids won't want to leave.

• Hellabrunn Zoo – A unique geo-zoo where animals live in enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Close to the city centre and has plenty of shade for sunny days.

• Englischer Garten – One of the largest urban parks in the world, perfect for picnics, boat rides and outdoor fun.

• BMW Welt & Museum – A great spot for car-loving kids and adults to see BMW’s latest models and futuristic exhibits.

• Märchenwald Isartal – A fairy-tale-themed amusement park about 30 minutes drive from Munich, ideal for younger children.

4. Berlin

Germany’s capital is rich in history, culture and entertainment, making it an exciting destination for families looking for a mix of education and fun.

Nearest Airport: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) – 27 km from central Berlin.

• Berlin Zoo & Aquarium – One of the oldest and most famous zoos in the world, home to pandas, elephants and many exotic species.

• Legoland Discovery Centre – A paradise for young LEGO fans with interactive exhibits and play areas.

• Museum of Natural History – Features an impressive dinosaur exhibition, including the world’s largest mounted dinosaur skeleton.

• Tempelhofer Feld – A former airport turned into a massive recreational park, ideal for cycling, skating and picnicking.

• German Museum of Technology – A hands-on museum where kids can explore trains, planes and space exhibits.

5. Cologne (Köln)

Cologne is a family-friendly city with great museums, scenic river views and one of Europe’s most famous cathedrals.

Nearest Airport: Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) – 15 km from the city centre

Top Things to do with Kids:

• Cologne Chocolate Museum – A deliciously fun museum where kids can learn about chocolate-making and taste fresh chocolate.

• Phantasialand – A thrilling theme park with exciting rides and shows for all ages. Located about 25 minutes from Cologne in Bruhl.

• Cologne Cathedral – A UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral with stunning architecture.

• Odysseum – A hands-on science and adventure museum with interactive exhibits.

• Rheinpark – A beautiful riverside park with playgrounds and picnic spots.