The best things to do with kids in Germany

Germany offers diverse family entertainment beyond theme parks, from Europa-Park to chocolate museums and fairy tale routes. From roller coasters at Movie Park Germany to exploring Neuschwanstein Castle, these attractions generate excitement and adventure for kids and adults alike across all regions of the country.

Whether you're planning weekend trips or seeking family-friendly activities and services in Germany, this guide covers the best attractions for children of all ages.

Movie Park Germany (Bottrop)

Seven themed areas filled with attractions based on popular movies and TV shows. Kids can soar on the Avatar Air Glider, beam up in Star Trek: Operation Enterprise, or hunt vampires in Van Helsing's Factory. Meet characters like SpongeBob, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Dora. Attractions are categorized as intense, moderate, and soft to help you choose appropriate ones for your children.

Phantasialand (Brühl)

Six exciting worlds offering around-the-world experiences in one day. Wander beneath pagodas in China Town, ride a log flume through a Mexican town, or explore Africa upside-down on a nail-biting rollercoaster. More than 40 attractions and seven breathtaking shows featuring aerial acrobats and dare-devil stuntmen. Attracts approximately two million visitors annually.

Europa-Park (Rust)

Europe's second most popular theme park resort after Disneyland Paris. More than 100 attractions and shows, 13 roller coasters, and 15 European-themed areas. Sail with the African Queen, dodge creatures in the Ghost Castle, or experience the 4D Magic Cinema. Located in the border triangle of Germany, France, and Switzerland for convenient access.

LEGOLAND Deutschland (Günzburg)

107 acres of attractions built almost entirely from Lego. Kids can fly in life-size Lego airplanes, spot 2,000+ fish at Legoland Atlantis, and explore 10 themed areas. Famous European landmarks constructed entirely from Lego in Miniland. Families can extend visits by staying at themed LEGOLAND hotels including pirate islands, castles, and camping barrels.

Deutsche Märchenstraße (German Fairy Tale Route)

600 kilometers of beautiful countryside inspired by Brothers Grimm fairy tales. Discover sleepy villages, enchanting castles, and numerous attractions. Catch open-air performances of The Pied Piper in Hemeln or Cinderella in Polle during well-timed visits.

Neuschwanstein Castle (Schwangau)

The palace that inspired Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps with elegant spires jutting from treetops. Commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1869. Explore the magical grotto and throne room with giant crown-shaped chandelier. Reach the castle by walking 30 minutes uphill or taking a charming horse-drawn carriage.

Haribo Factory Outlet (Bonn)

Meet Haribo Goldbären (gold bears) and the whole gang. While the factory isn't open to public, visit the factory store featuring exhibition, photo wall, and play area. Impressive candy bar where kids pick and mix from wonderful varieties of gummy bears at sweet prices.

Cologne Chocolate Museum

4,000-square-meter chocolate wonderland with nine exhibition areas. Learn about chocolate culture and history dating back to Mayans and Aztecs. Enjoy delicious cakes and chocolate specialties at the museum café with magnificent Rhine views from 30-meter panoramic window. Check for reservations and English-language tours before visiting.