16-Day Ultimate Family Epic Journey Across Germany
Germany is a playground for families, offering a seamless blend of historic charm, modern efficiency, and boundless activities for children of all ages. This 16-day journey is designed with a relaxed pace in mind, focusing on accessible routes, stroller-friendly paths, and intercity travel via the world-renowned German rail network.
From the beer gardens of Munich (which are surprisingly kid-friendly!) to the miniature wonders of Hamburg and the vibrant history of Berlin, this route covers the best of the country while ensuring parents stay relaxed and kids stay entertained. Pack your walking shoes and get ready for an epic German adventure.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Munich, Germany - Arrival & Old Town Exploration
Arrival at Munich Airport
Touch down at Franz Josef Strauss Airport. The S-Bahn trains (S1 or S8) provide a smooth, stroller-accessible ride directly to the city center in about 45 minutes.
Marienplatz & Glockenspiel
Head to the city's central square to watch the famous Glockenspiel clock performance. It is a hit with kids, featuring 32 life-sized figures dancing to folk music.
Viktualienmarkt Snack Walk
Stroll through this open-air food market. Grab some fresh pretzels and fruit while the kids enjoy the colorful displays and the central maypole.
Dinner at Hofbräuhaus
While famous for beer, this historic hall is very family-oriented during the early evening, featuring live brass bands and large tables perfect for families.
Day 2: Munich, Germany - Parks & Marine Life
Englischer Garten
One of the world's largest urban parks. Visit the Chinese Tower where there is a large playground and a carousel for the little ones.
See Life Munich
Located in the Olympic Park, this aquarium is fully stroller-accessible and offers a fascinating look at local and tropical marine life.
Olympiapark Walk
Enjoy a leisurely walk around the scenic lake. The wide, paved paths are ideal for strollers, and the architecture is truly impressive.
Relaxed Dinner in Schwabing
Explore this bohemian district for a variety of family-friendly Italian or German restaurants that welcome children with open arms.
Day 3: Munich, Germany - Science & Castles
Deutsches Museum (Kids' Kingdom)
The world's largest science and technology museum has a dedicated 'Kids' Kingdom' with interactive water play, giant pulleys, and fire engines.
Nymphenburg Palace Gardens
The palace grounds are vast and flat, making it a perfect spot for a stroller walk. Don't miss the chance to see the swans in the canal.
Marstallmuseum
Located in the palace wings, this museum displays royal carriages and sleighs that look like they are straight out of a Disney movie.
Early Night In
Prepare for tomorrow's travel. Most German supermarkets like Rewe offer great organic baby food options if needed.
Day 4: Nuremberg, Germany - History & Medieval Charm
Train to Nuremberg
Take the ICE high-speed train. It's a quick 1 hour and 10 minute journey with dedicated family compartments available for booking.
Nuremberg Old Town Walk
Explore the cobblestone streets. While some areas are bumpy, the main thoroughfares are manageable with a sturdy stroller.
Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg)
The castle offers great views of the city. The courtyard is accessible and provides plenty of space for kids to stretch their legs.
Bratwurst Dinner
Try the famous small Nuremberg sausages at 'Zum Gulden Stern', the oldest bratwurst kitchen in the world.
Day 5: Nuremberg, Germany - Playmobil Adventure
Playmobil FunPark
A short bus ride from the city, this park is designed for active play rather than passive rides. It's an absolute paradise for children under 10.
Picnic at the Park
The park has excellent facilities for families, including healthy food stations and plenty of shaded picnic areas.
Hesperidengärten
Return to the city and visit these quiet, baroque gardens for a peaceful end to an active day.
Quiet Evening
Nuremberg is very safe and quiet at night, perfect for a slow stroll back to your accommodation.
Day 6: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany - Fairytale Vibes
Day Trip to Rothenburg
A scenic drive or train ride brings you to Germany's best-preserved medieval town. It feels like a living movie set.
Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village
It's Christmas all year round here. Kids will be mesmerized by the giant nutcrackers and sparkling ornaments.
Castle Garden (Burggarten)
The gardens offer flat paths and incredible views of the Tauber Valley, providing a perfect escape from the midday crowds.
Taste a Schneeball
Try the local 'Snowball' pastry—shortcrust pastry rolled into a ball and covered in powdered sugar or chocolate.
Day 7: Frankfurt, Germany - Modern Skyline & Tradition
Train to Frankfurt
Enjoy the 2-hour ICE train journey. The onboard 'Bordbistro' is great for grabbing a snack while traveling.
Römerberg Square
Visit the heart of Frankfurt's Old Town. The reconstructed timber-framed houses are beautiful and the square is car-free.
Main River Cruise
See the 'Mainhattan' skyline from the water. Cruises are relaxing and offer a different perspective of the city's skyscrapers.
Apple Wine Tavern Dinner
Head to the Sachsenhausen district for traditional food. Ask for 'Süßgespritzter' (apple wine with lemonade) for a milder taste.
Day 8: Frankfurt, Germany - Animals & Flora
Frankfurt Zoo
One of the oldest zoos in the world, it is compact, easy to navigate with a stroller, and focuses on conservation.
Palmengarten (Botanical Garden)
Explore the giant greenhouses and the large playground. There is even a small train (the Palmen-Express) that runs through the park.
Main Tower View
Take the elevator to the top of one of the tallest buildings for a panoramic view. It is fully accessible and thrilling for kids.
Dinner at Kleinmarkthalle
This indoor market offers diverse food stalls ranging from German sausages to international tapas.
Day 9: Cologne, Germany - Rhine Valley Transit
Rhine Valley Train Ride
Travel from Frankfurt to Cologne via the scenic Rhine Valley line. You will pass numerous castles perched on cliffs.
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Marvel at this Gothic masterpiece located right next to the train station. The interior is vast and awe-inspiring.
Hohenzollern Bridge
Walk across the 'Love Lock Bridge'. Kids will love looking at the thousands of colorful padlocks and watching the trains pass by.
Old Town Dinner
Eat at a traditional 'Brauhaus'. While they serve Kölsch beer, they also offer hearty German portions that are easy to share.
Day 10: Cologne, Germany - Chocolate & Cable Cars
Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum)
A highlight for any child. Learn how chocolate is made and see the 3-meter high chocolate fountain (and taste it!).
Cologne Cable Car
Take a ride across the Rhine. It’s stroller-friendly (they help you load it) and offers spectacular views of the city and river.
Rheinpark
On the other side of the cable car lies a massive park with a miniature railway and extensive play areas.
Riverside Walk
Stroll back along the Rhine promenade as the sun sets, a perfect way to burn off any remaining chocolate-induced energy.
Day 11: Hamburg, Germany - Port City Discovery
High-Speed Train to Hamburg
A longer journey of about 4 hours. ICE trains are the most comfortable way to travel this distance with a family.
Speicherstadt Exploration
Walk through the world's largest warehouse district. The red-brick architecture and canals are unique and very photogenic.
Elbphilharmonie Plaza
Take the 'curved escalator' to the public viewing platform for a 360-degree view of the busy harbor.
Seafood Dinner
Hamburg is famous for fish. Many restaurants in the Portugiesenviertel offer fresh, family-friendly seafood dishes.
Day 12: Hamburg, Germany - Miniatures & Water
Miniatur Wunderland
The world's largest model railway exhibition. It is incredibly detailed and captivating for both adults and children.
Harbor Boat Trip
Take a public ferry (Line 62) for a budget-friendly cruise around the harbor. It’s part of the public transport system!
Planten un Blomen Park
Visit the legendary playground and stay for the water light concert (seasonal) in the evening.
Dinner near Alster Lake
Enjoy a meal overlooking the Inner Alster lake, where you can watch the sailboats and the central fountain.
Day 13: Berlin, Germany - The Vibrant Capital
Train to Berlin
A fast 2-hour dash to the capital. Berlin Hauptbahnhof is a multi-level marvel with plenty of food options upon arrival.
Brandenburg Gate & Reichstag
See the iconic gate. The nearby Tiergarten park is perfect for a stroller-friendly walk toward the Victory Column.
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
A place for quiet reflection. The undulating paths are accessible, though children should be supervised with respect.
Currywurst Tasting
You can't visit Berlin without trying Currywurst. 'Konnopke’s Imbiss' is a historic and delicious choice.
Day 14: Berlin, Germany - Tech & Wildlife
German Museum of Technology
A massive museum with real planes hanging from the ceiling and a large collection of steam locomotives.
Berlin Zoo & Aquarium
Located in the heart of West Berlin, this is Germany's oldest zoo and home to the famous pandas.
Kaufhaus des Westens (KaDeWe)
Visit the famous food floor of this luxury department store for some high-quality treats and souvenirs.
Family Dinner in Charlottenburg
This neighborhood offers a refined yet family-friendly dining atmosphere with many international options.
Day 15: Berlin, Germany - History & Play
Museum Island (Lustgarten)
The green space in front of the Altes Museum is a great place for kids to run around while parents admire the architecture.
DDR Museum
A highly interactive museum where kids can sit in an old Trabi car and see how people lived in East Germany.
Alexanderplatz & TV Tower
See the World Time Clock and, if the sky is clear, head up the TV Tower for the best views in the city.
Hackescher Markt
Explore the courtyards (Höfe) for unique shops and a variety of kid-friendly restaurants in a car-free environment.
Day 16: Berlin, Germany - Farewell & Departure
Charlottenburg Palace Gardens
Enjoy one last morning stroll through these manicured gardens before heading to the airport.
Final German Lunch
Indulge in some Schnitzel or Spätzle for a final taste of authentic German cuisine.
Travel to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
The Airport Express (FEX) train is the fastest way to get to the airport from the city center.
Departure
Check in and reflect on a wonderful 16-day family adventure across the heart of Germany.
Best Time to Visit Germany
The best time for a family trip to Germany is during the late spring (May and June) or early autumn (September and October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant for walking with a stroller, and the crowds are significantly smaller than in the peak of summer. December is also a magical time to visit for the Christmas Markets, though you will need to pack heavy winter gear for the kids.
Currency & Money
Germany uses the Euro (€). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities, shops, and restaurants, it is still common for smaller cafes or boutiques to be 'cash only.' Always carry some small change for public restrooms, which usually cost between 0.50€ and 1.00€. Tipping is expected but modest; rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% for good service is standard.
Getting Around Germany
The Deutsche Bahn (DB) railway network is the backbone of German travel and is incredibly family-friendly. High-speed ICE trains connect major cities and often feature dedicated family zones with extra space for strollers. For local travel, every major city has an integrated system of U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), and trams that are generally very accessible. If you plan to visit smaller villages, renting a car for a few days offers the most flexibility.
