Ultimate Guide to Munich with Kids: Family-Friendly Fun in Bavaria
Munich, Germany, is a fantastic destination for families. It has a mix of beautiful parks, interactive museums, and family fun where visitors of all ages will enjoy themselves. Stroll through historic squares, explore city gardens, and indulge in delicious Bavarian cuisine. This guide covers the best things to do in Munich with kids, family-friendly places to eat, how to get around using public transportation, tips for first-time visitors, and the best day trips from the city. After living close to Munich for three years, I’ve put in all my personal tips and recommendations from our repeated visits to this wonderful city!
Table of Contents
Things to do in Munich with Kids
Marienplatz
No trip to Munich, Germany is complete without even a brief stop at the Marienplatz. This is the heart of the city and a very beautiful square. Many people enjoy seeing the Glockenspiel “performance’ at 11AM, 12PM and 5PM (only in summer). My opinion is that it’s not worth planning your time around, but if you catch it, great!
If you have adventurous kids who like to climb, consider climbing the Alter Peter tower in St. Peter’s Church to get an excellent view of the Marienplatz. Or you can take the lift up the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) to catch a similar view.
In the areas surrounding the Marienplatz, you’ll find lots of shops and restaurants. There is even a Lego Store with a few interactive building tables-a must visit in Munich with kids. It’s always fun to see what the Lego Masters create for each store, and this store is no exception. The German-themed creations are quite impressive!
English Garden
The English Garden is a huge city park, larger than Central Park in New York. You won’t be able to tackle the whole thing on foot in one day, but if you rent bikes, you can cover much more ground. The easiest and most famous biergarten in the park is at the Chinesichen Turm. It’s a lovely setting to enjoy the weather and have a pretzel bigger than your head-really! When you visit Munich, Germany you have to make a stop in a biergarten, it’s an iconic Bavarian experience.
There is also a playground and historic carousel nearby to entertain little ones and many times there are also live German oompa-bands playing polka music to really set the scene.
If you rent bikes you can also visit:
Hirschau im Englischen Garten (another biergarten with great playground)
Aumeister Restaurant und Biergarten (biergarten with wonderful playground)
River Surfers at Eisbach
While you’re at the English Garden, don’t miss out on seeing the famous river surfers at Eisbachwelle! All year long, brave (or crazy) surfers throw on their wetsuits and surf the Eisbach river at this spot where there is a constant wave. It is mesmerizing to watch, and a very unique thing to see when you visit Munich.
Olympiapark
The summer Olympics were held in Munich in 1972 and today Olympiapark is still a great place to go with kids. First of all, it is a huge green space where you can enjoy being outside. There is also a trampoline park, SeaLife Aquarium (though a bit small), an indoor swimming pool, and an exhibition hall that hosts special events. Kids will love riding on the mini train that can take you around to all the different areas of the park.
BMW Welt & BMW Musuem
If your family has car lovers in it, visit BMW Welt, a car museum that will entertain all your little motorheads. See the history of BMW and the future of their cars.It is located very close to Olympic Park and is an excellent rainy day activity for Munich with kids.
Hellabrunn Zoo
I really love this zoo, it is one of the best ones I have been to. Others I’ve visited in Europe are a bit sad with less than ideal facilities for the animals but this zoo is really excellent. The zoo is on a beautiful piece of land and the river runs right through it. There are multiple playgrounds and outdoor eating areas. You can bring your own food and picnic but if you want to buy food I recommend eating at the Marché restaurant as it has the most variety and has dishes beyond schnitzel and pretzels (though you can get that there too).
Buy your ticket online to save you from waiting in line at the zoo. If it’s a nice weekend day, there will be a line, trust me!
Deutsches Museum
This is a wonderful, interactive museum. There’s many exhibits on transportation and technology. Kids will enjoy this place and it’s another really good option on a rainy day. It’s a good idea to buy your ticket ahead of time as this is another very popular place to visit in Munich.
Bavarian Public Observatory
This place is for kids who love outer space! Come here to check out the observatory, planetarium, or even take a guided tour. Ride the nearby ferris wheel while you’re here!
Hirschgarten
This park used to be the royal hunting grounds and still has a herd of deer. You can bring your own veggies to feed the deer. It’s great fun for kids! Of course there is also a biergarten (Munich’s largest with 8000 seats) and playground nearby.
Westpark
A big part of German culture is enjoying being outside so it’s not surprising how many great outdoor spaces there are to enjoy. Westpark is another lovely garden. It has one of the best playgrounds in Munich, the wasserspielplatz. There is a creek that runs into the playground providing lots of fun waterplay opportunities for kids. There’s also a nice eating area with a few food stands in the middle of the park.
In spring you can see 20,000 roses bloom in the rose garden. There is also some Chinese and Japanese gardens, plenty of trails, ponds, and wide open fields for sports and playing.
Therme Erding
This waterpark and spa is where to take your kids if you want to do a purely fun kid day. There’s 28 waterslides, a wave pool, and all the water fun you can dream up here. You can even stay at the waterpark and there's another side that is for spa and sauna for only 16 years and up.
Allainz Arena and FC Bayern Museum
This is a must for any soccer (fussball) fan. FC Bayern is the famous team in Munich. You can tour their stadium and see memorabilia at the museum. Check the game schedule and go to a game for even more fun!
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Where to stay in Munich with Kids
The great thing about Munich is that it is so well connected by public transportation, that it makes it easier to stay outside the central part of the city and still get everywhere you want to go easily. Here are some properties to consider when looking for accommodations in Munich. It is very important that you are upfront about how many people are in your group as German hotels are not flexible about extra occupancy.
Meininger Hotel Zentrum or Meininger Hotel Olympia Park: this is a budget friendly hotel with family rooms that have bunk beds, breakfast in the morning, and a game room.
Pullman Hotel Munich: Modern hotel in Schwabing district with a fitness room, suites, and a terrace/biergarten.
King’s Hotel First: located a few minutes’ walk from the Marienplatz, parking lot, family rooms available.
Adina Apartment Hotel: apartments, with an indoor pool, fitness room, and on-site restaurant.
Koenigshof: Luxury property in a central location with rooms that can accommodate a family, indoor pool, and on-site restaurant.
Or use the map feature to search below:
Where to eat in Munich with Kids
One thing about Bavaria is that you can picnic (bring your own food) just about anywhere. This is a great way to save some money too. Head to your nearest grocery store and grab lunch supplies to bring with you and make your own sandwiches and snacks. You can even bring your own food into a biergarten, it’s totally normal! Do as the Bavarians do!
Munich is a very international city with plenty of international cuisine options! You can pretty much find anything here. When in doubt head to the closest Italian restaurant for pizza, or the closest döner spot for some takeaway!
Here are some things to order from a typical German menu that kids tend to love:
pommes - french fries
spätzle - a type of noodle, often comes with cheese “käsespätzle”, close to macaroni and cheese
pretzel - best is when you get it with butter inside
schnitzel - basically a giant pork nugget, if your kids like chicken nuggets, they will like this
bratwurst - various kinds of sausages, Frankfurter is closest to a “regular” hot dog
spaghetti bolognese - spaghetti with meat sauce
Biergartens and Beer Halls
This might not sound like the best places to eat with kids but really they are! They are usually a little noisy, communal tables, and if the weather is nice you can be outside and many of them also have playgrounds nearby.
A biergarten is a quintessential Munich experience. Everyone should experience one! And they have plenty to drink besides beer. Try ordering the kids an apfelschorle (mix of apple juice and soda water).
Augustiner Keller is always one of the best biergartens with kids. It’s located across the street from the bus station and has an extensive biergarten with a playground.
Hofbrauhaus is another solid bet. Is it touristy? Yes! But it’s also fun, lively, and an iconic Munich spot. Go and have fun!
Eataly
This is an Italian grocery store, plus restaurant, plus wine shop. You can order casual pizzas and paninis inside or sit down at their restaurant.
Eataly is located near the Viktualienmarkt, another great place to wander and snack. You can even take a guided food tour of the market to help you find the best eats and learn about local dishes.
Bindaas
Delicious Indian food with a colorful, welcoming interior. When you need a break from Schnitzel, this is a good place to change it up!
Getting to Munich
Munich has it’s own international airport right outside the city center. Franz Josef Strauss International Airport (MUC) is a well-connected hub, easy to fly into from many destinations. From the airport you can easily take the train into the center of the city, catch a FlixBus, or rent a car. I’m convinced this is the best airport to rent a car at because of the camera system when you exit and enter the garage. It takes all the pictures and videos for you when you leave and return so you don’t have to agonize over documenting every single thing yourself.
If you are taking the S-bahn (train) into the city center, you can take S1 or S8 to Hauptbahnhof (center station) or find your best route via the DB (Deutsche Bahn) app to get closest to your accommodation.
At Christmas time, you’ll find a Christmas Market directly at the airport! It even has an ice-skating rink. So even if you are just in Munich for a long layover, you can enjoy the Christmas Market fun.
Munich Airport Visitors park has an observation hill and adventure playground. It is free to visit. This is another good activity on a long layover or if you need something to do before your flight.
If you’re connecting on a budget flight from another European city, you may fly into Memmingen, a much smaller airport. There is a bus you can take to Munich from here.
How to Get Around Munich with Kids
Using public transportation is the best way to get around the city. If you drive to Munich, I recommend parking at your accommodation and then using public transportation to get around.
Munich’s public transportation system is efficient, clean, and easy to use, making it ideal for families. Here’s what you need to know:
U-Bahn (Subway) & S-Bahn (Suburban Train) – The best way to get around the city quickly. Elevators are available at most stations for strollers.
Trams & Buses – Trams are great for sightseeing, and buses cover areas not served by trains.
Tickets – Check this website for more information on different types of tickets. They can be bought online, via an app, or in the stations. If you buy a paper ticket in the station, get it stamped in the yellow boxes before you board the train. Children under 6 travel free on public transportation.
Walking & Biking – Munich is a very walkable city with plenty of pedestrian-friendly areas. Bike rentals (including child-friendly bikes and trailers) are also a great way to explore. This bike tour is a lot of fun and stops in the English Garden for a beer (and playground) break.
Where to Park in Munich
Parking in Munich can be tough but there are some parking garages at Karlsplatz, Hofbrauhaus, Olympiapark. “Tiefgarage” is underground parking garage. If you will have a car, make sure you check with your accommodation about parking first. I recommend parking at your accommodation or nearby and then using public transportation to get around the city.
Street parking in Munich is mostly paid. You’ll need to pay the meter with cash or with this app. Pay attention to signs for zones that may be by permit only and never block a driveway or alleyway.
An alpine paradise awaits in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, just one hour from Munich.
Day Trips from Munich
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Drive Time: 1 hour
This is hands down the best place you can visit from Munich. It takes about an hour by car or train to reach. Garmisch is the jewel of the Bavarian Alps. This is where you come when you want to be wow’ed by nature. I have TONS of info on visiting Garmisch as that’s where I lived for three years. The best things to do are visiting the tallest peak in Germany (Zugspitze), seeing Eibsee (the prettiest lake in Germany), walking through the Partnach Gorge, and endless hikes/walks with stunning mountain views.
Purchasable Google Map with recommendations pre-saved.
Purchasable e-guide with the most details and guidance for your visit. It also includes the Google Map listed above.
Neuschwanstein
Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
This is probably the most popular day trip from Munich. Visit this castle said to have inspired Disney. It is set against the Alps and is extremely picturesque. Some people are underwhelmed by the tour of the inside because the castle was never actually completed.
But I think it is still interesting to see and if you have older kids who have the stamina, also taking a tour of the nextdoor castle, Hohenschwangau, is interesting because that was the boyhood home of King Ludwig II who commissioned the building of Neuschwanstein.
If you want to see another of King Ludwig’s castles, stop in Oberammergau on the way home to see Schloss Linderhof. The interior of this palace is much more beautiful than Neuschwanstein. You must book a tour to enter the palace.
Legoland Deutschland
Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Legoland is great for Lego fans and kids ages 3-10 are the most ideal ages. You can expect rides, Lego building areas, and plenty of impressive Lego sculptures. Visiting in October is extra fun with the park decorated for Halloween. 1 day is enough to experience most of the park.
Märchenwald
Drive Time: 40 minutes
This theme park is best for younger children and has smaller rides and attractions based around different fairy tales.
Skyline Park
Drive Time: 1 hour
Get your thrills at Skyline Park with over 60 attractions from bumper cars to roller coasters. Kids are sure to enjoy this theme park and it’s open almost all year long so be sure to check it out for your visit.
Bergtierpark Blindham
Drive Time: 35 minutes
The Bergtierpark is a combination of a farm, playground and park. You can come here and feed and pet some farm animals and deer. There are also multiple playgrounds scattered throughout the park, but the playgrounds are really cool, fun, and unique. Your kids will love them. There’s even an indoor playground which means this is a good option all year long, in any weather. It does get quite popular on warm, sunny days so come early to get parking that isn’t super far away. This park is better for Bob type strollers or wagons.
Swarovski Kristallwelten is a full day of fun for adults and kids.
Innsbruck
Drive Time: 2 hours
By Train: 1 hour 45 minutes
If you’re itching to cross the border to Austria, consider a trip to Innsbruck! Innsbruck is a very charming old city nestled up to a stunning mountain backdrop. Kids will love the Alpine Zoo and Swarovski Kristallwelten, an interactive modern art museum and excellent playground. You could spend an entire day just here!
Salzburg
Drive Time: 1 hour 40 minutes, same by train
I really feel that Salzburg is better experienced by staying overnight but if you want to go for just the day, it is possible. Some of the best things to do are a Sound of Music Tour, visit the underground salt mines, visit the fortress, and kids will love the excellent Haus der Natur.
How Long to Visit Munich?
For Munich itself, I would plan 2-3 days minimum. More if you want to add on day trips.
When is the Best Time to visit Munich?
My preferred time of year in Munich is July-October. It’s when you have the best chances for good weather but it can rain and be chilly even in summer. Whatever time of year you come, just pack layers and rain clothing and you’ll be fine.
Special Events in Munich
Check this Munich website to see what kinds of special events might be happening during your visit. Some notable events:
February: Fasching (Fat Tuesday) expect a parade and some other events
April: Frühlingsfest, a smaller version of Oktoberfest with beer tents, rides, and food stands. Similar to a state fair if you’re an American. Family days are usually on Tuesdays.
April/May: Maidult, another fest with rides and food
Summer: Concerts at Olympiapark, Fireworks “Summer Nights’ Dream”, Tollwood Festival
September/October: Oktoberfest, the world’s biggest and most famous fest! It can be family friendly but avoid the evenings. Weekdays are better than weekends. Plenty of rides, food, and fun for kids.
December: Krampus run, this looks scary for me but some people love it. Imagine a bunch of monsters parading through the city with cowbells and whacking people with sticks. Christmas Markets – Munich has many Christmas Markets located throughout the city. The main one is at the Marienplatz but also don’t miss the medeival market, the market at the Residenz, Marchanwald at Olympiapark, and Tollwood alternative market.
Hofgarten, Munich.
Munich Tips
Check for Family Discounts – Many museums, transportation passes, and attractions offer family tickets or discounts for kids.
Pack Layers – Munich’s weather can change quickly, so bring layers and a light rain jacket, even in summer!
Enjoy the Green Spaces – Between sightseeing, take advantage of parks, playgrounds, and beer gardens where kids can run around while parents relax.
Tipping – Tipping is not expected but is appreciated if you had good service. Instead of adding 10% to the bill, round the bill up a few euros to an even amount. If paying by card, ask the waiter to charge the amount plus tip.
For example, your bill was 36.50, ask the waiter to charge you 40 euros.
If paying cash, you can just say to keep the change or ask for what you want back. “Can I have 2 euros back please?”
Sunday Closures – All stores are closed on Sundays! This includes grocery stores, most pharmacies, retail stores, and things like dry cleaning. Restaurants and museums will still be open.
Shopping Bags – Bring your own reusable shopping bags or you’ll be charged for a paper one.
Always have Cash – Germany is still a cash is king place. Even though most places do take cards, it is still very common to end up at a place that is cash only. So be prepared.
Paid Public Toilets – keep coins handy for paying for public restrooms. This is just the way it is here. But you can be almost certain the restroom will be clean at least!
High Chairs – Not all restaurants will have them. Be prepared to improvise or bring your own travel high chair.
Carseat rules – Carseat rules are enforced strictly here. You won’t be allowed in a taxi without a carseat. The carseat standards here do not match the US exactly. Personally, I always brought my own carseat when traveling because that felt safer to me than trusting a car rental car seat that I had no idea how it was treated.
Bike Lanes — Munich is very bikable and many people use biking as their main mode of transportation. Including parents with bike trailers! But watch out for the bike lanes if you are walking. They are usually painted red/orange and if you wander into one, you are liable to get hit (or at a minimum, shouted at). Mind the bike lanes!
Dachau is a haunting but important site.
Should you take kids to Dachau?
Dachau is a memorial site for the Jewish people who were imprisoned and killed at this concentration camp in World War 2. Dachau is not recommended for kids under 12 due to the graphic nature of many of the pictures and descriptions inside the museum portion of the site. You know your children best and are the best one to determine what they can handle. No one is there checking the ages of people who walk in but be prepared to have hard conversations with your child and some children might get too upset when seeing the displays.
Bear in mind that young children may not understand what they are seeing but it is a solemn place and one that should be respected.
If you think your child is old enough and mature enough to handle a visit, I would recommend it. There is nothing that makes more of an impression than seeing these places in person. We have a responsibility to bear witness to these atrocities and the stories of the people who lived through them. It makes much more of an impact than just reading about it in a book.
Entrance to Dachau is free.
If you have teens who you think can handle it, you might be interested also in this walking tour that highlights WW2 and Third Reich history.
Kids Books About Munich
Check out these books for kids about Munich! This is a great way to prepare kids for the trip, have something to read on the plane, and to remember the fun things they saw and did when they get home. These are just a few suggestions!
This is a classic picture book about Munich for kids. There are several other editions of this book in other locations. This makes a really nice gift and a lovely keepsake. [Buy on Amazon]
If you’re traveling all over Germany, this guide will be a great companion! Learn geography, history, wildlife, the flag, culture, and food. [Buy on Amazon]
Grab this for your FC Bayern fans! Take it along on your tour of the Allianz Arena and FC Bayern Musuem.
Read this for even more children’s book recommendations for traveling Europe!
Munich is a fantastic city for a family vacation, offering a perfect mix of history, nature, and fun attractions for kids. There’s plenty to make your trip memorable. With great public transportation, family-friendly restaurants, and exciting day trips, Munich offers families a wonderful place to visit when exploring Germany.
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