Berlin is a fantastic destination for families. The city offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and many attractions that kids will particularly love. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the top Berlin attractions for families, ensuring that your visit is both memorable and enjoyable.
Whether you’re seeking indoor activities in Berlin to escape the occasional rain or exploring the city’s many outdoor wonders, we’ve got you covered. From the renowned Berlin Zoo to the interactive wonders of the Labyrinth Kindermuseum, you’ll find a wide array of options to keep your little ones entertained. Let’s dive into the world of visiting Berlin with kids and discover the exciting adventures that await your family in this dynamic metropolis!
1. Experience Berlin’s wild side
If you’re visiting Berlin with kids who love animals then Berlin Zoo and Sea Life Berlin are two must-visit attractions! Berlin Zoo is not only one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in the world but also a haven for families. With resident animals from around the globe, the zoo offers a fantastic opportunity for kids to connect with nature and learn about wildlife conservation. They can marvel at majestic lions, playful pandas, and graceful giraffes, as well as a diverse array of animals from all continents. The zoo also offers informative talks, feeding sessions, and a petting zoo, allowing children to get up close and personal with some of their favorite creatures.
A stone’s throw away from the zoo is Sea Life Berlin. It provides an underwater adventure that’s perfect for curious young minds. This aquarium takes kids on a mesmerizing journey through the world’s oceans. They can even meet sharks face-to-face in the underwater tunnel. Sea Life Berlin places a strong emphasis on marine conservation, making it an excellent opportunity for kids to gain awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans. With interactive displays and engaging presentations, it’s an aquatic experience that’s both entertaining and educational.
Pro tip: For even more animal experiences, check out the Tierpark Berlin. This is another zoo located a bit further out of the city center near the Friedrichsfelde Ost station.
2. Travel back in time
Families visiting Berlin with kids have a unique opportunity to “travel back in time” as well! It’s possible to experience different eras and aspects of Berlin’s history through the city’s fantastic interactive museums. Two such captivating destinations are the DDR Museum and TimeRide Berlin.
The DDR Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in East Germany during the Cold War era. It’s a hands-on museum where kids can explore a reconstructed East German apartment, sit in an authentic Trabant car, and even try on clothing from the period.
TimeRide Berlin offers a different kind of time travel experience. This virtual reality attraction transports visitors back to various historical moments in Berlin’s past. Through VR headsets and immersive storytelling, families can explore the city during different time periods, such as the Roaring Twenties or the era of the Berlin Wall. It’s an exciting and educational adventure that combines history with cutting-edge technology.
Pro tip: For families interested in the evolution of technology and gaming, the Computerspielemuseum is another must-visit. This museum takes you on a journey through the history of video games, from the earliest Pong consoles to modern virtual reality. Kids can play classic video games, see rare gaming artifacts, and learn about the pioneers of the industry.
3. Take some mind-bending photos
If you’re seeking indoor activities in Berlin to escape a rainy day, head to the DejaVu Museum or Illuseum! These quirky museums both provide the perfect backdrop for taking mind-bending photographs. A visit to either will leave your family with unforgettable memories and pictures to share for years to come.
At the DejaVu Museum, prepare to enter a world of optical illusions, where everything is not as it seems. Kids can challenge their perception as they pose with gravity-defying objects or interact with mesmerizing mirror installations. This museum has a maze-like layout and a variety of exhibits that play tricks on the eye. Not to mention a treasure trove of amusing photo opportunities that will have the whole family laughing!
Meanwhile, at the Illuseum, you’ll step into a realm where the laws of physics and logic appear to be suspended. From rooms that make you feel like a giant to optical illusions that defy gravity, the Illuseum is an indoor wonderland. It’s a fantastic way for families to spend quality time together while indulging in indoor activities in Berlin. Not to mention, you’ll be creating a photo album full of whimsical memories.
4. Have fun at LEGOLAND
The Legoland Discovery Centre in Berlin is a fantastic destination for families with kids. It offers a whole world of imagination, creativity, and endless fun. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to a vibrant LEGO-themed universe designed to captivate both young and old.
One of the highlights of this indoor attraction is the Miniature Berlin. This is an amazing LEGO recreation of the city’s iconic landmarks in miniature form. Kids can marvel at the intricate detail and craftsmanship of these LEGO creations, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Berlin TV Tower. The LEGO-themed rides also provide thrilling experiences that keep kids entertained throughout their visit. Highlights include a dragon-themed roller coaster and a 4D cinema.
The Legoland Discovery Centre encourages hands-on play and creativity. Kids can build, race, and test their own LEGO-building skills in various interactive zones. There’s a Duplo Village for younger children and a Master Builder Academy for those looking to hone their building techniques.
5. Do something gruesome and gross!
Older kids often have a taste for the macabre and a curiosity about the unusual. The Berlin Dungeon and Disgusting Food Museum both offer intriguing and entertaining experiences that are far from ordinary.
The Berlin Dungeon provides a unique blend of history and dark humor. It takes visitors on a theatrical journey through Berlin’s gruesome past with interactive shows. Costumed actors guide you through scenes depicting torture chambers, plague-ridden streets, and witch trials! It’s an immersive experience that brings history to life in a thrilling and eerie way. Older kids will appreciate the spooky atmosphere and enjoy the entertaining stories, even if they feature gruesome details. The Berlin Dungeon is a captivating attraction that combines history and horror, making it an ideal choice for families with teens.
Similarly, the Disgusting Food Museum is a culinary adventure for those with adventurous palates and a fascination with the unusual. While it may not be for the faint of heart, older kids can explore a diverse collection of “disgusting” foods from around the world. From fermented shark to stinky cheeses, the museum showcases foods that challenge your taste buds. The interactive exhibits allow visitors to engage their senses through smell and even tastings! It’s a quirky attraction that offers a unique perspective on global food culture.
6. Get some culture at Museum Island
Museum Island in Berlin is not only a place for grown-ups. It’s also a fantastic destination for kids to have a cultural adventure. On this island, you can discover ancient treasures, fascinating stories, and incredible art, all in one place!
Kids can explore several museums on this island in the Spree River, each with its unique wonders. They can journey back in time at the Pergamon Museum. Here they’ll encounter colossal statues and even a reconstructed ancient market. At the Neues Museum, they can meet the famous Egyptian queen, Nefertiti, and learn about ancient civilizations. The Altes Museum showcases dazzling Greek and Roman art, while the Bode Museum features stunning sculptures and beautiful coins. It’s like stepping into a history book, but way more exciting!
Pro tip: The Berlin Museum of Natural History is not on Museum Island but is another great museum to visit with kids. Highlights include the Dinosaur Hall and an impressive collection of meteors.
7. See Berlin from above
Visiting the Berlin TV Tower as a family is a super cool adventure that kids will love! The TV Tower, also known as the Fernsehturm, is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks, and not only for adults. Once you hop into the speedy elevator and zoom up to the top, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the entire city. Kids will be amazed as they look out from the tower’s windows and see Berlin’s famous sights, like the Brandenburg Gate and the River Spree, from way up high.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. The TV Tower also has a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while the world seems to spin below you. It’s like dining in the sky! And if you visit in the evening, the city lights twinkle like stars. So, whether it’s day or night, the Berlin TV Tower is a family-friendly adventure that will make your visit to Berlin extra special. It’s a bit like going on a space adventure without leaving Earth!
Pro tip: You can also see a tiny version of Berlin throughout history at Little Big City Berlin which is located at the base of the TV Tower.
8. Explore the Labyrinth Kindermuseum Berlin
Visiting the Labyrinth Kindermuseum in Berlin is an exciting and educational experience that kids adore! This museum is like a wonderland where children’s imaginations can run wild. From the moment you step inside, you’ll find a world filled with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and creative play zones. Everything has been designed just for kids.
One of the coolest things about the Labyrinth Kindermuseum is that it changes its themes regularly. There’s always something new to explore. Kids might find themselves in a magical forest, an enchanted castle, or even a bustling city square. They can dress up in costumes, build with giant blocks, or engage in artistic activities like painting and crafting. The museum encourages curiosity, teamwork, and creativity. It’s a fantastic place for kids to learn and have fun at the same time.
9. Enjoy Berlin from the water
Exploring Berlin from the water is a fantastic and family-friendly way to discover the city’s unique charm. Berlin offers a variety of cruises that cater to different interests. Families can choose from many enjoyable options for sightseeing on its beautiful rivers and lakes.
One popular choice is a Spree River cruise. This option allows families to glide through the heart of Berlin while taking in iconic landmarks like the Berlin Cathedral, the Reichstag, and Museum Island. These cruises usually include informative commentary in multiple languages as well. So it can be an educational experience for kids as they learn about the city’s history and culture.
For a change of scenery, families can also venture to the city’s many serene lakes, such as Wannsee and Müggelsee, for leisurely boat rides. These peaceful excursions offer a relaxing escape from the bustling city and provide an opportunity for kids to appreciate Berlin’s natural beauty.
10. Spend the day outside
Families visiting Berlin can have a blast outside while exploring some of the city’s most beloved green spaces. Tiergarten is a vast urban park that feels like a natural oasis within the bustling city. It’s a fantastic place for families to enjoy outdoor activities like picnicking, frisbee, or walking along its winding pathways. Kids can run on the open lawns, watch the ducks in the ponds, or rent paddle boats to ride on the park’s tranquil lake.
Treptower Park is known for its stunning Soviet War Memorial, but it also offers a wide range of family-friendly activities. The park features spacious playgrounds where kids can climb, swing, and play to their heart’s content. There’s a charming little train that winds through the park, providing a fun ride for children and a great way to see the park’s highlights. Additionally, families can explore the park’s beautiful gardens, have a picnic by the river, or even rent bikes to cycle along the scenic paths. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a wonderful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. But it still provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun!
