Family Fun in Munich: A Guide for Parents and Kids

Munich is a fantastic destination for families. The ample greenery and excellent public transport system make the city feel relaxed and accessible, despite its size.

Even beer gardens and Oktoberfest cater to children, allowing families to enjoy the city’s most famous attractions. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Munich with your family.

Is Munich Good for Kids?

Besides fun museums and attractions, Munich’s greatest advantage for families is its numerous open spaces. The large parks and riverbanks appeal to various age groups, providing opportunities to unwind and enjoy some fresh air in between sightseeing.

While more formal restaurants may not be the best choice for young children, there are many child-friendly eateries, bakeries, and open-air food markets for quick bites on the go. Beer gardens are especially appealing in summer as you can bring your own food to self-service areas, many of which also feature playgrounds.

Munich is relatively flat, making it stroller-friendly, and well-marked bike lanes encourage cycling, with many parents using cargo bikes to shuttle kids around. Most stations are equipped with elevators and designated family areas on certain trains make travel easier.

Where is Best in Munich for Kids?

With numerous public parks, don’t miss Englischer Garten or Olympiapark. Spending time by the Isar River is also a must. While the city center and old town are doable with kids, they can become crowded. Consider visiting quieter neighborhoods like Haidhausen or Schwabing for more space and local cafes.

Best Things to Do in Munich with Babies and Toddlers

Roaring Fun at Tierpark Hellabrunn

Munich’s zoo, located in the southern part of the city near the river, offers extensive grounds, making it ideal for strollers or hiring hand-pulled carts. For a coffee break or snacks, consider Kiosk 1917 next to Thalkirchen subway station.

Make a Pit Stop at Wiener Platz

This charming square in Haidhausen is perfect for beginning your neighborhood exploration or grabbing refreshments for a fun playground visit. Join other parents at local cafes or market stalls for snacks, or visit the popular Hofbräukeller beer garden nearby.

Roam Englischer Garten

For a long buggy nap or room for toddlers to run around, Englischer Garten is ideal. Stretching over five kilometers, this large area features beautiful meadows, perfect spots for a snack, and attractions like the Hirschau beer garden with its fantastic play area.

Best Things to Do in Munich with Kids

Explore the Museum of Humankind & Nature

Tucked away within Nymphenburg Palace, the Museum Mensch und Natur offers a plethora of fossils, skeletons, and interactive exhibits. The highlight for many is the stuffed body of Bruno, a brown bear that stirred up excitement in Bavaria in 2006.

Although much of the information is in German, several displays have been translated. After exploring the museum, enjoy some time with the geese in the gardens or visit a nearby ice cream shop for a treat.

Hang Out by the Isar

The pebble beaches and grassy banks along the river are perfect for family picnics, stone skimming, and paddling. The Flaucher area near the zoo is particularly popular, featuring islands and climbing opportunities. Barbecuing is also permitted here.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles at the Deutsches Museum

Many local families enjoy long visits to the Deutsches Museum, which covers diverse topics related to science and technology, featuring a dedicated floor for kids. The impressive model railway runs twice a day, captivating young visitors.

Best Things to Do in Munich with Tweens and Teenagers

Get Active at the Olympic Stadium

More than fifty years since the Summer Olympics, the Olympic grounds remain bustling. This hilly park is perfect for recreation, and the aquatics center is open to the public. The stadium regularly hosts events, providing opportunities for family outings.

Footie at the Allianz Arena

As the home of one of Europe’s major football teams, fans can tour the Allianz Arena and learn more about FC Bayern through an on-site museum.

A Lunch Date with a Twist

Munich offers quirky dining spots that kids will love. Restaurants like Gans Woanders serve wood-fired pizza, and Alte Utting is an old railway bridge transformed into a delightful eatery for families to explore.

Planning Tips

• Utilize U-Bahn and S-Bahn for the fastest travel, but consider taking overground trams or buses for scenic routes. Renting bikes can be one of the best ways to experience the city.

• Children under 6 travel for free on public transport. Group day tickets allow for up to five adults, while children aged 6-14 count as one adult.

• Regarding Oktoberfest, families can enjoy the festivities with children by visiting during the day for family-friendly attractions and rides. Weekdays are less crowded and more suitable for families compared to weekends.