17 Best Things to do in Hamburg with Kids (& Family)

Finding activities that kids will love in Hamburg can sometimes be challenging. Luckily, Hamburg is a city brimming with child-friendly attractions sure to delight both young and old.

Our blog post rounds up the best things to do in Hamburg for families with children. Keep reading for a fun-filled adventure through Hamburg!

Things to do in Hamburg with Children

See Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway

Visit Miniatur Wunderland with your family for an unforgettable experience that children adore. This massive display holds the title of the world's largest model railway, presenting a vast array of meticulously crafted landscapes and bustling miniature cities.

Kids can watch in awe as tiny trains chug through replicas of mountain ranges, urban centers and even fully operational airports. With its sheer scale and attention to detail, this attraction captures the imagination of both young and old.

Set in Hamburg's storied Speicherstadt district, Miniatur Wunderland isn't just about trains; it’s a marvel of engineering and creativity. Families can spend hours spotting all the little scenes—there's something new around every corner.

Voted Germany’s number one tourist spot, it draws visitors from far and wide with its enchanting worlds in miniature form—a testament to its captivating charm for families journeying through Hamburg with kids. [1]

Visit Tierpark Hagenbeck, a family-friendly zoo

After marveling at the miniature landscapes at Miniatur Wunderland, a visit to Tierpark Hagenbeck promises an unforgettable encounter with the animal kingdom.

This unique zoo lets families walk through spacious enclosures without cages, giving you the chance to see exotic animals up close in a natural setting.

Children can interact with friendly creatures in the petting zoo or hop on for pony rides that are sure to delight. The adventure doesn’t stop there; kids will be thrilled by a ride on the miniature railway and can run off their energy at the playground.

With its origins stretching back to 1863, Tierpark Hagenbeck not only offers encounters with diverse wildlife but also captivates visitors with its striking architecture and life-size dinosaur replicas amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.

Imagine wandering past historic buildings while surrounded by vibrant flowers and coming face-to-face with towering dinosaurs - it's like stepping into another world where history meets prehistory! Hamburg family outings don't get much better than this enriching mix of wildlife, culture, and fun activities tailored for all ages at Tierpark Hagenbeck.

Enjoy Hamburger Dom, Northern Germany's largest funfair

After visiting the animal wonders at Tierpark Hagenbeck, step right up to the exhilarating world of Hamburger Dom. This legendary funfair draws families from across Northern Germany and turns any visit into an unforgettable day out.

Kids and adults alike will find something to love among the countless attractions, from nostalgic carousels that spin with glee to high-tech roller coasters that race through the sky.

The fairgrounds buzz with excitement three times a year—whether it's spring blooms, summer sun, or winter magic in the air. Take your family on a Ferris wheel ride for sweeping views of Hamburg or laugh together as you whiz down giant slides.

There's cotton candy to munch on, games that test your skills, and prizes that bring out everyone’s competitive side.

Chocoversum

Head to Chocoversum, Hamburg's Chocolate Museum, for an interactive experience perfect for families.

This chocolate museum is a delightful attraction that offers a 90-minute tour through the fascinating world of chocolate.

As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a captivating 1.43m chocolate tasting fountain where visitors can indulge in delectable chocolate samples, setting the tone for an immersive and engaging experience.

During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to learn about every stage of chocolate making – from cocoa beans all the way to the final product.

Additionally, Chocoversum allows guests to create their very own personalized chocolate bar while being educated on Hamburg's significant role in the global chocolate industry.

Embark on a family-friendly boat tour along the Elbe River with scenic views.

After exploring interactive exhibits at Chocoversum, Hamburg's Chocolate Museum, take the family on a memorable boat tour along the Elbe River.

From the comfort of the vessel, experience breathtaking views while passing historic Speicherstadt District and witnessing impressive container ships.

This enjoyable excursion provides a unique perspective of Hamburg’s harbor-side attractions and comes highly recommended for families visiting the city.

The boat tour is an essential activity when in Hamburg, offering picturesque views and allowing visitors to see the city from a different vantage point - perfect for capturing lasting memories with loved ones.

Visiting the thrilling Hamburg Dungeon

Experience a captivating 90-minute journey through over 600 years of Hamburg's history at the Hamburg Dungeon.

The attraction features 11 interactive shows based on true stories, complete with state-of-the-art theming and special effects that will engage and educate kids.

Professional actors provide gripping storytelling, making each show both entertaining and informative for young visitors. Moreover, the dungeon offers two fun rides that add to the excitement of the experience.

Situated in the historical Speicherstadt district, this educational adventure is truly an immersive way for families to explore Hamburg's rich history.

Playgrounds and water features at Planten un Blomen

Planten un Blomen park is a haven for families, offering playgrounds, water features, and breathtaking gardens.

The park boasts fountains, playgrounds, and an ice skating or blading rink, providing endless entertainment for children of all ages.

A visit to this sought-after green space promises tranquility and natural beauty. Families can enjoy the themed gardens while taking in the fresh air – a perfect opportunity for kids to learn about plants from around the world at the Old Botanical Garden within the park.

Enjoy paddleboat rides on Lake Alster.

Experience the serene beauty of Lake Alster with a leisurely paddleboat ride. Families can rent paddleboats and kayaks to explore the scenic waterways, offering a delightful way to spend quality time together while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

Children will revel in the excitement of paddling on their own or being part of a family adventure, making it an ideal activity for families visiting Hamburg.

As you plan your family trip to Hamburg, consider including a relaxing paddleboat ride on Lake Alster as part of your itinerary.

It's a wonderful opportunity for both kids and adults to connect with nature and create cherished memories together amidst Hamburg's stunning landscapes.

Discover the exhibits at the International Maritime Museum

At the International Maritime Museum in Hamburg, families can explore over 40,000 exhibits showcasing the city's maritime history spanning 3,000 years.

The museum offers engaging and interactive displays suitable for children, providing an educational yet enjoyable experience for the whole family.

From models of historical ships to insights into life at sea and exploration, this museum is a top choice for families looking to delve into Hamburg's rich maritime heritage.

Stroll through Stadtpark, Hamburg's largest park with playgrounds

Take a leisurely stroll through Stadtpark, Hamburg's largest city park. The expansive green spaces offer kids ample room to play and run around while families can enjoy picnics and kite flying on the open fields.

With playgrounds, open-air swimming pools, and statues scattered throughout the park, there are numerous activities to keep children engaged and entertained.

The lush surroundings provide a picturesque setting for relaxation as well as opportunities for recreational activities such as playing soccer.

Stadtpark is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors in Hamburg with plenty of space for kids to explore and unwind.

Attend a performance at Thalia Theater

Enjoy a family-friendly performance at Thalia Theater or any of the other theaters in Hamburg, known for their long tradition and high-quality shows suitable for all ages.

Immerse yourselves in captivating storytelling, lively music, and colorful stage performances that will entertain and engage both kids and adults.

With a variety of performances catering to different interests, there's something for every family to enjoy during their visit to the vibrant city of Hamburg.

After attending an enthralling performance at Thalia Theater or other venues, embark on an adventure through Hamburg's rich cultural scene by exploring more engaging activities with your family.

Enjoy the U-Boat Museum on a Soviet-built submarine

The U-Boat Museum offers families the unique opportunity to take a guided tour of a fully functional Soviet-built submarine, providing an unusual and educational experience.

Visitors can explore the inner workings of the U-434 submarine, gaining insight into life on board such a vessel.

Guided tours cover areas like the ship's bridge and provide background information about the submarine's history, making for an engaging and informative visit that both kids and adults can enjoy.

Families visiting Hamburg with kids will find that this guided tour at the U-Boat Museum offers an intriguing look into maritime history while catering to their curiosity for unique experiences during their trip.

Explore the Hamburg Planetarium

The Hamburg Planetarium offers a wide range of shows suitable for children, making it an ideal destination for families.

Visitors can enjoy 3D trips through the solar system and view futuristic projections at the planetarium, which showcases these presentations with its state-of-the-art Zeiss Universarium 9 projector.

The immersive experience creates an educational yet entertaining environment for kids and adults alike, providing a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of outer space.

With engaging children's films and captivating glimpses into millions of years in the future, the Hamburg Planetarium is an excellent way to introduce young minds to astronomy and science in a fun and interactive setting.

Visit KL!CK Kindermuseum interactive playground

After exploring the educational and entertaining shows at the Hamburg Planetarium, head over to KL!CK Kindermuseum for a hands-on experience. This interactive playground offers various activities for children, allowing them to explore and learn in an engaging environment.

Kids can delve into different cultures, experiment with building, and play with toys while gaining valuable insight in a fun and interactive way.

Moreover, families visiting Hamburg can facilitate their children's learning by letting them discover various interactive exhibits.

At KL!CK Kindermuseum, kids have the opportunity to learn about the world through play while developing valuable insights into different cultures.

Visit the Panoptikum wax museum

Step into the captivating world of the Panoptikum wax museum, Germany's oldest wax museum located in Hamburg's Speicherstadt UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Over 120 meticulously crafted wax figures bring to life famous personalities from Germany and around the globe.

This one-of-a-kind experience appeals to both young and old visitors who spend hours amidst lifelike representations of historical and contemporary figures.

Spanning over a century of history, the Panoptikum Museum is an engaging site where kids can encounter well-known personalities that have left their mark on various fields – from politics and entertainment to science and art.

Explore PuppenMuseum Falkenstein Toy Museum

After visiting the Panoptikum wax museum, families can explore the fascinating PuppenMuseum Falkenstein Toy Museum in Hamburg. The museum showcases over 500 dolls and 60 doll houses, housed in a Bauhaus style country house.

Collected by author Elke Droscher, the diverse range of toys offers a historically rich experience for visitors of all ages. [2] Families can immerse themselves in this unique collection while also enjoying special exhibitions and events.

This educational and cultural experience at PuppenMuseum Falkenstein is an excellent addition to any family trip to Hamburg. It provides valuable insight into the history of toys while offering an engaging activity for children and adults alike.

Have fun at Bäderland Festland, an aqua playground

Continue the fun at Bäderland Festland, an exciting aqua playground located in Hamburg. This popular attraction offers a day full of water adventures for families with kids.

Kids can enjoy swimming pools and various play areas designed to provide maximum fun and enjoyment for all ages.

The facility has one water slide which promises excitement for children, making it a great option for families looking to have a memorable day out in Hamburg.

With its range of activities suitable for all ages, the Bäderland Festland aqua playground is an ideal destination to keep everyone entertained while beating the heat or simply having a blast as part of your family trip to Hamburg.

Tips for a Successful Family Trip to Hamburg

Plan ahead and make an itinerary

Create a detailed itinerary to ensure you make the most of your family trip to Hamburg. Consider visiting Miniatur Wunderland, Tierpark Hagenbeck, and Chocoversum as must-see attractions for families.

Be sure to check for family discounts and promotions when planning your itinerary to get the best deals possible!

Prepare a comprehensive plan while considering recommended family-friendly activities such as boat tours along Elbe River and visits to interactive museums like Chocoversum or Hamburg Dungeon.

Check for family discounts and promotions

To maximize your family trip to Hamburg, be sure to check for family discounts and promotions. The Hamburg Card offers significant discounts of up to 30% on various activities suitable for families.

Additionally, booking popular family-friendly activities in advance not only ensures the best price but also provides a money-back guarantee, giving you peace of mind as you plan your memorable adventure in Hamburg with your loved ones.

Pack essentials for kids

Pack essentials for kids when traveling to Hamburg to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Don't forget weather-appropriate clothing, such as warm layers for winter visits and lighter options for summer trips. 

In addition, comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city with kids. It's also important to pack a power adapter for charging electronic devices on the go.

A reusable water bottle is a must-have item to keep kids hydrated during excursions, and snacks will help keep them energized throughout the day.

Be prepared for changing weather conditions

Before you head out to explore Hamburg with your kids, it's essential to remember that the city experiences different seasons throughout the year. Be sure to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.

It's wise to bring layers for cooler days, rain gear for potential showers, and sunscreen for sunny outings.

By being prepared for changing weather conditions, you can ensure that your family enjoys every activity without worrying about unexpected changes in the weather.

To make the most of your family trip in Hamburg, take note of the seasonal climate and be ready for any weather surprises.

Allow for flexibility and downtime

When traveling to Hamburg with kids, it is essential to allow for flexibility and downtime in your itinerary. Children may need breaks between activities or unexpected changes might occur, so having some unplanned time can help accommodate these factors.

It's important to be adaptable and open to adjusting plans as needed, which can make the trip more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Moreover, incorporating downtime into your schedule also allows families to relax and recharge before moving on to the next adventure.

By being flexible with your plans and allowing room for some leisurely moments, you can create a more stress-free experience for the whole family during your visit to Hamburg.

Conclusion: Hamburg with Kids

Discovering the vibrant city of Hamburg with your kids is an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement and laughter. From exploring the fascinating Miniatur Wunderland to enjoying the scenic beauty of Planten un Blomen, there is no shortage of family-friendly activities.

The captivating blend of cultural experiences and entertaining attractions makes Hamburg a perfect destination for families.

Whether you're strolling through Hagenbeck Zoo or embarking on a boat tour along the Elbe River, the city offers a myriad of things to do in Hamburg that cater to all ages.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the magic of Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway that captivates both children and adults with its intricate landscapes and bustling miniature cities.
• Spend a day at Tierpark Hagenbeck, Hamburg's renowned family-friendly zoo, where kids can get close to animals in cage-less enclosures and enjoy pony rides and playgrounds.
• Take on the thrills at Hamburger Dom, Northern Germany's largest funfair with rides suitable for all ages and immerse yourself in traditional local culture.
• Embark on an educational journey through interactive exhibits at Chocoversum Chocolate Museum or travel back in history with engaging performances at the Hamburg Dungeon.
• Enjoy nature within the city by visiting Planten un Blomen park for its water features, botanical gardens, playgrounds, or have a fun-filled paddleboat adventure on Lake Alster.