Top 6 family activities in Berlin

Families will feel right at home in Berlin.

As Germany’s capital, known for its embrace of tolerance and inclusivity alongside a vibrant, bohemian spirit, Berlin allows parents to enjoy themselves without sacrificing family fun. Whether it’s a beer garden gathering or an outdoor techno festival, families with strollers and noise-canceling earmuffs are part of the scene.

Whether navigating the city with toddlers or teens, Berlin warmly welcomes family travelers with exciting entertainment, ranging from adult-friendly spaces that happily accommodate kids to attractions suitable for all ages. Here’s what to keep in mind when visiting Berlin with children.

Is Berlin family-friendly?

Compared to many non-European countries, German parenting tends to be more relaxed. Children are encouraged to explore their individuality and express themselves publicly, especially in outdoor settings—though misbehavior has its limits. In Berlin, a city known for its progressive values, children are welcomed everywhere, prompting businesses to be mindful of family needs.

This family-friendly atmosphere is particularly evident in Berlin’s abundant green spaces. Nearly a third of the city is covered with parks, boasting around 2500 beautifully designed parks, each offering its own charm: from lush gardens to paved paths and shaded picnic areas. Urban recreation extends beyond typical playgrounds; you’ll find ping-pong tables everywhere, as well as large wooden jungle gyms with footbridges, slides, and climbing walls. Rest assured, in quieter residential areas, there’s usually a park or playground nearby to keep your little ones entertained.

Dining out is hassle-free, with most restaurants offering highchairs and children's menus. Even some upscale dining spots are kid-friendly and can accommodate dietary requirements, though it's wise to check in advance. More casual places like beer gardens and cafes are ideal for families, often featuring playgrounds and a relaxed self-service atmosphere.

What are the best family-friendly accommodations in Berlin?

When selecting a place to stay in Berlin with family, look for options near larger parks and open-air markets, where you'll find plenty of space, live music, and food vendors. In Prenzlauer Berg, don’t miss the Sunday flea market at Mauerpark, and Gleisdreieck in Schöneberg is a fantastic park for families, offering skateboarding, soccer, and unique play areas for climbing and bouncing.

Top activities in Berlin for babies and toddlers

Discover the rivers and canals

While Berlin’s waterways aren't ideal for swimming, you can still enjoy them in other ways. Take a scenic boat tour along the Spree River for stunning views of the major landmarks, or explore the quieter canals of Kreuzberg and Neukölln by paddle boat. If swimming is a must, check out Badeschiff, a pool situated in the Spree from a repurposed cargo ship. Parents can soak up the trendy beach club atmosphere, complete with DJs and yoga classes, all while bringing their little ones along—admission is free for babies and kids under 2.

Enjoy a picnic

Picnicking in the park is a surefire way to have fun without breaking the bank. With varied landscapes featuring lakes and vibrant flora, you might even spot a swan or fox. Choose a green space with great people-watching opportunities, like Tempelhofer Feld, often filled with kite surfers and musicians, or Mauerpark, where graffiti artists and street performers gather. Both parks allow barbecuing, so grab a disposable grill from the supermarket along with some kebabs, and you’re ready to feast.

Top activities in Berlin for school-age kids

Explore an interactive museum

Berlin offers a treasure trove of fascinating museums that cater to all ages; it's tough to choose just one! The Naturkunde features an enormous T-Rex skeleton along with other captivating skeletal displays and taxidermy, while the Technikmuseum (German Museum of Technology) showcases mechanical wonders, including vintage trains and exhibits on magnetism and aerospace.

Experience the excitement of Berlin Zoo

Berlin Zoo ranks among the oldest and largest in the world. Whether you're looking for pandas, big cats, or exotic birds, you'll find them here. Pro tip: If you can't spend a full day, the nearby Bikini Berlin mall provides fantastic (and free!) views of the monkey enclosure from its rooftop restaurant and terrace above.

Top activities in Berlin for tweens and teens

Chill out in a beer garden

In many parts of the world, children and bars are kept at a distance, but Berlin’s vast beer gardens offer the perfect backdrop for family fun. At Café am Neuen See in Tiergarten, you can enjoy lawn games, soccer matches, or paddle boating on the pond. Over at the BRLO Brewhouse, savor craft beer while surrounded by the lively atmosphere of Gleisdreieck Park, where skateboarding, hip-hop groups, and Frisbee are in full swing. Whichever you choose, adults can unwind with delicious sausages and beer under trees reminiscent of the Black Forest, adorned with fairy lights.

Join the festivities at a street festival

Berlin embraces a strong anti-FOMO parenting style, offering family-friendly street festivals and open-air events. The city's vibrant club scene introduces kids to electronic music and responsible partying from a young age. Summer parades like Karneval der Kulturen and Pride (Christopher Street Day) invite all ages to dance to live music in colorful costumes, celebrating multiculturalism and diversity. Teens can create rainbow signs, and even the smallest ravers join in with strollers and soundproof earmuffs, though some families might find the crowds and public drinking a bit overwhelming.

Tips for planning your visit

Navigating public transportation can be a bit challenging, particularly due to a lack of elevators and narrow doorways during busy times, but it’s definitely manageable. There are designated areas for strollers and family seating to make things easier. If you opt for this budget-friendly travel option, don’t hesitate to ask a local for help with your stroller or to move for a child to sit. Berliners might seem gruff, but they are generally very understanding when it comes to families.

Alongside public transit, consider utilizing car-sharing options for certain locations or renting a bicycle for a few days, typically costing around €10 per day. Don’t forget to bring a booster seat for car shares, or for more flexibility, opt for a bike and baby buggy instead.

At BER (Berlin) airport, there’s a family fast-track lane, although it can become busy—be sure to reserve a security time slot at no extra cost on the airport’s website to ease your journey.

Entry to most museums and attractions, as well as public transport, is free for children under six, helping to minimize travel expenses. For older kids, consider the family Berlin WelcomeCard, which provides access to select museums and attractions, plus unlimited public transport for one price (and covers up to three children aged 14 and under).