City Trip with Children: 5 Destinations in Europe
City trips with children don’t have to be stressful. These 5 cities stand out with child-friendly infrastructure, activities for all ages, and culinary options for the whole family.
Lucerne: Lake, Mountains and Transport Museum
Lucerne is compact, easy to navigate and perfect for a first city trip with a baby or toddler. The walk from the train station to the old town takes less than ten minutes, and strollers are welcome on public transport. Highlights include the Transport Museum with hands-on exhibits, the historic Rigi railway, and a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne. Many restaurants offer high chairs, and in summer, the playground at Inseli provides fun and variety. Parents should consider a visit to Restaurant Olivo or Restaurant Felsenegg – with the Platinum Card, you receive a CHF 40 dining credit per quarter for transactions over CHF 250.
Copenhagen: Scandinavian Calm
Copenhagen is one of the most family-friendly cities in Europe. High chairs, changing facilities, and relaxed cafés are found almost everywhere. Tivoli amusement park, located right in the city centre, is especially popular. At the Experimentarium, children can explore science through play. The vast Fælledparken offers four themed playgrounds. Families feel particularly at home in the Østerbro district – the city is flat and easy to explore by stroller or cargo bike.
Ljubljana: Small, Safe, and Charming
Slovenia’s capital is considered an insider tip for city trips with children. The old town is car-free, and the central market square regularly transforms into a play area. A visit to the “House of Experiments”, an interactive science centre, is especially worthwhile. You can reach Ljubljana Castle easily by funicular. Many cafés offer play corners, and restaurants are relaxed and family-friendly. Even in rainy weather, it’s worth a visit: museums and libraries cater well to little guests. Ljubljana is easy to reach by train or car and remains calm and easy to navigate even in autumn or winter.
Amsterdam: City of Canals and Family Bikes
Amsterdam is ideal for active families. At the NEMO Science Museum, children can experiment on their own, and the Artis Zoo is home to rare animals. The Vondelpark invites kids to run and play, and a bakfiets makes it easy to transport several children comfortably around the city. Many restaurants offer children’s menus, and there is a wide selection of holiday apartments with kitchens. Even in cooler weather, Amsterdam remains family-friendly: plenty of indoor activities, short distances, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Munich: The Classic Family Destination in Germany
Munich impresses with its blend of culture, nature, and excellent family services. The Deutsches Museum has a dedicated children's area with an inventor’s workshop and water lab. Hellabrunn Zoo is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Travelling with a baby? Many cafés offer quiet spaces with changing tables. Families benefit from free entry to city-run museums. Munich is also easy to reach by train and offers a safe, well-structured environment for all age groups.
The right credit card for your lifestyle
Frequently asked questions and answers
Lucerne, Copenhagen, Ljubljana, Amsterdam and Munich offer ideal conditions for travelling with kids: short distances, family-friendly infrastructure, and exciting activities.
Yes. Ljubljana and Munich offer many free or low-cost options for families. Those who book early or take advantage of Amex benefits can save even more.
Museums such as the Transport Museum in Lucerne, NEMO in Amsterdam or the House of Experiments in Ljubljana offer weatherproof experiences for all ages.
