Real-Life Fun, Real-World Tips, and Summer Memories Worth Capturing

Looking for the best summer activities in Munich with kids? Let’s be real—summer with kids can feel like both a gift and a marathon. You’re juggling sunscreen and snacks, nap schedules and spontaneous ice cream stops. And if you’re like me, you want this season to be full of real moments: barefoot in the grass, sticky popsicle smiles, lakeside splashing, endless giggles, and slow mornings that roll gently into golden-hour evenings.

When we moved to Munich, I knew I wanted to soak in every season—but summer is something special here. If you’re an expat parent—or visiting with little ones in tow—you’ve probably already noticed it: the city slows down. Families linger in the parks. Kids stay out late chasing bubbles and climbing playgrounds. There’s a rhythm to summer in Munich that invites you to pause, breathe, and live it.

This city isn’t just about beer gardens and bike paths (though those are pretty great). It’s about a lifestyle that celebrates the outdoors. It’s where weekday picnics are normal, kids splash barefoot through fountains, and a mountain hike is just a train ride away.

Over the years, I’ve discovered (and re-discovered) some of the best places in and around Munich to let kids roam, cool off, and explore their world freely. Whether you’re new here or just looking to try something new, this guide is full of what we’ve truly loved as a family—activities that don’t require Pinterest-level planning. Just sunscreen, LOTS of snacks, and your camera for the good stuff.

Best Parks for Summer Activities in Munich with Kids

If there’s one thing Munich gets right, it’s green space. Parks here are intentional and part of daily life. They’re made for lingering and playing, for reading on a blanket while kids swing and dig, for spontaneous ice cream stops and stroller naps in the shade.

Englischer Garten

Yes, it’s iconic—but for good reason. This massive park runs right through the heart of the city and is full of little surprises (like sheep grazing in the meadows!). We usually start near the Chinese Tower—the big wooden playground there is shaded and safe, and there’s a carousel and beer garden right next door, which feels like a win for everyone.

From there, we’ll wander the paths down to the Eisbach wave to watch the surfers, or rent a paddle boat at Kleinhesseloher See. You could spend all day here and still discover something new.

Westpark

A family favorite! There’s a great adventure playground, shaded walking paths, and wide-open spaces perfect for impromptu picnics or chasing bubbles. In the evenings, keep an eye out for outdoor film nights or cultural festivals. We don’t make it to Westpark as often as I’d like (we’re based on the other side of town), but when we do, I always wonder why we waited so long.

Ostpark

A favorite for East-side families, Ostpark has one of the best playgrounds in the city. Think: sand, climbing structures, swings, a flying fox, and plenty of room to run. It’s also right next to Michaeligarten, a family-friendly beer garden with big open lawns and shade trees—ideal for a post-playground bite.

The Best Lakes and Water Play Around Munich for Kids

I’m originally from Florida, so you think I’d be used to handling heat, but truth be told, I hate it. So when it starts to get hot, I’m all for ways to keep things cool. Thankfully, Munich has plenty of places to cool off. From water playgrounds, outdoor pools, to trips to the nearby lakes, water play is a must-do summer activity with kids.

Feringasee

Not too far from the city, this lake is great for kids: sandy shores, clear water, and a wide grassy area for beach tents and play. There’s also a little kiosk for snacks and ice cream.

Langwieder Seenplatte

This cluster of lakes west of the city (Langwieder See, Lußsee, Birkensee) is perfect for families. You’ll find easy stroller-accessible paths, sunbathing lawns, and even mini-golf.

Freisinger Fresch

If you’re up for a short drive north, Fresch Freising is a pool complex that makes the journey totally worth it. Multiple pools, waterslides, a toddler splash zone, and lots of open space to stretch out between dips—it’s a great day trip option if you want to explore outside the city.

For a full round-up of public pools (including opening hours and locations), check out the Munich-Kids Outdoor Pool Guide. It’s a go-to reference all summer long.

Kid-Friendly Hikes Near Munich

If you’ve ever heard me talk about why we love living in Munich, the proximity to the mountains is always at the top of my list. It’s one of the things that makes this city so livable. On any given weekend, you can hop on the train and find yourself on a forest trail or alpine ridge before lunch.

As a family, we often dream about moving closer to the mountains. But for now, we take advantage of every chance we get. Hiking has become a core part of our rhythm—it’s our way of pressing pause, breathing deep, and letting the girls explore at their own pace. If you’ve got littles, a hiking backpack is a must—we’ve used ours more times than I can count.

Here are some of our favorite (and manageable!) hikes with kids in tow.

Maisinger Schlucht

Just outside of Starnberg, this is an easy win for families. The trail winds along a shaded gorge with a small creek, and there are tons of places to stop and explore. It’s perfect on a hot day—cool, calm, and full of little bridges and splash spots. Some parts are stroller-friendly, though we usually bring a carrier just in case.

Neureuth via Tegernsee

This is a classic. If you’ve only got time for one big hike while you’re here, make it this one. Depending on your starting point, it can be steep—but it’s very doable with breaks, and the views at the top are spectacular. The Hütte at the summit serves up hearty Bavarian food (and cake!), with a view overlooking Lake Tegernsee and the surrounding peaks. Bring layers and your appetite.

Siebenhütten Klamm

This one feels like stepping into a storybook. Located near Wildbad Kreuth, the Siebenhütten trail is mostly flat and shaded, with a river running alongside and little wooden bridges throughout. There’s even a small mountain hut at the end where you can grab lunch or an ice cream.

Spitzingsee & Schliersee

These areas offer so many family-friendly options. Some trails loop around the lakes (perfect for strollers), while others lead up to panoramic points with yummy food options. Bring swimsuits in the summer—the lakes are irresistible.

Forstenrieder Park

Closer to home, this peaceful forest south of Munich is great for an afternoon wander. The trails are wide and mostly flat, with lots of shade and wildlife-spotting opportunities. We often turn it into a scavenger hunt to keep the kids engaged—looking for feathers, pinecones, and “the biggest leaf.”

Walderlebnispfad Vaterstetten

This “forest adventure path” is designed with kids in mind. Along the trail, you’ll find balance beams, learning stations, and hands-on nature activities. Great for ages 3–8 and ideal for a slow morning out.

Isar Trails at Thalkirchen

Start near the zoo and head along the Isar river. The trail is flat, stroller-friendly, and filled with spots to stop and throw rocks, dip toes in the water, or set up a picnic. It’s a relaxed way to end a busy week and one of our favorite city-close escapes.

These are the tiny, magic-filled memories you’ll want to bottle up—and maybe even print.

Capture Your Summer Memories in Munich

These summer activities in Munich with kids are more than just things to do—they’re opportunities to make memories. Summer doesn’t have to be filled to the brim with travel or elaborate plans. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments happen right here—in the chaos of a picnic gone sideways or the simplicity of skipping rocks by the Isar. Let this be the summer you live a little slower, notice a little more, and actually get in the photo with your kids.

If you want to capture these memories in a way that feels easy and fun, I’d love to help. Get in touch to book a family photography session in Munich this summer. Let’s make sure you’re in the photos too.

Here’s to a season full of sunshine, sticky fingers, and snapshots of real joy.

xx

Meg