From historic mines to tropical water parks: even away from the ski resorts, winter holidaymakers and families with children can find plenty to enjoy in Germany during the winter months. Every winter activity here offers the chance to gain unique experiences and enjoy a wide range of pursuits, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure. Reason enough for SnowTrex to present a selection of the best destinations in Germany that are open from November to March.
1. Berchtesgaden Salt Mine – A unique underground world
- Address: Schellenberg 4a, 83471 Berchtesgaden, Germany
- Prices: Guided tour : Adults €25.50, children under 16 €13
- Opening hours: opendaily from 12 noon to 3 pm
The salt mine in Berchtesgaden is Germany’s oldest active mine and is both a unique attraction and an activity in its own right: once there, visitors embark on a tour that takes them deep into the heart of the mountain. A mine train takes them 650 metres deep into the mountain, past winding tunnels, a salt lake and sparkling light displays. Wooden slides add to the fun on the descent, taking you deeper and deeper into the mine. And it is precisely there that visitors can experience the history of ‘white gold’ with all their senses, including salty air, historic mining tools and extraordinary insights. And at the end, once back in daylight, the mine museum and the salt shop invite you to browse.
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2. VELTINS-EisArena Winterberg – High-speed channel races in the Sauerland
- Address: Schützenstraße 15, 59955 Winterberg
- Prices: Guided tour : Adults €19, children aged 5 to 9 €13
- Opening hours: opendaily from 9 am to 8 pm
The VELTINS Ice Arena at Kahlen Asten is considered one of the world’s fastest bobsleigh tracks. And whilst the elite of the bobsleigh and luge world race down the ice track here in winter, visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the technology behind the construction of the ice track and even take a seat in a two-man ‘taxi bobsleigh’ themselves. Another special event is the IceTube ride, where professionals in full-body suits slide down the ice-smooth track at 50 km/h. The track is 1,330 m long in total and covers a 115-metre elevation gain. And for the brave, the viewing platform offers a magnificent view over the wintry Hochsauerland.
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3. Breitachklamm – Experience frozen waterfalls in winter
- Address: Klammstraße 47, 87561 Oberstdorf, Germany
- Prices: Adults €9, children aged 5 to 15 €2.50
- Opening hours: opendaily from 9 am to 4 pm
In winter, when the weather is perfect, the Breitachklamm transforms into a dazzling spectacle of ice and light. Here, visitors can explore a well-secured path that winds its way between overhanging rock faces, ice curtains and deep pools. And for those looking for an even more special experience, choose a morning slot or one in the evening atmosphere, when torches illuminate the path through the rock. Important for all guests: bring sturdy and, above all, non-slip footwear!
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4. Neuschwanstein Castle – discovery tours against a world-famous backdrop
- Address: Neuschwanstein 12, 87645 Schwangau, Germany
- Prices: Guided tour : Adults €21, children under 17 free; ‘Royal Castles’ combined ticket €40
- Opening hours: opendaily from 10 am to 4 pm
Neuschwanstein Castle is considered the epitome of German Romanticism, and in winter in particular, the castle grounds look like something out of a fairy tale. On a guided tour, visitors can explore the home of King Ludwig II, with the gold decorations in the Throne Room, frescoes featuring motifs from Tannhäuser and Lohengrin, and the High Artists’ Room. You can also enjoy views from the balcony of the world-famous castle across the wintry mountain landscape to Hohenschwangau Castle. By the way: as the tour is conducted with audio guides, it is ideal for curious families.
5. Bodenmais Silver Mine – see the mineral treasures of the Bavarian Forest up close
- Address: Silberberg 28, 94249 Bodenmais, Germany
- Prices: Adults €10, children aged 4 to 15 €6.50, free entry daily with the aktivCARD
- Opening hours: Tuesday , Wednesday and Friday from 12 noon to 2 pm
The guided tour of the Bodenmais Silver Mine brings the local mining tradition to life for visitors, as, equipped with a helmet and overalls, you venture into the 600-metre-long Barbarastollen, past machinery, shafts and impressive caverns. With a constant temperature of 5 degrees, warm clothing is recommended for everyone. Above ground, depending on the season, visitors can enjoy further attractions ranging from the all-weather coaster to child-friendly areas. With the aktivCARD, the mine visit is even free of charge for all holidaymakers at the end.
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6. Brockenbahn – A summit tour on a historic train
- Address: Wernigeroderailway station , Bahnhofsplatz 6, 38855 Wernigerode, alternatively Schierke railway station or Drei Annen Hohne railway station
- Prices: Adults one way €43.00, return €65.00; children aged 6 to 14 €26.00/€39.00; afternoon return fare €55.00
- Opening hours: subject to timetable
The Harz Mountains really show their special side in winter, particularly around the Brocken. That’s why a trip on the Brocken Railway is a real experience and ideal for a day out. The historic steam locomotive takes visitors from Wernigerode up to the highest mountain in northern Germany (1,141 m) in around one hour and 40 minutes, and from Drei Annen Hohne in around 50 minutes. During the journey, impressive views of snow-covered forests and wintry landscapes unfold, making the trip something truly special.
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7. Black Forest Water Park – Wellness against a winter backdrop
- Address: Am Badeparadies 1, 79822 Titisee-Neustadt, Germany
- Prices: 2-hour ticket from 12 euros and day ticket from 27 euros
- Opening hours: opendaily from 9 am to 10 pm
The Black Forest Water Park is an ideal destination, especially during the cold season. Whilst winter temperatures prevail outside, a tropical world with summery temperatures awaits visitors inside. Palm trees, turquoise water and numerous wellness and adventure pools ensure relaxation and a holiday atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing soak in the Vitaltherme, unwinding in the saunas or having action-packed water fun with the family, there’s a real water paradise for everyone here! And in winter, it offers the perfect combination of relaxation and variety, providing a welcome contrast to the cold season.
8. Oberstdorf Ski Flying Hill – The perfect stage for ski flying shows
- Address: Roßbichlstraße 2-6, 87561 Oberstdorf, Germany
- Prices: Adults €15, children aged 6 to 17 €11.50
- Opening hours: opendaily from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm
The Oberstdorf Ski Flying Hill is an impressive destination in winter, as the complex towers high above the snow-covered Stillach Valley. Through the arena’s large glass façade, visitors have a perfect view of the hill, where athletes prepare for their daring jumps. You can also take lifts right to the top of the ski jump tower and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the winter-white Allgäu mountains from there. Down below, the stadium invites you to experience the competitive atmosphere up close, especially when training or competition jumps are taking place.
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FAQ on places to visit in Germany
Which destinations in Germany are particularly suitable for families in winter?
Exciting underground tours await at the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine and the Bodenmais Silver Mine. A fairytale atmosphere reigns at Neuschwanstein Castle, which is particularly peaceful and atmospheric in winter, whilst action-loving families will get their money’s worth at the Veltins-EisArena in Winterberg or find relaxation and fun for all ages at the Badeparadies Schwarzwald with its tropical water park.
What events or activities are there in Germany away from the ski slopes?
Many ski regions offer alternatives here: in particular, winter toboggan runs or snow parks (Winterberg), guided torchlight walks, curling, horse-drawn sleigh rides or mine tours (for example in the Harz Mountains or Bavaria). Winter tours are also offered at castles (Neuschwanstein) and fortresses. Thermal spas and indoor swimming pools are also popular winter highlights.
What should holidaymakers bear in mind when planning winter excursions in Germany?
Opening times and possible winter closures are important. Many attractions have reduced opening hours during the cold season or face snow-related restrictions, with some attractions closed due to weather conditions. Visitors should therefore always check the current opening times and ticket prices in advance. It is also advisable to bring warm clothing and sturdy footwear for mountain or cave tours.
Are there any free or affordable highlights for winter holidays in Germany?
Yes. Viewpoints, winter walking trails and parks (such as those around castles) are often accessible free of charge. Many places also host free winter events or Christmas markets, and there are nature experiences such as snow walks to enjoy.
Which winter activities in Germany offer relaxation for those seeking a break?
Thermal and wellness spas are ideal for unwinding. Romantic horse-drawn sleigh rides or guided wellness walks with a stop at cosy huts are relaxing activities. And peaceful snowshoe walks in national parks or visiting nativity scenes and Christmas markets in historic towns also offer relaxation and cultural enjoyment.
