Family-Friendly Adventures in Timmendorfer Strand!

SEA LIFE® Timmendorfer Strand

Why Visit?

Embark on an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE® Timmendorfer Strand, a captivating aquarium experience perfect for families. Located in the serene coastal town of Timmendorfer Strand, this attraction is easily accessible by car or public transport. From Hamburg, it"s just about an hour"s drive, or take the regional train to Timmendorfer Strand station and hop on a short bus ride to the aquarium.

Morning Visit

Start your visit right at opening time to enjoy the exhibits with fewer crowds. Begin with the interactive rock pool where kids can touch a starfish and learn about the creatures from the enthusiastic staff. Discover the mesmerizing world of jellyfish in the Jellyfish Discovery, where the dance-like movements of these sea creatures are illuminated in changing lights.

Midday Exploration

Head over to the Seahorse Kingdom, where you can learn about the breeding program of these mystic creatures. Seahorses are unique as the males carry the babies! Continue to the tropical ocean tank, a highlight featuring a walk-through underwater tunnel. Watch in awe as sharks, rays, and a kaleidoscope of fish glide overhead.

Afternoon Adventure

After lunch at the nearby beachfront cafes, circle back for the daily feedings. Check the schedule upon arrival and plan to watch the exciting shark feeding. Engage with the educators as they explain the habits and challenges these majestic animals face.

Educational Wrap-up

End your visit at the conservation exhibit, where interactive displays engage children with important environmental issues, including how plastic affects ocean life. It"s a fantastic way for kids to learn about conservation and how they can help protect marine life.

SEA LIFE® Timmendorfer Strand is not only a journey beneath the waves but also an educational experience that will leave lasting impressions on all family members, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine conservation.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Laboe Naval Memorial

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable journey to the Laboe Naval Memorial, located on the scenic shores of Laboe, near Kiel, Germany. Perfect for history enthusiasts and families alike, this site offers a profound glimpse into maritime history.

Getting There

Laboe is easily accessible by public transport from Kiel. Take the ferry from Kiel to the Laboe pier for a scenic route, or hop on bus line 100/101 which directly connects Kiel central station to Laboe.

Start Your Tour at the Laboe Naval Memorial (Marine-Ehrenmal)

Begin your visit at the towering Laboe Naval Memorial, erected in 1936. This impressive 85-meter-high tower, made of brick and limestone, serves as a tribute to sailors of all nationalities who lost their lives at sea and as a symbol of hope for peaceful seafaring. Climb the tower to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Baltic Sea. The climb might be a bit challenging for young kids or elderly family members, but the view from the top is rewarding.

Visit the Submarine U-995

Right next to the tower, explore the German submarine U-995, which is a real WWII-era submarine turned into a museum. It"s one of the world"s only remaining Type VII U-boats and provides a unique insight into the cramped, challenging conditions faced by submariners during the war. This authentic experience can be quite an adventure for kids, giving them a hands-on history lesson.

Relax and Reflect

After your tour, relax on the beautiful beaches of Laboe or enjoy a meal at one of the seaside restaurants. The area offers various family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and ice cream parlors.

Interesting Fact

The Laboe Tower was originally dedicated to the navy war dead of World War I but was rededicated in 1954 to commemorate the sailors of all nationalities who died during the maritime conflicts of both World Wars.

This tour not only educates but also offers a moment to reflect and appreciate the peace and beauty of the seaside environment.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

German Submarine U-995

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure at the German Submarine U-995, a real WWII submarine that has been transformed into a fascinating museum. Located in Laboe, near Kiel, this historical gem is perfect for a day trip filled with discovery and education.

### Morning: Visit to German Submarine U-995

Getting There: From Kiel, take a scenic 20-minute drive or hop on a bus (501 or 502) directly to Laboe. The submarine is situated right on the beach, opposite the Naval Memorial.

Experience

- Start your tour early to avoid crowds. As you approach, the imposing figure of U-995, painted in its original grey, captures the imagination instantly.

- Step inside the submarine and marvel at the tight quarters where 52 sailors lived and worked. The interior is preserved to show the living and operational conditions during WWII. It’s a captivating insight into the life under the sea and the challenges faced by submariners.

Interesting Fact: U-995 is the world"s only remaining Type VII U-boat. It was commissioned in 1943 and served until the end of the war. Imagine exploring the same spaces where history unfolded!

### Lunch Break

Grab a bite at one of the local seaside restaurants in Laboe. Enjoy traditional German seafood or pack your own picnic to enjoy on the beach.

### Afternoon: Naval Memorial (Marine-Ehrenmal)

Getting There: A short walk from U-995, the Naval Memorial offers panoramic views of the Baltic Sea.

- Climb the tower to experience breathtaking views and reflect on the maritime history commemorated here.

- The memorial also includes an indoor exhibition about naval history, perfect for a deeper dive into the context around U-995.

End your Day at the Beach

Relax on the shores of Laboe beach, letting the kids play in the sand, or take a refreshing swim in the sea.

This educational yet thrilling visit to U-995 and its surroundings offers a perfect blend of history, learning, and leisure, making it an ideal outing for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Holsten Gate (Holstentor)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at Holsten Gate and Lübeck

Morning: Arrival and Exploration at Holsten Gate

- Start at Holsten Gate (Holstentor): Begin your day at Lübeck’s most iconic landmark. This famed city gate, dating back to the 15th century, is a marvel of Brick Gothic architecture. Get there early to beat the crowds and enjoy the morning light on the old brickwork.

- Getting There: Holsten Gate is easily accessible by public transport. Take the bus to the "Holstentorplatz" stop, or if you"re arriving by train, it’s just a short 10-minute walk from Lübeck’s main train station.

- Interesting Fact: The towers of the gate are uneven, which is not a mistake but rather a result of centuries of settling foundations!

Noon: Visit the Museum

- Holstentor Museum: Inside the gate, there’s a fascinating museum where you and your family can learn about the Hanseatic League and the rich history of Lübeck. Don"t miss the old models of the city and interactive displays that engage children.

- Tip: Check for family tickets and audio guides in various languages to enhance your experience.

Afternoon: Stroll and Snack

- River Trave and Lunch: Post museum, take a leisurely walk along the scenic River Trave. Stop for lunch at one of the riverside cafes and enjoy traditional German cuisine.

- Must-Try Dish: Try the local marzipan, a specialty of Lübeck, at a nearby café.

Evening: Old Town Adventure

- Explore Lübeck’s Old Town: Conclude your day with a stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. The alleys and courtyards are filled with stories.

- Getting Around: Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, making it safe and easy for families to explore.

End your day with some local shopping, picking up unique souvenirs like handcrafted items or local sweets. Lübeck’s blend of historical intrigue and charming ambiance makes it a perfect family destination!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.