Bochum, Germany: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget!

Explore Bochum: Fun-filled adventures await the whole family!

19 July 2023

Bochum, Germany is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its abundance of attractions and activities suited for all ages. Dive into the fascinating world of science and technology at the family-friendly Deutsches Bergbau-Museum or enjoy a day of fun and adventure at the family park Klettermax in the beautiful Westpark. Don't miss a visit to Germany's largest urban park, the Westfalenpark, where children can run freely, ride the mini steam train, or explore the playgrounds while parents relax in the serene atmosphere.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Swanky Sights & Sizzling Schnitzel

  • Check into lovely Hotel Excelsior, a charming family-friendly oasis in the heart of Bochum!
  • Unleash your inner culture vulture at the Ruhr Museum, showcasing the incredible industrial history of the region.
  • Swing by the beautiful Starlight Express Theater, where catchy tunes and dazzling roller-skating await.
  • Stroll through the strikingly peaceful Tierpark, and make some fluffy friends at the petting zoo.
  • Devour a mouthwatering schnitzel at the rustic Ratskeller, where the portions are as big as your wildest German dreams.
Day 2

Quirky Museums & Magical Mines

  • Discover the peculiarities of the human body at the German Mining Museum, where you'll learn about Grimme, the mining gnome.
  • Embark on a thrilling underground adventure at the Zeche Zollern colliery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't forget your hard hat!
  • Explore the fascinating collection of vintage cars at the Deutsches Bergbau-Museum, a petrolhead's paradise.
  • Marvel at the art collections and weird wonders at the Museum unter Tage – an underground museum like you've never seen before.
  • Treat your taste buds to a fusion of Turkish and German flavors at Oase Kebab, dishing out scrumptious döner delicacies.
Day 3

Parks, Puppets & Pretzels

  • Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy a leisurely picnic in the peaceful Botanical Garden, filled with lush greenery and fragrant flowers.
  • Step into a magical world at the Bochum Puppet Theater, where skillful puppeteers bring stories to life with enchanting characters.
  • Embark on a boat ride along the beautiful Kemnader Lake, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and charming villages.
  • Admire the stunning architecture of the Kemnade Castle and soak in the serene ambiance of its surrounding park.
  • Satisfy your pretzel cravings at Zeche Carl, a quirky venue offering heavenly baked goods and live music to boogie to.
Day 4

Fun-filled Factory & Flavorsome Farewell

  • Dive into the vibrant world of creativity at the Jahrhunderthalle – an old industrial space turned modern cultural hotspot.
  • Let your little ones' imagination run wild at the Zeiss Planetarium, where they can explore the wonders of the universe.
  • Snack on scrumptious street food at the bustling Bermudadreieck, a lively area packed with eclectic bars and flavorful cuisine.
  • Take a leisurely pedal boat ride on the idyllic Lake Starnberg and soak up the mesmerizing views of the surrounding nature.
  • Bid farewell to Bochum with a delectable dinner at the trendy La Tapita, savoring tapas that will transport you straight to Spain.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bochum by plane is to land at Düsseldorf International Airport, which is about 30 miles away from Bochum. From there, you can take a train, bus or taxi into Bochum.

Car

Bochum is well-connected to Germany's extensive autobahn network and can be easily reached by car. The city is located close to several major motorways, including the A40 and A43.

Train

Bochum has several train stations, but the central station (Bochum Hauptbahnhof) is the best option for most travelers. There are regular train services to Bochum from cities throughout Germany, including Frankfurt, Berlin and Munich.

Boat

Bochum is located inland and is not accessible by boat.

Bus

Bochum is well-served by long-distance bus services from cities throughout Germany, as well as some international destinations. The main bus station in Bochum is conveniently located close to the central train station.

More travel plans

Bochum Bliss: A Day of Culture & Nature

Bochum is a charming city located in the heart of the Ruhr region, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. As a tourist, you can explore the city's many attractions, including the notable German Mining Museum and the Jahrhunderthalle, a stunning concert hall built in the 20th century. Additionally, visitors can take in the beauty of the local parks and nature reserves, such as the Westpark and Kemnader See, which offer hiking, biking, and boating opportunities.

Romantic Weekend Getaway in Bochum, Germany

Bochum, in western Germany's Ruhr region, may not be high on most travelers' romantic getaway list, but its charming Old Town, picturesque parks and gardens, and vibrant cultural scene offer ample opportunities for lovers to connect. The world-renowned Starlight Express musical is a must-see for theater aficionados, while the Ruhr Park and the Botanical Garden provide idyllic settings for strolls and picnics. Whether admiring the iconic Gasometer or cozying up in a quaint cafe, couples will find plenty of reasons to fall in love with Bochum.

Bochum: Budget-Friendly Gems and Local Delights

A trip to Bochum, Germany on a limited budget can still be an exciting experience. There are many free attractions such as the famous Starlight Express theater and the Bochum City Museum. Staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or low-cost hotels and taking advantage of public transportation can also help keep costs low.

Experience the Quirky Charm of Bochum in 2 Days

Bochum, Germany offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a mix of cultural, educational, and recreational activities. Explore the fascinating mining heritage at the Ruhr Museum and Duisburg-Nord Industrial Landscape Park, where kids can learn about the region's industrial history in an interactive way. The thriving Zeiss Planetarium and Jahrhunderthalle Bochum also offer exciting shows and performances suitable for all ages.