Jena: A Family Adventure Filled with History and Fun

Discover Jena: Fun for the whole family in Germany's cultural gem!

19 July 2023

Jena, Germany offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history and diverse attractions. Explore the fascinating Zeiss Planetarium, where kids can gaze at the stars and learn about the universe in a fun and interactive way. Visit the scenic Paradies Park, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls, offering beautiful views of the city and a playground for kids to enjoy. Lastly, discover the charming Schiller's Garden House, a museum dedicated to the life and works of Friedrich Schiller, featuring exhibitions and activities suitable for the whole family.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Charms of Jena

  • Kick off your Jena adventure by checking into the enchanting Hotel Schwarzer Bär, a family-friendly haven with cozy rooms and a delightful breakfast spread.
  • Dive into history at the grand Zeiss-Planetarium, where you can marvel at the wonders of the universe while pretending you're an astronaut (blast off!).
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Paradies Park, a lush oasis of tranquility that will make you feel like you've stepped into a fairytale forest.
  • Unleash your inner nerd at the Phyletic Museum, a treasure trove of natural history filled with oddities that will make your jaw drop (did someone say dinosaurs?).
  • Quench your thirst at the quirky Kulturbrauerei, a brewery housed in a former slaughterhouse, where you can sample their delectable craft beers (cheers!).
Day 2

Discovering Jena's Cultural Gems

  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Café Bohemia, a charming spot with a bohemian atmosphere and mouthwatering pastries that will transport you to Paris.
  • Immerse yourself in art at the Kunsthalle Jena, a contemporary art gallery that showcases thought-provoking exhibitions from both local and international artists.
  • Get hands-on at the Optical Museum, where you can try on vintage eyewear and learn about Jena's rich optical heritage (hello, geek chic!).
  • Fuel up with a hearty lunch at Schiller's Gartenhaus, a rustic restaurant tucked away in a picturesque garden, serving up traditional Thuringian cuisine.
  • Wander through the botanical wonderland of Botanischer Garten Jena, a serene oasis bursting with vibrant flowers, exotic plants, and whimsical sculptures.
Day 3

Delving into Jena's Natural Beauty

  • Lace up your hiking boots and venture into the stunning Saale-Holzland district, where you can embark on a scenic hike along the picturesque Saale River.
  • Step into a fairy tale at the stunning Drackendorf Castle, a Renaissance gem surrounded by lush gardens, where you can imagine yourself as royalty (cue majestic music!).
  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at Café Immergrün, a cozy spot serving up mouthwatering vegetarian and vegan delights that will leave your taste buds singing.
  • Take a leisurely boat ride along the Saale River, soaking in the breathtaking views and enjoying the gentle sway of the water (ahoy, Captain!).
  • End your Jena escapade with a visit to the inviting Schiller's Garden, a tranquil park where you can relax, picnic, and bid farewell to this charming city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Jena by plane is to fly into Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) and then take the train from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof (Leipzig Central Station) to Jena Paradies Station.

Car

The best way to get to Jena by car is to take the A4 motorway and exit at Jena-Göschwitz or Jena-Zentrum.

Train

The best way to get to Jena by train is to take the ICE train from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Frankfurt Central Station) to Jena Paradies Station.

Boat

There is no waterway transport to Jena as the city is not located near any major rivers or lakes.

Bus

The best way to get to Jena by bus is to take the Flixbus from Berlin Central Bus Station to Jena Bus Station.

More travel plans

Jena, Germany: 5 Days of Family-Friendly Adventures!

Jena, Germany offers a perfect family-friendly destination filled with historical charm and outdoor adventures. Explore the impressive Zeiss Planetarium, where kids can discover the wonders of the universe through interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring shows. Embark on a scenic hike in the nearby Saale Valley, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, or visit the Fairy Grottoes, an enchanting underground world featuring sparkling stalagmites and hidden waterfalls, ensuring a memorable trip for the whole family.

Jena, Germany: Budget-Friendly Fun and Adventure!

A trip to Jena on a limited budget can still be enjoyable with the range of affordable options available. This vibrant German city is home to the famous Carl Zeiss optics company, as well as a wealth of historic architecture, scientific museums, and scenic parks. Budget-friendly accommodations, local street food, and free walking tours make Jena a perfect destination for travelers seeking a memorable and economical experience.

Families Delight in Jena: Budget-Friendly Fun Galore!

Jena, Germany offers a perfect blend of rich history and modern attractions, making it an excellent choice for a family friendly trip. Explore the fascinating Optical Museum, boasting interactive exhibits that will captivate children and adults alike. Take a stroll through the picturesque botanical gardens and enjoy the city's laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of parks and green spaces for the little ones to play and unwind.

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Jena, Germany offers a wonderful family-friendly trip with a mix of history, nature, and educational attractions. Experience the city's rich cultural heritage by exploring the Zeiss Planetarium and the impressive 13th-century Jenaer Church. Take a stroll in the enchanting botanical garden or embark on a thrilling hiking adventure in the nearby Saale Valley for an unforgettable trip that caters to everyone's interests.