13 Awesome Things to Do in Ludwigsburg with Kids
Are you looking for things to do in Ludwigsburg with kids? We can help you there!
If you’re planning a family-friendly trip to this charming town, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do that will keep everyone entertained.
We have visited Ludwigsburg several times with our kids, and no matter what their ages, we have always found ways to stay busy and entertained while exploring this awesome city.
From pretty parks and gardens to fascinating museums and historical landmarks, Ludwigsburg offers a ton of family-friendly activities that are sure to fill up your itinerary.
Ready to learn more? Let’s jump right in!
Visiting Ludwigsburg Germany with Kids
During our trip to Stuttgart with the kids, we did a day trip to Ludwigsburg. There was more than enough to keep us busy for the day.
We have highlighted the best and most popular things to do in Ludwigsburg below.
1. Take a Tour of the Residenzschloss
One of the must-see attractions in Ludwigsburg for families is the Residenzschloss, or the “Residential Palace.”
This iconic palace was once the residence of the Dukes of Württemberg and now serves as a museum.
You can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about its fascinating history, as well as explore its stunning gardens and fountains.
Tours are available in English. And while younger kids may not be interested in the history aspect, there are tons of interesting items on display that may catch their eye.
Besides, as the centrepiece of the city, how can you not want to have a peek at its opulence?
2. Stroll Through the Blühendes Barock Gardens
If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity in Ludwigsburg that the whole family can enjoy, be sure to take a stroll through the Blühendes Barock Gardens.
These gorgeous gardens are home to a stunning array of flowers, trees, and fountains, and provide a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely walk.
Our kids loved exploring the themed gardens, including a fairy tale garden and an herb garden, and seeing the peacocks and deer that roam freely throughout the grounds.
In the summertime, the gardens also host a variety of concerts and events, making them a great destination for families looking for a fun and relaxing day out.
Don’t forget to bring a picnic and enjoy a snack on one of the many benches or grassy areas!
3. Visit the Märchengarten (Fairytale Garden)
For a magical family adventure in Ludwigsburg, be sure to visit the Märchengarten, or “Fairy Tale Garden.”
This quirky little park is home to over 40 different fairy tale scenes, featuring characters like Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty.
If you are travelling with younger kids, this is the place to go!
They will love exploring the whimsical animatronic displays, and can even climb on some of the sculptures and interact with the exhibits.
The park also features a playground, a splash pad, and a restaurant, making it a great destination for a full day of family fun.
4. Enjoy a Treat in the Marktplatz
One of our favourite things to do in Ludwigsburg is to visit the Marktplatz, or “Market Square.”
This bustling square is located in the heart of town and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
We loved seeing the colourful buildings and fountains surrounding the square. And it’s the perfect place to sit, have a break, and do a little people-watching.
During the warmer summer months, you will find a weekend farmers’ market in the square, as well as lively street performers.
🍰 Insider Tip: If you end up in Ludwigsburg’s Marktplatz, we would totally recommend stopping into Café-Stüble Lutz for a slice of their incredible Zwetschgenkuchen, or any other cake for that matter. It was the best we had during our last trip to Germany!
5. Explore the Seeschloss Monrepos
Seeschloss Monrepos, or “Monrepos Lakeside Palace,” is a beautiful palace situated right on a lake and is surrounded by stunning parkland.
It is one of two smaller palaces on the estate and is actually connected to the Favorite Palace and Ludwigsburg Palace by pedestrian paths.
Monrepos is the only palace that remained in possession of the Royal Family of Württemberg.
In fact, it is still a private home today.
You can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about its history, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens and forests that surround it.
Kids will love seeing the resident swans and ducks. But we would recommend renting a pedal boat to explore the lake!
The park is perfect for a picnic, or just a quiet afternoon enjoying nature.
6. Eat All the Spaetzle at a Biergarten
No trip to Germany would be complete without enjoying some of the local cuisine.
And one of the best places to do that in Ludwigsburg is at a Biergarten.
These traditional German beer gardens offer a relaxed and casual atmosphere, perfect for families.
While Hubby and I enjoyed a refreshing pint of beer, our kids dug into some delicious spaetzle, a type of German noodle.
The schnitzel and bratwurst are also top-notch in Ludwigsburg.
Most Biergartens also feature live music or entertainment, making them a great destination for a fun and lively evening out with the whole family.
Not only that but many Biergartens we went to also had playgrounds on the property.
Of course, these were not the places located in the heart of the city, but closer to the outskirts of town.
7. Learn About Fashion at Das Modemuseum
For a unique and educational experience in Ludwigsburg, be sure to visit Das Modemuseum, or “The Fashion Museum”.
Das Modemuseum is dedicated to the history of fashion and features a huge collection of clothing, accessories, and textiles from the 18th century to the present day.
If you are travelling with teens or fashionistas, or in our case both, this is a must-see!
Located inside the banquet hall of the Residenzschloss, you can take a guided tour of the museum and learn about the evolution of fashion over time.
With over 700 pieces on display, kids will love seeing the elaborate costumes and accessories from eras long past.
8. Learn Some History at the Alter Friedhof
The Alter Friedhof, or “Old Cemetery” is not a place that most people would think of for an afternoon of sightseeing.
However, this historic cemetery dates back to the 16th century and is the final resting place of many notable figures from Ludwigsburg’s history.
You can stroll through the cemetery and learn about the town’s past through the tombstones and monuments.
We enjoyed seeing the ornate gravestones and had fun searching for the graves of famous residents, such as architect Friedrich Weinbrenner and poet Christian Wagner.
With beautiful gardens and quiet walkways, the Alter Friedhof can also be a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the town center.
9. Admire the Evangelical City Church
Constructed between 1718 and 1726 by the renowned builder Donato Giuseppe Frisoni, the Evangelical City Church, or “Stadtkirche” is an iconic landmark that has graced the market square for centuries.
The gorgeous baroque-style church has two towers that soar to a height of 44 metres, completely dwarfing the neighbouring Catholic church.
Let the kids burn off some extra energy by climbing up the tower. The views of the town from the top are awesome.
On Saturdays, you can enjoy the sounds of the church tower bells and organ music while shopping at the weekly market.
10. See all the Pumpkins at the Ludwigsburg Kürbisausstellung
If you’re visiting Ludwigsburg in the fall, be sure to check out the Ludwigsburg Kürbisfest, or “Pumpkin Festival.”
This annual event is held in the beautiful palace gardens.
It features thousands of pumpkins and gourds on display, all expertly carved and arranged into jaw-dropping works of art.
Known as the largest pumpkin festival in the world, you can explore the themed exhibits, take part in fun activities like pumpkin painting and carving, and even taste some delicious pumpkin treats like pumpkin soup and pumpkin pie.
Kids will love seeing the colourful displays and the giant pumpkin sculptures, some of which are over 1,000 pounds!
If you are visiting Ludwigsburg towards the end of summer or into fall, then definitely add the Kürbisausstellung to your itinerary.
It really is a must-see attraction.
11. Taste Some Lebkuchen at the Barock Weihnachtsmarkt
For a festive and delicious experience in Ludwigsburg during the holiday season, be sure to visit the Barock Weihnachtsmarkt, or “Baroque Christmas Market.”
This traditional Christmas market takes place in the historic city center and features over 170 vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious holiday treats.
We really enjoyed sipping a cup of warm Glühwein, a type of mulled wine, while browsing the stalls and soaking up the festive atmosphere.
Our kids enjoyed all the arts and crafts stalls at the Market. From gorgeous handmade ornaments to a stall dedicated to large puppets, there really is so much to see.
And while there is plenty of delicious food to try, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to taste some Lebkuchen.
This type of German gingerbread is a staple at most Christmas Markets and definitely something you should try at least once.
Is Ludwigsburg Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Ludwigsburg is a charming little town with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do.
From exploring the stunning Baroque architecture of the Residenzschloss to strolling through the beautiful gardens at Blühendes Barock, there are plenty of attractions to keep visitors of all ages entertained.
The town also has plenty of museums and galleries to visit, as well as regular events and festivals to enjoy throughout the year.
With delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, Ludwigsburg is a great destination for families looking to explore Germany.
Where to Stay in Ludwigsburg
Ludwigsburg is an interesting city to explore. If you are planning to stay the night, there are plenty of great accommodations available in all price ranges.
Luxury Hotels
Schlosshotel Monrepos
This hotel has comfortable rooms, a golf course, a winery, horse stables, and a lake, making it a top choice for families looking for comfort and lots of amenities.
Nestor Hotel Ludwigsburg
Close to Ludwigsburg Palace, this hotel combines historic charm with modern features, suitable for families who appreciate the convenience and a touch of history.
Moderate Hotels
Best Western Hotel Favorit
Located in a quiet area, this hotel is a short walk from the train station and offers good value with all the necessary facilities for a comfortable stay.
HARBR. Hotel Ludwigsburg
This modern hotel with comfortable, stylish rooms, is located close to the city center and Ludwigsburg Palace and is known for its friendly service.
Budget Hotels
Ibis Budget Ludwigsburg
Right by the train station and close to public transport, this hotel offers basic, clean rooms at a low cost.
Boutique-Hotel Kronenstuben
This hotel offers a unique stay with individually decorated rooms and is situated right in the heart of Ludwigsburg near the market square.
How to Get to Ludwigsburg
Depending on where you are coming from, you have several options for getting to Ludwigsburg. Whether you fly, drive, take the bus or the train, it really isn’t difficult to get into the city.
Air
- The closest airport is Stuttgart Airport. From there, take a train or rent a car. It’s about 45 minutes to get to Ludwigsburg.
- If you are coming from overseas, the closest international airport is Frankfurt. From there, you can connect to the Stuttgart Airport, then take the train or drive to Ludwigsburg.
Train or Public Transit
- Ludwigsburg has excellent train connections. From Stuttgart Central Station, it’s just a 25-minute ride.
- Local buses connect Ludwigsburg with surrounding areas, making public transport a convenient option.
Car
- If you’re driving, Ludwigsburg is easily accessible via the A81 motorway. It’s about 20 minutes north of Stuttgart.
- You will find plenty of paid parking in Ludwigsburg.
How to Get Around Ludwigsburg
Once you’re in Ludwigsburg, getting around is easy and convenient.
While we found it quite easy to explore on foot, there are other options to easily navigate the city with your family:
Bus
- Ludwigsburg has a reliable bus network that covers the entire city, ideal for reaching further out attractions.
Car
- For maximum flexibility, especially if you plan to visit places outside the city, consider renting a car.
Taxis or Ride-Sharing
- Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for quick and easy transport.
Bicycle
- Renting bicycles is a great option. Ludwigsburg is bike-friendly, with safe cycling paths throughout.
On Foot
- The city center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore the main attractions by walking.
Parking in Ludwigsburg
Finding a place to park your car when you visit Ludwigsburg doesn’t have to be a hassle.
The city offers a variety of paid parking options, including parking lots and garages.
Look out for the “Blue Parking Garage” or “ParkPlatz” signs along the roads.
On Sundays, many of the outdoor parking lots in the city offer free parking, but be sure to double-check the signs to avoid any fines.
You can find a variety of hotels in close proximity to the Residential Palace and the city center.
Or if you prefer, there are also some great accommodations just outside the downtown area that only require a short drive or ride on public transportation.
What to Do in Ludwigsburg – FAQs
Ludwigsburg is known for its impressive Baroque Ludwigsburg Palace, one of the largest in Germany, and its beautiful gardens. The city also hosts popular events like the Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival.
Ludwigsburg is named after Duke Eberhard Ludwig of Württemberg, who founded the city in the early 18th century.
Ludwigsburg Palace is one of the largest Baroque palaces in Europe, featuring 452 rooms spread over three main buildings. The palace covers an area of 18 hectares (44.5 acres).
The best time to visit Ludwigsburg is during the spring and autumn. Spring offers beautiful blooms in the palace gardens, and autumn features the famous Pumpkin Festival, which is a fun event for families. For the festive atmosphere and holiday markets, then a December visit is a must.
While in Ludwigsburg, consider visiting Stuttgart for its cultural sites, Heidelberg for its historic castle, Tübingen for its medieval old town, and Esslingen am Neckar for its beautiful architecture and seasonal markets. All of these destinations can be reached easily by train or car.
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your family trip to Ludwigsburg, Germany.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or indoor fun, this charming town has something to offer everyone.
We really enjoyed our first time in Ludwigsburg, and have since returned several times. And I’m pretty sure that we will be back soon!
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Related Posts:
- 13 Awesome Things to Do in Ludwigsburg with Kids
- Is the Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival Worth Visiting?
- Ultimate Guide to the Ludwigsburg Christmas Market
