Traveling with Kids: Your Europa-Park Planning Guide

Written By Colleen

Best Tips for Stress-Free Family Travel to Europa-Park

“Transportation is the centre of the world. It is the glue of our daily lives. When it goes well, we don’t see it. When it goes wrong, it negatively colours our day, makes us feel angry and curtails our possibilities.”
— Robin Chase
3 of Europa-Park's hotels, alongside the park andthe Europa-Park shuttle bus.

"EP Hotels" by Europa-Park PR CC BY-SA 4.0.

Europa-Park in Rust, Germany, is Europe's largest theme park by area and one of the most popular destinations for families looking for fun, culture, and thrills. Europa-Park stands out from other European theme parks because of its unique blend of thrilling rides and cultural immersion. Each section authentically represents a European country with themed architecture, cuisine, and attractions.

Plus, Europa-Park has an amazing sister park just minutes away! Rulantica offers Scandinavian theming in both its indoor and outdoor portions of the park. It has later hours than its “older sister” and year-round access to more than 75% of the park.

But here's the catch: These parks are not in a major city, so reaching them takes some extra planning.

 
 

Whether coming from Paris, Vienna, Frankfurt, Zurich, or even somewhere in the United States, this guide gives you the foundational information you need to choose the best route.

 

Need more detail?

Get your free 46-page, “Insider’s Guide to Getting to Europa-Park” that solves your transportation puzzle with:

  • Complete breakdowns of ALL travel options (plane, train, bus, car) from 4 of Europe's top cities

  • Real price comparisons that could save you €200+ on transportation

  • Time-saving routes that give you more hours in the park and less time in transit

  • Family-tested recommendations that consider children, luggage, and stress points

Don't piece together contradictory information from dozens of websites! Download Now

 

Traveling solo or as a couple gives you flexibility, but visiting with kids or managing a group is a different game.

Here’s why pre-planning matters for families:

  • Fewer connections mean fewer potential delays and disruptions.

  • Some smaller stations and buses may lack accessibility features.

  • Knowing where to stop for meals or breaks can make a big difference.

  • Less time juggling children and luggage leads to a smoother experience.

 

Takeaway: A few smart decisions up front can save hours of stress and keep the focus on the fun!

 

The difference between a smooth family vacation and a stress-filled travel nightmare often comes down to preparation. As parents know all too well, traveling with children requires not just packing the essentials, but anticipating the unexpected. From forgotten medication to missing comfort items that can trigger meltdowns, the small details matter enormously!

Whether you're embarking on a weekend getaway or an international adventure, take a moment to review this checklist before zipping up those suitcases and walking out the door.

  • Book trains and flights early, especially during school holidays (prices can increase by up to 50% during peak seasons)

  • Download train and travel apps (DB Navigator, Trainline, SBB) and pre-load your route information for offline access.

  • Bring portable snacks, downloaded shows, and coloring books (Heading to London too? Check out our FREE 17-page London Activity & Fact Book.)

  • Keep passports, meds, and essentials in a parent's carry-on

  • Confirm ground transport from Ringsheim/Europa-Park station at least 48 hours before arrival

  • Pack EU outlet adapters and a backup charger

 

Insider Tip: When booking online, consider purchasing the Europa-Park Express Bundle, which includes park entry and shuttle service from major transportation hubs at a discount.

 

Paris is one of the most convenient international hubs for reaching Europa-Park, especially for families. Thanks to France's high-speed rail system, getting from Paris to Rust is surprisingly smooth. Most families board a high-speed TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) to Strasbourg, then connect to a German regional train toward Ringsheim/Europa-Park station, just a short shuttle or taxi ride from the park.

Travel times are typically under 4 hours. Trains offer more space than planes, generous luggage policies, and hassle-free boarding without long security lines.

Helpful Tools:

Family Tip: Book early! Ideally, 4–6 months in advance, during school holidays, to access family compartments, better pricing, and guaranteed group seating. Pack snacks and activity books, and download a few movies in advance.

Use multi-language platforms like Trainline or Omio to compare prices and book your journey in one place.

 

Little-Known Advantage: If traveling from Paris with kids, consider the "Famille" fare on TGV trains, which offers up to a 40% discount for families with kids under 12. This isn't always visible on third-party booking sites, so check the SNCF website directly.

 

Vienna is an excellent starting point for families looking to experience the magic of Europa-Park. While slightly farther than Paris, the well-connected rail network makes this journey remarkably straightforward.

Travelers can board Austria's comfortable ÖBB Railjet service to Munich and then transfer to a German ICE train headed toward Offenburg. A final regional connection brings you to Ringsheim/Europa-Park station, where a shuttle bus or taxi takes just minutes to reach the park's entrance.

Travel times generally run between 7 and 8 hours, but the scenic journey through the Alps and along the Rhine Valley becomes part of the adventure.

However, flying is usually the fastest option. Most travelers fly from Vienna to Frankfurt or Basel, then connect by train or shuttle to Europa-Park.

Long travel days can be taxing for kids, so schedule early flights to reduce stress. If your children are under 6, keep essentials like snacks, entertainment, and medications in carry-ons. After landing, expect another 2–4 hours of travel, depending on your selected connection point.

Helpful Tools:

New Option: The seasonal "Europa Express" bus service runs directly from Vienna to Europa-Park on Fridays (April–October) with a return on Sundays.

Family Tip: Early flights help avoid delays. Pack entertainment for layovers or long transfer times.


Larger Groups: Use group bookings or multi-seat transfers. Confirm ground transport in advance.

 

Hidden Gem Route: Consider the overnight ÖBB Nightjet train from Vienna to Offenburg, which offers family sleeper compartments. Children wake up refreshed and are just 30 minutes from Europa-Park. Plus, it’s an adventure in and of itself!

 

Frankfurt is an ideal gateway to Europa-Park for families seeking a straightforward journey to Germany's largest theme park. As a central transportation hub with exceptional rail connections, Frankfurt offers visitors multiple efficient routes to reach the entertainment destination.

Most travelers opt for the direct ICE (InterCity Express) train to Offenburg, followed by a short regional connection to Ringsheim/Europa-Park station, where dedicated shuttle buses await to complete your journey. The trip typically takes around 2.5 hours, providing a stress-free alternative to driving.

German trains feature spacious seating, reliable WiFi, and family-friendly amenities, allowing your Europa-Park adventure to begin the moment you board rather than dealing with the hassles of navigating unfamiliar highways or finding parking.

The Frankfurt airport train station is organized and family-friendly. German trains are punctual, clean, and well-equipped. Families who need quiet or space for strollers may prefer first class.

Helpful Tools:

Local Secret: The "Baden-Württemberg-Ticket" day pass (€24–48) covers all regional trains and can be much cheaper than standard tickets for families.

Family Tip: Choose off-peak times for better seating and less crowding. Tuesday and Wednesday trains are typically 30% less crowded than weekend services.


Larger Groups: Reserve group seating through Deutsche Bahn. Consider first class for extra space.

 

Pro Tip: If flying into Frankfurt Airport (FRA), use the "AIRail" service. Check your luggage to your final train destination when booking with Lufthansa and its partner airlines.

 

Zurich is an excellent starting point for families planning a visit to Europa-Park, offering multiple convenient transportation options.

The well-maintained Swiss and German rail networks make the journey remarkably straightforward. Regular direct connections are from Zurich HB to Basel SBB, followed by a transfer to regional trains heading to Ringsheim/Europa-Park station. The entire trip typically takes about 2.5 hours, making it possible as either a day trip or the start of a more extended stay.

Swiss trains are renowned for their punctuality, panoramic windows that showcase stunning Alpine scenery, and family-friendly amenities, including stroller access, play zones, and quiet compartments. These features create a travel experience that becomes part of the adventure rather than merely a means to reach your destination. Zurich Airport connects directly to the rail network. Expect a 3.5–4.5 hour journey, including transfers.

Helpful Tools:

Local Hack: The "Saver Day Pass" can be purchased up to 60 days in advance on the SBB website at significant discounts (up to 70%).

Family Tip: Quiet cars and play zones can make the trip smoother. Bring coloring books or headphones. Swiss trains often have dedicated family areas with mini-playgrounds on intercity routes.

Larger Groups: Plan your Basel and Freiburg transfers carefully. Swiss trains are punctual, so allow for buffer time.

 

Insider Tip: If traveling with a lot of luggage, consider the lesser-known border station at Weil am Rhein instead of Basel SBB. It has fewer stairs and better taxi availability.

 

For American families dreaming of Europa-Park's enchanting attractions, the journey across the Atlantic requires some strategic planning but is rewarded with a seamless European adventure.

The trip begins with a transatlantic flight to one of several gateway cities. We recommend flying into Frankfurt, Zurich, or Paris. These cities offer straightforward onward travel to Europa-Park. Avoid regional airports unless you have a confirmed transfer plan.

Frankfurt offers the most direct route to Germany's beloved theme park destination. Most U.S. travelers will find convenient overnight flights landing in Europe in the early morning, allowing for same-day connections to Rust. However, after a transatlantic flight, we always recommend spending one night in your arrival city to reset. This helps kids adjust to the change in time and makes the trip to Rust more relaxed.

Helpful Tools:

Time-Saving Tip: If you have TSA PreCheck, enroll in "EasyPASS" to expedite entry into Germany or "Parafe" to France. Both of these programs accept U.S. trusted traveler credentials.

Family Tip: Book direct flights when possible to simplify the trip. Reset overnight before heading to the park.

Larger Groups: Coordinate with travel agents or planners, especially if arriving from different hubs.

 

Expert Advice: Consider the Frankfurt + Europa-Park combo package offered through Lufthansa Holidays, which includes flights, train transfers, and park admission at bundled rates.

 

Timing your visit to Europa-Park can dramatically transform your experience at Germany's largest theme park, influencing everything from wait times to accommodation costs. The park's distinct seasonal personality, from summer's extended hours to winter's enchanting Christmas markets, provides visitors with strikingly different atmospheres throughout the year.

While school holidays bring vibrant energy alongside larger crowds, strategic planning during shoulder seasons can reward travelers with shorter queue times without sacrificing the park's legendary entertainment value. Weather considerations also play a crucial role, as the Black Forest region's climate shifts from warm summer days, perfect for water attractions, to crisp autumn afternoons, ideal for exploring the park's European-themed districts at a leisurely pace.

Understanding these seasonal rhythms is the first step to crafting your ideal Europa-Park adventure. However, Europa-Park is excellent in any season! 

  • Spring (April–May): Milder weather, moderate crowds, reduced wait times (average 15–30 minutes per attraction)

  • Summer (June–August): Peak season—great for full shows and extended hours, but busier with average wait times of 45–60 minutes

  • Fall (September–October): Quieter, calmer, and beautifully themed for Halloween with unique seasonal attractions and specialized evening events, including Traumatica

  • Winter (late November–early January): Festive and magical winter wonderland with 2,500 Christmas trees, but some outdoor attractions may close due to weather

For the most relaxed experience, plan weekday visits and avoid German public holidays. Tuesday and Wednesday typically have the shortest lines year-round.

 

Data-Backed Tip: According to park statistics, the last two hours before closing often see dramatically reduced wait times, up to 70% shorter than mid-day peaks. Consider a late arrival and evening visit during summer extended hours.

 

When you arrive at Ringsheim/Europa-Park station, options include:

  • A dedicated Europa-Park shuttle 

  • Local taxis with van options

  • Hotel pickups if prearranged (free for Europa-Park resort hotels)

Traveling with a stroller? Confirm accessible routes at stations. Lockers are available at major hubs like Strasbourg, Basel, and Frankfurt and help store bags during long transfers.

 

Essential Knowledge: The dedicated Europa-Park station opened in 2020 and is still missing from some maps and navigation systems. Ensure your transport app is updated, or use the code "Bahnhof Ringsheim/Europa-Park" in GPS systems.

 

Planning a trip to Europa-Park requires balancing ambition with reality, a delicate art that can make or break your family vacation. While the park's expansive layout and diverse attractions beckon exploration, attempting to experience everything in a single day often leads to exhaustion rather than enjoyment (and, quite frankly, we don’t find it to be possible). 

These carefully crafted itineraries are blueprints to maximize your time while accommodating different travel styles, age groups, and visit durations. Consider these templates as starting points to customize your perfect Europa-Park experience.

4-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1: Travel + check-in near park (arrive by 3 pm to use included evening preview if staying at park hotels)

  • Day 2: Park day (focus on major coasters before crowds build, use virtual queuing options available through the park app as the park grows busier)

  • Day 3: Park day (prioritize water rides, family-friendly attractions, and shows)

  • Day 4: Local stroll, travel home (most hotels offer luggage storage after checkout)

5-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival + explore Rust town (don't miss the historic center with buildings dating back to 1577)

  • Days 2–3: Full park days (use the park's virtual queuing system for popular attractions)

  • Day 4: Relax or visit Rulantica indoor/outdoor water park (pre-book tickets as they limit daily capacity)

  • Day 5: Depart (consider the late checkout option at Europa-Park hotels)

Tip: Use the Europa-Park app for wait times, maps, and kid-height filters. Enable push notifications for real-time show reminders and unexpected attraction closures.

 

Strategic Planning: Explore in reverse order from most visitors by starting at the back of the park and working toward the entrance, moving against the crowd flow. This often means encountering shorter morning lines.

If you’re staying at a Europa-Park hotel, you get exclusive access to an entrance at the back of the park. If you’re staying off property, hop on the EP-Express at Germany’s Alexanderplatz Station shortly after the park’s main entrance and depart at Spain’s EP-Express Station.

 

Traveling with a large family presents extra logistics, especially when navigating foreign transportation systems. Here are some common challenges and how to solve them.

1. Limited Seating on Trains or Buses

Booking late might mean your group is split across different train cars or rows, which makes managing children and luggage more challenging.

Solution: Reserve seats as early as possible. Use rail booking platforms that allow seat selection to ensure your group stays together. If available, opt for family compartments.

Tools to Use:

  • Trainline: Book European train tickets with seat selection and family fare filters.

  • Deutsche Bahn: Germany’s national railway; reliable for domestic travel to Europa-Park.

  • SBB: Swiss railways for routes connecting from Zurich.

2. Taxis & Rideshares Often Have Passenger Limits

Most taxis in Europe can accommodate a maximum of four passengers. Finding large-capacity options at the last minute can be stressful.

Solution: Pre-book a van or minibus through local transfer companies or request two vehicles in advance. Our free e-book, “Insider’s Guide to Getting to Europa-Park,” includes vetted transport providers with group options.

Tools to Use:

3. Luggage Overload

Large families often mean more bags, strollers, and gear, especially for younger children.

Solution: Pack light when possible and use luggage lockers at train stations. Some services also offer luggage forwarding to your hotel, which can simplify transfers.

Tools to Use:

4. Accommodation Limitations

Many hotels in Europe limit rooms to 2–4 guests. Booking multiple rooms can drive up costs, complicate planning, and separate family members.

Solution: Look for vacation rentals or hotels offering family suites or connecting rooms. Booking.com and Airbnb often allow filtering by guest capacity.

Tools to Use:

  • Booking.com: Use filters for family rooms and large occupancy.

  • Vrbo: Ideal for large families who want kitchen access.

  • FeWo-direkt: German vacation rental site, often with more listings in smaller towns.

5. Missing Group Discounts & Savings

Families sometimes miss out on discounts available for larger parties simply because they may not know about them.

Solution: Many rail operators and attractions offer reduced fares or free child tickets when booked together. Always check for “family ticket” or “group ticket” options.

Tools to Use:

  • Rail Europe: Offers family passes and youth discounts.

  • Local train sites like Deutsche Bahn, SNCF, and SBB offer national family pricing.

  • Check Europa-Park’s official website for seasonal family deals.

 

Pro Tip: Planning a trip with five or more people? Assign one person to handle all bookings and confirmations. This creates consistency and minimizes errors.

 

Families often ask whether it’s better to drive or use public transit. Ultimately, this comes down to whether or not you feel comfortable driving (potentially in a foreign country).

Advantages of Renting a Car:

  • Complete flexibility on departure and arrival times

  • Easier to carry gear, luggage, and car seats

  • Helpful for exploring nearby towns and attractions

Disadvantages of Renting a Car:

  • Parking fees at hotels and Europa-Park

  • Driving in unfamiliar areas can be stressful after a long flight

  • Not always cost-effective if your trip is park-focused

  • European vehicles tend to be smaller than family-friendly SUVs and minivans in the U.S.

  • Higher probability of speeding tickets and parking violations (we have had both in three European countries)

Tools to Use:

  • AutoEurope: A car rental platform that compares rental car companies.

  • Chase Sapphire Credit Card: The BEST free rental car insurance! We use it all the time.

  • Airalo: An e-sim must-have if you rent a car and use Google or Apple Maps for navigation.

 

Our recommendation: Trains and shuttles are typically the best for trips centered only around Europa-Park. However, a car may be more convenient if you're planning to visit other destinations in mainland Europe.

 

Accommodations in Rust range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

  • On-site Europa-Park hotels offer early park access, themed rooms, and special perks.

  • Guesthouses and small hotels in Rust provide a walkable experience at a lower price point.

  • Vacation rentals are ideal for large families wanting kitchen access and extra space.

Check out our Family Accommodations post for detailed information about where to stay for a Europa-Park trip.

Many local properties also offer shuttle service to the nearest train stations. Always check this before booking, as it can streamline your arrival.

 

Turn your Europa-Park visit into a broader family adventure with these easy add-ons:

The Black Forest

The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) surrounds Europa-Park with its mystical landscape of dense evergreen forests. You can enjoy picturesque villages with cuckoo clock workshops, rolling hills dotted with traditional farmhouses, and scenic hiking trails that lead families to spectacular waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes.

Baden-Baden

This elegant spa town nestled in the foothills of the Black Forest is just 30 minutes from Europa-Park. It offers families a refined retreat with world-famous thermal baths dating back to Roman times. You’ll find beautiful Belle Époque architecture and the peaceful Lichtentaler Allee park, where children can run freely alongside the gentle Oos River.

Strasbourg, France

A 30-minute train ride from Europa-Park, Strasbourg captivates visitors with its stunning Gothic cathedral. The charming La Petite France district features half-timbered houses along scenic canals. The city uniquely blends French and German influences, which is evident in its architecture and cuisine. It’s even the official seat of the European Parliament. 

 

Insider Tip: Will you visit Europa Park during the winter season? Don’t miss the Strasbourg Christmas Markets, which have brought the magic of the holiday season to life for the last 450+ years!

 

Colmar, France

Colmar, France, is just 45 minutes from Europa-Park by car. It enchants visitors with its perfectly preserved medieval old town and colorful half-timbered houses lining picturesque canals in "Little Venice." Like Strasbourg, Colmar’s authentic Alsatian cuisine beautifully blends French and German culinary traditions.

Freiburg, Germany

Just 30 minutes from Europa-Park, Freiburg delights visitors with its sun-drenched historic center and distinctive Bächle (small water channels lining the streets that children love to play alongside). It hosts a vibrant, twice-weekly farmers’ market and is home to a stunning Gothic cathedral, surrounded by a pedestrian-friendly old town nestled at the edge of the Black Forest.

 

Local Secret: The quaint village of Gengenbach (30 minutes from Europa-Park) features one of Europe's largest Advent calendars during December, with town hall windows transformed into calendar doors.

 

Europa-Park offers excellent accessibility options that many visitors don't know about:

  • Free wheelchair and mobility scooter rentals (reserve 48 hours in advance)

  • "Boarding passes" that allow visitors with disabilities to access alternate entrances

  • Sensory guides for neurodivergent guests

  • Allergy-friendly menus in most restaurants (request when booking)

Contact the special needs department at least one week before your visit to arrange personalized assistance.

 

Traveling as a family often means that costs add up fast! We always like to look for every available opportunity to save so we can spend less time worrying about money and more time enjoying the adventure. Here are some other ways that you can look to save on your trip to Europa-Park:

  • Book 1–2 day tickets online at least 7 days in advance for up to 15% savings

  • Consider off-peak season tickets (up to 30% cheaper in April, May, and September)

  • The Europa-Park Resort Card (free exclusive for Europa-Park hotel guests) includes free shuttle service and an evening park preview.

  • Bring refillable water bottles. Drink fountains throughout the park provide free water.

  • The "Dinner & Breakfast" package often costs less than buying meals separately.

 

The "Insider’s Guide to Getting to Europa-Park" Reveals Travel Secrets That Could Save Your Family Hundreds of Dollars/Euros and Hours of Frustration!

Planning your Europa-Park adventure? Your excitement stops the moment you ask, "But how do we actually get there?"

 

Most families waste money on inefficient transportation options because they don't know what insiders know.

 

This free 46-page e-book solves your transportation puzzle with:

  • Complete breakdowns of ALL travel options (plane, train, bus, car) from Europe's top 4 cities

  • Real price comparisons that could save you €200+ on transportation

  • Time-saving routes that give you more hours in the park, less time in transit

  • Family-tested recommendations that consider luggage, children, and stress points

Don't piece together contradictory information from dozens of websites.

 

CLICK HERE for instant access to the guide smart families are using to create seamless Europa-Park journeys.

This resource normally sells for $27 but is available FREE for a limited time to our readers.

Your magical Europa-Park experience starts with the journey. Make it a great one!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD NOW!

 

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you buy something following a link on this page, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our blog! / Colleen & Kevin

Colleen
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Best Family-Friendly Places to Stay: Europa-Park