Rothenburg
Rothenburg (officially Rothenburg ob der Tauber) in the Franconian/Bavarian region of Germany is a small town that offers a trip back in time to the medieval ages. With its intact city wall, cobblestone roads and medieval houses, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the finest contemporary examples left over from the medieval period. Kids can hike on top of and through the wall to overlook the city or visit the torture museum. Many times local people dress in medieval clothing and can be spotted around the town performing music or guarding the watchtower. Eight times a day, the clock on the tower of the City Councillors' Tavern recalls heroic actions of the town's mayor that saved the city during the Thirty Years' War. In addition, the surrounding valley is perfect for hiking and leisurely mountain biking.
rothenburg.de
Cesky Krumlov
Located in the southwestern Czech Republic, approximately 110 miles south of Prague, lies the small Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov. In 1992, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage due to its outstanding beauty and history. Cesky's old city is filled with small boutique shops and restaurants, but the biggest attraction is its castle. Towering over the town, the State Castle of Cesky Krumlov allows kids to imagine what the world was like when kings and knights ruled Europe. Kids will have fun watching the black bears in the castle's moat and overlooking the city from its 180-foot tall tower. The Moldau River passes through the heart of Cesky Krumlov, allowing visitors to canoe and kayak to and from the city center to campgrounds and villages all throughout the immediate area.
ckrumlov.info
Amsterdam
Contrary to its sex-and-drugs reputation, Amsterdam is actually one of the most beautiful and peaceful cities in Europe, and kids love it. Visitors should rent bicycles, as it is the city's number one mode of transportation. This allows for easy access to the many parks and museums strewn throughout the city. Renting a pedal boat is a fun activity and it gives visitors an interesting view of the city from its canals. A visit to the Anne Frank House is a memorable experience for any child as it makes the events of WWII more realistic and gives it from a child's point of view. Located on the waterfront, the Science Museum Nemo is a hands-on children's museum that is fun for all and offers great views of the city. Finally, Amsterdam is famous for its French fries. Seemingly everywhere in the city, small stands sell large white cones filled with fries, topped off with so much ketchup and mayo that visitors need a small plastic spoon to eat. It is the perfect snack to walk around with and it is a Dutch tradition.
iamsterdam.com
