Start our adventure in Solingen with one of its most impressive attractions - the Müngsten Bridge (Müngstener Brücke). Rising 107 meters above the Wupper River valley, this majestic railroad bridge is the highest railroad bridge in Germany. Built between 1894 and 1897, it is a true masterpiece of late 19th century engineering. The bridge, which until 1918 was named Kaiser-Wilhelm-Brücke in honor of Kaiser Wilhelm I, today impresses not only with its construction, but also with its surroundings.

The area around the bridge is a paradise for lovers of active recreation and beautiful views. There are numerous hiking paths, ideal for family walks. Under the bridge there is a picturesque park where you can have a picnic or simply relax on the grass. There are even special ponds for the little ones to play in. It's worth coming here early in the morning or late in the afternoon to admire the play of light on the bridge's steel structure.

To further appreciate the beauty of the area, head to the Views Müngsten Bridge lookout point. This spot offers unforgettable views of the bridge and the surrounding valley. A walk along the river or other paths in the area is a great opportunity to commune with nature and admire the local flora and fauna. Our little explorers will be delighted to observe fish in the river - it is said that even sizable carp can be spotted here!

For those who want an even higher perspective, the ideal spot will be Höchster Punkt von Solingen - the highest point in the city. It's not only a great spot for stargazing (unless there's a match going on at the nearby football field), but also the starting point of many scenic walking trails. From here, there are great views of Wuppertal-Küllenhahn and Cronenberg all the way to Remscheid. It's an ideal place to show children the skyline of the city and surrounding countryside, while teaching them about the region's geography.

Note that the best views of the Müngsten Bridge and the surrounding area can be enjoyed from the Diederichstempel viewpoint. This place, although somewhat hidden among the greenery, offers unforgettable views of the bridge, the Wupper River and the surrounding valley. It's best to visit an hour and a half before sunset to catch the magical golden light. It's the perfect place for a family photo shoot or just a moment to contemplate the beauty of nature.

Each of these places has its own unique character and offers a slightly different experience. The Müngsten Bridge is all about impressive construction and engineering history, Views Müngsten Bridge provides closer contact with nature and walking opportunities, Höchster Punkt von Solingen offers the best panorama of the city, and Diederichstempel offers the most picturesque shots of the bridge and valley. It's worth planning a visit to each of these points to fully appreciate the diversity of Solingen's landscapes.

After saturating your eyes with beautiful views, it's time to delve into Solingen's history and nature. Our next stop is the majestic Burg Castle (Burg Castle), a true gem of medieval architecture. This imposing fortress, which dates back to the first half of the 12th century, was once the seat of the powerful Berg family. Today, despite ongoing restoration work, the castle offers a fascinating journey back in time.

For only 6 euros (as of November 2023), adults can visit the left wing of the castle and several rooms with valuable exhibits. Children under 18 pay half that price, making the visit affordable for the whole family. It's worth remembering that the renovation is expected to last until 2024, so each year the castle will offer more and more attractions.

The castle's surroundings are a real paradise for families with children. You'll find numerous walking paths, a playground, and even a ski lift, which you can use to go down to the charming Berg settlement and come back up - an amazing attraction that is sure to appeal to the little ones. You'll also find a magical gingerbread store and an ice cream parlor nearby, perfect places for a little snack while exploring.

For nature and animal lovers, the Solingen Bird and Animal Park should be a must-see. This is a place where you can spend 2-3 hours in the company of a variety of birds and other animals. The park offers not only the opportunity to observe, but also to interact with the animals - children can feed the goats, which is always great fun. The park also has a playground, where the little ones can let off steam while parents relax with a coffee or snack.

Also worth noting is the Sengbachtalsperre, a picturesque dam that is not only an important part of the region's water infrastructure, but also a popular vacation spot. It's the perfect place for a family stroll, where you can enjoy the beauty of engineering in harmony with nature. The paths around the dam offer magnificent views and fresh air, ideal for active recreation in nature.

When comparing these attractions, it's worth noting that each offers something different. The Burg Castle is first and foremost a lesson in history and architecture, ideal for older children and adults interested in the past. The Bird and Animal Park will be the best choice for younger children who love direct contact with animals. Sengbachtalsperre, on the other hand, is for entire families who enjoy active outdoor recreation.

Admission prices vary - the castle is the most expensive option, but offers the richest dose of history. The bird and animal park is reasonably priced and provides the most activities for the youngest. Sengbachtalsperre is free, making it an ideal option for families looking for a budget solution.

The accessibility of these places also varies - the castle and animal park have specific opening hours, while the dam and surrounding trails are available all day. It's worth taking this into account when planning your trip, especially if you're traveling with young children, who may need more time for rest and meals.

To conclude our tour of Solingen, I'd like to highlight a few unique attractions and share practical tips to help you plan the perfect family trip.

One of the most unique attractions in Solingen is the Schwebefähre Müngsten, a suspended ferry that is a fascinating combination of history and modern engineering. It's an extraordinary experience that the whole family is sure to remember. The ferry travels over the Wupper River, offering an unusual perspective on the surrounding area. However, it is worth remembering that the ferry does not operate in the event of even the lightest rain, so check the weather forecast before visiting.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Ohligser Heide is a great place for family biking or jogging. This expansive nature reserve offers peace and tranquility, ideal conditions for communing with nature. It's also a great place for a weekend picnic - there's plenty of room for games and activities, and even the possibility to light a bonfire or barbecue.

When planning a trip to Solingen, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind:

1. transportation: Solingen has a well-developed public transportation network, but if you plan to visit several attractions that are far away from each other, consider renting a car. Keep in mind that there are paid parking lots at some attractions, such as Burg Castle, but you can often find free parking a little further away.

2 Weather: The climate in Solingen is moderate, but the weather can be changeable. It is always a good idea to bring a light rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes.

3 Food: Although you will find cafes or restaurants at most attractions, it is a good idea to bring snacks and drinks with you, especially if you are traveling with children. Remember that some places, like the bird park, allow you to bring your own food.

4 Time planning: Don't try to see everything in one day. Solingen has a lot to offer, and it's a good idea to spread your sightseeing out over at least two days so you can fully enjoy each attraction without rushing.

5 Tickets and opening hours: Always check current opening hours and ticket prices on the official websites of attractions. Some places, like Burg Castle, offer discounts for families; it's worth asking about this at the ticket counter.

6. Seasonality: Some attractions, like the Schwebefähre Müngsten ferry, may have limited availability depending on the season or weather conditions. It's always a good idea to check this before visiting.

7. Language: Although staff speak English at most tourist sites, it's worth learning a few basic phrases in German - locals are sure to appreciate it.

Solingen is a city that has a lot to offer families with children of all ages. From fascinating historical monuments to engineering marvels to beautiful green spaces, there is something for everyone. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, passionate about history, or just looking for a place to relax surrounded by beautiful nature, Solingen certainly won't disappoint you. It is the perfect place for a weekend trip or a longer stay, where you can create unforgettable family memories. Remember that the most important thing is to enjoy your time together and discover new places at your own pace. Solingen is waiting for you - ready for an adventure?