Given all of the thrilling excitement highlighted in my first Europa-Park story, “Europa-Park’s big 5-0 is an adrenaline fueled party on the rails,” some of you might be under the impression that Europa-Park is only for roller coaster enthusiasts. However, it’s actually the contrary. Europa-Park nails the balance between extreme thrills and family-friendliness.
Before visiting Europa-Park, my only experience with a perfectly well-balanced park that genuinely and deliberately offers something for everyone has been Disney. That said, for those who seek amusements that are a bit tamer than the new Voltron Nevera or the 13 other coasters at Europa-Park, here are the offerings I’m sure will satisfy.
The first ride I recommend is Piraten in Batavia, which is a swashbuckling boat ride through lush jungles and pirate battles. Next, every visitor should see Europa-Park from the “air” via Voletarium, a breathtaking flying theater ride that soars over Europe’s most iconic landmarks. Third, Alpenexpress Coastiality is the world’s first VR coaster, and it only takes a headset to enter a completely different world while riding.
Also, be sure to catch one of the many live shows, parades, acrobatic displays, and musicals. Many of these performances are new for Europa-Park’s 50th anniversary. But there’s even more to this amusement park located in Rust, Germany…
Rulantica: A Water World of Nordic Adventure
Just next door to Europa-Park is Rulantica, Europa-Park’s sprawling indoor and outdoor water world that is open year-round. Some of the must-experience highlights of Rulantica include:
Svalgurok – Europe’s Outdoor Splash Giant
Far more than just a playground, Svalgurok is a massive, multilevel splash fortress designed for both chaos and challenge. It’s one of Europe’s largest outdoor water playgrounds, loaded with twisting body slides, drenching tipping buckets, and dozens of surprise water cannons. While it’s fun for families, brave riders will find thrill in navigating the structure’s tall slides and dodging the 1,800-liter mega splash bucket that dumps without mercy. In the summer heat, it’s a wild and wet adrenaline zone.
Vinter Rytt – High-Speed Mat Racer
Thrill meets competition in Vinter Rytt, where guests race head-first on mats down slick, side-by-side lanes. You launch into steep drops and wavelike hills at surprising speed, inches from your rivals. It’s pure kinetic joy, with a rush of wind and splash at every turn. For thrill seekers who like to win—or at least scream while trying—it’s an addictive repeat ride.
Tønnevirvel – Spin, Slide, Soak
A swirling, semi-dark raft slide that grabs you and doesn’t let go. Tønnevirvel spins your raft wildly through tight turns and sudden drops, combining centrifugal force with moments of near-weightlessness. Expect giddy laughter, disorientation, and a splashy finale. It’s a laugh-while-you-scream kind of thrill—think teacups mixed with a waterslide.
Snorri’s Saga – The Lazy River (But Make It Epic)
Even thrill seekers need a breather, and Snorri’s Saga offers the perfect mid-day float—except it’s far from ordinary. Winding through detailed underwater caves, coral reefs, and Norse ruins, this lazy river is immersive and atmospheric. There are gentle currents, fun surprises, and whimsical touches, all themed to Rulantica’s mischievous mascot, Snorri. It’s a chill journey, but the beauty and storytelling make it a must-see—even for adrenaline addicts.
Dugdrob & Vildfål – The Trapdoor Duo
These are not for the faint of heart. Perched atop a towering platform, Dugdrob and Vildfål are Rulantica’s most intense solo body slides. You step into a transparent capsule, heart pounding, as a countdown begins. Then…the floor disappears beneath you. You’re free-falling almost vertically into a narrow chute, reaching intense speeds in seconds. (Just an FYI: Dugdrob is the steeper of the two—straight down, pure drop, while Vildfål throws in a tight curve after the drop for a more disorienting descent). They’re short, savage, and absolutely unforgettable.
Isbrekker – The Drop & Splash Challenge
Isbrekker is wild fun. You’re launched down an ultra-steep body slide and then shot into the air before landing in a deep splash pool below. There’s serious airtime on this, and it’s more of a ride-and-fly experience than a standard slide. It’s like a human water cannon—quick, fierce, and a total thrill.
Vildstrøm – The Wild Adventure
Think lazy river? Think again. Vildstrøm is a rough, rapid-style outdoor current ride where you’re at the mercy of the swirling water. Strong currents toss you through rocky channels, waves shove you into eddies, and steep slopes accelerate your float. No tube, just your body and the current. It’s unpredictable, fast, and surprisingly intense. However, Vildstrøm is best tackled by strong swimmers who don’t mind a bit of chaos.
Together, these attractions offer roller coaster levels of adrenaline—only soaked. Rulantica balances family fun and fantasy beautifully, but this lineup proves it doesn’t skimp on serious thrills either.
Adulting with Ease
Hyggedal is the ultimate spa and relaxation zone, and is exclusive for adults. Lounge in panoramic saunas, soak in outdoor hot pools, and relax in private cabanas with drinks in hand. Just an FYI: The co-ed saunas are mandatory “textile free,” so please be prepared to go “full monty” should you choose to use these facilities. The on-site massage services and wellness bar make it the perfect recharge station after a day of thrills.
Sleep in Style: Europa-Park Hotels
Why rush home when you can stay inside the magic? Europa-Park has six themed hotels, each with 4-star comfort and immersive design. Hotel Colosseo invites you to live la dolce vita in this Roman palace, complete with fountains and piazzas. Hotel Bell Rock is a New England-style resort with a lighthouse bar and elegant seaside charm. Hotel Krønasår is a museum-hotel that feels like a Nordic explorer’s dream, with direct access to Rulantica. Hotel El Andaluz has Spanish flair, tiled courtyards, and a Mediterranean vibe. Hotel Santa Isabel is themed like a Portuguese monastic retreat with peaceful ambiance and spa services. Hotel Castillo Alcazar is a medieval-style fortress with turrets and regal touches. All hotel guests enjoy early park access, premium amenities, and proximity to both Europa-Park and Rulantica.
Dine Around Europe: Top Restaurant Picks
Europa-Park’s food game is strong, offering cuisine from across the continent. Some favorites include:
Ammolite – The Lighthouse Restaurant (2 Michelin stars) – A fine dining experience in Hotel Bell Rock with world-class cuisine and elegant service.
Spices – Kitchen & More – Global street food from Africa to Asia in a casual, but flavorful setting.
Castillo Restaurant – Located inside Castillo Alcazar, this buffet-style restaurant serves hearty medieval-inspired dishes.
Don Quichotte – Enjoy tapas and sangria in this lively Spanish-themed venue.
FoodLoop – A roller coaster-themed restaurant where your meal is delivered via looping tracks!
Getting There: Fast & Easy from Major Cities
Flying Lufthansa Premium Economy from the US offers a smart upgrade for travelers seeking more comfort without the cost of business class. With up to 50 percent more space than economy, wider seats, extra legroom, a greater recline, and a dedicated cabin, it’s ideal for long-haul comfort. You’ll also get two checked bags, a welcome drink, upgraded meals, and a larger entertainment screen.
As a key member of Star Alliance, Lufthansa allows you to earn and redeem miles across 26 partner airlines like United, Singapore Airlines, and ANA. If you have Star Alliance Gold status, you enjoy benefits like lounge access, priority boarding, and extra baggage—even in Premium Economy.
Once you arrive in Germany, you can travel to Europa-Park by car or train from Frankfurt or Munich. The drive and train ride from Frankfurt is less than three hours, while Munich is farther away at about four hours by car or train.
Europa-Park’s 50th anniversary is a golden celebration filled with new experiences, cutting-edge roller coasters, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. Whether you’re planning a European escape with family or you’re a die-hard coaster junkie always chasing the next thrill, there’s no better time to visit this award-winning and unexpected German theme park.
