Kiel Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Kiel? Discover the best things to see and do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kiel

Kiel is a vibrant coastal city located in the northern part of Germany. It is situated on the east coast of the Jutland Peninsula, bordering the Baltic Sea. The city is known for its rich maritime history, world-class museums, and beautiful natural landscapes. Kiel is also a hub for water sports, with sailing and windsurfing being popular activities among tourists and locals.

List of Places to Visit in Kiel

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kiel is home to several world-class museums that showcase the city’s rich maritime history. Here are some must-visit museums and historical places:

  • Kiel Maritime Museum: A fascinating museum that illustrates the development of shipping from the medieval era to the present day. The museum houses several exhibitions, including models of ships and historical paintings.

  • Zoological Museum Kiel: This museum houses one of the largest collections of marine animals in Germany, with more than 1 million specimens on display.

  • Kieler Rathaus: The city’s town hall, built in the neo-gothic style, is an impressive architectural masterpiece that symbolizes the city’s rich history and tradition.

Natural Attractions of Kiel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kiel is famous for its scenic landscape and natural beauty. You can explore the beautiful coastline, swim in the Baltic Sea or hike through one of the many forests or mountain ranges within the city. Below are some popular outdoor destinations in Kiel:

  • Botanical Garden Kiel: This beautiful garden is home to thousands of plant species from around the world. The garden also boasts a large rose garden, where visitors can enjoy the diverse colors and fragrances of roses.

  • Kiel Fjord: The fjord is a beautiful natural bay that extends from the Baltic Sea into the heart of Kiel. You can enjoy stunning views of the city and the water by taking a boat tour or renting a boat yourself.

  • Tiessenkai: A beautiful pier located in the heart of Kiel, where visitors can take a stroll, enjoy the views of the harbor and watch ships sail by.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kiel

Kiel offers several hiking/biking routes for nature enthusiasts. Below are some popular hiking/biking routes in Kiel:

  • Kiel Canal: This route is perfect for cyclists who want to explore the tranquil countryside while riding alongside the Kiel Canal. The route is relatively flat, making it ideal for beginners.

  • Weissenhäuser Strand: Located on the outskirts of Kiel, the Weissenhäuser Strand offers a challenging hiking trail that features beautiful views of the coastline and countryside.

  • Bungsberg: The Bungsberg is the highest point in Schleswig-Holstein, offering hikers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The trail is well marked and easy to follow.

Best Things to Do in Kiel: Activities and Tours

Kiel offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some must-do activities when visiting Kiel:

  • Sailing tours: Kiel is renowned for its sailing culture, and visitors can take a boat tour to explore the scenic coastline and breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea.

  • SUP yoga: For those seeking a unique experience, SUP yoga is a fun and relaxing way to explore the Kiel fjord while practicing yoga on a stand-up paddleboard.

  • Kiel Week: This annual sailing event takes place in June and is the largest sailing event in the world. It attracts more than 3 million visitors each year and features several attractions, including concerts, exhibitions, and regattas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kiel

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Kiel, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the Kiel Maritime Museum and the Zoological Museum Kiel.

Day 2: Take a boat tour along the Kiel fjord, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Day 3: Hike on the Bungsberg trail and enjoy the panoramic view over the surrounding countryside.

Day 4: Participate in SUP yoga or take a sailing tour to explore the Kiel fjord.

Day 5: Visit the beautiful Botanical Garden, and enjoy hundreds of plant species from around the world.

Day 6: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Tiessenkai, and watch the ships sail by.

Day 7: Take part in the Kiel Week sailing event, and enjoy the culture and festivities in the city.

Food and Drink Scene of Kiel

Kiel has a diverse food culture with a range of dishes that are influenced by its maritime history. Here are some must-try dishes during your visit to Kiel:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kiel Sprotten: A popular snack in Kiel, the Kiel Sprotten are small smoked fish that are served on bread.

  • Labskaus: A traditional dish, Labskaus is a mixture of corned beef, potatoes, and beetroot served with pickled cucumbers and fried eggs.

  • Rote Grütze: A classic Kiel dessert made with a mix of red berries and cream.

Local Beverages

  • Kieler beer: Kiel is famous for its locally brewed beer, which is available in most bars and restaurants.

  • Glühwein: During the holiday season, you can enjoy a cup of warm Glühwein, made with red wine, cinnamon, and cloves.

Where to Stay in Kiel: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kiel offers a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. Here are some popular options:

  • Atlantic Hotel Kiel: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Kiel, with stunning views of the harbor and the Kiel Canal.

  • Jugendherberge Kiel: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city center, with private and shared rooms available.

  • B&B Hotel Kiel-Wissenschaftspark: A comfortable hotel located just outside the city center, with easy access to public transportation.

What to Buy in Kiel: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kiel offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products that you can bring back as a memento of your trip. Here are some ideas:

  • Kiel Fjord honey: A sweet and delicious honey that is produced locally in Kiel.

  • Nautical-inspired jewelry: There are several boutiques in Kiel that sell nautical-inspired jewelry, including necklaces and bracelets.

  • Handcrafted wooden ships: You can find several shops in Kiel that sell handcrafted wooden ships, perfect as a display piece in your home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kiel

Kiel has a rich maritime culture and tradition. The locals in Kiel are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, and it is considered polite to greet people with a smile and a nod. Germans are known for their punctuality, so make sure to arrive on time if you have an appointment or meeting.

Best Time to Visit Kiel

The best time to visit Kiel is between May and September when the weather is warm and pleasant, and several outdoor events and activities take place in the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kiel

Do:

  • Do try the local specialty dishes, such as Kiel Sprotten, Labskaus, and Rote Grütze.
  • Do engage with locals, who are friendly and welcoming.
  • Do be punctual, as Germans value timeliness.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs without permission, especially in museums or historical places.
  • Don’t litter, as Germans take pride in keeping their cities clean and tidy.
  • Don’t be loud in public, as Germans value peace and quiet.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kiel

Kiel is a safe city, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take usual precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended or walking alone in dark and isolated areas.

Health in Kiel

Kiel has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics located throughout the city.

Getting to Kiel: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kiel is well connected to major cities in Germany and Europe. Here are some transportation options to get to Kiel:

Airports Near Kiel

The nearest airport to Kiel is Hamburg Airport, which is located about 70 kilometers away from the city. From there, you can take a train or a bus to reach Kiel.

Bus Stations Near Kiel

Kiel has several bus stations that operate both domestic and international routes, including the Kiel ZOB and the Kiel main bus station.

Other Options

You can also reach Kiel by train, with several trains stopping at the Kiel main train station.

How to Get Around in Kiel

Kiel is a relatively small city, and most of the major attractions are located in the city center. You can easily get around the city by using public transportation, including buses and trains, or by walking or cycling.

Where to Go Next from Kiel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kiel is located in a beautiful region of Germany, with several nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting. Here are some ideas:

  • Lübeck: A picturesque medieval town located about an hour’s drive from Kiel, famous for its marzipan and historic architecture.

  • Hamburg: A vibrant and bustling city located about an hour’s drive from Kiel. Hamburg is known for its rich culture, music, and art scene.

  • Sylt Island: A beautiful island located in the North Sea, famous for its sandy beaches, dunes, and picturesque landscapes.

Conclusion

Kiel is a beautiful coastal city that offers a range of activities, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, Kiel has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your visit to Kiel with ease, and discover all the best things to see and do in this charming city.

Kiel, May 2007 Kiel, May 2007 Kiel, City Hall, taken 2005 Kiel, City Hall, taken 2005 Cafe Medusa in Gaarden, July 2007 Cafe Medusa in Gaarden, July 2007 Kiel Port taken August 4th 2006 Kiel Port taken August 4th 2006