Kiel has a rich history in the maritime industry, but these days the city is more known for its lively student population, casual atmosphere, and urban vibe. The city’s picturesque location on the Kiel Fjord, its contemporary and roomy downtown, and Danische Strasse, a street in the heart of Kiel full of buildings from the late 19th century that exude nautical charm, all contribute to its unique ambiance. The city has a long history of great music, beautiful scenery, and delicious cuisine.
Kiel’s VRK-operated bus and ferry system is among the best in Germany. The taxi service is satisfactory, if somewhat pricey. There are several locations to rent bicycles in Kiel due to the city’s low elevation. Cycling from Kiel to Laboe, taking the boat to Strande, and then riding back to Kiel is a very doable day trip. A guided walking tour of the city allows you access to most of these sights and many other gorgeous and magnificent places.
Kiel’s downtown is full of life, notably around the popular Danische Strasse shopping district and the Holstenstrasse pedestrian mall. At this site, it is possible to transform the opera house, Kiel Castle, the Kiel Fjords, and even the Howaldt shipyards into breathtaking stages. The city features shipping and ethnography museums, and the Institute of Marine Biology contains an aquarium.
Kieler Woche (Kiel Week), an international regatta and cultural festival, draws the majority of visitors at the end of June. Every hour of the week is jam-packed with something exciting, with boat races for many different categories leaving from the Schilksee harbor.
Kiel was the hub for the German submarine fleet during WWII, and now you can visit the city and explore the sole surviving German submarine from the war, the U-995. The 280-foot-tall tower at the Navy Memorial’s observation deck provides breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding area. There’s a museum and memorial hall underground honoring the lives of sailors of all nations who lost their lives in both World Wars.
The Kiel Canal, located in Kiel, is the longest and busiest artificial canal in the world. It stretches 100 kilometers from the Baltic to the North Sea. The canal can be cycled in its entirety or as part of a day excursion; the bike route runs alongside the water, providing an up-close encounter with massive container ships. The route is well-suited for bicyclists, with plenty of lodging options, points of interest, and eating establishments along the way.
