Germany's Hidden Maritime Gem

Cruise to Kiel, Germany

Kiel's identity has always been linked to the sea. While the city was officially founded in 1242 CE, it had been used as a port long before. Hidden at the end of a long, protective fjord, Kiel is a natural refuge for ships and their weary sailors. Every year, the waters host Kiel Week, the largest sailing event in the world, with thousands of sailboats in the Kiel Fjord ready to celebrate and race in regattas. Watching the race is one of the best things to do in Kiel, Germany. Boats both big and small can be admired from the Kiel Harbor, Kiel Canal and Kiel Maritime Museum. The seafood found here is some of the freshest in Germany, and charming fish houses welcome travelers with a plate of smoked delicacies and a glass of cold beer. When it's time to unwind, long stretches of white sand beaches await along the Kiel Fjord, where there's enough space for beachcombers to find a spot to themselves. Most of Kiel was destroyed during World War II, making it one of the most modern cities in Northern Germany, but you'll find its old town flair tucked in between the shops, restaurants and the Kiel City Museum on Dänische Straße.

National Language German

Currency Accepted Euro (EUR)

Things To Do in Kiel

The white sand beaches of Kiel Fjord.

Frolick on the Fjord

With white sand beaches, seaside cafés, craggy coastal cliffs and sought-after kite surfing spots, Kiel Fjord is a haven for adventure- and relaxation-seekers alike. The Kiel Fjord spans nearly 12 miles long and is home to the Naval Memorial, which hosts panoramic views of the fjord from its 230-foot observation deck.

The U-995 from WWII has been turned into a modern museum.

Sail Into the Past

Kiel has been a bustling port for centuries, with a long history as a shipyard, naval base and safe haven for sailors. The Kiel Maritime Museum gives a glimpse of the past through its 19th-century ships, wooden models and exhibits on the city's maritime history. In nearby Laboe, the U-995 World War II museum hosts the only surviving German submarine of its kind.

The Kiel Canal is an exciting place to watch ships glide by.

Cycle the Kiel Canal

The 60-mile freshwater canal connecting Kiel to Brunsbüttel is the busiest artificial waterway in the world. Rent a bicycle in the city center, and pedal along the tranquil path that hugs the Kiel Canal. Dozens of ships come through daily — often more than the Panama and Suez canals combined — making it a great place to stop and observe.

Kieler Sprotte, a kind of smoked fish, is the iconic snack of Kiel, Germany.

LOCAL CUISINE

Snack like a sailor and try Kieler Sprotte, small smoked fish served whole. Or, opt for a meal of pears, green beans and bacon (Birnen, Bohnen und Speck) boiled together and plated with potatoes. If it's chilly out, warm yourself up with Schnüüsch, a hearty stew of vegetables cooked in milk and seasoned with parsley.

One of the best souvenirs to take home from Kiel is a wooden model ship.

SHOPPING

Kiel's artisans are famed for their model ships, available for purchase in local gift shops. You can also return home with a nautical antique collected from the ships that have come to rest in Kiel's harbor, often found for a bargain at the city's flea markets. For more modern retailers, head to the mall of Sophienhof Kiel and its more than 100 shops.