Things To Do
in Kiel
Kiel is a vibrant port city located in northern Germany on the Baltic Sea. It is known for its annual sailing event, the Kiel Week, which attracts sailors and visitors from around the world. The city boasts a rich maritime history, with a harbor that is still bustling with activity.
Kiel also offers a blend of modern amenities and historic charm, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the Kiel waterfront. Enjoy the sights of sailing ships and colorful cafes while sipping your morning coffee.
Visit the Maritime Museum to learn about Kiel's maritime history and its significance as a port city. Afterward, take a relaxing harbor cruise to see the city from a different perspective.
Have dinner at a local seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the waterfront as the city lights sparkle.
Spend your morning in the beautiful Botanical Garden, where you can explore diverse plant species. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers to relax and immerse themselves in greenery.
Head to the Planten un Blomen park to enjoy a picnic or just enjoy the scenic views. The park offers walking trails and a serene atmosphere for an afternoon escape.
Visit a nearby wine bar to sample local wines paired with delicious cheese. The cozy atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind after a day in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal city with scenic views and waterfront activities.
- Rich maritime history and culture.
- Strong economy and job opportunities, especially in shipping and logistics.
- Vibrant student life due to the presence of Kiel University.
- Access to various outdoor recreational activities like sailing, cycling, and hiking.
- Can be quite rainy and humid, affecting outdoor activities.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other German cities.
- Public transportation may not be as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas.
- Seasonal fluctuations in tourism may affect local businesses.
Best Activities in Kiel
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful scenery while sailing in the Kiel Fjord. There are opportunities for both experienced sailors and beginners to take to the water.
Explore the picturesque landscapes and historic sites along the Kiel Canal by cycling on the dedicated paths. It's a great way to experience the area's natural beauty.
Spend a relaxing day at the beach in Schilksee. Whether swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying water sports, this beach offers a lovely seaside escape.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kiel with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kiel
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque view of the fjord with sailing boats and the city skyline.
Offers beautiful natural scenery and a peaceful atmosphere for photography.
Great for capturing the bustling maritime activity and impressive cruise ships.
Food in Kiel
Kiel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional meat dish made of pickled pork, often served with potatoes and sauerkraut. Try it at Zum Kuchengarten, a charming local pub known for its authentic Sauerfleisch.
Must-Try!
Local smoked fish, typically herring, served with dark bread, butter, and onions. Enjoy this specialty at Fischkombüse, a popular seafood restaurant by the harbor.
A delicious red fruit pudding often served with cream or vanilla sauce. Sample this sweet treat at Café Friese, a cozy cafe known for its traditional desserts.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kiel better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this bustling market for a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local delicacies. Don't miss the stalls offering freshly prepared bratwurst, currywurst, and crepes.
Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and indulge in delicious street food offerings such as fresh fish sandwiches, grilled bratwurst, and diverse international snacks from food trucks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kiel, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal or business settings. A firm handshake is generally expected as a sign of respect.
Germans value punctuality, so it is important to be on time for meetings, appointments, and social gatherings in Kiel. Arriving late may be considered disrespectful.
Germans, including those in Kiel, tend to value their personal space. It's important to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others and to avoid standing too close or engaging in excessive physical contact.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kiel with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kiel
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kiel, Germany, tipping is generally not obligatory, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% for excellent service at restaurants, cafes, and taxis.
Cash is widely accepted in Kiel, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, and many places also accept mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kiel.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Kiel, Germany is generally pleasant with moderate temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities and want to avoid the peak tourist season.
Summer is the best time to visit Kiel, Germany due to its warm weather, longer days, and various cultural events and outdoor festivals. The city comes alive with maritime activities and is perfect for exploring the waterfront.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage to Kiel, making it an ideal time for nature walks and enjoying the changing scenery. It's also a good time to explore the local markets and culinary scene.
Winter in Kiel, Germany tends to be cold and dark, but it offers a cozy atmosphere with traditional Christmas markets and cultural events. It's a great time for enjoying warm drinks and experiencing the local holiday traditions.
Kiel at Night
Hiking in Kiel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful forest area near the center of Kiel, perfect for short hikes and nature walks.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Kiel Fjord and surrounding landscapes, popular for hiking and photography.
Features various trails through themed gardens and diverse plant species, ideal for leisurely hikes.
A lovely park in the city with various paths ideal for walking and enjoying nature.
Offers a long walking and biking path along one of the world's busiest artificial waterways, suitable for long hikes.
A historic park with walking paths, perfect for a quiet hike among beautiful old trees and landscaping.
A coastal hiking route along cliffs with stunning views of the Baltic Sea, ideal for more adventurous hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kiel through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kiel by plane.
Located approximately 90 kilometers from Kiel, Hamburg Airport is the closest major international airport, offering flights to various destinations around the world.
Situated around 150 kilometers from Kiel, Bremen Airport serves as another international gateway with several connections across Europe.
Located about 175 kilometers from Kiel, Hannover Airport provides a range of international flights, particularly to destinations in Europe and the Middle East.
Approximately 300 kilometers from Kiel, Berlin Brandenburg Airport is a major international airport serving the capital city, with extensive flight options worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Kiel consists of native Germans.
A significant number of residents have Turkish roots, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
Includes individuals from various Eastern European countries, such as Poland and Russia.
A growing community of Syrian refugees has settled in Kiel in recent years.
A smaller but notable group, particularly among businesses and cultural activities.
Includes individuals from various countries around the world, contributing to Kiel's diversity.
The Soul of Kiel
Discover the essence of Kiel through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kiel, with several local clubs, including Holstein Kiel, which competes in the German leagues.
Handball enjoys significant popularity in Kiel, and the city is home to the THW Kiel handball club, which is one of the most successful teams in Germany.
Given its location by the Baltic Sea, sailing is a popular sport in Kiel, known for hosting numerous sailing events and regattas.
Ice hockey is also a popular sport in Kiel, with local teams competing in various leagues, attracting a dedicated fan base.
Basketball is growing in popularity in Kiel, with local clubs providing opportunities for both recreational and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kiel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Kiel offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from traditional German fare to international cuisines. Look for symbols indicating these specialties on menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable dishes at various eateries across Kiel, particularly at seafood restaurants, cafes, and establishments serving modern European cuisine.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kiel with these cultural adventures.
