A short waterfront walk from the docks brings you to a number of attractions that showcase Mother Nature’s handiwork. The Zoological Museum and Aquarium offer a close-up look at the planet’s most interesting creatures, while the nearby Botanical Gardens provide a soothing haven in which to admire verdant flora.
Culture buffs have plenty of choice in Kiel, with a past that can be traced back almost 900 years. Visit its oldest building, St. Nicholas church, to admire thirteenth-century architecture, stop off at the world-renowned university, soak up the sounds of the Opera House or explore the city’s museums to learn its secrets and stories. Discover Kiel’s wartime role with a trip to the Schifffahrtsmuseum or with a visit to the preserved Flandernbunker.
Explore the nearby harbour or embrace an unusual experience by stepping inside a U-995 submarine at the nearby Laboe Naval Museum. Maritime enthusiasts can also experience the bustling Kiel Regatta during June when thousands of boats and ships visit from around the world to take part in the annual week of festivities.
Half an hour north you’ll find the petite Bülk lighthouse and a small strip of sandy beach. As well as offering a charming photo opportunity, the coastal walk to scenic Strande is sure to be a breath of fresh air. Don’t forget to bring your walking shoes to make the most of the lovely landscape.
Since its construction more than 100 years ago, the Kiel Canal has been an essential route between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The 60-mile artificial waterway took eight years to complete and saved sailors from enduring a 280-mile trip around Denmark’s stormy Jutland Peninsula. It cuts through the northern tip of Germany, between Kiel to Brunsbüttel, with locks controlling the water level and numerous bridges arching across it. Relax in comfort as you enjoy a leisurely cruise past the lush fields, picturesque meadows and rural towns that line the canal.
Which cruise lines sail to Keil?
