Independent tourism and recreation in the city of Kiel

Historical information about the city of Kiel

Geographical prerequisites for the emergence of the city

Kiel is located on the shore of Kiel Bay of the Baltic Sea. It is a long and deep natural bay, which creates ideal conditions for navigation and port location.

In the early Middle Ages, the area was inhabited by Slavic and Germanic tribes. Thanks to its convenient access to the Baltic, the region actively participated in trade between Scandinavia, the German lands and the countries of Eastern Europe.

It is the favorable geographical location was the main factor in the emergence of the future city.

The foundation of Kiel (XIII century)

The official foundation date of Kiel is 1242.

The city was founded by Count Adolf IV of Schauenburg and Holstein.

The settlement was originally called Holstenstadt tom Kyle.

The word "Kiel" comes from an Old Norse word meaning "narrow bay" or "fjord."

The main occupations of residents were:

• fishing;

• maritime trade;

• shipbuilding;

• craftsmanship.

Already in the XIII-XIV centuries Kiel became an important trading port on the Baltic Sea.

The Age of the Hanseatic League

In the XIV century, Kiel became a member of the famous Hanseatic League.

Hansa united the largest trading cities of Northern Europe.

Through the port of Kiel transported:

• wood;

• grain;

• fur;

• fish;

• salt

• tissue.

Merchant ships were regularly dispatched to:

• Denmark;

• Sweden;

• Norway;

• Netherlands;

• England.

Compared to Lübeck or Hamburg, Kiel remained a relatively small city.

Keel under the Danish crown

From the XIV to the XIX century, the territory of Schleswig-Holstein repeatedly became the object of struggle between the German principalities and the Danish kings.

For several centuries Kiel was under the influence of the Danish monarchy.

Despite political conflicts, the city continued to develop as a port and trading center.

During this period, construction was carried out:

• new berths;

• warehouses;

• churches;

• administrative buildings.

Founding of the university

One of the most important events in the history of the city was the opening of Kiel University in 1665.

The university quickly became one of the largest scientific centers in Northern Germany.

They worked here.

• philosophers;

• medics;

• lawyers;

• physics;

• Biologists.

Over time, the university turned Kiel not only into a maritime, but also an educational center of the region.

XIX century - turning into a naval base

After the annexation of Schleswig-Holstein to Prussia in 1867, a new stage in the history of the city began.

The Prussian authorities saw the strategic importance of Kiel Bay.

Large-scale construction began in the city:

• naval bases;

• shipyard;

• arsenals;

• Docks.

Kiel gradually became the main port of the German Navy.

The population grew rapidly.

If at the beginning of the XIX century there lived about 10 thousand people, by the beginning of the XX century the population increased more than ten times.

Construction of the Kiel Canal

One of the largest engineering projects in Europe was the construction of Kiel Canal.

Work began in 1887.

The official opening took place in 1895 with the participation of Wilhelm II.

The canal connects the Baltic and North Seas.

This allowed the ships to avoid a long trip through Denmark.

After the opening of the canal, Kiel became one of the most important maritime hubs in Europe.

The city received a strong economic boost.

First World War

During World War I, Kiel was one of the main bases of the German Navy.

It was built here.

• battleships;

• submarines;

• warships.

The port was of great strategic importance.

By the end of the war there was growing discontent among sailors and workers.

Kiel Uprising of 1918

One of the most important events in German history was Kiel Mutiny.

In November 1918, the sailors refused to comply with command orders for the last major naval battle.

The uprising quickly spread throughout Germany.

The events in Kiel were the beginning of the November Revolution, which led to:

• the fall of the German Empire;

• the Kaiser's abdication;

• Proclamation of the Republic.

Kiel therefore holds a special place in German political history.

World War II

During World War II, Kiel again became one of the most important naval centers of the country.

The city was heavily bombed by the Allies.

The reasons were:

• large shipyards;

• submarine bases;

• military factories;

• strategic port.

By 1945, about 80% of the city center had been destroyed.

Many historic buildings were completely destroyed.

Post-war reconstruction

After the war, Keel found himself in the British occupation zone.

A large-scale restoration of the city began.

Most of the destroyed neighborhoods were built in a modern style.

Therefore, today’s Kiel is markedly different from many ancient German cities.

Medieval architecture is only partially preserved.

But the city got:

• wide streets;

• modern residential areas;

• new university buildings;

• Developed transport infrastructure.

Modern Kiel

Today, about 250,000 people live in Kiel.

The city is:

• the capital of Schleswig-Holstein;

• the largest port of the Baltic coast of Germany;

• an important shipbuilding center;

• university city;

• a popular tourist destination.
  

What is interesting about Kiel

A city living by sea

The main feature of Kiel is its location on the shore of Kiel Bay.

From almost any part of the center you can see:

• sea vessels;

• yachts;

• ferries;

• cruise ships;

• warships.

The sea is a part of everyday life.

Walking along the embankments, you can watch how huge passenger liners from Scandinavia come to the port, and training sailboats and sports yachts pass nearby.

For many tourists, this atmosphere becomes the main impression of the trip.

One of the largest yacht capitals in the world

Kiel is known far beyond Germany for the famous regatta Kiel Week.

Every June, hundreds of thousands of guests and thousands of yachtsmen from dozens of countries come here.

During the holiday, the city turns into a huge sea festival.

Tourists are waiting:

• yacht racing;

• Ship parades;

• open-air concerts;

• fairs;

• fireworks;

• Gastronomy festivals.

This is the largest sailing event in the world and one of the largest summer festivals in Europe.

Baltic coast and beaches

Despite the status of a large city, Kiel has excellent beaches.

Especially popular:

• Schilksee Beach;

• Falckenstein Beach;

• Laboe Beach.

Here you can:

• swim in the summer;

• sunbathe

• windsurfing;

• yachting;

• watch the passing ships.

The peculiarity of the region is that even a city holiday can be easily combined with a beach holiday.

Kiel Canal – the engineering miracle of Europe

One of the main attractions of the city is Kiel Canal.

It is the busiest artificial shipping channel in Europe.

It connects the Baltic and North Seas.

Tourists come to see:

• floodgates;

• passing ocean vessels;

• observation decks;

• historical sites of the canal.

Watching the passage of huge container ships and cruise ships becomes a real show.

Maritime Museums and Military History

Kiel is one of the most important maritime cities in Germany.

Here are:

• maritime museums;

• old ships;

• Expositions dedicated to the submarine fleet;

• monuments to sailors.

Especially interesting is the Kiel Maritime Museum, where you can get acquainted with the history of navigation of the Baltic Sea.

A convenient starting point for travel in Northern Europe

Ferries depart daily from the port of Kiel to:

• Sweden;

• Norway;

• Lithuania.

Many tourists use the city as an intermediate stop before traveling in Scandinavia.

Kiel is one of the largest transport hubs in the Baltic region.

Young and modern city

Thanks to the university, Kiel has a young atmosphere.

There's a lot in town:

• coffeehouse

• bars;

• restaurants;

• cultural sites;

• concert halls.

There is a combination of German organization and relaxed marine lifestyle.

Nature near the city

Nature lovers will appreciate:

• Walking along the coast;

• bicycle routes;

• marine reserves;

• parks;

• coastal forests.

Especially beautiful sunsets over Kiel Bay, which are considered one of the best on the entire German coast of the Baltic.

Shopping and gastronomy

Kiel offers a large number of shops, shopping centers and markets.

Particular attention should be paid to:

• fresh fish;

• Baltic seafood;

• smoked salmon;

• North German fish dishes;

• local beer.

Many restaurants serve dishes from freshly caught fish.

You'll be met in Kiel. private guides And they'll offer you a copy. individual excursions.

Levels of residence in Kiel

High-level hotels (4-5 stars)

Suitable for comfortable rest, family trips and business travel.

Popular options:

• ATLANTIC Hotel Kiel is a modern hotel near the station and the port.

• Romantik Hotel Kieler Kaufmann is a cozy hotel in a green area near the bay.

• Hotel Kieler Yacht-Club is located right by the water with a beautiful view of the yachts.

The cost is usually between 120 and 250 euros per night.

Mid-range hotels (3-4 stars)

The most popular option among tourists.

Popular hotels:

• IntercityHotel Kiel - near the station and the city center.

• B&B Hotel Kiel-City is a good budget hotel.

• Holiday Inn - the niu, Welly Kiel is a modern hotel in the center.

The cost is usually between 80 and 140 euros per night.

Cheap hotels

Suitable for those who spend most of their time on excursions.

Popular options:

• Hotel an der Hörn

• Hotel Liegeplatz 13 Kiel

The average cost is from 50 to 90 euros per night.

Hostels

The cheapest accommodation option.

Popular hostels:

• Hostel am Hafen Kiel

• City Hostel Kiel

• DJH Jugendherberge Kiel

The cost of a seat in a common room is usually from 25 to 50 euros per night.

Where to go and what to see in Kiel

Kiel Embankment (Kiellinie)

The most famous walking area of the city.

Here you can see:

• yachts and sailboats;

• cruise ships;

• warships;

• beautiful views of Kiel Bay;

• cafes and restaurants by the sea.

This is one of the best places for walking and photography.

How to get there

• walk about 15-20 minutes from the city center;

• buses of city routes;

• by bicycle on equipped paths.

Kiel canal

The busiest artificial channel in Europe.

Tourists come here to see:

• huge cargo ships;

• cruise ships;

• floodgates;

• observation decks.

It is especially interesting to watch the passage of ships through lock chambers.

How to get there

• by bus from the city center for about 20-30 minutes;

• the car for about 15 minutes;

• by bicycle along special routes.

Holtenau locks

Main locks of Kiel Canal.

Here you can observe the work of the engineering structure almost closely.

Particularly impressive:

• containerships;

• warships;

• big ferries.

How to get there

• buses from the center of Kiel;

• excursion routes;

• By bike down the waterfront.

Labö Naval Memorial

One of the symbols of the region.

The 80-meter-high memorial tower is dedicated to sailors who died in world wars.

From the observation deck there are magnificent views of the Baltic Sea and Kiel Bay.

How to get there

• by bus to the village of Labyo;

• by ferry through the bay in the summer season;

• The car is about 20 minutes from the center.

Submarine U-995

Near the memorial is the museum submarine U-995.

This is a real German submarine from the Second World War.

Visitors can walk inside the boat and see the living conditions of the submariners.

How to get there

It is located next to the Labeux Memorial, so the transport is the same.

Kiel Maritime Museum

One of the most interesting museums in the city.

The exhibition tells about:

• navigation of the Baltic;

• port development;

• shipbuilding;

• Kiel's stories.

How to get there

• It is located in the city centre;

• It is easy to walk from the station in 10-15 minutes.

Botanical Garden of Kiel University

A quiet place to relax among plants from all over the world.

Here are:

• tropical plants;

• rare trees;

• greenhouses;

• flower collection.

How to get there

• by bus from the center for about 15 minutes;

• by bicycle;

• taxi.

Šilkzee Beach

One of the most popular beaches in the region.

Here you can:

• bathe;

• sunbathe

• windsurfing;

• watch sailing competitions.

During Kiel Week, many sports events take place here.

How to get there

• bus about 30 minutes from the center;

• about 20 minutes in a car.

Old Market and St. Nicholas Church

The oldest church of the city, built in the XIII century.

On the square nearby are:

• café

• shops;

• gift shops;

• street musicians.

This is the historic heart of Kiel.

How to get there

Located in the city center near the pedestrian zone.

Kiel Opera House

The main theater of the city.

In the program:

• opera;

• ballet;

• concerts;

• musical productions.

How to get there

Located in the center, a few minutes walk from the Old Market.

Events and entertainment in Kiel

Spring (March-May)

In spring, the first major city events take place after winter.

Popular events:

• Kieler Umschlag is the oldest city holiday with markets, music and street performers.

• Opening of the season by the sea (bathing in the bay - "Anbaden")

• small-scale

• exhibitions, theatre productions and concerts

Spring is a calm season without crowds of tourists.

Summer (June-August)

This is the most intense and touristic period.

Main event: Kieler Woche

Kiel Weekel

It is the largest maritime festival in the world.

What's going on?

• sailing

• hundreds of yachts and ships

• Free concerts on dozens of scenes

• street festivals of food and music

• fireworks

• parade

Millions of people come to the city, and Kiel becomes a huge festival area.

Other summer events

In addition to Kieler Woche in the summer are held:

• Bootshafensommer – concerts by the water

• Music festivals (rock, jazz, pop)

• Street parties and open-air concerts

• Cultural festivals and art events

• sports regattas and sea competitions

In the summer, almost every week there is an event near the water.

Autumn (September-November)

In the autumn, the city is calmer, but activities continue.

What happens:

• Bauern- und Regionalmarkt - Farm Product Market

• gastronomic festivals (fish, seafood)

• cultural weeks and exhibitions

• concertos

This is a good time for quiet tourism.

Winter (December – February)

In winter, Kiel turns into a cozy northern city.

Christmas markets

• The main squares of the city turn into Christmas markets

• mulled wine, sweets, souvenirs

• lighting
  

What weather is suitable for a trip to Kiel

Spring (March-May)

Air temperature:

• March: +3...+9 °C

• April: +6...+14 °C

• May: +10... +18 °C

Water temperature:

• about +4... +11 °C

The water is still very cold, you can not swim.

Features:

• frequent-wind

• fluctuating

• many sunny and cloudy days mixed

Summer (June-August)

Air temperature:

• June: +15... +21 °C

• July: +18 ... +24 °C

• August: +18... +23 °C

Heat above +28 °C is rare.

Water temperature:

• +16... +20 °C

You can swim in the Baltic Sea, but the water remains cool.

Features of summer:

• most comfortable season

• A lot of sun and a long daylight

• touristy

Autumn (September-November)

Air temperature:

• September: +14... +19 °C

• October: +9...+14 °C

• November: +4...+9 °C

Water temperature:

• September: +16... +18 °C

• October: +12... +15 °C

• November: +8... +10 °C

Swimming becomes impossible by October.

Features:

• winds up

• rainfall

• leisure-time

Winter (December – February)

Air temperature:

• December: +1 ... +6 °C

• January: 0...+4 °C

• February: 0...+5 °C

Frost is rare and usually weak.

Water temperature:

• +3...+6 °C

The sea is cold all year round.

What traditions and customs should be observed in the city of Kiel

Language of communication

Official language

• German (Deutsch)

That's where it goes.

• communication

• transport

• document

• medicine

English

• widely used in touristic places

• well understood in hotels, cafes, museums

• Young people and students often know

Kiel is a university town, so there is usually no problem with English.

Feature of the region

In northern Germany you can sometimes hear:

• Low German dialect (Plattdeutsch) But it is almost not used in everyday tourist communication.

Traditions and norms of behaviour

1. Politeness and distance

Germans, especially in northern cities:

• restrained

• do not like obsessions

• value personal space

Not accepted:

• talk loudly in public places

• interfere with other people's personal affairs

2. Punctuality

In Germany, punctuality is the norm.

Important:

• come on time

• not be late for excursions or transport

Being late for no reason is considered disrespectful.

3. Lines and order.

• queues are always followed

• No one "climbs forward"

• There is a strict order in shops and transport

4. Separate garbage sorting

A very important part of culture:

• plastic

• paper

• glass

• organic

For incorrect sorting can make a comment.

5. Silence tonight

In residential areas, the rule of "quiet time" applies:

• No noise at night or evening

• especially after 22:00

Basic laws that are important for tourists to know

1. Documents

The tourist must have with him:

• passport

• or identity card

The police can check the documents at any time.

2. Alcohol

• allowed from age 18

• Drinking in public places depends on the area

• In some places it may be prohibited.

3. Smoking

• prohibited in closed public places

• Smoking at train stations and in transport is not allowed

• There are special areas for smoking

4. Photos and videos

• You can't film people without their consent in certain situations.

• especially in private premises and service areas

5. Bicycle regulations

There are many cyclists in Kiel and the rules are strictly enforced:

• cycling n

• light up

• Pedestrians have priority in crossings

6. Public transport

• Tickets must be purchased in advance

• ticket-free travel

• Controllers check regularly
  

Popular phrases and dialogues with translation for a trip to Kiel

Basic phrases

• Hallo - Hello (Hallo)

• Guten Tag - Good afternoon by Guten Tag

• Guten Morgen – Good Morning by Guten Morgen

• Guten Abend – Good Evening by Guten Abend

• Auf Wiedersehen – Goodbye by Auf Wiedersehen

• Danke - Thank you (Danke)

• Vielen Dank – Thank you very much (Philena Dunk)

• Bitte - Please (Bitte)

Polite and useful expressions

• Entschuldigung - Sorry (Entschuldigung)

• Kein Problem - No Problem (Kine Problems)

• Ich verstehe nicht – I don’t understand

• Sprechen Sie Englisch? - Do you speak English?

• Können Sie das wiederholen? - Can you say it again? - Kennen Zi Das Wiederholen

• Wie bitte? - Excuse me?

In the city and transport

• Wo ist...? - Where is... (In the East...?)

• Bahnhof - Station (Banhof)

• Bus - Bus (Bus)

• Fahrkarte - Ticket (Farkarte)

• Ticket - Ticket (Ticket)

• Wie komme ich zum Bahnhof? - How do I get to the station? - Vi Kome Ih Tsum Banhof

• Wann fährt der Bus? - When's the bus? - Van Fart Der Bus

• Geradeaus - Straight (Geradeaus)

• Links/Rechts – Left/Right (Links/Rechts)

Cafe and restaurant

• Ich möchte bestellen – I want to order (Ich Mehte Bashtellen)

• Die Speisekarte, bitte - Menu please (Dee Spisekarte, Bitte)

• Wasser - Water (Vasser)

• Kaffee - Coffee (Café)

• Bier - Beer (Beer)

• Rechnung, bitte - Invoice, please (Rehnung, Bitte)

• Das Ist Lecker – It's Delicious by Das East Lecker

At the hotel.

• Ich habe eine Reservierung – I have a reservation (Ich Habe Aine Reservirung)

• Zimmer - Number (Zimmer)

• Schlüssel - The Key (Schlössel)

• Check-in - Accommodation (Check-in)

• Check-out - Eviction (check-out)

• Wo ist mein Zimmer? - Where's my number?

Emergency situations

• Hilfe - Help (Hilfe)

• Ich brauche einen Arzt – I need a doctor (Ich Brauche Ainen Art)

• Polizei - Police (Police)

• Notfall - Emergency (Notphal)

• Es ist dringend - It's Urgent (Es East Dringend)
  

What to try and what souvenirs and gifts to bring from Kiel

Unique food and products

Baltic fish

The main feature of the region:

• smoked herring

• eel

• mackerel

• sprat

Often sold in smoked form or in vacuum packaging - it is convenient to bring home.

Northern cuisine

• Labskaus (traditional seafood dish made of meat, potatoes and beets)

• potato-let

• fish-soup

• rye

Sweets.

• Marzipan (very popular in northern Germany)

• sea-salt

• gingerbread

• Caramel and local sweets

Drinks.

• North German beer

• cider

• herbal liqueurs in small bottles

Useful and curative remedies

In Germany, a very developed culture of natural pharmacy products:

• herbal teas (chamomile, mint, St. John's wort)

• ointments with arnica (from bruises and pain)

• menthol

• creams to protect the skin from wind and cold

Such facilities are especially popular due to the maritime climate and winds.

What to bring from Kiel

Sea souvenirs

• sail-model

• miniature

• anchor and compass

• sea-themed

City souvenirs

• port-magnet

• nautical

• cups and t-shirts

• Souvenirs from Kiel Week Festival

Hand products

• pottery

• woodwork

• handcrafted

• textile
  

Rest safety and availability of travel documents for Kiel

Safety of rest

The keel is considered:

• safe and secure city

• policing

• high-level medical care

• comfortable for independent travelers

Main risks:

• petty theft at tourist sites

• pickpockets at the station and during festivals

• strong wind near the water (sometimes stormy weather)

What documents do tourists need?

Mandatory documents:

• passport

• visa (if required) or visa-free entry

• Health insurance (required for a visa)

It is important to know about your stay.

In the Schengen Area, including Germany:

• You can stay up to 90 days in any 180 days.

• no longer

• In case of violation, a fine, deportation and a ban on entry are possible

Health insurance

It is recommended for travel (and for a visa it is obligatory):

• coverage of at least 30,000 euros

• action throughout the journey

• coverage of emergency care and hospitalization

• Repatriation coverage (return in case of illness)

Emergency phones in Germany

Main numbers:

• 112 Ambulances and Firefighters

• 110 - police

Additional services:

• 116 117 – Doctor on duty (if not urgently)

• 19222 - Medical transport

Mobile and Internet

All major European operators operate in Germany:

Local operators:

• Telekom

• Vodafone

• O2

Features:

• in the EU roaming is free of charge (if the SIM is European)

• You can buy a tourist SIM card at the airport or shop

• Almost everywhere there is 4G/5G coverage

How long can you stay in the country

For tourists:

• a maximum of 90 days in the Schengen area

• within 180 days (sliding period)

This rule applies to most European countries, including Germany.

Important:

• Departure from the country does not “zero” the period automatically

• days are considered in total throughout the Schengen area

• Control is carried out on entry/exit and accounting systems