Kiel Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Kiel
Kiel
Kiel
Kiel
Kiel

Despite being the largest city in the region, Kiel is the perfect size to be discovered during a mini-break. Excitement is guaranteed when taking a city trip to Kiel!

Enormous cruise ships and gigantic ferries provide a unique backdrop which is unparalleled in Germany. The old town extends from the port of Kiel which forms the heart of this port city. Here you will find the Sparkassen-Arena, one of the largest event locations in Germany, as well as the shopping arcade Holstenstein. The beginnings of Kiel are located here, as this area was already populated during the 13th century and remained largely intact after World War II. While on a short trip, discover the historic buildings, such as the Nikoali Church, the monastery or the shipping museum and take a deep breath of the maritime air.

The Gaarden neighbourhood will enchant visitors who are travelling to Kiel. This district is shaped by the development of the wharfs, and to this day, many wharf workers live in this area. A walk across the rail bascule bridge leading across the Hörn River is especially recommendable. In Holtenau, there is water where ever you look. The Holtenau Locks, for example, as well as the steam bridges invite you for a visit. Maybe you would like to take a quick trip to Denmark while on your city trip? The district Schilksee is located on the Danish peninsula Wohld. Visit the Olympic Centre or enjoy the wonderful beach in Schilksee.

The state capital of Schleswig-Holstein impresses not only with its marvellous location right on the Baltic Sea but also with city life, as it has much to offer in terms of culture, leisure and events.

The art hall is located right on the Kiel Fjord and offers visitors a look at its own collections and changing exhibitions as well as a number of workshops, concerts and lectures. Anyone who loves city trips and still does not want to do without nature, should plan a visit to the Botanical Garden while on a mini-break. It was founded in the 17th century and is home to an impressive number of plants from the entire world. A visit to the theatre in Kiel is also obligatory while on your city trip. The stage of the theatre is located in a listed, former opera house of the city. The impressive red brick building is noticeable from afar already.

Where to stay in Kiel

Find the best Kiel areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kiel
Learn more about Kiel

Mitte

While visiting Mitte, you might make a stop by sights like Sophienhof and Wunderino-Arena.

Holtenau

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Holtenau and surrounding area, you can visit Kieler Förde and Holstein-Stadion.

Altstadt Kiel

While visiting Altstadt Kiel, you might make a stop by sights like Old Market Square Kiel and Ostseekai Cruise Terminal.

Wik

You'll enjoy the monuments and historical sites in Wik. You might want to make time for a stop at Holstein-Stadion or Kieler Förde.

Vorstadt

If you're spending some time in Vorstadt, Wunderino-Arena and Sophienhof are top sights worth seeing.

Steigenberger Conti Hansa

Steigenberger Conti Hansa

Schlossgarten 7 Kiel SH
The price is £77 per night from 5 Jul to 6 Jul
£77
5 Jul - 6 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this luxury hotel in Kiel. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (686 reviews)
"Very friendly welcome, great room at the fives floor and helpful stuff. The dinner buffet was excellent. Thank you for a nice stay in Kiel!"

Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026

Steigenberger Conti Hansa
Garner Hotel Kiel - Akademie by IHG

Garner Hotel Kiel - Akademie by IHG

Faluner Weg 2 Kiel
The price is £54 per night from 5 Jul to 6 Jul
£54
5 Jul - 6 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Kiel. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
Garner Hotel Kiel - Akademie by IHG
Hampton by Hilton Kiel City Centre

Hampton by Hilton Kiel City Centre

Exerzierplatz 5 Kiel SH
The price is £69 per night from 5 Jul to 6 Jul
£69
5 Jul - 6 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Kiel. Enjoy free breakfast, a 24-hour fitness centre and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,212 reviews)
"Ordered a cot 5 months in advance and no cot was available. Had to share a double bed with a baby and the two of us which was not ideal."

Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026

Hampton by Hilton Kiel City Centre
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Enjoy stunning views over Kiel and nature

Enjoy stunning views over Kiel and nature

Kiel Schleswig-Holstein
Stay at this holiday home in Kiel. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities and an in-room coffee maker. Popular attractions Ostseekai Cruise Terminal and Eco Kart ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (52 reviews)
"Wir hatten einen schönen Aufenthalt über Silvester in einem sehr ruhigen Haus. Man kann mit dem Hund direkt in die Natur und die Gastgeber sind sehr nett. Gerne wieder"

Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026

Enjoy stunning views over Kiel and nature
Sehr Schönes 2-zi.-appartement Kiel Schilksee Olympiazentrum. Haustierfreundlich

Sehr Schönes 2-zi.-appartement Kiel Schilksee Olympiazentrum. Haustierfreundlich

Kiel SH
Stay at this apartment in Kiel. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, cable/satellite TV service and an in-room coffee maker. Popular attractions Olympic Center Schilksee and Strander ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (107 reviews)
Great apartment with everything I needed right in the schiltsee harbour
"Great."

Reviewed on 1 Jul 2022

Sehr Schönes 2-zi.-appartement Kiel Schilksee Olympiazentrum. Haustierfreundlich
Charming family and pet friendly apartment in rural idyll - pure relaxation

Charming family and pet friendly apartment in rural idyll - pure relaxation

Kiel Pries SH
Stay at this family-friendly apartment in Kiel. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a garden and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Ostseekai Cruise Terminal and Hundestrand ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (103 reviews)
What a wonderful stay!
"We knew we were in for a lovely stay at this farmhouse before we even arrived, as Juli's texts were so friendly and kind. The location is peaceful, as it's outside the urban area, but it's close enough to walk. (We even took the local bus to Kiel for the day - very convenient!) The apartment is very ..."

Reviewed on 27 Jun 2023

Charming family and pet friendly apartment in rural idyll - pure relaxation
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Cities near Kiel

Explore a world of travel with Expedia