Two-Day Guide to Fun and Affordable Kiel

Discover the charm of Kiel without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Kiel, Germany is a vibrant city on the Baltic coast and offers a wide range of activities, perfect for budget travelers. Start the day with a leisurely stroll along the harbor, grab a budget-friendly lunch at one of the street vendors, and spend the afternoon exploring museums and galleries. End your day with a sunset walk along the white sand beaches or enjoy the nightlife at one of the city's many affordable bars.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Sail Away in Kiel Bay

  • Stay at the Basic Hotel Ostseehalle, a central location that is easy on the wallet. Start the day with a quick breakfast of fresh sandwiches & coffee from Patros Café. Take the bus to Laboe Naval Memorial, a stunning 220-foot high monument to the sailors who perished at sea. Next, sail the Kiel Fjord with a boat tour from MS Koi, admiring the picturesque coastline dotted with lighthouses & fishing villages. For lunch, stop at the Fischkombüse, a tiny shack that serves some of the best fish & chips in town. End the day with dinner at Kielschmiede, offering farm-to-table cuisine in an industrial setting.
Day 2

Discovering Kiel's Quirky Charm

  • Grab a quick breakfast of traditional German pastries at Konditorei Junge. Walk around the area of Holtenau, home to the iconic Kiel Canal and the Old Lighthouse. For a dose of curiosity and entertainment, visit the Zoological Museum, with exhibits ranging from stuffed animals to marine biology. For lunch, grab a currywurst at Dönninghaus. Continue to stroll around the city center, checking out quirky local shops like Spielzeug-König for toys and Thomas' Plattenkiste for vintage records. End the day with a beer and German pub fare at Brauerei Alstadt. Prost!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kiel by plane is to fly into Hamburg Airport and take the S1 train to Hamburg Central Station. From there, you can take a train from Hamburg Central Station to Kiel Main Station.

Car

The best way to get to Kiel by car is to take the A7 highway from Hamburg to Kiel. The journey takes about an hour and offers scenic views of the Baltic Sea.

Train

The best way to get to Kiel by train is to take an Intercity train from Berlin to Kiel Main Station. The journey takes about 3.5 hours and offers picturesque views of the German countryside.

Boat

The best way to get to Kiel by boat is to take a ferry from Oslo, Norway to Kiel. The ferry journey takes about 20 hours and offers comfortable cabins, entertainment, and dining options.

Bus

The best way to get to Kiel by bus is to take the Flixbus from Berlin to Kiel. The journey takes about 5 hours and offers comfortable seating and amenities like free Wi-Fi and power outlets.

More travel plans

Discovering the Charms of Kiel, Germany

Kiel is a vibrant port city located in the northern part of Germany. The city offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition with its maritime history, cultural landmarks, and contemporary attractions. From exploring the iconic Kiel Canal to strolling through the picturesque old town and indulging in delicious seafood, Kiel has something to offer for everyone.

Charming One-Day Trip to Historical Kiel

Explore the historical city of Kiel with your loved one, as you stroll through the beautifully-kept landscape of the Kiel Botanical Gardens. Take a delightful boat ride to the Kiel Fjord, where you'll be mesmerized by the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterfront. Dine on seafood dishes and savor authentic German beer at the rustic waterfront restaurants that line the Kiel Harbor.

Romantic weekend in charming Kiel, Germany

Kiel, Germany is a charming and picturesque city, perfect for a romantic getaway. Take a stroll along the Kiel Fjord and enjoy the stunning views of the Baltic Sea. Indulge in traditional German cuisine at local restaurants and cozy up at night in one of the city's romantic hotels.

Kiel on a Budget: Seafaring Adventures and Cake Delights

A family friendly trip to Kiel, Germany, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the fascinating Kiel Maritime Museum, where kids can learn about seafaring history through interactive exhibits. Enjoy a scenic boat tour on the fjord, visit the city's beautiful parks and beaches, and partake in numerous family-friendly events and festivals that take place throughout the year.