Two must-do historical tours showcase the best of Kiel, northern Germany’s bustling port city. The practical Self-Guided Audio Tour lets you explore at your own pace, featuring stops at the towering Gothic St. Nikolai Church and the waterfront aquarium. We especially love the Private Historic Walking Tour – a fantastic 2-hour experience that connects you with the city’s soul, from the imposing Town Hall to the elegant Opera House and pedestrian-friendly Holstenstraße. Both tours excel at bringing Kiel’s maritime heritage to life. Let’s explore these top historical experiences in detail.
Good To Know
- The self-guided Kiel Audio Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s historical landmarks, including the St. Nikolai Church and local aquarium.
- The private historic walking tour provides a 2-hour guided experience, available in English and German, with a focus on Kiel’s political center and landmarks.
- Key historical landmarks in Kiel include the Gothic Revival-style St. Nikolai Church, the Opera House, and the Holstenstraße, the city’s oldest pedestrian street.
- The self-guided tour offers flexibility with the ability to start, pause, or stop the experience at any time, though it is not wheelchair-accessible.
- Kiel’s rich history, including its World War II impact and artistic contributions, are highlighted through the various tour options, providing cultural and historical significance.
Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore This Historic Port
Kiel’s self-guided audio tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of this historic port city. With a 100% recommendation rate from 15 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour allows travelers to discover Kiel’s top landmarks, monuments, gardens, and the local aquarium at their own pace.
Accessible through the VoiceMap smartphone app for both Android and iOS, the tour provides lifetime access to the audio in English, as well as offline maps and geodata. Visitors can start, pause, or stop the tour anytime, ensuring a private and flexible experience.
The tour highlights Kiel’s rich history and culture, culminating at the St. Nikolai Church in the Alter Markt. With the meeting point at the Cruise Terminal Ostseekai, the tour is available from April 13, 2022, to November 2, 2025, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Priced from $11.99 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore This Historic Port Review
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Kiel – Private Historic Walking Tour
This private historic walking tour in Kiel offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s rich heritage. Priced at $376.89 for up to 20 participants, the 2-hour tour is available in English and German.
Starting at the Town Hall, the main political center since 1911, the guided experience takes guests through the charming Holstenstraße, Kiel’s oldest pedestrian street lined with boutiques and cafes.
Highlights include the Opera House, designed by Heinrich Seeling, and the St. Nikolai Church, the oldest building in the city, which was remodeled in Gothic Revival before being destroyed in World War II and later rebuilt with a contemporary interior.
Along the Fjord, visitors can photograph the statue of Zar Peter III and explore the Art Gallery and Old Botanical Garden.
With a 5/5 rating based on traveler reviews, this tour provides an immersive introduction to Kiel’s storied past. Booking is available with a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Kiel – Private Historic Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Operating Hours for the Historical Tours?
The historical tours typically operate during the day, with most running from 9am to 5pm. Tour schedules may vary by company and season, so it’s best to check with individual providers for their specific operating hours.
Do the Tours Offer Multilingual Options for Non-German Speakers?
Many of the historical tours in the area offer multilingual options, catering to non-German speakers. Visitors can typically choose from a variety of languages, ensuring they can fully engage with the city’s rich history.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Accessibility Considerations for the Tours?
Most historical tours in Kiel don’t have age restrictions, but some may not be fully accessible for those with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any accessibility considerations before booking.
What Are the Cancellation Policies in Case of Inclement Weather?
Most tour operators have flexible cancellation policies if inclement weather arises. Customers should check each company’s policy, as some may offer full refunds or the option to reschedule for another day.
Do the Tours Include Any Special Discounts or Package Deals?
The tours may offer discounts or package deals, such as reduced rates for seniors, students, or families. Customers should inquire about any special offers when booking the tour to take advantage of potential savings.
The Sum Up
Kiel’s historic port and city center offer visitors a chance to discover the city’s maritime past. Self-guided audio tours and private walking tours provide an immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore landmarks, learn about the city’s history, and gain a deeper understanding of Kiel’s role as a significant German port. Whether you’re interested in architecture, wartime history, or the local culture, Kiel’s historical tours provide an engaging and informative way to experience the city.