Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore this Historic Port

Kiel , Germany

Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore this Historic Port

Active

(22 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Are you looking for a way to see Kiel without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour.

• Find out how and why Germany was split in two, thanks to 9,000 men with 9,000 shovels
• Hear from producer Kirk Wilson, a New Zealander whose love of telling stories lead him to create Kiel Walking Tours
• Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Available options

Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore this Historic Port

What's included

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

VoiceMap app for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this self-guided tour in English

Detailed itinerary

The tour takes place in Kiel. You'll hear about the area's history including how it was home to the Imperial Navy and the last German Kaiser.

The tour starts outside the main cruise ship terminal. You'll be introduced to the main themes of the tour and hear how VoiceMap works.

The tour passes by the Kiel Harbour. You'll hear about the harbour's history and marine history while you walk.

The tour passes by the Aquarium where you'll hear about the city’s best-loved citizens, the seals at Aquarium.

The tour passes through the garden of the destroyed Kiel Castle. You'll hear about the castle and the current garden while you walk.

You'll see the statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I. You'll hear about the last Kaiser and how he impacted the city.

The tour passes through Ratsdienergarten where you'll hear about the Sailors’ Mutiny Memorial.

While winding through the city and alongside the harbour and parts of lake Kleiner Kiel, you'll hear about the compass Einstein invented while staying in Kiel and how it’s still used today.

The tour passes by the Rathasturm Kiel. You’ll find out why Kiel’s bureaucrats need a special qualification just to use the wooden lift inside the old Town Hall!

The tour ends in front of the St Nikolai Church. By the end of the tour, you'll know most of Kiel's secrets.

What's not included

Smarphone and headphones

Food and drinks

Transportation

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
───
Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
───
• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
───
For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Kiel

Kiel is a vibrant maritime city in northern Germany, known for its beautiful fjord, historic sailing traditions, and lively festivals. It's a gateway to the Baltic Sea and offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Kiel Fjord

The Kiel Fjord is a stunning natural harbor that offers beautiful views, water sports, and scenic walks. It's a central feature of the city and a must-visit.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (boat tours cost extra)

Kiel Canal

The Kiel Canal is one of the busiest artificial waterways in the world. It connects the North Sea and the Baltic Sea and is a marvel of engineering.

Engineering 1-2 hours Free (boat tours cost extra)

Kiel Week

Kiel Week is the world's largest sailing event, held annually in late June. It features sailing competitions, concerts, and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Festival 10 days Free (some events require tickets)

Kiel Maritime Museum

The Kiel Maritime Museum offers a fascinating look into the city's rich maritime history. It features exhibits on sailing, shipbuilding, and naval history.

Museum 1-2 hours €8 (adults), €4 (children)

Kiel Castle

Kiel Castle, also known as Kieler Schloss, is a historic castle that now houses the State Museum of Schleswig-Holstein. It offers a glimpse into the region's history and culture.

Historical 1-2 hours €5 (adults), €2.50 (children)

Botanical Garden Kiel

The Botanical Garden Kiel is a beautiful green space featuring a variety of plant species, greenhouses, and themed gardens. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Labskaus

A traditional Northern German dish made with corned beef, potatoes, beets, and onions, often served with a fried egg and rollmops (pickled herring).

Main Course Contains meat and fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Bratwurst

A classic German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal, grilled and served with mustard and bread.

Main Course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Finkenwerder Scholle

A traditional Baltic Sea dish made with fresh plaice (a type of flatfish), typically served with shrimp, vegetables, and a creamy sauce.

Main Course Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Kieler Sprotten

Small, smoked sprats (a type of fish) that are a local delicacy in Kiel. They are often served with bread and butter.

Appetizer Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Sailing Kayaking Hiking Cycling Beach activities Spa treatments Scenic walks Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The best time to visit Kiel is during the summer months when the weather is warm and pleasant, and the city hosts its famous Kiel Week festival. This is the peak tourist season with the highest number of visitors.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, Danish
English: Widely spoken, especially among younger people and in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kiel is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Kiel Airport • 10 km from city center
Hamburg Airport • 90 km from Kiel

By train

Kiel Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Kiel ZOB (Central Bus Station)

Getting around

Public transport

The KVAG bus network covers the entire city and is the primary mode of public transport. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kiel City Center Düsternbrook Gaarden Wik Mettenhof

Day trips

Lübeck

70 km from Kiel • 1.5 hours by car or train

Lübeck is a beautiful medieval city known for its well-preserved old town, historic architecture, and maritime history. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a rich cultural experience.

Flensburg

100 km from Kiel • 1.5 hours by car or train

Flensburg is a charming city near the Danish border, known for its historic sites, beautiful fjord, and maritime heritage. It's a great place for a relaxing day trip.

Schleswig

30 km from Kiel • 30 minutes by car or train

Schleswig is a historic city with a rich Viking heritage, beautiful architecture, and a charming old town. It's a great place to explore German history and culture.

Festivals

Kiel Week • Late June Kieler Umzug • November Kieler Weihnachtsmarkt • December

Pro tips

Visit during Kiel Week for a unique and vibrant experience, but book accommodations well in advance
Explore the Kiel Fjord by boat or rent a bike to enjoy the scenic views and waterfront promenade
Try local specialties like Labskaus, Bratwurst, and Kieler Sprotten for an authentic taste of Kiel
Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city, as parking can be challenging and expensive
Take a day trip to nearby destinations like Lübeck, Flensburg, or Plön for a mix of history, nature, and relaxation