1. Kiel Rathaus: Great Views and Catchy Tunes
Undoubtedly the city's crown jewel, Kiel's Rathaus (town hall) is crowned by the 106 meter tall Rathausturm, which provides some of the best views by far of Kiel. Built between 1907 and 1911 in the graceful Jugendstil style, the tower has a viewing deck around two thirds of the way up. Aside from the views, the other great attraction at the Rathaus is the quirky clock, which signals the time via a glockenspiel melody, so try to be there on the hour to be serenaded before your ride up the tower.
2. Laboe Naval Memorial: A Must-Sea Naval Attraction
Situated about 15 miles up the coast from Kiel itself, Laboe is an attractive port with one major attraction: it's impressive and solemn naval memorial. This brick built tower cuts a dash with its curved construction, and was built after World War I to commemorate German naval deaths, but was reconsecrated in the 1950s to remember those on all sides who died in both World Wars. Aside from the memorial, Laboe also includes U-995, an actual U-Boat, which visitors can board for a window into World War II's submarine warfare.
3. Opernhaus Kiel: A Sublime Performance Space
Kiel's premier arts venue, the Opernhaus stages opera, concerts, theater and ballet and is located right next to the Rathaus. Built in 1902 in a classical Renaissance style, the theater is even more impressive inside than out, particularly when the crowd goes quiet, the conductor raises his baton, and the orchestra readies themselves to begin the show. Every season features major operas from the genre's greats, so check the schedule in advance and be sure to book seats to coincide with your visit.
4. Kirche Sankt Bonifatius: A Beautiful Medieval Survivor
Kiel's cathedral is also the oldest building in the city, and miraculously survived the intense bombing during World War II. Most of the structure dates back to at least the 15th century, and inside you'll find some genuine treasures, with sumptuous sculptures, a huge pipe organ and - outside the main doors - Ernst Barlach's "Spirit Fighter", which was denounced by the Nazis as degenerate, but hidden by locals and restored to its rightful place after the war was over.
5. Open Air Museum: Fresh Air, Food, and Festivals
Not far south of Kiel in the suburb of Molfsee, you'll come across this superb open air museum. Spread over 140 acres, the Open Air Museum sets out to preserve the heritage of Schleswig-Holstein, with period farm buildings, flower meadows, fish ponds, craft workshops, and even a funfair to enjoy. It's a fascinating catalog of German culture, but aside from the historical interest on offer, there's a fantastic smokehouse and beer hall on site, which makes it a wonderful place to relax. And, during the summer the museum becomes a lovely music venue when the Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival opens its doors, giving you the chance to combine education, food and classical melodies.
