Kiel Ferries

The port of Kiel plays a key role in the ferry network of Germany, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 2 ferry routes operated by 3 ferry companies, Kiel serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Kiel, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Gothenburg - Kiel connecting Kiel with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Stena Line, Color Line, DFDS Seaways run regular services from Kiel, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Kiel offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Kiel is well-connected to Germany's transportation network, making it easily accessible for ferry travelers. By train, the city is approximately 1 hour from Hamburg and 3.5 hours from Berlin, with the main station located just a short walk from the ferry terminals. If driving, Kiel connects to major highways A7 and A215, with several parking garages available near the port area. Local bus services run regularly between the city center and ferry terminals, while taxis offer convenient door-to-port service. For international travelers, Hamburg Airport is the closest major air hub, about 90 minutes away by shuttle or train.

Nestled at the southwestern shore of the Baltic Sea, Kiel combines maritime heritage with modern urban charm. As the capital of Schleswig-Holstein and home to one of Germany's most important ports, this seafaring city offers a perfect blend of nautical tradition and contemporary culture. The city's stunning waterfront promenade, historic naval quarters, and vibrant sailing events make Kiel an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic maritime experiences.

Kiel shines brightest during the summer months of June through August, when temperatures typically range from 18-22°C (64-72°F) and daylight extends well into the evening. Late June brings the world-famous Kiel Week (Kieler Woche), the largest sailing event in the world and a magnificent maritime festival that transforms the city. Spring (April-May) offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds and blooming landscapes along the fjord. Ferry services operate year-round but increase in frequency during summer months. Autumn visits (September-October) reward travelers with golden landscapes and more available accommodations as summer crowds disperse.

Kiel serves as an excellent launching point for Baltic Sea adventures. Regular ferry services connect to Gothenburg, Sweden (14 hours), offering access to Sweden's picturesque west coast and vibrant cultural scene. The ferry to Oslo, Norway (20 hours) delivers travelers to one of Scandinavia's most dynamic capitals, surrounded by stunning fjords and forests. Closer to home, ferry trips to Lithuania's Klaipėda (20 hours) provide a gateway to the beautiful Baltic states and the unique Curonian Spit. Many travelers appreciate Kiel's strategic position for creating multi-country Scandinavian itineraries, with comfortable overnight ferries featuring restaurants, entertainment, and cabin accommodations.

Kiel's waterfront Kiellinie promenade offers spectacular views of massive cruise ships and ferries navigating the busy harbor, with numerous cafés perfect for watching maritime traffic. History enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Laboe Naval Memorial and U-995 submarine museum, providing fascinating insights into Germany's naval past. The Schifffahrtsmuseum (Maritime Museum) housed in a former fish auction hall showcases the city's deep connection to the sea through interactive exhibits. For food lovers, Kiel's restaurants serve outstanding North German specialties like Kieler Sprotte (smoked sprats) and fresh Baltic seafood. The charming old town quarter features distinctive red-brick architecture typical of northern Germany's Hanseatic heritage.

Kiel's famous canal, the Nord-Ostsee-Kanal (Kiel Canal), is the world's busiest artificial waterway, saving ships a 250-mile journey around Denmark's Jutland Peninsula. The city's name comes from the Middle Low German word 'kil' meaning 'wedge' or 'inlet,' referencing the distinctive shape of the Kiel Fjord. During Kiel Week, the city hosts over 3 million visitors and features more than 2,000 events alongside 1,800 vessels from around the globe. Kiel's university was founded in 1665, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in Northern Europe.