The sea comes right into the heart of the city. The great natural feature in Kiel is the fjord with its beaches. The maritime aspect of the city with its harbours, the massive passenger ferries and the enormous cranes on the docks – that’s typical Kiel.

Water is the element in Kiel. You can see it in the growing port, international oceanography, in the highly-specialised Navy, or in the world-class water sports. The Land Capital Kiel is a dockyards and Navy city rich in tradition, with a lively student scene, child-friendly people and urbane charm.