[2025 Haale Attraction] Travel Guide for Nord-Ostsee-Kanal (Updated Mar)

The Kiel Canal, also known as the North Sea-Baltic Canal, is one of the world's busiest artificial waterways. It stretches 98.26 km with an average depth of 11m. Spanning the Jutland Peninsula, it begins in the southwest at Brunsbüttelkoog, at the mouth of the Elbe River, and extends northeast to Holtenau, in the Bay of Kiel. Like a blue ribbon, it connects the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The canal's creation is steeped in history. In the 19th century, driven by military strategy and trade development, Germany spent eight years constructing the Kiel Canal, shortening the voyage from the North Sea to the Baltic Sea by 756 km. Before World War I, it was owned by the German government. After World War I, it was internationalized under the Treaty of Versailles. It wasn't until after World War II that free navigation for all nations was restored. Today, the Kiel Canal continues to play a vital role in shipping, with approximately 65,000 vessels passing through annually, primarily transporting coal, oil, ore, and steel. You can take a sightseeing boat for a close-up view of the diverse vessels and experience the canal's bustling activity. Alternatively, cycle along the canal-side bike path, enjoying the scenery, and pause at viewing platforms to take in the panoramic beauty. Along the canal banks, modern port facilities blend harmoniously with tranquil countryside landscapes, while old lighthouses and dock buildings silently narrate stories of the past. Don't miss the culinary delights when visiting the Kiel Canal. In the restaurants along the banks, savor crispy German sausages with juicy interiors, paired with tangy sauerkraut and a glass of locally brewed dark beer—a true culinary delight. If you enjoy seafood, the freshly caught fish and shrimp, simply prepared, offer a taste of the sea's bounty. The Kiel Canal is not just a golden waterway; it's a perfect fusion of history and nature, waiting for you to explore its unique charm.

|A dreamy time by the Baltic Sea. Kiel is located in northern Germany and has a temperate maritime climate with mild weather all year round. The average temperature in summer (June-August) is 18℃ - 22℃, which is cool and pleasant, making it a good time to enjoy outdoor activities. The average temperature in winter (December-February) is 3℃ - 7℃, which is relatively wet and cold, but has a unique charm. Must-see attractions 1. Kiel Canal: One of the busiest canals in the world, where industrial and natural scenery intertwine along its banks. Standing by the canal, you can see huge cargo ships sailing slowly, feeling the harmonious coexistence of industry and nature.🚢 At dusk, the canal shimmers under the afterglow of the setting sun, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. 2. Kiel Beach: The beach has fine sand and clear water. In summer, people enjoy sunbathing and playing beach volleyball here.🏐 You can also take a boat trip to explore the mysteries of the Baltic Sea. If you're lucky, you might encounter cute seals basking on the reefs. Specialty Food 1. Kieler Sprotten: A local specialty fish with tender meat, usually steamed or pan-fried, served with lemon juice and butter sauce. It melts in your mouth, and the delicious taste spreads on your tongue.🐟 2. German Sausage Platter: Includes a variety of sausages, such as currywurst and Thuringian sausage, served with sauerkraut and roasted potatoes. The rich aroma of the sausage, the sourness of the sauerkraut, and the softness of the potatoes blend perfectly, making it a paradise for meat lovers.🍗 Things to note 1. Etiquette: Germans value etiquette. Keep quiet in public places, observe order, and respect the privacy of others. Shaking hands is the common greeting. 2. Payment methods: The main currency used in Germany is the euro.💶 Most places accept credit cards, but it is still recommended to carry some cash for emergencies, such as at small stalls or when buying public transport tickets. 3. Changeable weather: The weather changes quickly in a temperate maritime climate. Remember to bring rain gear and adjust your clothing according to the weather.

🇩🇪 Kiel: Coastal City and Gateway to the Baltic Sea ||| Kiel has a long tradition of shipbuilding and naval history, but today it's characterized by a vibrant student scene, a relaxed lifestyle, and a cosmopolitan flair. You can experience all of this in the modern city center and on Dänische Strasse (Danish Street), which is lined with 19th-century buildings and exudes maritime charm. Water is the dominant element of this city, with the sea carving its way into the heart of Kiel. You can feel, see, and breathe the magical maritime atmosphere everywhere you go: along the slender Kiel Fjord, around the harbor, or among the iconic container cranes of the shipyard—one of the largest in Europe. The Gorch Fock, a training ship that regularly sails the seas and stars in international sailing events, is as much a part of the cityscape as the giant ferries docked at the Skandinavienkai. The impressive Kiel Week, an annual international sailing festival, solidifies the city's status as a nautical hub of the north. A vibrant atmosphere permeates Kiel's city center, revolving around the historic shopping street Dänische Strasse and the Holstenstrasse pedestrian zone. Did you know that Kiel is a major host city for the Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival, one of the world's largest classical music festivals? Kiel Castle, the Kiel Fjord, the opera house, and even the Howaldt shipyard are transformed into stunning venues. Even the city's museums enjoy international acclaim. The Kiel Canal, one of the world's busiest artificial waterways, connects the city to the North Sea. The canal-side promenades and cycle paths are perfect for outings and for patronizing restaurants, from which you can enjoy magnificent views of the numerous ships passing through the canal on their way to the wide world. This developing city offers a glimpse into the trends and patterns of development in Western countries. Let's explore it together.