Located on the Baltic Sea at the end of a fjord, Kiel has a rich maritime history and serves as the major departure point for ferries from Germany to Norway and Sweden.
The shipbuilding port was heavily bombed during World War II and most of its historic buildings were destroyed, but the city was rebuilt in a modern architectural style. Its main attractions include the 13th-century St. Nicholas Church, two botanical gardens and one of the oldest pedestrian shopping districts in Germany, located on Holstenstrasse. The most popular time to visit is during Kieler Woche, which is one of the world's largest sailing festivals.
Kiel has an abundance of transportation connections to other German cities, including ferries, trains, planes, buses and cars. The main train and bus terminals are adjacent and located across from the main shopping area.
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