Top 15
Museums in Kiel

The former fish auction house is now home to a museum that showcases Kiel’s close ties to seafaring. On display are ship models, marine paintings, nautical instruments and many other exhibits from the past few centuries. Its location right on the fjord makes a visit particularly charming and is the perfect opportunity for a stroll along the waterfront afterwards.

📍Wall 65, Kiel

In the heart of the Old Town lies this charming museum, housed in the listed building of the Warleberger Hof. Here you can discover how Kiel has developed over the centuries: from a small settlement to the modern-day city it is today. The city’s maritime history is complemented by exciting special exhibitions that continually shed light on new topics.

📍 Dänische Straße 19, Kiel

An interactive exhibition space that illustrates just how fascinating and diverse the sea is, and the challenges it faces today. From the sparkling surface of the water down to its mysterious depths, the ocean provides a habitat for numerous species of animals and plants – and SEALEVEL aims to get to the bottom of this. Fascinating exhibits, scientific insights and interactive hands-on stations invite visitors to learn more about the importance of the oceans for people and nature.

📍 Holstenstraße 2–12, Kiel

At the Computer Museum, you’ll embark on a journey through the history of digital technology: from the first mainframe computers, which used to fill entire rooms, right through to classic game consoles. Many of the exhibits are interactive, so you can have a go yourself. Tech enthusiasts and those feeling nostalgic will both find plenty to enjoy here.

📍 Eichenbergscamp 8, Kiel

An impressive collection awaits you at the Zoological Museum: whale skeletons hang from the ceiling, the world of the deep sea is waiting to be discovered, display cases showcase colourful butterflies and insects, and there are fossils to marvel at too. The museum is part of the University of Kiel, whose history dates back to the 17th century. A blend of science and wonder that’s a highlight not just for kids.

📍 Hegewischstraße 3, Kiel

At the Molfsee Open-Air Museum, you can not only see history, but really experience it. More than 60 historic buildings from across Schleswig-Holstein have been faithfully reconstructed here. Crafts, agriculture and traditional country life are brought to life through demonstrations and hands-on activities. The special exhibitions and events – such as the annual autumn market, theatre performances and concerts – are also wonderful highlights.

📍 Hamburger Landstraße 97, Kiel

The Heikendorf Art Museum combines regional art history with changing exhibitions featuring renowned artists. In the former studio house of local artist Heinrich Blunck, you can experience works ranging from North German Impressionism to Expressionism. The museum is complemented by modern special exhibitions and a lovingly designed garden featuring sculptures and a wide variety of plant species.

📍 Teichtor 9, Heikendorf

Here you have the opportunity to learn about medical research and historical treatment methods in a vivid and engaging way. The museum houses a large collection of historical instruments and equipment, many of which originate from Kiel and Schleswig-Holstein. More than 500 pathological and forensic wet specimens also provide an insight into the history of medical education at the University of Kiel.

📍Brunswiker Str. 2, Kiel

In an old machine hall on the Kiel Canal, some real powerhouses await you: hissing steam engines, an ancient petrol engine, a roaring submarine diesel engine and even a muscle-powered drill. At the Kiel Machine Museum, the history of mechanical engineering isn’t just on display – it’s brought to life.

📍 Am Kiel-Kanal 44, Kiel

The Howaldtsche Metallgießerei Industrial Museum has been part of the Kiel City and Maritime Museum since 2020 and is open during the summer season from mid-April to mid-October. Between 1884 and 1980, the former foundry produced ship fittings for Howaldtswerke – and later HDW – from materials such as bronze, brass, copper and lead. The historic workshop, with its casting furnaces, workbenches and tools, has been preserved in its original condition to this day and is open to visitors.

📍 Grenzstraße 1, Kiel

Function, history and significance – at the Kiel Lock Museum, you can get up close and personal with the world’s busiest maritime canal. A particular highlight: from the lock viewing platform, you can enjoy a direct view of the lock.

📍 Arkonastraße 1, Kiel

Here at the Geological and Mineralogical Museum, everything glitters and sparkles: crystals, minerals, rocks and fossils are on display. It is part of the University of Kiel and offers fascinating insights into the Earth’s history and geological processes. Particular attention is paid to the geology of Schleswig-Holstein.

📍 Ludewig-Meyn-Str. 10–12, Kiel