The Most Interesting Cities And Towns To Explore In Schleswig-Holstein

Exploring the German state of Schleswig-Holstein is like nothing short of going on a treasure hunt. Many of the gorgeous corners of this state are well-kept secrets, promising solitude in addition to stunning natural beauty and abundant culture.

Kiel

Kiel is a port city situated on the Baltic Sea coast in North Germany. A perfect holiday in Kiel would mean strolling along the gorgeous sea promenade, learning about the town’s shipping history at the Kiel Maritime Museum, exploring a Nazi submarine and checking out one of the world’s busiest artificial waterways, Kiel Canal. If you are in Kiel in June you get to witness the largest sailing festival in the world.

Lübeck

Flensburg

The charming port town of Flensburg is among Germany‘s best-kept secrets. It enjoys a picture-perfect location at the tip of the Flensburg Fjord in northern Germany. While the waterside is Flensburg’s most photogenic spot, the town has a lot more to offer. The atmospheric old town, bustling shopping streets, 1,900 hectares of nature, beautiful ancient architecture and interesting museums contribute to make it an offbeat yet enjoyable city to explore.

Neumünster

Neumünster is a perfect weekend getaway if you wish to slow down and relax in the midst of nature, without running around sightseeing. Neumünster Zoo, set in a lush woodland, is home to over 135 species of animals, reptiles and birds, and is a very popular family destination for locals and tourists. Another must-visit spot is the sparkling Lake Einfelder, a great place to sunbathe, row or sail.

Eckernförde

Thanks to its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and the shimmering Lake Windebyer Noo, this port town seems to have been pinched right out of a glossy travel magazine. And if that’s not enough to convince you to visit, what seals the deal is the candy factory! Eckernförde is a popular holiday spot for Germans, especially north Germans, but it hasn’t yet caught the attention of hordes of tourists. So go before word gets out!

Husum

We challenge you to find a more picturesque maritime setting than Husum. At this adorable harbor town close to the Germany-Denmark border by the North Sea, narrow alleys crisscross past colorful fishermen’s houses, cozy taverns and tempting seafood restaurants. A walk along the dikes will reward you with spectacular views of the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea mud flats. Other than bountiful nature, Husum also offers generous doses of culture in the form of 32 sites of architectural and historical interest.

Eutin

Eutin is wrapped by several lakes and verdant forests on all sides, which makes the town a sight that must be seen to be believed. The skyline of Eutin is dominated by the beautiful four-winged Eutin Castle. When in Eutin, make a point to visit the Bridegroom’s Oak, a tree that has been bringing singles together for over 500 years! Even if you are not looking for love, the tree is worth a visit for its sheer uniqueness and legendary status.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.