On the surface Kiel might look like a typical post-WWII German city but, beneath its facade, you’ll find a quaint port town that was once at the heart of the Imperial German Navy. On this walking tour, I’ll tell you how a little boy’s medical treatments led to the birth of that navy, and played a part in the start of the First World War. Our walk starts outside the main cruise ship terminal and ends in Kiel’s old Market Square, in front of St. Nikolai Church. Along the way, I’ll tell you about the last German Kaiser’s impact on the city, and what pushed him to eventually abdicate the throne. You’ll hear about the compass Einstein invented while staying in Kiel and how it’s still used today. And you’ll find out why Kiel’s bureaucrats need a special qualification just to use the wooden lift inside the old Town Hall! Along with many stunning parks, you’ll also see parts of the city you might never find on your own, including the Sailors’ Mutiny Memorial in Ratsdienergarten. I’ll also show you the statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I which stands proud in the garden of the destroyed Kiel Castle. While winding through the city and alongside the harbour and parts of lake Kleiner Kiel, you can look forward to: • Sampling the finest ‘northern sausage by the sea’ and discovering what’s behind its deceptive name • Hearing about the city’s best-loved citizens, the seals at Aquarium • Learning where to buy your own super yacht • Finding out how and why Germany was split in two, thanks to 9,000 men with 9,000 shovels • Discovering the origins of Kiel Week, thought of as the Oktoberfest of north Germany (if Oktoberfest involved sailing) Whether your cruise ship is stopping off in Kiel, or you’re an overland traveller, this tour is a valuable introduction to the city. Come and discover the secrets of Kiel with me and by the end of the tour, you’ll be chuckling at the surprising stories I have to share. Allow for 60 minutes plus any extra time you may want to stop and enjoy the many cafes, restaurants, bars and bakeries the city has to offer. And don’t forget to try a world famous German beer from the city’s old monastic brewery at the end of the tour.