Major City Kiel, Shopping in Plön, Glückstadt and Mölln
The State Capital, Kiel
If you arrive in the capital city by ferry, it's only walking-distance to Kiel's superb shopping facilities. On Holstenstrasse, Germany's oldest pedestrian zone, you will find major German department stores and chains. Those who are looking for something more exclusive can find first-class elegance in Dänische Strasse (www.daenische-strasse-kiel.de).
And individualists need go no further than Holtenauer Strasse (www.die-holtenauer.de) to realise their shopping dreams. A fresh breeze or a few showers won't bother visitors to the Sophienhof (www.sophienhof.de). This big, covered shopping centre lies right by the sea, and its many shops, market hall and restaurants stretch out over two levels.
Small is Beautiful
The town of Plön (www.touristinfo-ploen.de) in Holsteinische Schweiz greets visitors from afar with its imposing, snow-white castle. At the foot of the castle lies the labyrinthine Old Town, full of narrow paths and lovingly restored buildings, including traditional half-timbered houses, creating a stunning setting for a shopping spree.
Visitors who go shopping in Glückstadt (www.glueckstadt-tourismus.de) will be retracing Christian IV's footsteps: The King of the Danes founded this town on the River Elbe in 1617 laying it out according to Italian Renaissance standards. Come and shop in a relaxed atmosphere from 1pm - 7pm on the first Sunday of every month between April and November. Gourmets and fish-lovers should by no means miss the Matjes Festival in June - when the delicately tender young herring is celebrated in its countless, fancy guises.
Mölln (www.moelln.de) in the Duchy of Lauenburg gained town privileges at the beginning of the 13th century. Those who go on a shopping trip through the picturesque town will come across traces of its most famous previous resident at various historical sites. The jester, Till Eulenspiegel, used to play his infamous tricks on the townsfolk. And Mölln keeps his memory alive to this day. The Eulenspiegel Fountain, his own museum and a plaque dedicated to him on St. Nicholas Church, all pay tribute to the famous prankster. A particular highlight is the Eulenspiegel Festival, which takes place every three years.
