On the Kiel Canal

Discover Rendsburg

Whether you’re a walker along the canal, an art lover, a cyclist or an amateur historian – Rendsburg will surprise you with its diversity, Nordic charm and experiences that can only be found here.

The town is situated right in the heart of northern Germany: halfway between Hamburg and the Danish border, exactly between Kiel to the east and St Peter-Ording to the west. A town with character, history and a fascinating blend of technology, art and maritime lifestyle.

The Kiel Canal

Rendsburg lies directly on the Kiel Canal – one of the busiest man-made waterways in the world. Every day, large container ships, cruise ships and cargo vessels pass through the town, often within touching distance of the shore. The canal shapes both the town’s skyline and everyday life. Walking paths run right alongside the water, the suspension ferry connects both sides, and the famous railway viaduct spans the canal at a height of around 42 metres. Anyone visiting Rendsburg cannot fail to notice the canal – and, more often than not, wouldn’t want to.

In the heart of Schleswig-Holstein

Rendsburg is centrally located between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, with direct access to the A7 motorway. Towns such as Kiel, Schleswig and Neumünster are within easy reach. This location makes the town an ideal base – both for business trips and for exploring the region.

Interesting facts

The town looks back on a long history as a garrison and trading centre. Parts of the historic old town and the Paradeplatz have been preserved to this day. Among the best-known sights are the railway viaduct with its suspension ferry, the Jewish Museum and the Schleswig-Holstein State Theatre. With NordArt, Rendsburg also hosts one of the largest exhibitions of contemporary art in Europe. The surrounding area features several nature reserves and waterways, which are ideal for excursions – on foot, by bike or by boat.

What would you like to do?

Cycle ride

If you hop on a bike at the ONNO Hotel, the cycle path along the Kiel Canal offers you some stunning scenery.

Walk

For those who prefer to explore the canal banks on foot, the world’s longest bench – stretching 575.75 metres – offers plenty of opportunities to sit back and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of one of the world’s busiest artificial waterways.

Shopping

Always a great place to visit: true shopaholics can let loose at the McArthurGlen Design Outlet in Neumünster, whatever the weather. From Adidas to Michael Kors to Zwilling – just off the A7, this brand outlet centre, renowned far beyond the city limits, is a good 30-minute drive away.

Art and Culture

A particular highlight during the summer months is Northern Europe’s largest annual art exhibition – NordArt – which attracts numerous visitors to neighbouring Büdelsdorf. But even during the rest of the year, you’ll find plenty to enjoy at a wide variety of museums, such as the Kunstwerk Carlshütte or the Rendsburg Jewish Museum.

Three Viking shields on the wall of a house

History

Follow in the footsteps of the Vikings. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as recently as 2018, the Haithabu and Danewerk archaeological border complex invites you to explore the Viking Age in Northern and Central Europe at first hand.

Places of interest in Rendsburg

NordArt

One of Europe’s largest exhibitions of contemporary art – curated anew every year. On the grounds of the Carlshütte, international artworks meet industrial architecture.

High Bridge

The Rendsburg railway viaduct is the town’s most famous landmark. The historic suspension ferry – one of the last of its kind in the world – passes beneath it.

Town Hall

The town hall on Paradeplatz is situated in the historic centre of the town. From here, the old town is easy to explore on foot.

Kiel Canal

One of the busiest man-made waterways in the world – right on our doorstep. The large ships pass just a few metres from the shore here.

Jewish Museum

One of the most important Jewish museums in northern Germany. It offers insights into the history, culture and everyday life of the Jewish community in the region.

Regional Theatre

The Schleswig-Holstein State Theatre brings opera, drama and concerts to Rendsburg. It is an integral part of the region’s cultural offering.

The world’s longest bench

Situated right by the canal – a spot to sit, watch the boats and take a quick break. Simple, but just the ticket for a quick break.

Signal Box Museum

If you’ve always loved model railways, you’ll be in your element here. In Rendsburg, trains, ferries and ships all come together – all at the same time and in full scale.

Discover now

You can also find more ideas for day trips on the Rendsburg city tourism website.