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Kehl

Kehl, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany

Kehl, located in the charming region of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated on the banks of the m…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kehl.

Top Hotels in Kehl

Top Flights to Kehl

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kehl.

Shopping

Kehl Shopping Mile

A bustling street filled with shops offering everything from fashion to antiques.

Outdoor

Rheinaue Park

A picturesque park along the Rhine River perfect for relaxing walks and family picnics.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kehl.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
Not Available
Languages
German, German
Average weather
Kehl
Jan
cold
4°-1°
Feb
cold
6°0°
Mar
cloud
11°2°
Apr
rain
15°5°
May
cloud
20°9°
Jun
sun
23°13°
Jul
sun
26°15°
Aug
sun
26°14°
Sep
cloud
21°11°
Oct
rain
15°7°
Nov
cloud
8°3°
Dec
cold
5°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kehl.

What people love

Kehl is a charming town located in southwestern Germany, on the eastern bank of the Rhine River, directly across from the city of Strasbourg in France. Here are some pros of traveling to Kehl:

  1. Location: Kehl's proximity to Strasbourg makes it an ideal base for exploring both Germany and France. You can easily cross the Rhine River and visit Strasbourg to experience the unique blend of French and German culture in the region.

  2. Cultural Diversity: As a border town, Kehl offers a rich cultural experience with influences from both Germany and France. You can enjoy a mix of cuisines, languages, and traditions in this diverse town.

  3. Scenic Beauty: Kehl is situated in the picturesque Upper Rhine Valley, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. You can explore the nearby Black Forest, vineyards, and the Rhine River, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and river cruises.

  4. Historical Sites: Kehl has a rich history dating back to Roman times, and you can visit historical sites such as the St. Nepomuk Church and the Kehl Fortress. The town also played a significant role in World War II, and you can learn more about its history through various museums and monuments.

  5. Events and Festivals: Kehl hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in local traditions and celebrations. The town's vibrant atmosphere during festivals is a great way to experience the local culture.

Overall, traveling to Kehl provides a unique opportunity to explore a border town that offers a mix of cultural influences, scenic beauty, historical sites, and lively events.

Enjoy your travels to Kehl!

What to know

While Kehl, located in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a charming town with its own attractions and proximity to Strasbourg, France, there are some potential cons or challenges associated with traveling there:

  1. Limited Tourist Attractions: Compared to larger cities, Kehl might not have as many attractions or cultural sites. It is often overshadowed by its proximity to Strasbourg, which offers more in terms of museums, historical sites, and cultural activities.

  2. Public Transportation: While Kehl is connected to Strasbourg by tram, public transportation options within the town and to other parts of Germany may be less frequent and convenient compared to larger cities. This could be a limitation for travelers relying on public transit.

  3. Language Barrier: While many people in Kehl, like in much of Germany, speak English, particularly in the service industry, there might still be language barriers for travelers who do not speak German.

  4. Limited Nightlife: Kehl is a small town, so it may not offer a vibrant nightlife or a wide array of dining and entertainment options compared to larger urban centers.

  5. Accommodation Options: The range of accommodation might be limited, with fewer high-end or diverse lodging options. This can be a downside for travelers looking for luxury or a variety of accommodations.

  6. Weather: Depending on the time of year, the weather in Kehl can be a downside. Winters can be cold and grey, which might not be appealing to all travelers.

While these are some potential downsides, many travelers find Kehl's charm, location, and the opportunity to experience a smaller German town to be quite rewarding.

Kehl is a town in the Ortenaukreis, in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. It lies on the right bank of the Rhine River, directly opposite the French city of Strasbourg, which is connected to Kehl by several bridges. Here is an overview of its history and significant aspects:

Early History:

  • Roman Era: The region around Kehl has been inhabited since Roman times. Evidence of Roman settlements has been found in the area.

Middle Ages:

  • First Mention: Kehl was first mentioned in 1038.
  • Strategic Importance: Due to its position on the Rhine, Kehl has long been of strategic military importance. It served as a crossing point over the river.

Modern Era:

  • 17th Century: Kehl became heavily involved in the conflicts between France and various German states. The town was fortified during this time.
  • Treaty of Ryswick (1697): The treaty ended the Nine Years' War, and Kehl was handed over to France, but it was returned to the Holy Roman Empire shortly after.
  • 18th Century: The fortress of Kehl was a focal point during various wars, including the War of the Austrian Succession and the Napoleonic Wars.

19th Century:

  • Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871): Kehl was affected by the conflict, with parts of the town being involved in military actions.
  • Industrial Development: Post-war, Kehl developed industrially, benefitting from the trade opportunities provided by its location on the Rhine.

20th Century:

  • World War I and II: Kehl suffered during both world wars, with significant destruction occurring during World War II. The town was occupied by French forces after the war until 1953.
  • Post-War Reconstruction: After the war, Kehl was rebuilt and modernized. The town resumed its role as a vital trade and transport point on the Rhine.

Landmarks and Modern Kehl:

  • Kehl Bridge: Several bridges connect Kehl to Strasbourg, with the most famous being the Europabrücke (Europe Bridge).
  • St. John's Church: An important religious site in Kehl.
  • Garden of Two Shores (Garten der Zwei Ufer): A park that symbolizes the connection between Kehl and Strasbourg, promoting Franco-German friendship.
  • Kehl Town Hall: The administrative center of the town, representing the modern governance of Kehl.
  • Kehl University of Applied Sciences: A significant educational institution in the town.

Notable Figures:

  • Johann Gottfried Tulla (1770-1828): An engineer known for his work on the Rhine, which significantly affected the development of Kehl and the surrounding areas.

Kehl today is known for its cultural ties with Strasbourg and as a symbol of European unity. The town hosts various cultural events and is a hub for visitors exploring the region.