Things To Do
in Kehl
Kehl is a compact border town perched along the Rhine, directly opposite Strasbourg and part of the bustling tri-national region with France and Switzerland. It blends Swabian-German traditions with Alsatian influences, yielding a friendly, easily navigable city with a strong outdoor and cross-border vibe. The riverfront promenades, green spaces, and easy access to Strasbourg make it an ideal base for day trips and relaxed exploration.
Expect a laid-back atmosphere, good regional food, and seamless opportunities to dip into neighboring France for culture and cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the heart of Kehl, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic center, admiring the beautiful architecture of the buildings that date back several centuries. Don’t forget to stop by the St. John's Church to appreciate its stunning stained glass windows and serene atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit the Kehl Rathaus (Town Hall) to discover the history and culture of the region through its informative exhibits. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Rhine River, soaking in the picturesque views of the water and nearby Strasbourg. Consider stopping for lunch at a riverside restaurant, where you can indulge in local specialties while watching boats glide by.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional German restaurant for an authentic dinner experience, savoring regional dishes such as Flammkuchen and local wines. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Kehl, where you can admire the charming atmosphere of the town at night. End your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Kick off the day with a refreshing breakfast at your accommodation, then make your way to the Rhine River for a scenic boat tour. As you glide along the waters, take in the breathtaking views of both Kehl and the French city of Strasbourg on the opposite bank. The morning light creates a magical ambiance, perfect for capturing photos.
After the boat tour, rent a bicycle and ride along the Rhine bike path, enjoying the lush landscapes and vibrant flora that line the river. Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the many parks along the way, soaking up the natural beauty surrounding you. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Europa Park, one of Europe’s largest theme parks, for an afternoon of fun and adventure.
As the day winds down, return to Kehl and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a riverside bistro. Enjoy a meal accompanied by the sound of the flowing river and the warmth of the setting sun. After dinner, take a romantic walk along the riverbank, watching the city lights reflect on the water while enjoying a peaceful end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way local transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🛒Groceries for basic meal | $5-10 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $80-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent cross-border access to Strasbourg and Alsace
- Relaxed pace with plenty of outdoor activities along the Rhine
- Rich fusion of Swabian and Alsatian culinary options
- Compact town center that is easy to navigate on foot or bike
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Cross-border travel can require planning for day trips
- Some services and menus primarily in German or French, not always multilingual
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like to have...
- "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Kehl
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide riverfront stroll with reflective water, perfect for sunset photos and people-watching along the Kehl shoreline.
Iconic bridge linking Kehl and Strasbourg; capture panoramic river views and the border-crossing vibe.
A short cross-border excursion offers dramatic Gothic architecture and tower views; great for cityscape shots.
Historic center with charming facades and square life; ideal for street photography and candid scenes.
Food in Kehl
Kehl Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swabian pasta pockets filled with meat, spinach, and herbs. Look for it in traditional restaurants around Kehl or nearby Swabian eateries.
Must-Try!
Alsatian-style thin-crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons. Common in cross-border bistros and bakeries.
A comforting dish of lentils with spaetzle, often enriched with onions and bacon; a staple in regional kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market featuring regional produce, cheese, bread, and prepared foods; a great place to sample local staples and chat with producers.
Cross-border stalls along the river offering Alsatian specialties, regional wines, and street snacks during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple Hallo or Guten Tag; address people formally as Herr or Frau until invited to use first names.
Be punctual for reservations and respect queues. Germans value orderly conduct and efficiency.
Follow local recycling rules; separate bottles, paper, and organics where indicated. Use designated bins in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Kehl
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill to the nearest euro or adding 5-10% for good service is common if not already included. Leave small change or a few euros for table service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and larger venues; cash is always handy for markets and smaller cafés. Contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with blooming trees; great for riverside walks and outdoor café seating. Expect occasional showers; pack a light rain jacket.
Warm days and long evenings; ideal for boat rides, cycling along the Rhine, and markets along the waterfront. Stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Pleasant temperatures with fall foliage along the river and in the Stadtwald. Harvest-focused meals and wine experiences in nearby Alsace are common.
Cool to cold with potential snowfall; Christmas markets in Strasbourg make day trips appealing. Pack warm layers and enjoy hearty Alsatian dishes.
Kehl at Night
Hiking in Kehl
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hikes with forest trails, viewpoints, and scenic alleys within a short drive from Kehl.
Short trips across the border offer forested trails and panoramic vistas just beyond Alsace, ideal for half-day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Kehl by plane.
Strasbourg's international airport is a short drive away, offering regional and some international connections and convenient access to Kehl via road or rail.
A major cross-border airport serving Basel, Mulhouse, and Freiburg; provides broad European connections and is reachable by car or rail via nearby towns.
A regional airport with connections to several European destinations; accessible by road and rail from Kehl for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents commute to Strasbourg or other nearby towns for work, creating a diverse, bilingual community.
Kehl attracts families with parks, schools, and a quiet town center; safe and family-friendly environment.
Access to higher education and the proximity to Strasbourg provides opportunities for study and internships across the border.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely watched and played sport in the region, with local clubs and community teams.
Popular on the Rhine cycle routes and surrounding countryside; ideal for day trips to Alsace and the Black Forest foothills.
Common in community centers and clubs; suitable for all levels.
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and gentle boat tours on the Rhine are common in warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kehl.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Kehl restaurants offer vegetarian swaps or meat-free plates. Look for dishes with pasta, cheese, eggs, and seasonal vegetables; ask for egg- or cheese-based substitutes if needed.
Most venues can accommodate gluten-free requests; inform staff of celiac or gluten intolerance and opt for grilled meats, fish, salads, and gluten-free bread options when available.