Laboe Naval Memorial

Laboe Naval Memorial is typically visited as a day trip from Kiel or Hamburg. Plan on spending several hours to browse the exhibits and ascend the memorial tower, which was originally constructed to commemorate those killed in WWI. The museum includes personal stories and technical information, while the submarine lets you experience the cramped wartime conditions. One of the best ways to visit the memorial complex is via a self-guided audio tour.

• The tower viewpoint is reachable by stairs and elevator, making it accessible to visitors with limited mobility.

• The complex is equipped with restrooms. There is also parking available for anyone coming by private car.

• Combined admission tickets include entry to the tower, German naval museum, and U-boat submarine.

• If you experience claustrophobia, give the bunker-like crew quarters in the submarine a pass.

By car or taxi, Laboe Naval Memorial is reachable in about 30 minutes from Kiel. Travelers without personal transportation can come by public bus or ferry. While the bus is the faster option (a typical ride takes about an hour from Kiel to Laboe Harbor), the ferry involves a beautiful passage over the Black Sea Coastline. Count on an hour-long ride once onboard, plus a 20-minute walk from the Laboe ferry terminal.

Laboe Naval Memorial is located right above Laboe’s beaches and beachside promenade. Come in summer to enjoy the Black Sea shore. Temperatures dip starkly in winter, although for anyone brave enough to bear the cold, that’s when hotel prices are lowest. You’ll likely have the coast to yourself.

Anyone interested in exploring the region’s wartime history should head to the U-434 Submarine Museum in Hamburg. The museum includes a visit to a Soviet warship below sea level. Guided tours can be arranged on-site (times vary; inquire at the museum). Unfortunately, the submarine is not accessible to visitors who use wheelchairs. Anyone with a fear of confined spaces is urged to avoid the U-boat.