A calm German border city along the Rhine, connected to Strasbourg by bridge and tram. Its riverside parks and central market square draw both French and German visitors.
Kehl sits directly across the Rhine from Strasbourg, France, with 38,000 residents calling this German border town home. You can walk between countries on the modern Passerelle des Deux Rives bridge, swim at the tree-shaded Altrhein lake in summer, or join locals at the twice-weekly market in the central square. Many French visitors cross the Rhine to shop in Kehl's stores, while others climb the Weißtannenturm for views of both cities.
Getting to and Around Kehl
Line D of the Strasbourg tramway connects Kehl with central Strasbourg, with three stops in Kehl. Four bridges cross the Rhine between the cities: the Passerelle des Deux Rives for pedestrians and cyclists, the Bridge of Europe for vehicles, the Beatus-Rhenanus Bridge for the tram, and the Rhine Bridge for trains. The tram takes about 20 minutes from Kehl to Strasbourg's main station. Buy tickets at any station or through the Strasbourg transport app.
Shopping and Market Life
The pedestrian zone in central Kehl has wide streets with German and international retail chains, cafes, and restaurants. Market vendors set up in the main square every Tuesday and Friday, selling fresh produce, seasonal flowers, and regional specialties. A large fountain in the shape of a dandelion clock marks the center of the square. The red sandstone Friedenskirche (Peace Church), built in 1817, stands at the square's edge with its clean lines and simple architecture.
Parks and Waterfront
The Jardin des Deux Rives/Garten der zwei Ufer stretches along both banks of the Rhine. You can walk or cycle on separate paths, take children to the playgrounds, or examine the modern art pieces placed throughout the park. In the town center, the Altrhein lake - a former Rhine river section - has mature oak and maple trees along its banks and water lilies on its surface. Walk the lakeside paths to spot local birds and waterfowl.
Views from Weißtannenturm
Climb the Weißtannenturm observation tower during daylight hours for views across both cities. The platform gives you clear sightlines to Strasbourg's cathedral spire and the winding Rhine River. The tower's white steel cables and geometric shape make it easy to spot from ground level. Many visitors come for sunset views over the Rhine.
Religious Buildings in Kehl
The Protestant Peace Church from 1817 and the Catholic Church of St. Johannes-Nepomuk with its white tower from the early 1900s represent different architectural periods in Kehl. A mosque near the train station serves the local Muslim community. Each building shows how the town's religious architecture has changed since the early 19th century.
