The Old Town of Rostock, Germany

Rostock, Germany was once part of the Hanseatic League and still serves as its largest port in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Additionally, Rostock attracts an abundance of cruise tourists each year. Begin your tour at the picturesque New Market square, which is usually bustling with fruit and vegetables on Saturday morning. Afterward, continue onto Kropeliner Strasse to take in all the beautiful pastel-facaded gabled houses along this historic street.

The Old Town is impressive

Rostock, situated along the Baltic Sea, is renowned for its picturesque Old Town and historic attractions. Additionally, Rostock has become a popular tourist destination due to its beaches and marinas. The Old Town is filled with historic buildings and monuments, such as the medieval Hanseatic city gates. A leisurely stroll through this charming area will surely leave you with unforgettable memories! Here, you'll find plenty of cafés to start your day off right with a cup of coffee or beverage. On Saturday mornings, there are also local markets selling fruits and vegetables.

On your walking tour of Old Town, don't miss St. Mary's Church, Marienkirche. Constructed in the 13th century, this impressive Brick Gothic church managed to remain relatively unscathed during WWII. It features a medieval baptismal font, two altars, and an original astronomical clock that still functions today. If you're curious to explore Rostock's history, a visit to the Cultural History Museum is an ideal option. Here, its collection of artifacts tells tales and features various sculptures and displays that tell tales from decades past. Another captivating attraction in Rostock's Old Town is the Kropeliner Tor, a six-story city gate dating back to the 14th century. This striking gateway is one of Rostock's last remaining city gates and makes for great photo ops!

The Rathaus, or Town Hall, is another impressive landmark. Initially constructed in the Brick Gothic style during the 13th century, it underwent restoration and received its vibrant pink Baroque facade during the 18th century. It's a must-see for tourists as one of Leipzig's most iconic buildings. This striking landmark was once a meeting place for merchants and now houses an informative exhibition on city fortifications. Although the entry fee is 3 Euros, it's well worth it for its stunning architecture and stunning views of the Alps. For some of Rostock's freshest seafood dishes, head to Zur Kogge restaurant. Situated within an old shipyard warehouse, this cozy eatery serves a range of delectable dishes from German classics to international favorites.

The Kropeliner Tor

Kropeliner Tor, or Gate of Rostock, is one of the city's most stunning medieval landmarks and stands atop historic Kropeliner Strabe, a pedestrian street running east from Neuer Markt to the old town. Rostock was fortified during the Middle Ages with tall walls and gates, many of which still stand today. The Kropeliner Tor, built in 1260, has undergone several refurbishments since then. Rostock's iconic brick Gothic structure, the Rostock History Workshop, stands as one of its most well-known landmarks. Here it manages the town's fortifications and offers a library and displays about its past.

In 2007, The Kropeliner Tor was joined by KTC, an expansive shopping center located directly adjacent. This is Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's largest inner-city mall, with over 40 shops. Rostock's most prominent landmark is the University of Rostock, established in 1419 and one of Northern Europe's oldest universities. The facade tells an engaging tale with inscriptions commemorating both its founding year and core values such as justice, diligence, prudence, modesty, and patience. Rostock offers more than just the University of Rostock; there are plenty of other attractions as well. The Botanischer Garden, for instance, covers 7.8 hectares and showcases various plant species. Open to visitors year-round, these gardens host themed tours such as garden festival or Botanical garden's week.

The city's historic courthouse, called the Standehaus Rostock, is another landmark building in town. Its exterior bears the Mecklenburgisches Crest that depicts a bull and griffin; this emblem serves as a reminder of Mecklenburg's seven lordships. In the courthouse of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, there are four statues depicting famous princes from the 16th to 19th centuries. They were sculpted by Ludwig Brunow and Oskar Rassau. If you are planning on visiting Rostock, make sure to book a vacation rental near the Kropeliner Tor. There are various accommodations available, such as apartments and houses, that will satisfy all of your requirements.

The Cultural History Museum with his collection

On your trip to Rostock, be sure to stop by the Cultural History Museum. Tucked away down a small street, this museum is one of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's premier attractions. The museum boasts an extraordinary collection of household objects, handicrafts, and art works dating back well over three hundred years. These range from everyday objects to stunning sculptures and statues. Anyone interested in history must check this book out. You'll learn about Germany's borders and language, the First and Second World Wars, Nazi rule, the Cold War division of Germany, its eventual reunification.

Rostock boasts numerous exhibitions that explore shipbuilding throughout its history, from Slavic dugouts to computer-driven production in modern shipyards. You'll also find an exhibit on marine research in the Baltic region and a maritime-themed park filled with heavy-duty shipbuilding artifacts like a massive steam hammer from an old Rostock shipyard. Rostock was the hub of Hanseatic League commerce between Scandinavia and Russia during the Middle Ages, making it an attractive hub for merchants. Although much of this vibrant city was destroyed during WWII by bombs, some of its most valuable buildings have since been restored to their original states. St. Mary's Church in the town center is a monumental brick Gothic structure that has been a place of worship for centuries. Constructed in the 13th century, it underwent extensive remodeling and rebuilding during the 18th century with its current baroque facade.

Petrikirche, originally a chapel on the high left bank of the Warnow, was expanded into an entire church designed in the Brick Gothic style around the 1350s. This stunning example of medieval architectural design even managed to withstand bombs that hit nearby Neuer Markt in 1942. This 117-meter high church served as a landmark for sailors and fishermen, offering you the chance to admire its bronze baptismal fonts from the 12th and 14th centuries, along with a replica of an altar by Lucas Cranach the Elder. Plus, you'll find three sailing ships on display, including Mecklenburg's oldest votive ship!

The Klostergarten

Rostock is renowned for its maritime past, but the city also offers much more. With the Baltic Sea only a short drive away, this port town has become an attractive vacation spot for people from Germany and beyond. Experience some of Rostock's most stunning sights by taking a cruise tour, but there are also plenty of activities to do while you're here on your own. In addition to sightseeing, take a leisurely walk through its pedestrian zone, shop for souvenirs and enjoy some delicious local cuisine while dining. The city's Old Town has been meticulously rebuilt after suffering air-raid damage during World War II. It boasts several historical landmarks such as St. Nicholas Church, town hall and New Market Square.

Rostock is home to the University of Rostock, founded in 1419. Visitors can marvel at centuries-old academic buildings and explore Botanical Gardens with a tropical house and over 10,000 species of plants. Another fantastic place to visit is Rostock Zoo, situated in a large forest and home to various animals. This zoo is ideal for families and children of all ages as it provides three hours worth of enjoyable experiences. In addition to numerous museums, Rostock also boasts many other interesting attractions. You can check out the Cultural History Museum for an impressive collection of historical items from throughout the region, or you can explore Kropeliner Tor, an imposing tower that's been part of the city since the 13th century. This tower is a must-see in Rostock's Old Town. Soaring 175 feet (ca. 53 m) above the city, it served as one of the main entrances to the Hanseatic League during the Middle Ages. It's one of the most stunning sights to witness while on your cruise through Rostock.