Rostock might not be the first place you think of in Germany, but it’s quickly earning a reputation as somewhere to enjoy a fun city break. It’s full of history and entertainment, with a 13th-century university, buzzing port and everything from beaches to restaurants and bars. If you’re thinking about discovering another part of Germany, read on for our hidden gems in Rostock.
St. Mary’s Church
The largest of the three churches in Rostock, St. Mary’s Church was built in the mid-13th century and is the home to valuable artefacts, including an 18th-century high altar and stained-glass rendition of The Day of Judgement.
This Brick Gothic landmark also has a 15th-century Astronomical Clock, which is the only one of its kind that still works with its original clockwork. A visit to St. Mary’s Church offers the chance to soak up plenty of history in Rostock.
Warnemunde Beach
Germany isn’t somewhere you typically associate with beaches, but Rostock just so happens to have a soft sandy one to laze on. Located 12 km north of the city centre, Warnemunde Beach offers one of the widest beaches on the German Baltic Sea coast.
The beach stretches over 3km, is bordered by a promenade, and has many amenities, such as beach bars, a kids’ playground, and a surf school, just in case you want to catch some waves. Take part in some water sports or catch a few rays during the warmer months at Warnemunde Beach.
New Market Square
Known as Neuer Market to the locals, New Market Square is the heart and soul of Rostock. It has stood a staple of the city since the 13th century and features an array of pastel-coloured Renaissance merchants’ houses that you’ll be snapping for your social media pages.
There’s also a selection of bars and restaurants, as well as landmarks like the Town Hall, St. Mary’s Church and the Rostock Cultural History Museum to discover as you spend a few hours wandering around New Market Square.
Alter Strom
As a port city, Rostock has plenty of water running through it. You can even hop on a ferry and arrive at Rostock after booking your tickets with Ferryscanner. And the first place you might want to visit is Alter Strom, a 1,100-metre-long canal stretching between Warnemunde and the ferry terminal.
Here, you will find vintage houses, cafes, plenty of seafood restaurants and independent boutiques. Don’t forget to visit the fish market stalls, and take a moment to watch the street performers who add to the lively atmosphere in Alter Strom.
Kropeliner Strasse
Located between Kropeliner Tower and the Old Town, Kropeliner Strasse is the shopping hub of the city where you can participate in some serious retail therapy. It’s pedestrianised, making it easier to navigate and stroll in and out of the shops located in charming Hanseatic buildings.
There’s also a bunch of cafes and restaurants in case you work up an appetite from all that shopping. You can take advantage of a small green park in the nearby University Square, and enjoy a pleasant change from the busy shopping area.
Hidden gems in Rostock
A trip to Rostock should be high up on your list the next time you visit Germany. With history on every corner, plus a beach and charming architecture filled with restaurants, shops, cafes and bars, a city break in Rostock is a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed.