Rostock town
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Rostock - by Samuel Svec on Unsplash
Description
Rostock is the third largest city on the German Baltic coast after Kiel and Lübeck and one of the largest ports in the country. Its history originates in the 11th century and it was settled by German traders over three separate areas that are now recognizable as the Old Town, the Middle Town (around Neuer Markt) and the New Town (around Hopfenmarkt). In 1251, the city became part of the Hanseatic League, a powerful medieval confederation of merchant guilds and market towns spreading from the Netherlands all the way to the Baltic states. It fell under the rule of the dukes of Mecklenburg at the end of the 15th century, but it was occupied twice by Danes and Swedes in the 17-18th centuries. The main touristic sights include the New Market Square with its Brick Gothic Town Hall, St. Mary's Church, Kerkhofhaus and the Convent of St. Catherine. Trivia: the University of Rostock was founded in 1419, making it the oldest university in continental northern Europe and the Baltic Sea area.
Access & Transport
The city has express train services (ICE) to Berlin (2h) and Hamburg (also 2h). There are also regional services to Schwerin (the state capital) in 1h. By car, Rostock is 90km northeast of Schwerin, 180km from Hamburg (A20 exit Rostock-West) and 235km northwest of Berlin (A24/A19).
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining a visit of the city with the Doberaner Münster (Doberan Minster/Abbey), only 13km away and for those looking for beaches / seaside venues, it is 15km to Warnemünde Strand (35min on the S1 train service).
Environmental & Social
The main activities in the city have a low carbon footprint. Tourism helps preserve some of the city's architectural and cultural heritage
Conclusion
Rostock is not the most charming of Northern Germany Hanseatic towns but it has one of the best-preserved city centres with many photogenic examples of Brick Gothic buildings and several cultural attractions. A worthy stop on a regional itinerary but probably too far for a day trip from Hamburg or Berlin (better to spend one night and visit other sights in the area)
Key positive
Some photogenic squares and buildings
Interesting background history
Key negative
Not an all-season town
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo