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Rostock town

Neuer Markt, Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

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).

Meta review

The city is a very popular stop for cruise lines (given its harbour infrastructure) and is famous for its Brick Gothic buildings as well as a seaside destination. Favourites include Marienkirche (St Mary's) with its astronomical clock dating back to 1472 and gigantic organ, the various squares (Neuermarkt in particular) with the trademark brick buildings and an enjoyable atmosphere in the summer.

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

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 45m

est. visit time:4h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightOk

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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