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Top things to do in Rostock

Attractions, tours and activities in Rostock

About Rostock

Including tips for the best time to visit Rostock

Situated on Germany’s Baltic coast, Rostock was once home to one of Europe’s largest ports and three separate townships. Today, the city’s medieval New Market Square still stands strong, featuring multi-coloured buildings and St Mary’s – a 13th-century church renowned for its astronomical clock. A short walk from here, you’ll find the city’s university, one of the world’s oldest, dating back to 1419, as well as the city walls and the famous Rathaus.

During your visit, you’ll be able to gain insights into Rostock’s industrial heritage and modern delights. Explore the pedestrianised shopping district of Kröpeliner Street before wandering to the Universitätsplatz to see ornate fountains. Take a walk along the Alter Strom – a canalside promenade – and grab some snacks from its many seafood restaurants. You can also tuck into traditional German dishes at the Petrikeller Restaurant, where you can drink pilsner while wearing a Viking helmet. If the weather is pleasant, Warnemünde Beach makes for a great stop. Another notable landmark is the Molli Railway, which will take you to some of Mecklenburg’s best sites.

Rostock is home to many museums detailing the city’s history and culture. The Cultural History Museum in the Abbey of the Holy Cross is free to enter, where you’ll be able to learn about the city’s Hanseatic origins, see Dutch paintings and vintage toys. The Shipbuilding and Maritime Museum highlights the city’s industrial past, while the Stasi Knast prison offers a glimpse into life behind the Iron Curtain in the former GDR.

Tonight

From £56 per night

This weekend

From £165 per night

Next weekend

From per night

Most popular time to visit October–December
Cheapest time to visit January–March
Local currency € 10 = £8.57
Language German
Average weekend price £69 per night
Average weekday price £69 per night
Typical stay 1 night

Points of interest in Rostock

Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Rostock

Rostock reviews

What other travellers say about Rostock

10

Rostock is the largest city of the state of...

27 December 2023

Rostock is the largest city of the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pommerania with a fair bit of history dating back to when it first received the city rights of a free city in 1218. It is known for its closeness to some of the best beaches in Germany as well as the university (founded in 1419) and the FC Hansa Rostock football club. Make sure you pay a visit to Marienkirche (St Mary's church) and Warnemünde (beach suburb). Plenty of ferry links to Scandinavia, too.

Roland
Roland Australia
10

Rostock is a great place to visit all year round, but...

7 December 2023

Rostock is a great place to visit all year round, but especially when the Christmas market is on. Slightly more traditional / less touristy than Berlin, Hamburg etc. Make sure to bring proper winter clothes, though.

Paul
Paul United Kingdom
10

The waterfront is filled with open spaces to enjoy the views.

25 August 2023

The waterfront is filled with open spaces to enjoy the views. There are many wide walking areas and floating museums which add to the historical part of Rostock. This is a city which blends old architecture with new beautifully. A slight hill to the city's square sets the scene beautifully as mid-rise properties, often mixed use, are adorned with flowers and interesting windows and facades. I would like to return. I recommend Borwin restaurant on the waterfront and the ferry to Warnemunde from here (could be one-way). Ship building and commerce on the seas is an eye opener. Note the animals on rooftops.. Rostock has fun with sailing, music fests, etc.

Cynthia
Cynthia
10

We stayed at the Pentahotel because it is just a short walk...

1 March 2023

We stayed at the Pentahotel because it is just a short walk from our favorite restaurant in town, Borwins Hafenrestaurant, which is always a great dining experience. The hotel was absolutely lovely as well. Can highly recommend.

Michael Jul
Michael Jul Denmark
8.0

Travelling through Rostock on a number of occasions, this...

23 July 2022

Travelling through Rostock on a number of occasions, this was the first time not just driving to/from the ferry straight away. And this town seems to have soo much to offer! I'll check it out next time around.

Daniel
Daniel Sweden
8.0

It is a great place to visit during the off season.

6 June 2022

It is a great place to visit during the off season. People are friendly, it's quiet and there is a lot of good food. you can also travel to nearby towns by train or bus to do something different. I recommend going to Bad Doberan and taking the Molli from there.

Moutasem
Moutasem

Popular places to stay in Rostock

Stay in some of the best accommodation Rostock has to offer