Things To Do
in Rostock
Rostock is a historic port city located on the Baltic Sea coast in northern Germany. It is known for its picturesque old town with colorful gabled houses and cobblestone streets. The city is also home to a prestigious university, attracting a younger population and vibrant cultural scene.
Rostock's maritime history is evident in its impressive harbor and the annual Hanse Sail festival, which celebrates its seafaring heritage.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Rostock Town Hall, admiring its stunning Gothic architecture. Follow this up with a stroll around the picturesque New Market Square.
Explore the mesmerizing Rostock Culture and History Museum for insight into the city's rich past. Grab lunch at a cozy café nearby, sampling some traditional German dishes.
Enjoy a scenic walk along the Warnow River, soaking in the sunset. End your day with dinner at a local seafood restaurant, trying out fresh catch from the Baltic Sea.
Head to Warnemünde Beach for a refreshing morning by the sea. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach promenade, taking in the fresh salty air.
Indulge in some beachside snacks from local vendors before renting a bike to explore the nearby coastal paths. Visit the iconic lighthouse for panoramic views.
Relax on the beach as the sun sets over the horizon. Toast to your day with a drink at a beach bar, enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and access to the Baltic Sea
- Rich history and well-preserved architecture
- Vibrant cultural scene with festivals, museums, and theaters
- Strong educational institutions, including the University of Rostock
- Good public transportation system
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Harsh winters with a lot of grey days
- Potentially higher cost of living compared to other regions in Germany
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Language barrier for those who do not speak German
Best Activities in Rostock
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball at this popular spot with a vibrant promenade.
Explore the city's picturesque harbour area on a leisurely cycling tour, taking in the beautiful coastal scenery and waterfront attractions.
Discover the natural beauty of the Rostock Heath while hiking through its pine forests, heathlands, and tranquil lakes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Rostock with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Rostock
Visit one of these nice places.
The Warnemünde Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the harbor, beach, and town, making it an ideal spot for photos and enjoying the coastal scenery.
The tower of St. Mary's Church provides a magnificent vantage point for capturing the picturesque cityscape and the scenic River Warnow.
The botanical garden features a variety of natural landscapes and beautiful plant species, offering numerous opportunities for captivating photos amidst lush greenery and floral displays.
Food in Rostock
Rostock Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional local sausage dish, with a smoky flavor, often served with bread and mustard. Can be found at local butchers or street food vendors.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew made with kale, potatoes, and various meats like Kassler (smoked pork) or Pinkel (sausage). Best enjoyed at traditional North German restaurants like Zum Alten Fritz.
A locally-produced herbal liqueur with a unique blend of botanicals, enjoyed as a digestif in bars and restaurants across the city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Rostock better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of the city, this market offers a wide range of local produce, freshly caught seafood, and street food stalls serving regional specialties like seafood sandwiches and smoked fish.
Situated in the coastal district of Warnemünde, this vibrant market showcases an array of freshly caught seafood including herring rolls, fish sandwiches, and marinated herring.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Rostock, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. It is polite to address people with their titles and last names, especially in formal settings.
Germans value punctuality, so it is important to be on time for social and business meetings in Rostock. Arriving a few minutes early is considered respectful.
Germans generally value personal space, so it is advisable to maintain an appropriate distance when interacting with others in Rostock. Physical contact is typically reserved for close friends and family.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Rostock with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Rostock
Ensure a smooth experience
In Rostock, Germany, it is customary to tip between 5-10% at restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service was satisfactory. Tipping in cash is preferred, but adding a tip to the credit card payment is also acceptable.
In Rostock, Germany, cash is widely accepted for most transactions. However, credit and debit cards are also widely used, especially in larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular and are widely available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Rostock.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is an ideal time to visit Rostock, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and lovely outdoor activities. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy its parks and gardens.
Summer in Rostock brings warm weather and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the beaches along the Baltic Sea, outdoor festivals, and various water activities.
Autumn showcases the beautiful fall foliage in Rostock and the surrounding areas. It's a great time for nature walks, enjoying harvest festivals, and exploring the city's rich history.
Winter brings a magical atmosphere to Rostock, with festive markets, seasonal events, and the opportunity to experience a traditional German Christmas. It's a great time for enjoying cozy indoor activities and visiting the city's cultural attractions.
Rostock at Night
Hiking in Rostock
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large coastal forest just outside of Rostock, offering various trails for hiking and a beautiful natural landscape.
Although a bit further away, it's worth the trip for its extensive hiking trails and stunning lakeside views.
A scenic forest area ideal for hiking, offering peaceful surroundings and a variety of paths for different skill levels.
A heathland near Bad Doberan, featuring well-marked trails that allow for both tranquil walks and more challenging hikes.
About an hour's drive, this area provides picturesque coastal trails through forests and along sandy beaches.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Rostock through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Rostock by plane.
The largest international airport in northern Germany, located approximately 130 km from Rostock.
The main airport serving Berlin, located about 200 km southwest of Rostock.
An important cargo and passenger airport located roughly 300 km southwest of Rostock.
Located in Denmark, about 200 km to the north over the Øresund Strait from Rostock.
A regional airport located approximately 150 km to the west of Rostock.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Rostock, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant minority group, particularly due to migration patterns in the late 20th century.
Another notable demographic with historical ties and migration trends in recent decades.
A smaller, but established community that has been part of Rostock's demographic landscape since the late 1970s.
Includes various groups from countries such as Italy, Spain, and others within the EU.
Includes individuals from various conflict regions and countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
The Soul of Rostock
Discover the essence of Rostock through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Rostock, with a strong local club, FC Hansa Rostock, that has a passionate fan base.
Handball enjoys significant popularity in Rostock, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Volleyball, both indoor and beach, is widely played and has a strong community presence in Rostock.
Basketball is followed by many fans in Rostock, with local clubs providing opportunities for both recreational and competitive play.
Given Rostock's coastal location, sailing is a popular activity, with a number of clubs and regattas taking place throughout the year.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Rostock, with many bike paths and scenic routes available for cyclists.
Athletics has a strong presence in Rostock, with various clubs promoting track and field events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rostock.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Rostock offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including Mara’s Deli, Café Central, and Cafe 72Grad.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free alternatives at various eateries, such as Zum Alten Fritz and Peter Pane Burgergrill.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Rostock with these cultural adventures.
