Rostock Profile ⇒ Facts & Highlights of the Hanseatic City

“Between the seas and shaped by the wind” – this is how one could describe Rostock. The Hanseatic city on the Baltic Sea is not only one of the most significant cities in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern but also a cultural and economic hub in northern Germany. With its more than 800-year history, proximity to the Baltic Sea, and its distinctive maritime charm, Rostock attracts both locals and visitors alike. Experience the brick Gothic architecture of the Middle Ages and the scent of fresh sea air amidst modern urbanity.

• Maritime Flair: Harbor tours, fishing boats, and the Baltic Sea right at your doorstep.
• Experience History: Medieval city gates, monasteries, and impressive brick churches.
• Unique Nature: The Warnow, the IGA Park, and the fine sandy beach in Warnemünde.
• Cultural Diversity: Theater, museums, and regularly occurring festivals.
• Pure Relaxation: Beach walks, sailing trips, or wellness by the sea.

• Year of Foundation: Around 1218, Rostock was granted city rights.
• Population: Approximately 210,000 (as of 2023).
• Area: 181.4 km².
• Highest Point: The Gehlsberg at 47.8 m above sea level.
• University of Rostock: Founded in 1419 – one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe.
• Port City: The Rostock overseas port is the largest Baltic Sea port in Germany.
• Warnemünde: The most famous seaside resort in the region, which is a district of Rostock.
• Landmark: The St. Mary's Church with its astronomical clock from 1472.
• Economy: Shipbuilding, tourism, and services dominate.
• City Motto: "Hanseatic, maritime, livable."
• Culture: The Hanse Sail is the largest maritime festival in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
• Twin Cities: Among others, Aarhus (Denmark) and Raleigh (USA).
• Average Temperature: About 8.5 degrees Celsius.
• Transportation Hub: Direct ferry connections to Scandinavia and the Baltic States.
• Nature Reserves: Among others, the Rostocker Heide, one of the largest contiguous forest areas on the German Baltic Sea coast.

Rostock was founded around the year 1200, after Slavic settlers settled on the banks of the Warnow River. The name of the city derives from the Slavic term "Roztoc," which means "to flow apart" – a reference to the widening estuary of the Warnow.

With the entry into the Hanse in 1251, a period of prosperity began for the city. Its location on the Warnow and proximity to the Baltic Sea made Rostock one of the most important trading places in the region. Particularly shipbuilding and grain trade contributed to its economic strength. During the Hanseatic period, magnificent brick buildings and the expansion of the harbor shaped the cityscape.

In 1218, Rostock received city rights, and the city quickly developed into an important trading center. However, like many other Hanseatic cities, Rostock began to lose significance from the 16th century onward, as trade routes and power centers in Europe shifted.

From the Industrial Age to Modern Times

In the 19th century, Rostock experienced a resurgence, this time due to industrialization. Shipbuilding, which still plays an important role today, was massively expanded at that time. During World War II, the city suffered severe damage, but many historical buildings, such as St. Mary's Church, were preserved or rebuilt.

After 1990, Rostock developed into a modern university and port city with growing significance for tourism and science.

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District	Neighborhoods
City Center	Old Town, Kröpeliner Tor Suburb, Steintor Suburb
Northwest	Lütten Klein, Schmarl, Evershagen
Warnemünde	Warnemünde, Diedrichshagen
South City	Biestow, South City
East	Gehlsdorf, Toitenwinkel, Hinrichshagen

Rostock delights its visitors with a plethora of amazing landmarks that tell the story of its long history and proximity to the sea:

• Marienkirche: An impressive brick church with the famous astronomical clock.
• Kröpeliner Tor: One of the old city gates that now houses a museum.
• City Wall and Monastery of the Holy Cross: Remnants of the medieval fortifications.
• Neuer Markt: The historic market square with magnificent merchant houses.
• Warnemünde Lighthouse: A landmark of the Baltic seaside resort of Warnemünde.

Rostock is not only a port city but also an important scientific and economic center in northern Germany.

Population Statistics

• Population (2023): approx. 210,000
• Age Structure: 18% under 18 years, 22% over 65 years.
• Students: Around 15,000 at the University of Rostock.

What industries shape Rostock?

• Shipbuilding: A tradition that has existed for centuries. Companies like MV Werften are based here.
• Tourism: Especially through Warnemünde, an important economic factor.
• Logistics: The overseas port is a hub for trade with Scandinavia.
• Research and Science: University of Rostock and numerous research institutes.

The Kröpeliner Tor is one of the best-preserved medieval city gates in Rostock. It marks the western entrance to the old town and, with its height of 54 meters, is an impressive structure. Today, you will find a museum dedicated to the city's history here.
 

Tip: The view from the tower over the city is spectacular!

To explore the city, we recommend the following route:

Start at the New Market and stroll to the Marienkirche. From there, continue through the old town to the Kröpeliner Tor. Afterwards, you can head towards the harbor and start a boat tour. The perfect conclusion? A trip to Warnemünde and a visit to the lighthouse!

Water Body	Length (in km)
Warnow	155
Baltic Sea Coast	14 (urban area)

 

Tip: The proximity to water offers numerous recreational opportunities, from sailing to relaxing beach days.

Event	Time Period	Information

Warnemünde Week	July	Sailing regattas and beach parties.
Hanse Sail	August	Sailing ships, maritime markets, and fireworks.
Christmas Market	December	One of the most beautiful markets in the North.

In addition to attractions and natural experiences, Rostock also has a lot to offer in terms of culinary delights and leisure activities. Whether you're out with family, alone, or in a social group!

Five Excursion Destinations in Rostock

1. Warnemünde: The beach, the Old Stream, and the lighthouse make this district unique.
2. Zoo Rostock: One of the best zoos in Europe with an impressive Darwineum.
3. St. Mary's Church: A must-see for architecture fans.
4. IGA Park: Perfect for relaxed walks and a bit of culture.
5. Rostocker Heide: Pure nature – ideal for hikers and cyclists.

Five Restaurant Recommendations in Rostock

The culinary scene in Rostock offers a wide selection of regional specialties, international cuisines, and maritime delicacies. Here are five restaurants worth a visit:

1. “Borwin - Hafenrestaurant”
   Located right by the city harbor, Borwin offers fresh fish dishes and maritime classics. The freshly caught Baltic plaice and elegant desserts are especially delightful. The ambiance is modern and overlooks the harbor – perfect for a romantic or festive dinner.

2. “CarLo 615”
   Also at the city harbor, you’ll find this upscale restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine. The dishes combine regional ingredients with Italian and French influences. A highlight is the homemade pasta dishes and the exquisite wine list.

3. “Petrikeller”
   Located in a historic vaulted cellar in the old town, this place offers a rustic, cozy atmosphere. Hearty German dishes are served – perfect if you enjoy robust cuisine like beef roulade or sauerbraten.

4. “Restaurant Hopfenkeller”
   For lovers of good beer and hearty dishes, the Hopfenkeller is a must. Here, you can enjoy local specialties like fish dishes, fried potatoes, or vegetarian options, paired with house-brewed beers.

5. “Zum Alten Fritz”
   A cozy inn with traditional northern German cuisine. Be sure to try the matjes “Hausfrauenart” or the fish soup – typical dishes you won’t forget quickly. The cozy, maritime flair is perfect for an evening in Rostock.

Five Family Recommendations in Rostock

Rostock and its surroundings offer numerous activities suitable for both young and old. Here are five ideas that your family is sure to enjoy:

1. Zoo Rostock and the Darwineum
   The Rostock Zoo is a paradise for children: Over 4,200 animals from around the world can be discovered here. The Darwineum is an interactive experience area that playfully explains evolution – from dinosaurs to gorillas. An exciting and educational outing for the whole family.

2. Beach Day in Warnemünde
   The wide sandy beach in Warnemünde is ideal for children who want to build castles or splash around. Parents can enjoy the fresh sea breeze in the meantime. Combine your beach day with a visit to the lighthouse and a fish sandwich by the Old Stream.

3. IGA Park and Maritime Museum
   The spacious park features playgrounds, a mini-golf course, and plenty of space to romp around. In the Maritime Museum, children can explore an actual ocean freighter – perfect for little adventurers.

4. Family-Friendly Cycling Tour through Rostocker Heide
   With a well-developed network of bike paths, Rostocker Heide is ideal for an active day in nature. Rest areas and exciting viewpoints provide variety.

5. Indoor Playground “Happy Kids Rostock”
   If the weather doesn’t cooperate, this indoor playground offers a colorful variety of climbing frames, bouncy castles, and play areas. Here, kids can let off steam while parents relax.

Three Recommendations in Rostock for Singles

For solo travelers, there are also many activities and places in Rostock to enjoy the city on your own – whether in a relaxed manner or with the chance to meet new people.

1. Pub Crawl through the Kröpeliner-Tor-Vorstadt (KTV)
   The KTV is Rostock’s trendy district and a hotspot for singles. Here, you’ll find numerous bars, pubs, and cafés that offer a casual, relaxed atmosphere. The “Student Pub Helga” is particularly popular, known for its affordable drinks and friendly ambiance.

2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding on the Warnow
   If you’re physically active, you can join a guided SUP tour or rent a board. The Warnow offers great waterways that you can explore at your leisure. With a little luck, you might meet like-minded people!

3. Historical City Tour
   For history enthusiasts, a guided tour through the old town is worthwhile. Here, you’ll learn intriguing anecdotes from the Hanseatic period while easily connecting with other tour participants. A particularly recommended experience is the evening tour “Rostock by Night.”

Three Recommendations in Rostock for Families with Children

1. Fairy Tale Tour in the Old Town
   In summer, Rostock offers special fairy tale and storytelling tours for children. The little ones are introduced to the region’s stories and legends in a playful way – a perfect blend of entertainment and education.

2. Boat Trip on the Warnow
   Families can take a boat tour together – either on a sightseeing boat or a pedal boat. The small circular trips are particularly popular and designed to be exciting for children.

3. The Captain Bluebear House in Warnemünde
   An interactive experience museum that is especially exciting for younger family members. The exhibition revolves around maritime adventures and offers many hands-on stations.

Three Recommendations in Rostock for Singles

1. Warnemünde Lighthouse and Beach Walk
   Especially in spring or autumn, you can visit the lighthouse at your leisure and then relax on the beach. Ideal for simply unwinding.

2. Cultural Enjoyment at the Volkstheater Rostock
   Theater performances, operas, or concerts – the Volkstheater offers singles the opportunity to spend an inspiring evening and meet other culture enthusiasts.

3. Street Food Markets and Small Cafés
   Street food markets are held regularly in Rostock where you can try local and international cuisine. You can also spend some quality time in the cozy cafés of the old town, like “Café Likörfabrik.”

Rostock is a city that has many facets: maritime flair, historical treasures, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or simply the Baltic Sea – you will find what you’re looking for here.