Rostock travel guide

panoramic view at the old town of rostock, germany

Introduction to Rostock

Rostock, Germany - When thinking about this city in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, images of the spectacular IGA Park, St. Mary's Church, Rostock, and Brunnen der Lebensfreude instantly come to mind. As you explore beyond these attractions and read through this Rostock travel guide, you'll find that this city in Germany is more than what we see in books and social media. Rostock, and its community of more than 209.1 thousand people, is a culturally-rich and diverse travel destination offering plenty of unforgettable experiences.

Easily accessible from Rostock–Laage airport, Rostock is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Germany any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Rostock as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Rostock is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Rostock below!

History of Rostock

Rostock, located in Northern Germany, boasts an illustrious history that dates back to the 11th century.

Established as a trading post in 1142 by Danish King Valdemar the Great, Rostock soon joined the Hanseatic League, becoming a major port and commercial hub in the Baltic region.

The University of Rostock, founded in 1419, is among the oldest in Northern Europe, solidifying the city's reputation as an epicenter of education and intellectual prowess.

Rostock experienced significant damage during World War II but the city has since been beautifully restored, preserving its rich blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Today, Rostock's rich history is evident in its well-preserved medieval city walls, gabled houses, and the majestic St. Mary's Church. Each year, the city celebrates its vibrant past during the Hanse Sail Rostock, a large maritime festival that attracts visitors from around the world.

Rostock's unique blend of historic charm and modern vitality makes it an intriguing destination for travelers seeking a taste of authentic German culture and history.

Local culture and customs in Rostock

Rostock, a charming city on the Baltic Sea in Germany, is known for its rich culture and history. Here, locals take pride in their maritime heritage, which is evident in their annual Hanse Sail Rostock festival. This event attracts hundreds of traditional sailing ships and a million visitors every year. It's not just a maritime celebration but a symbol of the city's historical significance in the Hanseatic League.

Rostock's architectural beauty is another vital part of its culture. Visitors are often struck by the city's Gothic architecture, particularly the Marienkirche and town hall. Rostock is also home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Rostock, which contributes a vibrant student culture.

As with most of Germany, punctuality is highly valued in Rostock. When it comes to dining, the locals enjoy traditional German cuisine and seafood dishes due to their proximity to the sea. Lastly, remember that Germans value their privacy, so it's best to avoid loud conversations or drawing attention to oneself in public.

Currency information for travelers in Rostock

In Rostock, Germany, the official currency used is the Euro (€). Visitors from countries outside the Eurozone are advised to change their currency to Euros upon arrival, as other currencies are not typically accepted. It's also beneficial to keep some cash on hand, since certain small establishments or outdoor markets may not accept credit cards.

Major credit and debit cards such as Mastercard, Visa, and American Express are widely accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, it's always prudent to ask before making a purchase to avoid complications. ATMs are readily available across the city, although foreign cards may incur transaction fees. As for budgeting, Rostock is a relatively affordable city compared to other German cities, but prices can increase during peak tourist season.

Language tips for travelers in Rostock

German is the official language in Rostock. Although many locals speak English, particularly in hospitality and tourism sectors, it is appreciated if you learn a few basic phrases in German. A simple 'Guten Tag' (Good Day), 'Danke' (Thank you), and 'Entschuldigung' (Excuse me) can go a long way. Always remember to say 'Bitte' (Please) when asking for something. In case you find yourself struggling with the language, do not hesitate to use translation apps or carry a pocket German-English dictionary.

Moreover, in the northern regions of Germany, including Rostock, there is a local dialect called 'Low German' or 'Plattdeutsch.' However, it's rarely spoken in everyday life, and standard German is more common. Nevertheless, you might hear some phrases, especially among older residents, so don’t be surprised if you don’t understand everything immediately.

Best time to visit Rostock

The best time to explore Rostock, Germany, is during the late spring through early fall, particularly from May to September. During these months, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, with highs ranging between 15-22°C (59-72°F), ideal for exploring the city's landmarks and enjoying outdoor activities. The city also sees fewer tourists in early spring and late fall, offering a more relaxed and less crowded experience. The city's popular event, Hanse Sail Rostock, takes place in August and draws a large crowd of sailing enthusiasts and tourists, adding a unique charm to your visit. This event, featuring hundreds of traditional sailing ships, is a sight to behold and provides numerous entertainment options. However, if you're looking to avoid larger crowds while still experiencing pleasant weather, consider visiting in May or September. Regardless of when you decide to visit, Rostock offers a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty that can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

Weather in Rostock

Rostock, located on the northern coast of Germany, experiences a temperate seasonal climate. The weather is characterized by warm summers and cool winters, with a year-round average temperature hovering around 8.6°C (47.5°F). Summer months, from June to August, see temperatures ranging from 20°C to 22°C (68°F to 72°F), making it a pleasant time to visit. Autumn, from September to November, is mild with temperatures gradually decreasing from 18°C to 4°C (64°F to 39°F).

Winter in Rostock, from December to February, can be quite chilly with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasionally bringing snow. Spring, from March to May, is relatively dry and crisp with temperatures gradually increasing from 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F). Rainfall is distributed evenly throughout the year, with October typically being the wettest month. As Rostock is a coastal city, it is subject to breezy conditions, particularly in the fall and winter, so travelers are advised to pack accordingly.

Local tip for visiting Rostock

Our local insider tip for visitors to Rostock, Germany is to experience the city like a local by attending one of its weekly farmers markets. The Neuer Markt, in the heart of the city, hosts a weekly market every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. Here, you can find local produce, fresh fish, handmade crafts, and a variety of food trucks serving delicious regional dishes. The atmosphere is vibrant and friendly, providing an authentic snapshot of daily life in Rostock. Come with an empty stomach and take the opportunity to sample local delicacies such as smoked fish, regional cheeses, or the famous Rostocker beer. This is a wonderful chance to interact with locals, learn about regional products, and immerse yourself in the culture of Rostock. Remember, the market starts early and is usually over by mid-afternoon, so plan your visit accordingly.

Top services in Rostock

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Rostock, Germany. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 149 airlines that fly to Germany. Browse the 23 top-rated tours available to you in Rostock. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Rostock.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Rostock, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Rostock on your vacation in Germany.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Rostock from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Rostock!

Learn more about Germany

There are many reasons to visit the city of Rostock, but a trip to Germany needs no explanation.

Exploring Germany, which spans 357,588 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Germany offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular IGA Park, St. Mary's Church, Rostock, and the Brunnen der Lebensfreude, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Germany.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Germany.

What to see in Rostock

Rostock has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Rostock.

Top attractions in Rostock

Home to plenty of top attractions, Rostock is more than just a wonderful city in Germany. Rostock is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Germany.

One fascinating sight in Rostock is the unforgettable IGA Park. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Rostock. This remarkable attraction is located at Schmarl Dorf 40, 18106 Rostock, Germany and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 08:00-17:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Germany, check out our list of top attractions in Rostock below. Discover the best places to visit in Rostock, including the fascinating IGA Park, St. Mary's Church, Rostock, Brunnen der Lebensfreude, Shipbuilding and Maritime Museum Rostock, and Botanical Garden.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Rostock.

Things to do in Rostock

Enrich your travel experience in Rostock by joining tours and activities. Rostock offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Rostock below.

Most popular experiences in Rostock

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Rostock.

Rostock offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Ports of Call Tours, Historical Tours, and Walking Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Germany.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Rostock by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Rostock

Travelers in Rostock can choose from 7 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Rostock one of the best travel destinations in Germany.

Rostock also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Rostock Like a Local: Customized Private Tour is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 48 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Rostock. This Historical Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 1 traveler have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Rostock and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Rostock below.

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Search for things to do in Rostock

Discover the best things to do in Rostock. Choose from 23 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Rostock. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Rostock

Rostock, Germany is a treasure trove of culinary delights. The city is renowned for its local cuisine, which includes traditional dishes such as Rostocker Rauchwurst, a smoked sausage, and hearty stews made from fresh, locally sourced produce. The best places to eat in Rostock range from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. The city's historic center, Kröpeliner Straße, is a vibrant dining district filled with eateries offering delectable local and international cuisine. An absolute must-try is the famed fish rolls, or Fischbrötchen, a popular street food consisting of fresh fish served in a bread roll, typically found at Warnemünde, a district known for its fish market. For a more upscale dining experience, the Stadthafen waterfront offers a selection of fine dining establishments with exquisite views of the harbor. To enhance your culinary journey in Rostock, consider visiting during the Hanse Sail Rostock, an annual maritime festival where you can indulge in a variety of regional specialties while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Nightlife in Rostock

Rostock, the largest city in the German state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, is known for its vibrant nightlife. The city exudes a unique night culture, with a lively mix of music, drinks, and dancing. The best area for bars in Rostock is the Kröpeliner-Tor-Vorstadt district, also known as KTV. This student-filled neighborhood offers an array of bars and pubs, each with its own distinctive atmosphere and selection of beverages.

The Barrel - Whiskey & Cigar Lounge is a must-visit establishment for whiskey lovers, boasting over 300 varieties from around the globe. If you prefer a party atmosphere, head over to the ST-Club, one of Rostock's most popular nightclubs, where you can dance the night away to a variety of music genres. For a more relaxed evening, the Ursprung provides live music in a cozy, inviting setting. Remember to carry cash, as many establishments in Rostock don't accept cards, and don't forget to check the opening hours, as some bars and clubs close earlier during the week. Enjoy the unique nightlife experience that Rostock has to offer, and you're sure to have a memorable night out.

Best Shopping in Rostock

Rostock, a charming city on the northern coast of Germany, offers a delightful shopping experience that combines traditional German craftsmanship with contemporary fashion. A visit to the Kröpeliner Straße, a bustling pedestrian street lined with a variety of shops, is a must for any shopper. This is arguably the best place to go shopping in Rostock, featuring everything from international brands to local boutiques.

For a more traditional shopping experience, explore the Rostock City Market. This vibrant market features stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and handcrafted goods, making it the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs. Fashion enthusiasts should not miss the Doberaner Platz area, known for its independent boutiques showcasing Rostock's distinct fashion sense.

Additionally, Rostock is renowned for its amber jewelry and maritime-themed crafts, both ideal keepsakes of your visit. With its blend of old-world charm and modern retail, shopping in Rostock is not just a pastime but a journey through its rich cultural tapestry. Remember, many shops close early on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping spree accordingly.

Best free things to do in Rostock

Discover the best free things to do in Rostock, a historic and vibrant city located on the northern coast of Germany. Start your journey with a visit to the Marienkirche, a stunning 13th-century church known for its astronomical clock. Explore the city's rich past at the Kropeliner Tor, a medieval gate that provides panoramic views of Rostock's picturesque cityscape. Wander around the beautiful Rostock University Botanical Garden, a tranquil haven showcasing diverse plant species. Stroll through the idyllic streets of the city center, lined with beautifully restored Hanseatic buildings and bustling local markets. Take a leisurely walk at Warnemünde Beach, famous for its white sand and lighthouse. Visit the vibrant Rostock Art Gallery, housing a wide variety of modern and contemporary art. Discover the lively Stadthafen, a city harbor filled with bustling bars and restaurants, where you can watch boats sail by. Enjoy these fantastic, cost-free experiences, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Rostock.

Vacation packages in Rostock

The best and easiest way to visit Rostock is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Germany.

Booking a vacation package to Rostock means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Rostock to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Rostock is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Rostock, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Rostock.

Popular types of vacations in Rostock

The most popular way to experience Rostock is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Germany. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Rostock on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Germany, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Germany, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Rostock, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Rostock below.

Find vacation packages in Rostock

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Rostock.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Rostock get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Germany. Your customized holiday package to Rostock is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Rostock

To get to the city of Rostock the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Germany can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Rostock by booking flights with any of the 4 airlines that offer direct flights to Rostock–Laage airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Rostock–Laage airport are Transavia France, Transavia, Pegasus, IndiGo Airlines, and Eurowings. Go to this page to compare all flights to Rostock.

To reach the city of Rostock, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Rostock–Laage airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Rostock, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Rostock–Laage airport and Rostock below.

Find cheap flights to Rostock

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Rostock, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Germany. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Rostock, Germany, in October.

The cheapest one-way flight to Rostock costs around 60 EUR and is offered by the airline Corendon. The flight leaves on July 6 at 4 and departs from Antalya airport in Antalya, Turkey.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Rostock cost approximately 169 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on June 29 and the return flight is scheduled on June 6. The flight time is around 5 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Düsseldorf International Airport.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Germany and the city of Rostock from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Rostock

Travelers visiting Rostock in Germany can fly to Rostock–Laage airport directly from 376 destinations worldwide.

The airline that operates most flights to Germany is Thai Vietjet. Thai Vietjet offers 1 scheduled flight routes to Germany.

Discover the most popular flights to Rostock below. Click to view flights to Rostock, Germany from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Rostock

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Rostock is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Rostock usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Rostock offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Rostock and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Rostock planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Germany can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Rostock. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Rostock.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Rostock in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Rostock

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Rostock provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Rostock. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Rostock

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Rostock for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Rostock provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Rostock are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Rostock.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Rostock. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Rostock

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Rostock on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Rostock that match the information provided.

Car rental in Rostock

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Rostock.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Rostock, Germany, below.

Popular types of car rental in Rostock

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Rostock to find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Germany at their own pace.

This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Rostock.

Check out all options available in Rostock and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Germany below.

Search for car rental in Rostock

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Rostock. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Rostock, Germany, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Rostock

The city of Rostock is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Germany. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Germany has it all.

Germany is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Germany that are as magical as the city of Rostock. The most popular travel destinations in Germany are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Germany

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Germany. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Rostock

A taste of Germany through a visit to Rostock can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Rostock to another remarkable destination in Germany.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Rostock to other spectacular locations in Germany, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Rostock

Travelers in Germany can catch flights to domestic airports in Düsseldorf, Erfurt, Nuremberg, Dortmund, and Cologne. Domestic flights in Germany are operated by 3 airlines: Corendon Airlines Europe, Corendon, and ITA Airways. There are around 8 scheduled flight routes operating to Rostock on a weekly basis.

From Rostock, travelers can book scheduled flights to 5 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Rostock depart to many top-rated destinations in Germany and are offered by Corendon Airlines Europe, Corendon, and ITA Airways.

Search domestic flights from Rostock

Traveling to another city or region in Germany? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Rostock to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Germany on the selected dates.

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