Shops housed in former warehouses or ancient town houses are the legacy of Rostock's Hanseatic past. The historical and maritime flavour of this traditional trading centre can also be felt when wandering around and enjoying the shopping in the town centre.

Great shopping in former warehouses
Shopping in Rostock centres on the Kröpeliner Strasse, while Lange Strasse and Doberaner Platz square are home to the complete range of department stores, fashion shops, specialist emporiums and boutiques. Bring home a local souvenir made from amber, a Buddelschiff (a tiny ship in a bottle) or a bottle of Rostock Kümmel, traditional schnapps from the region.

Rostock's two most important churches are located in its centre - St. Mary's has an astronomical clock dating from 1472 and from the tower of St. Peter's there is a good view of the old quarter and the town harbour. The historic town hall is on Neuer Markt square. The main university building is in the middle of the pedestrianised area.

The Cultural History Museum in Holy Cross Abbey houses medieval art such as the altar of the three kings as well as arts and crafts. Rostock's Maritime Museum is located on an old merchant ship in the IGA Park. The Warnemünde local history museum traces the development of the town from early 14th century fishing village to its present incarnation as a seaside resort. Local art is displayed in numerous galleries.