Baltic Bliss

Founded in 1218, the Hanseatic city Rostock is approached at the seaside resort Warnemunde, where most cruise ships dock. Warnemunde was famed for its baths and spas in the 20th century. Ships pass a lighthouse and wide, sandy beaches to reach the port, where in 1860, the Baltic’s largest fleet of sailing ships was based.

Though the port and city are one, Rostock is about six miles from the port. Transit to the city center ranges from about 20 minutes (by land) or 40 minutes (by boat). Rostock features one of Europe’s first universities, a town wall and gothic churches, while Warnemunde offers restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, all within walking distance of the docks.