A Day in Warnemünde: Rostock, Bad Doberan, and Sand Sculptures

Sailing into Warnemünde cruise port, the gateway to northern Germany, offers a scenic arrival along the Baltic coast. From here it is easy to access the historic towns of Rostock (Rostock – Pronounced [ˈʁɔstɔk]) and Bad Doberan.

Rostock is one of the oldest Hanseatic cities, with red brick Gothic architecture that has stood since the Middle Ages. Bad Doberan is known for its grand cathedral and monastic past, once an important religious hub in Mecklenburg.

Both towns blend history with local charm, offering a glimpse into the culture and traditions of northern Germany beyond the portside shops and cafes of Warnemünde.

I joined the Panoramic Mecklenburg excursion, which gave a broad overview of the region. Our first stop was Bad Doberan to see the impressive Doberaner Münster. The red brick church, with its tall spire and intricate interiors, revealed centuries of Lutheran history and craftsmanship.

From there the bus drove past landmarks like the Friderico-Francisceum, where the Rapunzelturm tower displayed a playful braided rope hanging from a window. We also saw Sankt-Petri-Kirche before arriving in Rostock for a walk around Neuer Markt. The square was lively, lined with colorful gabled houses and filled with locals enjoying the day.

St. Mary’s Church was the highlight, home to the intricate astrological clock and other ornate altars. Hearing the faint sound of pipe organ music while exploring the interior was unforgettable. The return to Warnemünde still left time to stroll the harbor, where massive sand sculptures were on display and a stop at Wurstliebe provided the perfect bratwurst to end the day.