Location & Transportation
Cruise ships dock in the center of Warnemunde—just 300 meters from the train station and the heart of the town. From here, it’s easy to venture further:
- A 20-minute train ride takes you to nearby Rostock.
- For those headed to Berlin, keep in mind that the 2½-hour journey works best with a pre-arranged shore excursion or charter coach.
When the main terminal is full, ships use the commercial piers at Rostock’s Seehafen. For more details on arrivals and schedules, check out the Port Authority.
Sightseeing
Warnemunde is a seaside gem with plenty to discover on foot:
- The Lighthouse: Built in 1897 and standing about 37 meters high, it offers an impressive panoramic view of the Baltic Sea and the northern parts of Rostock.
- The Teepott: This quirky building with its curved roof is a striking example of East German (DDR) architecture. Renovated in 2002, it now houses several restaurants and even a sea voyage exhibition.
- Sandy Beaches & Harbor Charm: Enjoy the expansive, fine sandy beaches and stroll along the lively pier, where yachts mix with fishing boats, and quaint cafés and bars set the scene for a relaxing day by the sea.
A short trip into Rostock adds even more historical charm:
- St Peter's Church (St Petrikirche): Originally a 13th-century wooden church rebuilt in Gothic style, its tower has long been a landmark for sailors. After wartime destruction and a modern rebuild reaching 125 meters, you can now climb up to a viewing platform that offers breathtaking views over the town.
Tours & Excursions
There are plenty of options if you’d like to explore beyond the immediate harbor area:
- Rostock Excursion: Trains to Rostock Hauptbahnhof leave every 10 minutes – the ride takes less than 20 minutes. Once there, you can hop on tram lines 5 or 6 from the lower station levels to explore the town center. A day ticket for about €4.60 also covers buses, trams, and even municipal ferries.
- Day Trips to Lübeck: Catch a train from Warnemunde (with a change in Rostock) to Lübeck – a delightful and historic city known for its medieval architecture.
- Visit Schwerin: About an hour away by regional train, Schwerin offers a fairy-tale castle and picturesque lakes. Regional day tickets (such as the Mecklernburg-Vorpommern Ticket) make this a convenient excursion.
Shopping
For a mix of casual browsing and unique local finds:
- Wander along the canal known as der Alte Strom in Warnemunde, where traditional fishing boats, cafés, and souvenir shops create a laid-back atmosphere.
- If you’re in the mood for a more urban shopping experience, Rostock’s town center offers a wider selection of stores and modern boutiques.
Dining
Eating in Warnemunde and Rostock is a treat for the senses:
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the seaside restaurants along the harbor, where local catches are showcased in traditional dishes.
- In the area around the canal, you’ll find inviting cafés and pubs perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of exploring.
- Rostock’s metropolitan flair provides an array of dining options, from local German specialties to international cuisine.
Culture & Local Events
German culture shines through in small details throughout Warnemunde and nearby Rostock:
Local Events
- Throughout the summer, maritime festivals and sailing regattas bring the harbor to life.
- Look out for local fairs and outdoor concerts in Rostock, which often celebrate the region’s rich seafaring history and modern cultural scene.
Currency, Communication & Hours
- Currency: Germany uses the Euro. In smaller establishments, it’s a good idea to check beforehand if they accept credit cards.
- Communication: German is the local language. Most locals prefer formal address—using "Sie" with a last name is the norm.
- Local Hours:
- Shops typically close by 8 p.m. on weekdays.
- Saturday hours may be shorter—with many stores closing around 1 or 2 p.m.
- Sundays, most shops are closed (except for a few bakeries open in the morning).
- Safety & Emergency:
- In case of emergency, dial 110 for police and 112 for fire or ambulance services.