Rostock

KTV

The Kröpeliner-Tor-Vorstadt KTV, "Kröpelin Gate Suburb" was the first part of Rostock built outside the medieval city walls, in the 2nd half of the 20th century. Originally designed to house workers flocking to the newly industrialised town, today's KTV is one of the most popular residential areas, especially with students and artists. It is here that you will find the highest density of bars, cafes and small shops selling handicraft or organic food. To get to KTV from Rostock's main shopping street Kröpeliner Straße, follow it all the way to the west, passing Kröpelin Gate and crossing the tram lines. Everything in front of you now is already part of KTV. Check out the Doberaner Platz, where most tram lines stop, where the best Döner is sold, and where everyone seems to meet before a pub crawl with friends.

Climb the tower of Petrikirche (St. Petri's church)
open from 10am, closing time depends on the season (4pm in winter, 5pm sping/autumn, 7pm summer - consult website if unsure)

Petrikirche boasts the tallest tower of the three remaining churches within the old town. The church itself can be visited for free open daily, mind the Sunday service 11-12am, but there is a small admission fee for the tower 2€; 1,50€ reduced fee. Climbing the steep spiral stairs is fun and a good exercise! There is also a barrier-free option: The parish has had the original bell shaft replaced by a lift which brings you up to the lower of the 2 platforms. Both offer good views over town, river and harbour. Many guided tours of Rostock also start in front of the church. Also worth keeping in mind: The parish has installed what is probably the only free public toilet in the old town although it might be a nice idea to put some coins into the collection column inside the church, also barrier-free and accessible from the outside, to the left of the main entrance.

Watch the sunset in the harbour

Take some drinks and food down and watch time pass by - as well as sailing boats, rowing boats, and plenty of seagulls. If it's herring season, the quay at the Silos will be full of fishermen. If you're not into bring-your-own, there is a number of restaurants and bars along the quay, from German, Italian and Greek to Spanish cuisine. The Irish Pub is also in the Silos. Between the theatre and Latino bar "Besitos", you will find plenty of young people playing "Kubb", at least during summer. Why not try it out yourself? If you ask nicely, you are sure to be allowed a shot. Or buy your own wooden kit at the games store "Wupatki", Rungestraße 17. BTW: This part of the harbour is usually called "Strand" beach by locals, even if there is no sand within sight.