Enjoy a remarkably comprehensive exploration of Rostock, a city primarily known for its characteristic deep-red brick buildings from Hanseatic times. A meandering walk through the gardens of the Convent of the Holy Cross will serve as a serene introduction to the city. New Market, being surrounded by Hanseatic architecture, presents a different perspective, especially with the guide’s insightful commentary. Still, few places are as emblematic as St. Mary’s, the largest church in Rostock. While renowned for its astronomical clock, which is still working with original parts from 1472, it also boasts other features not to be missed, including a bronze baptismal font from 1290. As a prelude to cruising the Warnow River, you will pause at a microbrewery for a sampling of craft beers and a fresh-baked pretzel. A view of Rostock from the river will clearly show how the city was largely rebuilt after being heavily bombed during World War II.