Rostock, on the banks of river Warnow, is bursting with architectural testimony of its grand Hanseatic history: Once an important member of the Hanseatic League, the port and university city is still the hub of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The colourful cultural life, the traditional pubs and several miles of shopping precincts, sporting and concert events, and the extensive zoo, provide entertainment and diversity all year round. Rostock’s »prettiest daughter«, is the seaside resort of Warnemünde. Once a poor fishing village, the exquisite sand and wide beach attracted many visitors, and the area changed into an elegant seaside resort and health spa in the 19th century – and still is.