Introduction
Stralsund could easily be the setting for a modern day fairy tale, with its gable houses and gothic red brick churches. Once upon a time it was a fishing village, but today thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage Site town centre it attracts plenty of sightseers. Among the main buildings to visit are the impressive City Hall, which was finished in 1278, and themedieval St. Nicholas Church.In the summer months cruises navigate around the harbours, and sailing into the Baltic Sea with the dramatic backdrop of Stralsund’s gothic spires is highly recommended. Germany’s biggest island, Ruegen, is reachable from here, and is characterised by its sandy beaches and fields of poppies. There’s a sandy beach back on the mainland too, with a kid’s playground and fantastic views. In terms of eating out, the market square has restaurants offering French and German cuisine, with fish being a local speciality.
