Straddling the banks of the River Weser, the charming city state of Bremen is worth taking the time to get to know. Explore everything the city and surrounding Saxony region has to offer at your own pace and you’ll find this a gentle place with a story to tell.

A number of autobahns (freeways) circle the city - although there is no speed limit on some sections of the German Autobahn network, restrictions are in place in most parts. The US consulate in Germany has a comprehensive guide to driving in the country, including the rules of autobahns, on their website.

The A27 sweeps across the north-east of the city and branching off at Bundestrasse 6 (federal highway) will take you directly through the center and across the Weser, while the A1 skirts the south of Bremen. Use Parkallee to visit Universum Science Center, where you can enjoy an immersive experience in the world of science or, if you want to discover Kunsthalle, the city’s top art gallery, use Am Wall.

In the city center an environmental Green Zone is in operation and cars entering this zone are required to display stickers which can be easily acquired at gas stations. Parts of Bremen are also pedestrianized, so make use of the parking lots conveniently spread across the city.

Exploring the rest of Germany from Bremen is simple. Follow the A1 north-east to reach Hamburg in an hour and a half. Continuing on to the A24 will get you to the energetic and historic capital Berlin – although this will take around four hours, ideal if you’ve got more time to play with.

Nature lovers should make for the coast for a trip across to the East Frisian Islands. Take the A29 north and you’ll be there, exploring the secluded sandy beaches, in under two hours. For something a little closer to Bremen, use the K11 to reach Worpswede, a quaint artisan bolt-hole.

Bremen perfectly walks the line between medieval fantasy land and futuristic technology heavyweight. Discover all of its treasures, both old and new, for yourself…

Step into a fairy tale

Stroll through the historic Schnoor area of Bremen with your camera at the ready – it’s a patchwork of gabled houses and cobbled streets, with the oldest houses dating back to the 15th century. Wander past little shops selling arts and crafts and handmade gold and get a feel for when this old town on the banks of the river Weser was home to rope-makers and fishermen.

Venture deeper into the center and make a beeline for the UNESCO-listed Marktplatz. This lively square is surrounded by beautiful guildhouses, but the real draw is Bremen’s magnificent Rathaus (town hall). Admire the Renaissance façade, before heading inside to take the guided tour to learn more about its history.

During the Christmas season, Marktplatz is transformed into a winter wonderland. A Victorian-style carrousel plays fairground music and wooden huts twinkling with fairy lights sell handicrafts. Wander through it all and warm your hands with a mug of traditional glühwein.

A city where art and science meet

Art lovers should head to the bohemian Viertel area of the city, just a short journey from the center. Packed with vintage clothes shops and quirky restaurants, this neighborhood thrums with life.

Start exploring Bremen’s art scene at Kunsthalle, a gallery set in the greenery of Wallanlagen Park. Wander among the large collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures on display from a spectrum of eras. Stroll south to reach Die Glocke, the city’s much-loved concert hall. Book tickets for a performance and witness some of Germany’s greatest classical music at an evening concert.

Juxtapose this with a trip to the University Quarter where space buffs will enjoy the impressive oyster-shaped Universum Science Center. This is the perfect place to go if you’re vacationing with kids as there are daily science shows for inquisitive minds. Peer through the Sky Window to enjoy sweeping views of Bremen, take a bumpy seat on the Earthquake Sofa and learn how to create energy with the Manual Generator.

Hit the open road

Germany is not usually known for beach vacations but take a trip to the north coast and you’ll be rewarded with uncrowded shores and quirky cafés. The seaside town of Cuxhaven is only an hour’s drive away. Relax in a canopied chair on the long sandy stretch of Duhnen Beach or enjoy a kitesurfing lesson in Sahlenburg and learn how to master the waves.

A short drive east of Bremen is the romantic town of Lüneburg. Meander through the old town’s maze of narrow streets, passing grand gabled townhouses and crooked medieval buildings along the way. Once you’ve soaked up the beauty of its architecture, make your way to the Marktplatz, take a seat in one of the cafes and watch the world go by.

Rent a car in Bremen and enjoy exploring this spirited city, as well as the surrounding region, in exactly the way you want to.