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.
