bremen germany tourist attractions

15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen, Germany

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023

Officially known by the rather lofty title of the "Free Hanseatic City of Bremen" (Freie Hansestadt Bremen), Bremen is situated on Germany's lower Weser River an hour's drive west of the major port city of Hamburg .

Itself one of the largest seaports and centers of seaborne trade in the country, this vibrant port city is one of the best places to visit for an authentic northern Germany vacation.

The greater Bremen area also includes the important port of Bremerhaven . Just 60 kilometers north of the city of Bremen, it's here that the River Weser flows into the North Sea. Both cities are also popular places from which to embark on sightseeing boat trips and river cruises of the dramatic scenery to be found in this part of the country.

Bremen has also long been an important cultural center, boasting numerous top attractions and plenty of fun things to do. Key events in the city's cultural calendar include the Freimarkt, the country's largest funfair, and one that has taken place here almost continuously since 1036. Also fun is catching a concert by the International Youth Symphony Orchestra of Bremen.

Other memorable experiences for tourists include exploring the historic Old Town (Altstadt) on foot. It's a very pedestrian-friendly city, ensuring that a leisurely stroll through Bremen's many fine parks and green spaces is never noisy or crowded.

To help you find the best places to visit in this exciting corner of Germany , check out our list of the top attractions and fun things to do in Bremen.

Explore Bremen's Historic Marktplatz

Experience an authentic german christmas market, take a tour of bremen town hall, wander through bremen's medieval schnoor quarter, see the cathedral of st. peter, take a stroll along the böttcherstrasse, enjoy a boardwalk stroll along the schlachte, get your art fix at kunsthalle bremen, see the blossoms at rhododendron-park and mühle am wall, get smart at universum bremen, explore the overseas museum, learn about bremen's history at the focke museum, visit the german maritime museum in bremerhaven, take a drive to the valentin submarine pens, see the views from the zarm drop tower.

Colorful facades with Bremer Roland statue in Bremen

There's no better way to get to know a German town or city than making a beeline for the community's old marketplace, or Marktplatz. Located in the Old Town (Altstadt) and very much the beating heart of this historic city, the picturesque Marktplatz is home to many of Bremen's top attractions.

Here, you'll find the lovely old Town Hall (Bremer Rathaus), one of the most iconic buildings in Germany for its mix of Gothic and Renaissance designs.

Equally famous is the five-and-a-half-meter-tall statue of Germany's most famous knight, Roland. Erected in 1404, the statue, the oldest of numerous such monuments dotted around the country, remains a symbol of the city's freedom and independence from the church. Stop for a look and you'll notice the statue in fact faces the city's main church defiantly.

Address: Am Markt 2, 28195 Bremen

If you're planning on visiting Germany in winter , Bremen's Marktplatz is also the site of the city's popular Christmas Market (Bremer Weihnachtsmarkt) . This spectacular celebration of the season lasts for a whole month in the lead-up to Christmas.

It's a great excuse for a visit to Bremen, especially for couples seeking romantic things to do in winter, and is especially fun at night due to the many festive light displays.

Bremen's historic Marktplatz is also where the city's famous Freimarkt , or "Free Fair," is held. This ancient fair has taken place here for almost 1,000 years. Attracting over four million visitors a year, this two-week-long event culminates in a colorful parade that's well worth seeing.

As you explore this large public space, you'll likely stumble across Bremer Geschichtenhaus . This fun "living history" museum uses costumed characters to tell many fascinating stories from the city's history from the 17th to 20th centuries and is well worth the cost of admission.

Read More: Top-Rated Christmas Markets in Germany

Bremen Town Hall (Bremer Rathaus), also sometimes referred to as City Hall, is a beautiful brick Gothic structure located in the city's Marktplatz. Built in 1410, it's famous for its sumptuous Renaissance facade added later in 1612. Now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the building boasts one of the most elegant banqueting and reception halls in Germany.

Measuring an impressive 40 meters in length, 13 meters across, and eight meters high, its most notable feature is a large painting of the Judgment of Solomon dating from 1537. Also of note is a richly carved spiral staircase, just one of the many features that can be seen up close when you join in one of the regular and extremely informative guided tours.

Regular free concerts are held at the old Town Hall, too, including vocal soloists and organ recitals. You'll also notice, located under its northwest tower, an eye-catching yet unusual bronze sculpture of a rooster standing on a cat standing on a dog that's standing on a donkey. Known as the Bremen Town Musicians , these fascinating characters are straight out of the pages of a famous local folk tale.

Adding to the fun is a unique manhole cover in the road that doubles as a collection box. Drop in some change, and you'll be rewarded by a call from one of the Town Musicians themselves by way of a thank you.

Address: Am Markt 21, 28195, Bremen

The charming medieval district of Schnoor, most commonly referred to as the " Schnoor Quarter ," is named after the traditional rope-making trades that once flourished here. The oldest part of Bremen, it was also once the poorest part of the city.

These days, though, Schnoor is now the haunt of artists and other creative types and is an amazing area to explore for its many well-preserved 15th- to 18th-century homes. In addition to the many cafés and craft shops that now dot the district, highlights include the Schifferhaus, or Shipper's House . Built in 1630, it's now a private museum.

Also worth a visit is the lovely Landherrnamt . Dating from 1856, it was once home to the state government and notable for its well-preserved Neo-Romanesque façade. Nearby St. John's Church , a 14th-century brick-built Gothic place of worship, is also worth a visit.

Address: Hutfilterstraße 16-18, 28195, Bremen

The Cathedral of St. Peter in Bremen , known locally as St. Petri Dom, dates from the 11th century, with later additions being made in the 13th and 16th centuries. The exterior, with its twin 98-meter-tall towers, was restored in 1898, while its richly decorated Baroque pulpit was a gift from Queen Christina of Sweden in the 17th century.

A must-visit is the fascinating Cathedral Museum (Dom-Museum), located in the Bleikeller, or Lead Cellar. Here, you'll have a chance to see eight well-preserved mummies, the remains of medieval archbishops, along with displays of other items related to their tombs. A nominal admission charge is required to visit the cathedral's tower, but it's well worth it for the views.

Address: Sandstraße 10-12, 28195 Bremen

Bremen's narrow Böttcherstrasse , transformed between 1926-31 into a street of museums, is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Although only 100 meters long, its many examples of unusual expressionist architecture make it tremendously fun to explore.

Fortunately, you can't miss the entrance to this interesting neighborhood: simply look for the "Light Bringer" (Lichtbringer). This impressive gold sculpture is located above the not-so-secret archway entrance. While strolling, be sure to pop into some of the street's unique shops and galleries, as well as the famous Glockenspiel House with its thrice-a-day chime.

Another must-see here is the wonderful Paula Becker-Modersohn Museum . The museum is the world's first gallery dedicated to the art of a single woman and is housed in a specially designed expressionist brick building. Highlights of the collection include photos, paintings, and documents relating to the artist, as well as displays of work by her contemporaries.

Also of interest to art lovers is Roselius-Haus. Built in 1588 and home to the Ludwig Roselius Museum , it contains many fine examples of Low German art from the Gothic to Baroque periods.

Address: Böttcherstrasse, D-28195, Bremen

Another of Bremen's must-visit districts is the Schlachte. This pleasant Old Town pedestrian zone follows the River Weser's east bank and can trace its history all the way back to the 13th century. Named after the wooden piles driven deep into the ground to support the riverbank, this charming boardwalk area started off as the city's original port and harbor.

However, as the shipping industry changed, with larger vessels becoming the norm, it fell into disuse. After a great deal of rejuvenation, the Schlachte is now a wonderful place to spend time. In fact, one of the top-rated things to do in Bremen at night is to simply spend time strolling the promenade or stopping in at one of the many cafés and restaurants housed in the old warehouses.

You'll also enjoy seeing the many old historic vessels docked here, some of which now serve as unique hotels and restaurants, alongside their more modern cousins. Others are set up to offer tourists fun riverboat cruises.

The Kunsthalle , located in the center of Bremen's Old Town, opened in 1849 and contains numerous fine 17th-century Dutch paintings, as well as many old German masters dating as far back as the 14th century.

Other highlights include its collection of French and Dutch paintings of the 19th and 20th centuries, works by painters from the famous Worpswede artists' colony, and more than 220,000 drawings and prints, one of the largest such collections in Europe.

The museum also houses a sizeable collection of notable sculptures, as well as a collection of works in modern media. Guided and audio tours are available in English, and a first-class restaurant with a terrace is located on-site.

Fans of modern art will want to also include the Weserburg Museum of Modern Art on their itinerary. One of the country's largest modern art galleries, the Weserburg hosts frequently changing exhibits of artwork from artists around the world.

Address: Am Wall 207, 28195, Bremen

Bremen's 114-acre Rhododendron-Park (Rhododendron-Park und Botanischer Garten Bremen) was established in 1933 and is a wonderful place to explore, whether you're a nature lover or a gardener. In addition to its huge collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, it's also home to the eight-acre Bremen Botanical Garden.

Created in 1905 with plant species from alpine regions, Asia, Australia, and the Americas, the park is also home to more than 1,000 native plant species, some of them endangered. Also located within the Rhododendron-Park is a lovely old windmill, the Mühle am Wall, built in 1888 and now a heritage building, which houses one of Bremen's top restaurants.

Another garden-related attraction worth visiting is Botanika Bremen , a pleasant botanical garden, which also offers fun things to do for kids, including a playground.

Address: Deliusweg 40, 28359, Bremen

One of Bremen's newest attractions, Universum Bremen is also one of its most interesting architecturally. Built in 2000 and looking not unlike a large, partially opened clam or a grinning whale, depending on where you're standing, the building was made from more than 40,000 metal tiles.

This first-rate science center is home to some 300 fascinating hands-on exhibits focusing on human history, the earth, and the cosmos.

A recent addition to the attraction is EntdeckerPark, which includes the Turm der Lüfte , a 27-meter-tall tower with superb views of the area, as well as a restaurant, which runs interesting "dining in the dark" experiences, one of the more fun things to do at night in Bremen. A variety of educational programs, science shows, and workshops are also available.

Address: Wiener Straße 1a, 28359, Bremen

The Overseas Museum (Übersee-Museum Bremen) has many excellent collections related to natural history, trade, and ethnography, including displays focusing on the South Seas, Australia, and Asia.

The magnificent building itself is listed, and highlights of the museum include exhibitions related to Bremen's import and export trade. Free English-language brochures, educational materials, and audio guides are available when purchasing tickets, as are guided tours in English.

Address: Bahnhofsplatz 13, 28195, Bremen

For those with the time and the interest to learn more about the rich human and cultural history of Bremen, a visit to the Focke Museum could be just the ticket. Established in 1924, the museum complex covers an 11-acre site in a leafy neighborhood of the city and consists of a number of interesting structures built between the early 1500s and late 1800s.

Highlights of a visit include a permanent exhibit focusing on the city's 1,200-year history, which includes numerous antiquities along with more recent artifacts such as a fascinating automaton, a lifeboat, and unique collections of furniture, farm tools, toys, and glass. If traveling with kids, head for the attic of Haus Riensberg, where they can enjoy a variety of fun hands-on experiments.

Address: Schwachhauser Heerstraße 240, 28213, Bremen

Located in Bremerhaven's Old Harbor a little more than 60 kilometers north of Bremen, the German Maritime Museum (Deutsches Schiffahrtsmuseum) is a superb museum dedicated to the country's rich seafaring history.

Notable among its exhibits is a Bremen "kogge," an old Hanseatic merchant ship; a Mark XXI submarine from WWII; the four-masted tall ship, the Seute Deern with its on-board restaurant; and the old paddle steamer, the Meißen .

Also of interest is a 112-meter-tall radar tower with a viewing platform, as well as exhibits relating to European shipping from prehistoric to modern times. Afterward, be sure to spend time exploring Bremerhaven itself, in particular the harbor area with its busy fishing port.

Address: Hans-Scharoun-Platz 1, 27568 Bremerhaven

The Valentin Submarine Pens (Denkort Bunker Valentin) is another historic attraction that's of interest to war buffs. Located about halfway between Bremen and Bremerhaven, it was here that the Germans built and maintained many of the navy's U-Boats during WW2.

Once the country's largest fortified U-boat facility, this huge concrete structure still impresses with its vast dimensions and durability. Today, this huge structure can be visited and explored as part of a guided tour.

Another interesting science-related attraction that's well worth seeing in Bremen is the fascinating Zarm Drop Tower . Located in Bremen University and a 15-minute drive from the city center, this 146-meter-tall structure was built for zero-gravity experiments, something it's still known for to this day.

Built in 1990, it's well-known to researchers the world over. For those interested in science, there's also the occasional opportunity to watch experiments being undertaken. Among tourists, though, this tall, pencil-like structure is known for its superb views over Bremen .

English-language guided tours are available. Lasting up to 90 minutes, they take in the labs and research areas, with visitors being able to climb the tower itself afterward. Age restrictions do apply, with guests over 12 and up welcome to join the tours.

Address: Am Fallturm 2, 28359 Bremen

More on Germany

Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 25 Best Things to Do in Bremen (Germany)

25 Best Things to Do in Bremen (Germany)

In Medieval times the Weser River brought Europe to Bremen’s door, and the city grew in stature as a Free Hanseatic City from the 12th Century. Sea trade has always been in Bremen’s blood, and from the 17th century exotic products like coffee started arriving. Germany’s first ever coffee house opened in Bremen in the 17th century, while the Bremen-based coffee merchant Ludwig Roselius was the man who invented decaf coffee at the start of the 1900s.

In the 20s Roselius gave Bremen the Böttcherstraße, a whole street of “Brick Expressionist” houses and workshops, all still intact. Bremen also has quaint maritime neighbourhoods, museums of all descriptions on its “Cultural Mile” and UNESCO-listed Medieval and Renaissance monuments at the central Market Square.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Bremen :

1. Bremen Cathedral

St Peter’s Cathedral commands the central market square has 1,200 years of history.

Unsurprising given its age, the building is a mishmash of styles, with Romanesque, Gothic and bits of later Gothic Revival sprinkled in following restorations in the 19th century.

The cathedral’s pair of 89-metre towers break Bremen’s skyline, and you can go up the south tower for an exhilarating view.

In one of the chapels don’t miss the nine fragments of the cathedral’s choir stalls, which were carved with episodes from the bible in 1360. The crypt meanwhile is the oldest portion of the church, and goes back to the 11th century.

On the creepy side, there are eight mummies dating back 400 years and stored in glass-topped coffins, with panels explaining their identities.

Two are Swedish officers killed during the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century.

2. Cathedral Museum

After restorations in the 1970s and 80s, the artefacts unearthed during digs were put on show at an exhibition space inside the cathedral.

The museum is where you can also get to grips with the complicated, millennium-long architectural history of the building.

There are plans and models explaining the layout at different stages, complemented by art that decorated the interior long ago.

You can view statues, stone reliefs, the remnants of the Renaissance altar, frescoes and a painting by Lucas Cranach the Elder.

In the 1970s the graves of eight medieval bishops were discovered, and the finds from these excavations include rings, a staff, vestments and chalices.

3. Bremen City Hall

One of the most beautiful civic buildings, not just in Germany, but all of Europe, Bremen’s City Hall earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2005. What began as a Brick Gothic hall in the 15th century was given an exquisite Renaissance makeover 200 years later when the rich reliefs and statues were carved.

You could lose a lot of time marvelling at the stonework and identifying all the figures on here, like Charlemagne and Bremen’s seven Imperial Electors.

Tours are given by Bremen’s tourist office and take place between 11:00 and 16:00. Don’t pass up the chance to go inside as there’s a great deal to see, like Germany’s oldest cask of wine in the cellar and the lavishly adorned Upper Hall where the city council used to sit.

4. Marktplatz

We’ve already mentioned the cathedral and town hall, which together could keep you on the central market square for half a day.

But apart from the historic gabled houses overlooking the square there are a few other monuments to look for.

One is the Gothic Roland Statue, erected in front of the town hall in 1404 and depicting a mythological knight who symbolises Bremen’s free city status.

The monument is encompassed by the same UNESCO site as the town hall.

If you come around to the west side of the city hall there’s a modern bronze sculpture of the dog, cat, rooster and donkey from the Brothers Grimm’s Town Musicians of Bremen fairytale.

5. Kunsthalle Bremen

On Bremen’s “Culture Mile”, this top-notch art museum has been run by the private Bremen Art Society for almost 200 years.

The collection is a complete overview of European art from the 14th century to today, taking in German Renaissance masters like Lucas Cranach the Elder and Albrecht Dürer.

But where the museum really shines is in its 19th and 20th-century art by Delacroix, van Gogh, Max Liebermann, Camille Corot, Andreas Achenbach, Max Beckmann, Franz Marc, Edvard Munch and Alfred Sisley, to name just a few.

The print and drawing department has hundreds of thousands of sheets from the 1400s to the 1900s, while the New Media department is for contemporary artists in a variety of disciplines.

You can peruse work by the installation artist Olafur Eliasson, video artist Nam June Paik and musician John Cage.

6. Böttcherstraße

Running towards the Weser from Marktplatz is a 100-metre street that was rescued from dilapidation and transformed by an architectural project during the 1920s.

The idea came from the Bremen coffee magnate, and inventor of decaf coffee, Ludwig Roselius, and he hired the Expressionist artist Bernhard Hoetger to oversee the works.

The outcome was a spectacular line of buildings and courtyards in what is known as the Brick Expressionism style.

This is a blend of Expressionist art, Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) and Art Deco, with constant hints to traditional Low German architecture in the houses’ gables and mullioned windows.

The entire street is protected and owned by a single foundation, while its buildings host chic independent shops, ateliers, bars, museums and galleries.

7. Haus des Glockenspiels

Maybe Berhard Hoetger’s most beautiful contributions to Böttcherstraße are the wooden panels that rotate in time to the carillon at the Haus des Glockenspiels.

If you’re in Bremen during spring or summer, try to time your visit for just before the stroke of the hour, between 12:00 and 18:00. Thirty bells made from Meissen porcelain and set between the house’s gables play the tunes of old sea shanties and folk songs.

Hoetger designed ten Expressionist panels for important German and foreign voyagers like Christopher Columbus, the crew of the first transatlantic flight, aviator Charles Lindbergh and Robert Fulton, inventor of the steamboat.

8. Schnoor Quarter

The oldest and quaintest neighbourhood in Bremen is the knot of little lanes around the Schnoor alley.

In the past this was one of Bremen’s poorest areas and was where Bremen’s fishing community resided.

The maritime theme survives in the name, Schnoor, as it refers to the workshops where rigging was manufactured for ships.

Schnoor has lots of pretty timber-framed houses from the 1400s and 1500s, now occupied by restaurants, galleries, cafes and handicraft shops for souvenirs.

On Stavendamm, make time for the Schifferhaus from 1630, which is an exceptional state of preservation and welcomes visitors for tours in German and English.

9. Schlachte

In Bremen’s Old Town the right bank of the Weser was turned into a pedestrian zone in the 1980s and 90s.

The promenade and restored houses are over what used to be Bremen’s main harbour, until increases in the size of freight and the introduction of railways moved a lot of the water-bourne traffic to Bremerhaven on the coast.

Now the Schlachte is all about having a good time, day or night.

You can relax at a biergarten in summer or choose from a wide selection of restaurants, both German an international.

You could also take a slow, leisurely walk beside the water, or board one of many boats here for a trip on the Weser.

At Christmas the Schlachte-Zauber market here recreates the atmosphere of medieval Bremen’s guilds, and the fragrance of baked bread and smoked mackerel fills the air.

10. Schütting

Coming back to the Marktplatz once more, you have to spare some time for Bremen’s guildhall, which was built in the Flemish Renaissance style in the 1530s.

For a bit of historical context the hall was a symbol of the power of Bremen’s wealthy merchants following an uprising by the lower classes earlier in the decade.

On the facade above the portal check out the merchants’ coat of arms, which sits beside that of the city of Bremen and depicts the Holy Roman imperial eagle, giving you an idea of the standing the merchants had in the city.

An interesting historical curiosity about the Schütting is that it had one of the first coffee houses in German speaking territories, opening in 1679.

11. Focke Museum

In the Riensberg neighbourhood to the east of Bremen’s centre, the Focke Museum reveals Bremen’s 1,200 years of history.

The attraction is based in several historic structures dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries, around a modern main building from the 1960s.

In the main exhibition you can view curiosities like the original head of the Roland statue and sandstone statues from the facade of the town hall, brought here for safekeeping.

There are also cars manufactured by Bremen’s Borgward brand and the Complimentarius, a strange, armour-clad automaton that used to welcome people to the great hall at the Schütting.

The side buildings are also full of interest, like the thatched Eichenhof, which explores the prehistory an ancient history of the Bremen region.

Or there’s the 18th-century Haus Riensberg, demonstrating the skill of Bremen’s furniture designers and master glassmakers in the hundreds of years ago.

12. Ludwig Roselius Museum

On Böttcherstraße you also have to call in at the Roselius-House, which displays the private collection of the coffee merchant Ludwig Roselius.

The house is the oldest on the street, raised at the end of the 16th century.

Roselius bought it in 1902 and added the crow-stepped gable as part of the street’s development.

He amassed a trove of curios and art from the early middle ages to the 17th century, made up of liturgical ornaments, Renaissance paintings and sculpture.

The essential work to see in the museum is Lucas Cranach’s Portrait of Martin Luther and Katharina von Bora, his wife.

Among the abundance of religious statuary, find the Group of Mourner, sculpted in 1515 by the master Tilman Riemenschneider.

13. Universum

Just right for a rainy day, the Universum is a wildly popular interactive science centre in a futuristic metallic building that looks a bit like a mussel shell.

There are over 300 exhibits, all challenging young minds to solve problems and experiment in hands on ways.

The three main zones are Nature, Humans and Technology, filled with intelligently designed games, models and displays to make complicated concepts more digestible.

So that might be a table football game in which you play against A.I., a sofa which recreates the feeling of an earthquake and a room that simulates what it’s like to be blind.

Outside there are more experiments for water and wind, and a 27-metre tower crammed with more experiments.

14. Bürgerpark

The southern entrance to Bremen’s best-loved park is moments away from the Hauptbahnhof.

What begins as a narrow strip of lawns and trees in the centre of the city eventually broadens into a 200-hectare park that extends past the University to the open countryside north of Bremen.

If you need an affordable family day out in summer the Bürgerpark has animal habitats for sheep, goats, pigs, wild boars, alpacas, guinea pigs and deer.

Those enclosures are ringed by the Emmasee, a large, serpentine water feature where you can rent boats, while there’s also a mini-golf centre.

At the southern end, the serene Holler See lake is the setting for outdoor performances by the Bremer Shakespeare Company in summer.

15. Mühle am Wall

Heading from the Hauptbahnhof to the city centre you’ll pass the old earthworks where Bremen’s city ramparts and bastions used to be.

One of the sights that will catch your attention is a large windmill, which has become a treasured landmark in Bremen.

The mill “on the wall” is a “smock mill”, on an octagonal base constructed in 1898. It is the most recent of a succession of windmills at this very spot, going back to 1699. The mill now houses a restaurant, and there’s a terrace outside shaded by parasols.

16. Das Viertel

Bremen’s youngest and most colourful district, Das Viertel is cool enough to have a name that translates simply to “The Quarter”. Das Viertel was laid out east of the wall between the end of the 1800s and the 1930s, and regal villas and townhouses were erected in the Historicist, Neoclassic and Jugendstil styles.

The neighbourhood has a few of the Cultural Mile’s museums like the Kunsthalle, as well as the temple-like Thater am Goetheplatz.

But if you’re young and you need somewhere to eat and go out, the Viertel’s eccentric, one-of-a-kind bars, bistros, cafes and live music venues are dens for the Bremen’s hippest folk.

In the daylight day Das Viertel is a shopping quarter of vintage shops, fun boutiques and family-run businesses, without a chain store in sight.

17. Bremer Geschichtenhaus

Now open for more than a decade, the Bremer Geschichtenhaus (House of History) is a living museum in the quaint surrounds of the Schnoor quarter.

Historical re-enactors dress up in garb from the 1600s to 1900s and play out important scenes or little vignettes from Bremen’s past.

These performances are normally in German, but the attraction does accommodate English speakers if you book in advance.

Characters are brought to life, like the famous eccentric Heini Holtenbeen, or Fisch-Luzie an enterprising 19th-century fishmonger who built her own fish-trading empire in Bremen.

The exhibits are ordered chronologically, bringing you through plague outbreaks in the 17th century to the height of Bremen’s chocolate and coffee-trading days in the 1800s.

18. Church of Our Lady

Work started on this parish church on the north side of the Marktplatz in the 13th century around the same time as the cathedral.

But like the cathedral it was also laid over a much older structure.

The crypt is from 1020, and is the oldest built space in the whole of Bremen.

The Gothic vaults of the nave and choir have been stripped back to the bare stone, and have a stark beauty.

The church came through the war with minor damage, but 19 of its stained glass windows were destroyed.

The French modern artist Alfred Manessier was hired to design the replacements in the 60s and 70s, and these evoke bible passages with his trademark bright linear patterns.

19. Übersee-Museum

With 1.2 million exhibits in the fields of ethnology and natural history, the Übersee-Museum transports you to the ends of the earth.

You’ll come face to face with a massive diversity of topics and themes, and can find out what it’s like to walk through a rainforest at night, go underwater off a tropical island in Oceania and travel the Silk Road.

Zoology also has a big role at the museum, and there are thousands of animal specimens in dioramas, as well as genuine exotic plants.

An ambitious new exhibition investigates the phenomena that have made the greatest impact on human life on earth and the environment, like climate change, the Internet, global trade and human rights.

20. Rhododendron Park

If you happen to be in Bremen in May, this botanical garden on the eastern outskirts of the city shoots up the list of things to do.

In that brief window, the park’s collection of 1,000 rhododendron and azalea species bursts into flower.

The bushes produce blossoms in a kaleidoscope of colours from pure white to deep red.

Together the rhododendrons and azaleas make up the second largest collection of these plants in the world, numbering some 10,000 individual bushes.

21. Botanika

Attached to the Rhododendron Park is an attraction labelling itself as a “Green Science Centre”. In many ways Botanika is a green partner for Universum, answering questions about the inner-workings of plants in fun, creative ways.

In the discovery centre you’ll learn how the competition for light, nutrients, water and procreation has caused a wild inventiveness that allows sequoias to lift water 100 metres off the ground, or Venus flytraps to digest insects.

You can taste edible plants in the herb garden, and there are seasonal animal exhibits that include rabbits and a butterfly garden.

The large greenhouse recreates wilderness and landscaped gardens from the Himalayas, Borneo and Japan.

22. Beck’s Brewery

Something like 3,000 bottles of Beck’s Beer are opened around the world every 60 seconds, and in Bremen you can go to the place where it all began.

Beck’s Brewery was set up by the master brewer Heinrich Beck in 1873, together with a city merchant Thomas May and the master builder Lüder Rutenberg.

The brand’s iconic key crest is a reference to the Bremen Cathedral’s patron saint, St Peter who held the keys to the kingdom of heaven.

Tours of the brewery take place Monday to Saturday in German, and if you want an English tour come at 15:00 Thursdays to Saturdays.

You’ll be shown around the inventory, and the various fermentation and storage tanks in the brewhouse.

There’s a video presentation about the brand, and a tasting session at the end of the tour.

23. Valentin Submarine Pens

Downstream on the Weser to the northwest of Bremen is a submarine factory from the Second World War.

The Valentin Submarine Pens were never completed, and never assembled a single submarine, as progress was halted by air raids and the allied advance in 1945. But even so, the facility is only behind the famous pens in Brest for size and preservation.

Although they’re an interesting piece of war-time “blockhaus” construction, the pens are most of all a thought-provoking memorial to the wrongs of the Second World War and the Nazi regime.

It is believed that as many as 6,000 slave labourers died building the pens.

As you follow the self-guided tour, reminders of the human cost are interlaced with technical details about the factory and its historical context.

24. Bremer Bonbon Manufaktur

In the Handwerkerhof (Craftsman’s Courtyard) off Böttcherstrasse you might be distracted by a sweet fragrance.

This comes from the candy factory, which is run by the tourist board and makes traditional hard candy presented in cute packaging with Bremen’s animal musicians on the label.

Naturally, these make for a good souvenir or gift.

Best of all there’s a window that opens onto the kitchens where you can see artisan candy of different colours shapes and sizes being made by hand.

25. Weser River Tours

Once you appreciate the big hand the Weser River played in Bremen’s success as a Hanseatic Free City you’ll want to capture some of the magic on a cruise setting off from the former harbour at the Schlachte.

There are five tours a day and you’ll ride from the embankment to Bremen’s modern docks, finding out about trade with England and the Baltic in the Hanseatic days, and how the influx of goods like coffee and cocoa from the New World changed Bremen’s fortunes.

You’ll get a fresh view of the cathedral towers, the grand houses of the waterfront Osterdeich street and pieces of the city’s old fortifications.

25 Best Things to Do in Bremen (Germany):

Bremen Cathedral
Cathedral Museum
Bremen City Hall
Kunsthalle Bremen
Böttcherstraße
Haus des Glockenspiels
Schnoor Quarter
Focke Museum
Ludwig Roselius Museum
Mühle am Wall
Das Viertel
Bremer Geschichtenhaus
Church of Our Lady
Übersee-Museum
Rhododendron Park
Beck's Brewery
Valentin Submarine Pens
Bremer Bonbon Manufaktur
Weser River Tours

Germany Footsteps

22 Top Things To Do In Bremen [Don’t Miss Them!]

Going on a Bremen trip and want to know all the best things to do in Bremen? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best attractions in Bremen Germany to plan your ultimate trip.

When we were looking for places to visit in Northern Germany on our way to Denmark, somewhere jumped out at us pretty quick – Bremen. I found it on lists of Germany’s prettiest Old Towns and, once I looked it up myself, I was sold.

Located at the end of Germany’s Fairy Tale Road, Bremen is a reasonable sized city with over half a million people. It also lives up to its reputation with a gorgeous Old Town on the Weser River and there is a great collection of places to see in Bremen.

22 Awe-Inspiring Things To Do In Bremen, Germany [Don’t Miss Them!]

From fairy tale statues to museums to churches to wandering the riverside walk and Old Town, Bremen is an easy, vibrant, fun and beautiful place to visit.

Not far from Hamburg, it is possible to visit Bremen on a day trip. However, this is a beautiful place that is worth your time if you can spend longer. We spent a few nights and I wish we had more time to continue to soak it all in.

Bremen is a great destination at any time of year. It has what is reputed to be one of the best Christmas markets in Germany and there’s plenty to explore in summer too.

Below, you will find our Bremen travel blog with everything you need to know about the best Bremen things to do, what to do in Bremen surrounds as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate vacation in Bremen!! There is also a handy map of the things to do Bremen offers.

So let’s start so you have as good a time in Bremen as we had!

Traveling to Germany? Click here to download your free Germany Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!

Don’t miss the best hotel savings in Germany here >>

Table of Contents

An Introduction To Bremen

Settlements in the Bremen area date back to 100AD. At its beginning, it was known as the “Rome of the North” and was used as a base for bringing Christianity into Scandinavia.

It shed its religious background becoming an Imperial City in 1186 and then joining the Hanseatic League in 1260. Starting with a few towns in northern Germany, the Hanseatic League grew to be a confederation of nearly 200 cities in 7 modern-day countries. This league was a powerful policital trading block with arrangements like free trade, protection against pirates and bandits and diplomats among its members.

Over time, they even developed a common legal system and armies to keep the area safe and flourishing. This lead to mutual prosperity in the region.

You can read more about the Hanseatic League here .

Bremen’s location on the Weser River enabled it to be a key trading post in the league with much international trading taking place here. It thrived and, in fact, stayed in the Hanseatic League right until it ended in 1862 as Germany was being founded.

Even today, Bremen is known as the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen and forms its own state (the smallest in Germany).

Top 21 Things To Do In Bremen Germany

Here are the best Bremen attractions. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe. If you only have one day to visit Bremen tourist attractions, find our one day Bremen places to visit itinerary below.

Bremen’s Old Town

If there is one place you will absolutely want to head when you visit Bremen, it’s Bremen’s Old Town. This is definitely #1 on our list of Bremen top 10 tourist attractions and you can’t go wrong wandering around this area.

In fact, many of the places below are in the Old Town so you can enjoy the Old Town as you visit your pick of the top things to do in Bremen.

This Old Town is 1200 years old and is located on the banks of the Weser River. It’s a joy to walk the cobblestone streets surrounded by history. It’s compact and easy to walk around.

I recommend you take your time, have a leisurely meal in the streets in warmer months and really soak it in.

Rathaus (Town Hall)

The heart of the Old Town, Markt Platz (Market Square) is a great place to head on your Old Town wander. This is where you will find Bremen’s UNESCO World Heritage listed Town Hall.

Over 600 years old, its known for its mix of Gothic and Renaissance features thanks to originally being built in 1410 in Gothic style and then having a Renaissance facade added in 1612. This actually makes it the only European town hall built in the late Middle Ages that has survived in its original form for this long.

It’s a well preserved, gorgeous building which helps celebrate Bremen remaining largely autonomous for centuries. The inside is just as fabulous with the Upper Hall being a fantastic ceremonial venue where the council used to meet.

There’s also a cellar underneath which is home to Germany’s oldest cask of wine.

It’s possible to go on a guided tour of the inside which takes about an hour and helps explain the magnificent history of the building. It’s also possible to eat a meal in the restaurant, Ratskeller , in the wine cellar.

Roland Statue

The Roland Statue is located outside the Rathaus and was erected in 1404 after its wooden predecessor was destroyed. It is part of the Rathaus’ UNESCO World Heritage listing.

Roland is a symbol of freedom and trading rights and, while there are Roland statues in many German towns, this one is considered one of the most beautiful and oldest examples.

It’s over five and a half metres tall and when you add in the baldachin, it’s over ten metres tall. I was surprised by the height of this impressive statue – photos don’t do it justice.

It’s a popular item on the Bremen things to see list and you won’t want to miss it.

Town Musicians Of Bremen

After our journey along the Fairy Tale Road to get to Bremen, we certainly weren’t going to miss an opportunity to see this statue of the Town Musicians of Bremen which comes from the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale, the Bremen Town Musicians (Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten) published in 1819.

You’ll notice images around town of a donkey, dog, cat, and rooster and they come from this fairy tale.

The best way to celebrate this past is by visiting this statue and rubbing the donkey’s nose or hooves. It’ll ensure you have good luck and visit Bremen again!

You can also find a circle plaque and coin slot where you can pay to hear the animals make sounds.

This statue is also located in Markt Platz to the left of the Bremen Rathaus. It was created by Gerhard Marcks and you can learn more about his work below.

Dom St Petri (And Bleikeller)

The Bremen Cathedral, Dom St Petri, is also located at Markt Platz. This protestant church was originally built in 789, although much of the current building dates to the 13th century.

This cathedral is quite large and it’s worth venturing inside. There are many organs, tombs and crypts with some famous Germans having been buried here. It has a silent beauty that I really enjoyed.

In the warmer months, you can also climb 265 steps to the top of the south tower for great views of the Old Town. However, this does seem to be closed randomly as it was shut the days we were in Bremen with no explanation or sign of when it would open again. Next time!

There’s also a small Cathedral Museum located in the Bleikeller (cellar) which shows the history of the cathedral as well as religious artefacts from a 1970s dig. It’s also home to eight well-preserved mummies which are the remains of medieval archbishops.

It’s free to enter (as is the church).

Kirche Unser Lieben Fraue (Church Of Our Lady)

This smaller church was also built around the 13th century on the remains of an older building. The crypt is from 1020 which makes it the oldest built space in Bremen.

The Church of Our Lady is behind Bremen Rathaus and easy to visit as part of your exploration of this area. Inside are beautiful murals and as well as the old crypt and many beautiful painted glass windows.

I didn’t find many people in here despite the crowds outside, and it was a great way to escape exploring for a moment to relax and reflect in a beautiful space.

It’s another of the Bremen Germany things to do to appreciate and learn more about this city.

Böttcherstraße

Once you have finished exploring and enjoying Markt Platz, another great part of Bremen’s Old Town is Böttcherstraße. It’s just to the south and connects Markt Platz to the river so at one point, it was very important.

Today, this 100 metre long medieval lane is a great example of expressionist architecture (although there is a mixture of architectural styles) after it was transformed in the 1920s by the coffee merchant, Ludwig Roselius.

The red-brick houses have a mix of facades and there are fountains, statues and more. There are also some great Bremen attractions on this street which are described more below. There are some great shops, bars and cafes. Have a seat and enjoy the atmosphere.

But whether you have time to visit these attractions or not, it’s well worth the time to wander down Böttcherstraße.

Haus Des Glockenspiels

One of the things to do around Bremen that you’ll find on Böttcherstraße is Haus des Glockenspiels (Glockenspiel House). This is the place to be just before the hour between 12 – 6pm in the warmer months.

At this time, thirty porcelain bells ring playing the tunes of old folk songs lasting over eight minutes!

While the building already existed, the bells were added in 1934. Ten expressionist panels were also added of important German and other voyagers like Robert Fulton, steamboat inventor, and Christopher Columbus.

I must say that I was a little underwhelmed. The bells weren’t as loud as I expected and they didn’t move or anything. Add in the small space and big crowd and I wouldn’t say this is a must hear.

Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum

Also on Böttcherstraße is the Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum. Paula Modersohn-Becker was an artist (1867-1907) who was an early expressionist. This is the first gallery in the world that was dedicated to the work of a female artist.

Here, you can find some of her work as well as photos and documents relating to her as well as works by other artists.

The building itself is a great example of Brick Expressionist architecture.

Ludwig Roselius Museum

Another art museum on Böttcherstraße, the Ludwig Roselius Museum is where you can find the private art collection of Ludwig Roselius. As stated above, he is the one who is responsible for transforming this street.

This building is the oldest on the street, dating back to the end of the 16th century. Roselius added the crow-stepped gable when he developed the street.

He has quite an art collection as well as many ornaments. The most important pieces are Lucas Cranach’s Portrait of Martin Luther and his wife, Katharina von Bora and the Group of Mourner, sculpted in 1515 by Tilman Riemenschneider.

Schlachte Riverside Walk

After you’ve enjoyed Böttcherstraße, why not enjoy a riverside walk. This riverside walk is on the banks of the Weser River in the Old Town. It’s a pedestrian zone with a wide range of restaurants, bars and biergartens.

This area started off as the city’s original port and harbor. When railways were introduced and freight size increased, much of the harbour traffic moved to the coast and this area stopped being used.

After rejuvenation efforts, this area was transformed into a great area to spend some time. It’s also a popular choice of the things to do in Bremen at night where you can enjoy a meal and a beer.

There’s also many boats where you can take for a cruise on the Weser. It’s a nice place to take a walk.

The oldest neighbourhood in Bremen, you won’t want to miss a wander around Schnoor (or Schnoor Quarter as it’s often referred). This area is gorgeous with classic winding alleyways, wooden houses (some of which date back to the Medieval Ages) and many shops, galleries and restaurants.

This used to be home to Bremen’s fishing community and was one of the poorest parts of the city. This is where much shipping equipment was made and Schnoor refers to workshops where rigging was manufactured.

Luckily, this area was largely undamaged during the World Wars and there’s some great preserved buildings.

Wandering around here is one of my favourite answers to what to do in Bremen Germany thanks to all the pretty houses. It’s really a very special area.

Wallanlagen Park

The perfect way to add some green in your day (especially if you are looking for free things to do in Bremen) is Wallanlagen Park. Simply head north of the Old Town to find this beautiful part of Bremen.

This park dates back to the 18th century when it was built on the site of Bremen’s old city walls. Next to it is a moat. Thanks to this, it’s an odd, zig-zagging shape but it does make for a great park with fountains, flowers and sculptures.

It’s also home to a picturesque windmill, originally built in 1699, although today’s windmill was built in 1898.

There’s a restaurant inside if you want to dine at one of the more unusual things to do in Bremen.

It’s a great green escape from the city and it’s interesting how in just a moment you can go from the hustle and bustle of the city to a great relaxing expanse of green.

Weserburg Museum Für Moderne Kunst

The Weserburg Museum Für Moderne Kunst (Weserburg Museum of Modern Art) is located on an island in the Weser River just a short walk from the Old Town. Over five floors, it showcases work from German and international artists with pantings, sculptures, photography and videos.

There are no permanent exhibitions here so the works on display are regularly changing and come mainly from private collectors.

Modern art lovers will definitely want to add this to their list of things to do Bremen Germany.

Another one of the attractions Bremen offers for art lovers is Kunsthalle located on Bremen’s “Culture Mile”, a short walk from Markt Platz.

Kunsthalle has been home to art for over 150 years and contains an overview of European art starting at the 14th century. It promises visitors that they’ll take a journey through 700 years of art history.

This is an impressive collection with masters of the German Renaissance such as Albrecht Dürer and a focus on French and German art in the 19th and 20th centuries. There are masterpieces by Masolino, Monet, Van Gogh and more.

There are also contemporary art exhibitions and regularly changing exhibits.

This is definitely one of the first places to head if you love art.

Gerhard Marcks Haus

Bremen is not short of art attractions and here is another one for fans of the Bremen musicians sculpture. Gerhard Marcks is one of Germany’s best sculptors and you can find more of his work here.

Born in Berlin in 1899, Marcks was labelled a “degenerate” artist by the Nazis in the 1930s and couldn’t display his work until the end of World War II. In 1966, a foundation was established in Bremen to preserve his works. In1971, this museum was opened with over 400 of his sculptures, 1,200 prints and 12,000 drawings.

It also displays works from other modern and contemporary sculptors.

Gerhard Marckts Haus is moments from Kunsthalle and the building that it calls home was built with the Wilhelm Wagenfeld Haus (more below) in 1825 to operate as a gatehouse and prison.

Wilhelm Wagenfeld Haus

Wilhelm Wagenfeld Haus opposit Gerhard Marckts Haus is the place to go to examine questions about design and culture.

Wilhelm Wagenfeld was an important German industrial designer. This museum explores his work.

Universum Science Centre

This science museum is perfect for families and space fans plus anyone will enjoy the unique archictecture of its home.

Over 4,000 square metres of interactive science exhibitions wait for you here from learning how a polygraph machine works to learning about wind and water in the outside spaces.

Bremen is home to a strong aerospace industry, and this is the place you can make a virtual trip to the stars or the ocean floor.

Universum Science Centre is an easy light rail ride from the centre of Bremen.

Beck’s Brewery

Perhaps Bremen’s most famous export, Beck’s beer calls Bremen home and you can visit the Beck’s Brewery while you are here.

Established in 1873, around 3,000 bottles of Beck’s beer are opened every minute!

You can visit this Bremen Brewery on a 3-hour guided tour as long as you are aged 16+. The tour includes a walk through their museum, the raw materials room and the brewhouse. You’ll also see silos, fermentation tanks and their laboratory.

Naturally, the tour finishes with beer tasting.

Click here for more information and to book a tour.

Weser River Cruise

Bremen wouldn’t exist without the Weser River and a cruise is the perfect way to see and learn more about Bremen.

There’s a variety of cruising options with a good choice being a 75-minute Weser and harbour tour which leaves a few times a day by Halöver departing from Martini Pier in the Old Town.

Click here for more details.

Bunker Valentin

For something completely different, head to this one of the best things to do near Bremen.

Located about half an hour drive northwest of Bremen is this fascinating submarine factory built during World War II.

In 1943, the Nazis started building this massive concrete bunker where they hoped to safely build submarines. This huge bunker is around 426 metres long, 97 metres wide and up to 27 metres high. The walls are 4.5 metres thick. Sadly, it was built by up to 12,000 POW and slave-labourers from concentration camps and many died during construction.

Allied bombing damaged the bunker before it was completed and then the war ended before a single submarine was ever built here.

Despite this, it makes for one huge thought-provoking site representing the futility of war.

There is a 1.5 kilometre path around and through the bunker and you can take a self-guided tour while you learn about the site and hear the story of the survivors via an optional audio guide. There’s also information boards around the site. You can also join a tour on request.

You can read our full review of visiting Valentin Bunker here.

Bremen Things To Do In December/Winter

While most of the things to see in Bremen Germany listed above are just as possible in winter time, there is also an extra fun thing to do in Bremen which is especially for December.

Bremen Christmas Market

When it comes to the best things to do in Bremen Germany in December, there is an easy stand out for the absolute best place to head – the Bremen Christmas Market.

Running from the end of November to the end of December, the area around the Town Hall, which is already a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Bremen Christmas Market, one of our favorites in Germany.

Over 160 stalls call this market home and it’s in a gorgeous setting in the Old Town. So grab some roasted almonds and a glühwein and soak in the Christmas atmosphere.

What To Do In Bremen In One Day

Only have one day in Bremen? What a shame! But it’s ok, it’s still worth going to Bremen if you only have one day.

With one day, I recommend you stick to the Old Town and immediate surrounds. You can visit most of the Bremen best places to visit mentioned above in this area except you’ll have to work out which art museums most interest you as you won’t have time for them all.

I recommend you head straight to the Old Town and explore the following on foot:

Start at Markt Platz at the Rathaus
Visit the Roland and Town Musicians Of Bremen statues
Go inside the Dom St Petri and visit its museum if it interests you
Visit the Church Of Our Lady
Head down Böttcherstraße picking one of Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum and Ludwig Roselius Museum
Either eat lunch around here or find a place as you stroll the Schlachte Riverside Walk
Choose between Weserburg Museum Für Moderne Kunst, Kunsthalle, Gerhard Marcks Haus and Wilhelm Wagenfeld Haus
Finish the day falling in love with the Schnoor Quarter

Places To Visit In Bremen Germany Map

Best Place To Stay In Bremen

When it comes to where to stay in Bremen, there is a great range of hotels and other accommodation options. You won’t have any problem finding somewhere to stay.

Below I’ve listed a few different places to consider depending on what type of accommodation you are looking for.

BEST – Designhotel ÜberFluss Review

Just a few minutes walk from the Old Town, 4-star Designhotel ÜberFluss is perfect for anyone who wants a top, trendy hotel in a fantastic location.

Spacious rooms are designed with décor by Charles Eames and Tom Dixon and range from double rooms to suites including family suites which sleep up to four. All rooms include kitchenettes with refrigerators, flat-screen TVs with streaming service and toiletries. They are beautiful.

Some rooms have river views.

Facilities at the hotel include a spa with indoor pool and sauna, gym, wifi and French-Italian restaurant. Parking is available at an additional charge.

Click here to see the latest prices now.

VALUE – Select Hotel City Bremen Review

This contemporary hotel is just a short walk from the Old Town and Wallanlagen Park.

While it doesn’t have a ton of facilities, the rooms are modern, clean and a great price. They range from double rooms with desk area to superior rooms with seating area to a deluxe room which adds in a balcony. There are also single and quadruple rooms.

There’s a restaurant on site which serves breakfast. Parking is available for an extra charge.

Click here to see the latest prices.

FUN – Segelyacht Bremen City Review

I couldn’t help but book this accommodation option after I saw it on Booking.com on our recent trip with our three kids. Staying in a yacht at Bremen’s Marina was too fun an option not to do it!

This boat is well equipped with three (tiny) bedrooms which sleep two each, a kitchen, bathroom with toilet and sink and a living/dining area. There’s TV and wifi.

As you would expect, it’s squishy for five and everything is small, but the fun factor makes up for that! Besides, there’s plenty to do in Bremen so you won’t be spending so much time here.

The downside is that the shower is in the Marina building.

It’s about a 30 minute walk into the centre of the Old Town or you can catch a light rail. It’s not far from the start of the Schlachte Riverside Walk.

Find more of the best hotels in Bremen here or our full review of the Best Western Bremen City here.

How To Get To Bremen

We have travelled to Bremen by both hire car and train. It’s simple by car if you are in the area. It’s at the end of the Fairy Tale Road and it’s easy to find.

You can hire a car to get you there by clicking here.

There are regular trains and buses here. You can find timetables and all your options here.

Or you can find all the train timetables here and discount train passes here.

We took an ICE train from Hamburg and were here quickly and smoothly. In fact, we even had our own area at the front of the train!

Firt class train seats between Hamburg and Bremen

There is also an airport in Bremen with flights to other destinations in Europe and Germany. Hamburg is also not far away and has a bigger airport.

Click here to look up flights to Bremen.

Once in Bremen, we found it easy to use the light rail, although most of the time, we explored on foot. We drove out to Bunker Valentin. Look out for day trip tickets which get cheaper the more people in your group.

Bremen With Kids

Bremen is an easy and fun place to visit with kids. We visited with our three kids aged 6-12 and had a great time. We made sure we watched the Town Musicians of Bremen on YouTube before visiting and the kids had fun looking out for the animals as we wandered around.

The Universum Science Centre is particularly a winner with kids, but really my kids just enjoyed soaking up the Old Town as much as I did. It’s a pretty place to visit!

Final Words

Bremen is a beautiful and fun place to visit. It’s Old Town is just gorgeous and it’s easy to want to spend hours just having a drink soaking it all in.

While I wouldn’t say Bremen is packed full of must-visit attractions, there are tons of things to do and enjoy in Bremen.

If you are lucky enough to visit in December, the Christmas Market is definitely the place to head. Otherwise, wander the Old Town and Schnoor, visit the attractions that interest you and enjoy.

You can see Bremen from above in this aerial tour here.

You can check out all the best hotels in Bremen here for your great stay and read more guides to visiting Northern Germany here. Don’t miss our one week itinerary for Northern Germany here which includes Bremen . Or read this guide to Hameln – we visited Hameln (of Pied Piper of Hamelin fame) on our way to Bremen. It’s another great Fairy Tale Road stop!

Looking for something else fun to do nearby? Read our review of the German Tank Museum here. You can also find our guide to Lübeck here and all the best places to visit Northern Germany here .

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon first fell in love with Germany back in 2000 on her first visit. She loves the long history, the picturesque Old Towns, the castles, the food, everything really! Since then, she has visited many times and loves writing about Germany here so you can enjoy it too. In fact, Sharon loves German culture so much that she sent her kids to a German primary school in Australia. She especially loves Berlin and towns with charming Old Towns like Celle and Quedlinburg. Sharon also has a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and understands the nitty gritty of travel planning. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to Germany whether it's your first or tenth time!

Loved this guide! Bremen looks like such a charming city with its rich history and vibrant culture. I’m especially excited to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Town Hall and the Roland statue. Thank you for highlighting these gems!

Enjoy! It’s a great place.

15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen Germany

Table of Contents

15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen Germany

Bremen is a city-state in northern Germany, known for its rich history, maritime heritage, and vibrant cultural scene. Bremen is a dynamic and culturally rich region that seamlessly blends its historic past with modernity. Its economic significance, cultural attractions, and commitment to sustainability make it a noteworthy destination in Bremen Germany.

About Bremen Germany

Location: Bremen is located in northwestern Germany, along the banks of the Weser River and is bordered by the state of Lower Saxony. It is one of the smallest states in Germany.
City of Bremen: The city of Bremen is the capital and largest city of the state. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The iconic Town Hall (Rathaus) and the statue of the Bremen Town Musicians are popular landmarks.
Economy: Bremen has a strong and diverse economy. Its port, one of Europe’s busiest, plays a crucial role in international trade. The city is also a hub for aerospace, automotive, and logistics industries. Bremen is home to major companies like Airbus and Mercedes-Benz.
Education and Research: Bremen is known for its academic institutions, including the University of Bremen and Jacobs University Bremen . These institutions contribute to research and innovation in various fields.
Cultural Heritage: Bremen has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and galleries. The city hosts various cultural events, such as the Bremen Music Festival and the Bremen Shakespeare Company.
Transport: Bremen is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Bremen Airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.
Political Structure: Bremen has a unique political structure, consisting of two cities – Bremen and Bremerhaven – which are also two separate municipalities. Each city has its own mayor and government, but they share the state government.
Green Initiatives: Bremen is actively involved in environmental sustainability efforts. The city promotes public transportation, cycling, and green spaces to reduce carbon emissions and enhance the quality of life.

Major Cities in Bremen

Bremen is both a city and a state in Germany, and it is divided into two separate cities: Bremen and Bremerhaven. These are the two main cities in the state of Bremen:

Bremen: Bremen is the capital and largest city of the state of Bremen. It is located inland along the Weser River and is known for its historic old town, including landmarks such as the Town Hall (Rathaus), Bremen Cathedral, and the statue of the Bremen Town Musicians. Bremen is the economic and cultural center of the state.
Bremerhaven: Bremerhaven is a coastal city and port located on the North Sea, at the mouth of the Weser River. It is a major maritime and industrial hub, known for its shipbuilding industry and maritime heritage. Bremerhaven is home to the German Maritime Museum, numerous waterfront attractions, and a thriving seafood industry.

These two cities together constitute the state of Bremen, which is one of the smallest states in Germany. Each city has its own mayor and local government, but they share the state government.

Plan Your Vacation Now!!!

Things to do in bremen germany.

The federal state of Bremen, nestled within the larger state of Lower Saxony, is often overlooked due to its size, but it’s a hidden gem that holds a wealth of history and culture. Comprising two distinct enclaves – the City of Bremen and the City of Bremerhaven – this region offers a rich tapestry of experiences.

Folklore and Fortune: – “The Town Musicians of Bremen,” a cherished Brothers Grimm folktale, inspires good luck through the iconic donkey statue on the market square.
Guardian of Independence: – Roland, a statue dating back to 1404, symbolizes Bremen’s independence and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Daring Merchants: – The Schütting guild house, a 600-year-old hub, echoes the daring spirit of Bremen’s merchants with the motto “buten un binnen wagen un winnen” (outside and in, risk it and win).
Maritime Legacy: – The Weser River and Hanseatic cogs played a crucial role in Bremen’s maritime trade history.
Trade Symbolism: – Bremen’s Weser Renaissance-style city hall boasts sandstone figures, including the Bremen Key, signifying the city’s importance in international trade.
Historic Equality: – The “Schaffermahlzeit” banquet marked a significant step towards gender equality by inviting women as equals to the table in 2015.
Safety at Sea: – The German Maritime Search and Rescue Service (DGzRS) ensures safety at sea with 60 lifeboats operating 24/7.
Bustling Seaport: – Bremerhaven is Europe’s largest container port, with impressive cargo handling and distinctive landmarks.
Emigration Stories: – The German Emigration Center in Bremerhaven holds the tales of millions who embarked on journeys to the new world during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Climate Exploration: – The Klimahaus in Bremerhaven, resembling a ship, takes visitors on a climate change journey through various ecosystems.

Top 15 Attractions in Bremen Germany

Bremen, officially known as the “Free Hanseatic City of Bremen,” is a vibrant port city situated on Germany’s lower Weser River. Just an hour’s drive west of Hamburg, Bremen offers a rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and a wealth of attractions for tourists. If you’re planning a visit to this northern German gem, read on to discover the top 15 attractions and things to do in Bremen.

1. Marktplatz

Start your journey in the heart of the city by visiting the historic Marktplatz (marketplace). Here, you can admire the iconic Bremer Rathaus (Town Hall) with its unique mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the statue of Roland, symbolizing the city’s freedom.

2. Christmas Market

If you’re visiting during winter, enjoy the festive atmosphere of Bremen’s Christmas Market on Marktplatz. The dazzling lights and holiday spirit make it a perfect place for a winter getaway. Don’t miss the colorful Freimarkt parade and Experience an Authentic German Christmas Market, a Bremen tradition for almost a millennium.

3. Bremen Town Hall

Explore the stunning Bremen Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its Renaissance facade. Join one of the guided tours to discover the elegant banqueting hall and unique features like the Bremen Town Musicians.

4. Bremen’s Medieval Schnoor Quarter

Visit the charming Schnoor Quarter, known for its 15th- to 18th-century buildings. This district was once the poorest part of Bremen but is now a haven for artists and creative souls. Explore museums like Schifferhaus and Landherrnamt.

5. Cathedral of St. Peter

Admire the Cathedral of St. Peter (St. Petri Dom), an 11th-century masterpiece. Explore the Cathedral Museum, featuring well-preserved mummies and historical artifacts. Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower for panoramic views.

6. Böttcherstrasse

Discover the unique architecture of Böttcherstrasse, a street of museums with expressionist designs. Visit Paula Becker-Modersohn Museum and Roselius-Haus, both showcasing remarkable art collections. So go and Take a Stroll along the Böttcherstrasse.

7. Schlachte

Experience the Schlachte, a picturesque boardwalk along the River Weser. Explore historic vessels, dine at riverside cafes, and enjoy the atmosphere of this Old Town pedestrian zone.

8. Kunsthalle Bremen

Immerse yourself in art at Kunsthalle Bremen, which houses Dutch paintings, German masters, and modern art. Explore the Weserburg Museum of Modern Art for contemporary works.

9. Blossoms at Rhododendron-Park and Mühle am Wall

Visit Rhododendron-Park, home to a vast collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. Explore the Bremen Botanical Garden and dine at the Mühle am Wall windmill restaurant.

10. Universum Bremen

Experience science at Universum Bremen, a unique science center with interactive exhibits. Don’t miss EntdeckerPark and its “dining in the dark” experience.

11. Overseas Museum

Discover natural history and ethnography at the Overseas Museum (Übersee-Museum Bremen). Explore exhibitions related to Bremen’s trade history and enjoy guided tours in English.

12. Focke Museum

Delve into Bremen’s history at the Focke Museum, with exhibits covering 1,200 years of the city’s past. Enjoy interactive experiments for kids in the attic of Haus Riensberg.

13. Maritime Museum in Bremerhaven

Head north to Bremerhaven and explore the German Maritime Museum, showcasing the country’s seafaring history. Explore old ships and enjoy the harbor area.

14. Valentin Submarine Pens

Visit the Valentin Submarine Pens, a historic WW2 attraction located between Bremen and Bremerhaven. Explore this massive concrete structure and learn about its history.

15. Zarm Drop Tower

For science enthusiasts, visit the Zarm Drop Tower at Bremen University. Take guided tours to learn about experiments and enjoy breathtaking views of Bremen.

Local Dishes to eat in state of Bremen Germany

When visiting Bremen, Germany, it’s not just the scenic landscapes and historic architecture that will captivate you; it’s also the delightful local cuisine . Bremen is a city that takes pride in its culinary heritage, and if you’re a food enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. Here are five must-try local foods and drinks in Bremen, each with its unique flavor and history.

Knipp, a German sausage believed to have originated in Bremen, may not win any beauty contests, but its taste is something you must experience. Made from a blend of pork or beef, oats, onions, allspice, salt, pepper, and various herbs, Knipp is a delightful breakfast treat.

To enjoy Knipp at its best, fry it in butter and serve it on a slice of toasted white or wholemeal bread. The result is a savory, satisfying, and uniquely Bremen breakfast experience that locals hold dear to their hearts.

2. Bremer Klaben

For those with a sweet tooth, Bremer Klaben is a delectable treat. This rich cake, steeped in tradition, is made with a heavy yeast dough filled with candied fruit and nuts. The history of Klaben dates back to the 16th century, when Bremen’s bakers gained access to fascinating ingredients through their trade connections.

The cake’s filling includes a delightful mix of raisins, almonds, various nuts, and zesty orange and lemon peel. Notably, unlike Dresdner Stollen, it isn’t dusted with sugar after baking. The unique taste of Bremer Klaben is enhanced by the addition of cardamom, rum, or nutmeg. A slice of this holiday favorite will transport your taste buds to a different era, steeped in tradition and flavor.

3. Sailors’ Beef (Matrosenfleisch)

Matrosenfleisch, a delectable meat dish, has its roots in Bremen’s culinary heritage. This savory dish features beef tenderloin, bacon, flour, butter, onions, parsley, beef stock, sour cream, lemon peel, capers, marjoram, salt, and pepper.

To prepare Matrosenfleisch, first season beef steaks with salt and pepper, then wrap them in bacon. After lightly coating them in flour, brown the steaks in butter on both sides. Next, set the meat aside, and sauté the onions and parsley in the same pan. Meat enthusiasts visiting Bremen must try the dish, which elevates its flavors and ingredients with a delightful combination.

4. Bremer Bier

Beer lovers, rejoice! Bremen has a long and storied history of brewing beer dating back to the 13th century. The city’s breweries adhere to the strict standards of the 1516 German Purity Law, ensuring that only the finest malt, hops, yeast, and water are used in the beer-making process.

Under the protection of the Bremer Bier PGI label, these breweries produce a variety of beer styles, including Pils, Hell, Export, Dunkel, Bock, Doppelbock, Weiße, and Light/Schankbier. What’s remarkable is that Bremen’s beer has been cherished across northern Europe for centuries, and even today, Bremen breweries are among Germany’s top beer exporters. So, when in Bremen, make sure to savor the local brews that are a testament to tradition and quality.

5. Bremer Braunkohl

Bremer braunkohl is a hearty and traditional German dish that hails from Bremen. It’s the perfect comfort food, especially during the chilly winter months. The dish combines kale, onions, oatmeal or buckwheat groats, and a touch of salt and sugar. What truly gives it that distinctive flavor is the choice of fat used for sautéing – chicken fat, goose fat, or lard.

To prepare Bremer braunkohl, finely chop the kale and sauté it with onions in the selected fat. Next, add oatmeal or buckwheat groats to the pot, along with some water and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer until the kale becomes tender, and the cereal cooks perfectly. Typically, Bremer braunkohl is served as a side dish to sausages, making it a delightful and filling meal for locals and visitors alike.

Bremen and Bremerhaven in the state of Bremen Germany emerge as enchanting destinations, weaving together history, culture, and culinary delights. From the comforting Bremer braunkohl to the rich flavors of Bremer Klaben, the local cuisine tantalizes taste buds, while the cities’ historic landmarks and maritime heritage offer a tapestry of experiences. Bremen’s diverse attractions, encompassing museums, scenic locales, and scientific wonders, promise an unforgettable journey. Embark on a voyage to these Hanseatic gems , and uncover the magic of northern Germany, leaving you with cherished memories and a longing to return.

Sights in Bremen

The statue of the Bremen Town Musicians.

1,200 years of tradition and cosmopolitanism shape Bremen, the Hanseatic city on the Weser. The old trading city with its historic centre around the market square exudes the flair of a young metropolis. And yet anyone who embarks on a journey through time with open eyes will witness its long and exciting history. Look forward to Bremen's sights. There is much to discover!

Must-See Attractions

We have put together a list of highlights!

The magnificent Weser Renaissance town hall and the venerable figure of Roland on the historic Market Square remain unmistakable. They have embodied the citizens' will for independence since 1404. The town hall and Roland are protected by UNESCO as a unique world heritage site, but the Schnoor Quarter - Bremen's oldest quarter - the unusual architecture of the tradition-steeped Böttcherstraße or St. Peter’s Cathedral are also unparalleled. You don't even need a city map for a tour of the most important sights. 2,000 brass and steel nails lead from Liebfrauenkirchhof to the Market Square and Schnoor Quarter to Böttcherstraße. And don't forget to pick up a portion of luck at the Bremen Town Musicians !

Bremen's city hall and the Roland statue.

City Hall and Roland

Together with Roland, the town hall is part of Bremen's Unesco World Heritage.

A group is led around Bremen's market square by a city guide.

Market Sqaure

Created in 1404, it is one of the oldest public squares in the city.

Böttcherstraße

A street as a work of art in the city centre

Small colourful houses in Bremen's Schnoor district.

Schnoor Quarter

Narrow Alleys and small Houses

Bremen Town Musicians and Ratskeller

The starting point of the route is the Hanseatic city's secret landmark. With its back to the town hall and its face to the Liebfrauenkirchhof, the bronze statue of the Bremen Town Musicians designed by Gerhard Marcks presents itself. The fairy tale of the legendary figures is known all over the world and has been as closely associated with Bremen as the town hall and Roland since the Brothers Grimm. Anyone who touches the donkey's legs is granted a wish.

Only a few steps away from the Town Musicians, also on the west side of the Town Hall, is the entrance to Germany's oldest wine cellar. In Bremen's Ratskeller , the cellar master has been pouring fine wines since 1409. With 650 different varieties, it houses the largest collection of German wine.

Bremen Town Musicians

Sorry, there is no description for this photo available

Bremen Ratskeller

Plenty of other Sights to Discover...

If you continue to follow the brass and steel nails, your path will lead you from one sight to the next. Whether it's the Bremer Geschichtenhaus , the Paula Modersohn Becker Museum , the Schütting or the pigs in Sögestraße - there's plenty to discover in Bremen's city centre. But there are also numerous highlights beyond the city centre that you should visit. In the Focke Museum you can follow in the footsteps of Bremen's history, the Universum® Bremen invites you to marvel and participate, while in the Überseestadt you can see how past and present blend together between old harbour buildings.

Get to know Bremen

Package Deal for you

You might also be interested in...

The Christmas market on Bremen's market square.

Christmas Markets in Bremen

Maritime Bremen

Best Views in Bremen

The Train Diaries

A cobbled street in the evening light, lined with shops in timbered buildings

26 best Bremen tourist attractions: top things to see in the Hanseatic city

Are you looking to explore Bremen, the gem of northwest Germany? With its charm, culture and historical attractions, what better way to spend a vacation than enjoying all that this beautiful city has to offer? Travellers are spoilt for choice, because there is no shortage of amazing Bremen tourist attractions.

Whether you’re after some cultural immersion in museums like the Focke-Museum or are just seeking out the best restaurants and pubs in town, we’ve got it covered. Best of all, you can easily reach the city by train from many other destinations in Germany.

Our comprehensive guide will provide you with insight into the very best activities that this enchanting city has hidden up its sleeve. So grab your comfortable shoes, bring plenty of energy and get ready to experience a part of Germany like never before!

Table of Contents

Universum Bremen

Universum Bremen is a must-see for anyone looking for an educational and enjoyable experience. Located in northern Germany, Universum is a science centre designed to explore various scientific and technological innovations.

With over 200 interactive exhibits, visitors can take part in lectures, guided tours , and even complete projects with the help of experts. Designed for all audiences – from children to adults – this centre looks to invigorate people’s curiosity by exploring the world of science, technology and engineering in innovative ways.

Whether you want to focus on the physical sciences or are looking for a more hands-on experience with robotics, Universum Bremen has something great to offer everyone!

Galería de arte de Bremen

Bremen’s art gallery, Galería de arte de Bremen, is one of the premier spots for appreciating German art and global culture alike. Also known as Kunsthalle Bremen, it houses a wide variety of priceless pieces from all areas of the world and showcases the works in well-curated, dynamic exhibitions.

The gallery’s permanent collection features several hundred works from the 19th century through contemporary times by various artists from throughout the country. In addition, the gallery also hosts visiting shows and regularly changes out its displays to provide patrons with a fresh experience whenever they visit.

With its remarkable collections and stimulating programs, Galería de arte de Bremen is sure to be an amazing cultural experience one won’t soon forget.

Schnoor historic district

The charming Schnoor Historic District in Bremen, Germany, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is widely celebrated as a fascinating example of traditional architecture.

Floating atop the watery canals that once acted as the city’s fortifications, it has withstood history’s many tests and come out even more steeped in Old-World charm. It still showcases buildings from centuries gone by among its cobbled streets – merchants’ homes, workshops, pubs and more.

The Schnoor district is also a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs that tell stories about days gone by — you won’t find anything like them in other stores!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Bremen (@visit.bremen)

The Weser river

The Weser river in Bremen has been a hallmark of the city for centuries. The river is an integral part of the city’s culture, playing host to countless local festivals and events like the Breminale. It also provides a picturesque backdrop to many of Bremen’s iconic landmarks.

Winding through the heartland of Germany, the Weser provides waterway access all the way to Bremerhaven on the North Sea. This makes it an important throughway for ship passengers headed northward or eager to experience life on a cruise.

However, it’s not only those on ships that can have fun here. The Weser is home to two different beaches, namely Cafe Sand and Waller Sand. You can set up shop here and add a real vacation feel to your visit.

While strolling its promenades and riverbanks, be sure to stop by and appreciate the beautiful sunset.

Schlachte embankment

The Schlachte Embankment, located along the Weser river is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Stretching 600 metres along the bank of the Weser, it features numerous trendy pubs, art galleries, and shops.

With stunning views of the river and bridges connecting both sides of town, it’s no wonder that this spot has become one of the most visited highlights in Bremen. Visitors can enjoy typical German cuisine and wine from nearby restaurants or take a romantic stroll on an evening adventure.

With plenty to explore and experience, the Schlachte Embankment is worth checking out if you’re ever in the area.

Alexander von Humboldt ship restaurant

The Alexander von Humboldt, a ship restaurant, is the Schlachte Embankment’s green jewel and a truly unique experience. Once a 20th-century cargo ship, it has since been converted into an elegant and inviting restaurant situated in the Weser river, docking on the Schlachte Embankment.

Right on the water, diners can enjoy sea views while they tuck into classic German dishes, although the menu changes every month. Enjoying a candlelit dinner with fine wine aboard the historic vessel takes visitors back to another time.

Your time here doesn’t have to end with just food, though. The restored old sailing ship also serves as accommodation thanks to 38 bunks, complete with Wi-Fi, ensuite bathrooms, and more.

Weser Renaissance Town Hall

The Weser Renaissance Town Hall, built in 1404, is an incredible example of German architecture. Located in the city of Bremen, it boasts intricate stonework and detailed sculptures over both the interior and exterior walls.

The expansive old town hall was once used as a meeting room for civic gatherings and theological discussions. Today, it stands as a reminder of the skill and craftsmanship of past architectural generations.

Visitors to the area can wander through this impressive relic, revelling in the grandeur found in the different rooms. This includes the senate hall, a ballroom, and the red-wall fireplace room.

Roland statue

The Roland statue in Bremen is an iconic symbol of justice, freedom, and independence that dates back to 1404. Located in the Market Square, it represents a holy knight that stands guard over the city.

The Bremen roland statue is said to have been built to create a symbol of civic autonomy and righteously defeat evil forces. This symbolic statuette has seen many historic moments in its long lifetime, including Napoleon’s imperial coronation in 1805. It was initially made of wood, but the original was destroyed in 1366 and was replaced by the now-stone statue.

Fun fact: legend says that Bremen will be free and independent as long as Roland is there to watch over it. So just in case, there is allegedly a spare statue hidden in the town hall vaults should the original fall.

Bremen marktplatz

Step into another world when you visit the Bremen Marktplatz! Located in the heart of Bremen, Germany, this lively square has something for everyone. This ranges from the 15th-century town hall to over 350 shops, restaurants and cafés. With a rich history, it’s one of the oldest public squares in the city and covers and area of 3,484 square meters.

This public square is noteworthy for its beautiful Renaissance buildings, ranging from the 15th to the 19th centuries. It’s easy to imagine what it was like so long ago as you admire the traditional façades of these striking structures. Along with Bremen’s town hall, you’ll be in awe at the beauty of the city cathedral here.

Once the hub of the city’s maritime trade, today the Marktplatz hosts exciting events like the annual Kleine Freimarkt, and of course the famed Christmas markets.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ilka Richter (@ilka75)

Bremen town musicians

Do you know the story of the Bremen Town Musicians? It is an old German folktale by the Brothers Grimm about a donkey, a dog, a cat, and a rooster who set out to live together with music as their profession. Unsuccessful in fulfilling their dreams, their fortunes seemed doomed until they stumbled across some robbers and scared them away with their singing.

The reward? An endearing statue constructed in 1953 with the animals on top of each others’ backs. In the midst of all this, they appear to be singing together, and this makes for a fantastic photo op — unless you’re a robber, that is. It wasn’t built to pay homage to this fairytale, though; it was also made to lift the people’s spirits after World War II.

Don’t forget to hold the donkey’s two front legs for good luck!

Böttcherstrasse

Böttcherstrasse in the city of Bremen is certainly an attraction worth exploring. This captivating street was built in the 1920s by an art collector and coffee merchant Ludwig Roselius. He hoped to create a beautiful landmark for the local community.

With its unique architecture and craftsmanship featuring brickwork and woodwork, this area has become quite the tourist spot and is a gem of the hisoric old town. There are museums showcasing art and home decor ranging from from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period.

Böttcherstrasse also has a range of stores, cafes and galleries located along the street for those looking for an unforgettable shopping experience. In all, Böttcherstrasse is a must-see when visiting Bremen — so be sure to take some time to marvel at this incredible sight!

The Maritime meile

The Maritime Meile in Bremen is a gem among the many attractions along Germany’s River Weser. This picturesque promenade spans 4 km and offers stunning views of the river, with quayside restaurants, cafés, and shops embracing those who walk the boards.

It is an ideal spot for a stroll or a leisurely lunch in one of the eateries. Visiting The Maritime Meile lets you experience one of Germany’s most charming waterfronts with all its wonderful sights, sounds, and tastes.

The Überseestadt

The Überseestadt is an ambitious effort to transform a former industrial port in the city of Bremen into a modern and vibrant urban district. Spanning nearly six million square metres, it is one of the largest transformative projects in Europe.

It includes plans for galleries, parks, hotels, businesses, and cultural areas for people to enjoy. The founder of the project has set lofty goals for this multi-million dollar undertaking: making the city more sustainable and financially viable while encouraging civic growth and engagement with the region’s ecology.

Many of these projects have been implemented and have started welcoming visitors and locals alike. This includes the remarkable Waller Sand beach and the Molenturm viewpoint.

St. Peter’s Cathedral

Located in the Bremen Market Square, the St. Peter’s Cathedral is a marvel to behold. It is arguably one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. It features a lovely spire that stands majestically at a height of over 130 metres, gloriously visible from all parts of the city.

Originally built as a place of worship by Charlemagne back in 798 AD, the cathedral of St. Peter has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004 due to its rich architectural and historical significance. Nowadays, the cathedral remains an important part of Bremen’s spiritual culture, receiving thousands of visitors and pilgrims each year.

Markthalle Acht

Foodies shouldn’t miss a visit to Markthalle Acht, and indoor food market packed with small stands serving up cuisine from all over the world. Whether you want a stone-baked pizza, Spanish tapas or traditional Korean dishes, you’re sure to find something to tickle your tastebuds.

Along with delicious good, Markthalle Acht also frequently hosts live musicians and other events such as flea markets. It’s a great spot to soak up the community feel in Bremen, and it’s also a great choice for a rainy day in the city.

Spitting stone

Looking for something unique to do in Bremen? Why not try spitting on a stone? Located on the pavement of Domshof Square, the Spitting Stone is an unusual and fun activity that should be experienced when visiting.

This local attraction has been around for over a century and serves as a reminder of the execution of Gesche Gottfried . She’s an infamous serial killer who poisoned 15 people using arsenic. Locals have since been spitting on the stone, located where she was executed publicly, to express disgust at her actions.

Hole of Bremen

The spitting stone isn’t the only unique thing in Bremen, there’s also the Hole of Bremen. This is an underground collection box where you can drop coins and all proceeds go to charity.

What’s cool about the Hole of Bremen is that when you drop a coin, you’ll hear one of the four Bremen Town Musicians thanking you.

Mühle am wall

When it comes to Bremen’s unique historical attractions, Mühle am Wall is one of the most popular and oldest. Located in the city centre, this beautiful windmill was built back in 1590 as a paper mill. It’s probably the first thing tourists see when they enter Bremen.

Today, you’ll find that the windmill has been converted into a café on the bank of the Weser river. The views from here are spectacular, providing stunning panoramas that can’t be found elsewhere.

The Loriot sofa

The Loriot sofa in Bremen provides a unique seating experience for visitors to the city. Made of bright red recycled materials and textiles, the sofa sports vivid stripes and patterns that light up any space with its whimsy.

It’s a replica of the Loriot sofa made famous by the Loriot television series . Not only is it an amazing attraction to look at, but it’s also a fantastic photo op for Instagram. The pug that sits on the sofa beside you will be sure to steal the show.

The Bürgerpark is a stunning, green spot to spend a sunny day. This vast open space is a great place to find a moment’s peace in the city, and is one of the few almost completely preserved garden creations from the 19th century. With its grand old trees and majestic lake, you could spend hours there simply wandering around, absorbing the tranquility of the gardens.

This charming park includes plenty of playgrounds and picnic spots too, making it a great place to come with friends or family for some relaxation time and fun. Visitors can enjoy a game of mini golf or hire rowing boats to take in the park’s beauty in a different way.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Geodida (@geodida)

Rhododendron Park

Like Bürgerpark, Rhododendron Park is another place to be if you love nature. Housing the world’s largest collection of rhododendrons, the park’s perfectly nestled between the Weser and Lesum Rivers, meaning its surroundings are as tranquil as tranquil can get.

It features beautiful scenery with over 250 species of rhododendrons and azaleas, making for brilliant flowerbeds splashed in vibrant colours. You can see this while strolling through the park or have all the beauty packed in a single location at the “Botanika”. This botanical garden is home to plant species from all over the world, from native flora to shrubs from America, Asia and Australia.

Das Viertel

Das Viertel is one of the most impressive neighbourhoods in the city, and it has something to offer everyone.

For the artist, there are galleries, performance spaces and studios where their talent can be nurtured and shared. For the foodie, there are a huge number of cafés, bars and restaurants that offer a variety of international cuisines. While Germany is often seen as the sausage capital, you’ll find some fantastic German vegetarian options here .

Here, you can explore great landmarks like the Schnoor quarter with its timber-framed houses. There’s also the Paula Modersohn-Becker House Museum, a house-turned-museum where the painter lived and worked. You’ll find some of her best work in the museum.

The locals proudly showcase their regional specialties, such as herring sandwiches and Apfelwein (apple cider), so it’s definitely worth trying them out for some traditional flavour.

Focke Museum

The Focke Museum is a treasure trove of cultural and artistic history, with collections spanning over 6,000 years. There’s something for everyone, whether it’s Dutch Old Masters, German Expressionism, or ancient artefacts that tell the story of civilization’s past. This museum is especially beloved for its innovative special exhibitions, featuring everything from African masks and sculptures to works by 20th-century German masters.

While wandering through the many galleries, you’ll find yourself discovering an array of artefacts hailing from all over the world. Apart from the permanent exhibitions, the museum also hosts a variety of temporary showcases frequently.

Bremer Geschichtenhaus

If you’re looking to learn about history in a more fun and engaging way, head to the Bremer Geschichtenhaus. This interactive museum is designed to give visitors of all ages an opportunity to learn about the city’s history in a way that feels exciting and hands-on.

Through various whimsical installations and multimedia displays, guests can explore the art and culture of this region. You can take a trip back in time by heading inside replicas of historical buildings and by just listening to the guides. There are even actors who’ll get dressed up in old Bremen fashion and play out the city’s most memorable experiences.

Just be aware, most shows are acted out in German unless you make reservations ahead of time.

Bremer bonbon manufaktur

Forget about Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and say hello to the Bremer Bonbon Manufaktur. This is a family-owned business that specialises in producing old-world candies and confections.

With over 100 years of experience, you know they’re doing something right. Since its inception, the company’s remained committed to making the same delicacies while keeping with modern trends. Tantalise your tastebuds with treats like Marzipan balls, caramel toffee, and spekulatius cream-filled chocolates.

What’s even better is that you can get a behind-the-scenes look at how their confectioners bring these delicious bits to life.

Beck’s Brewery

The storied history of Beck’s Brewery in Bremen, Germany, dates back over 160 years and is a major tourist destination for beer lovers. The brewery, whose portfolio consists of distinctive Pilsner beers, offers guided tours highlighting the traditional brewing process, including malt roasting and hop storage.

Visitors can also check out the interactive multimedia area with 21st-century presentations about Beck’s Brewery’s history—or sample some delicious beer in the on-site bar. Although founded by local law in 1869, the brewery quickly developed an international reputation for quality, and with good reason. It imported only the finest barley from northern Germany and shipped hops around the world.

For those looking to try some lesser known beers, you’ll find plenty of options in the city’s many beer gardens. Take a look at Craft Beer in Bremen for a comprehensive look at the local tipples.

Final Thoughts on the Best Tourist Attractions in Bremen

Bremen is full of attractions for the whole family, from the historic Town Hall and Roland statue to modern facilities like the Universum Bremen. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to love in Bremen.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Beth is a freelance writer and creator of The Train Diaries. When she's not writing, she can usually be found petting dogs, watching horror films or creating her true crime podcast, Case Remains.

You Might Also Like...

20 BEST Day Trips From Berlin By Train

The 20 BEST Places To Visit In North Germany

A view towards the sea from the beach, with a wooden walkway down the middle and striped beach baskets on either side

Warnemunde: Coastal Germany’s Best-Kept Secret

StumbleUpon

Pin It on Pinterest

A Solo Woman Traveling- Boutique Travel Guides and All Female Tours

Best of Bremen in One Day Itinerary + Map

Exploring the best of Bremen, Germany, just a quick train ride from Hamburg, feels like stepping into a page from a storybook. This idyllic spot is absolutely perfect for a one-day trip!

After immersing myself in the city’s enchanting charm, I’ve crafted a quick list of the highlights that capture the essence of Bremen’s magic.

Whether you’re strolling along quaint streets or basking in the rich culture, every moment here promises an unforgettable experience!

A serene morning view of the historic Market Square in Bremen, Germany. Sunlight bathes the scene, highlighting the intricate facades of traditional German buildings with their distinct stepped gables and the ornate Renaissance architecture of the Town Hall.

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link, we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

Is Bremen Worth Visiting?

Bremen is absolutely worth visiting! It is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany with years of history to explore. Truthfully, I liked it better than Hamburg!

The city is quite a gem for a quick trip since it’s small and easy to explore in a day. It’s super close to Hamburg, making a short visit a breeze.

The best part, aka my favorite part? Bremen’s has a unique Nordic flavor to its tasty eats, especially the seafood.

Pro Tip: Even though I found Bremen to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

Is One Day Enough In Bremen?

You can absolutely see all the best that Bremen has to offer in one day . But staying for 2 full days is optimal in my experience.

Don’t worry if your time is limited to a single day, arriving early will allow you to discover a substantial slice of what this city has to offer.

Where is Bremen Located & How To Get There?

Bremen is located in Northwest Germany , just southwest of Hamburg. It is situated on both banks of the Weser River, near its estuary into the North Sea.

Bremen is also a port city, with access to the major waterways of the Weser River that crisscross Europe. With a population of 550,000, it is one of the most important economic hubs in Germany.

The closest airport to Bremen, Germany is the Bremen Airport (BRE) which is located about 4 miles from the city center. Another popular way to visit Bremen is via train coming from Hamburg .

The train takes around 45 minutes from Hamburg and runs about every hour or so.

When you arrive at the main train station, you walk a few minutes to the “ Altstadt” city center of Bremen .

Here you are met with the most beautiful and fairytale-like architecture. Northern Germany is much different than southern Germany (Bavaria), both incredible for different reasons.

Here in the north, you will feel the influences of the nearby Nordic neighbors of Denmark.

What is Bremen Known For?

Bremen is a Hanseatic city and served as a major center for trade and commerce and was a member of the Hanseatic League . This league was a powerful trading alliance of merchant guilds from the 13th to 17th centuries.

Founded by cities including Lübeck, Hamburg, and Bremen, formed to protect their economic interests.

It was disbanded in 1669 but its legacy as a key trading post is still relevant today.

Things To Do In One Day In Bremen

When you only have a day, you want to hit the most popular attractions first!

I have included a Google map below so that you may save it on your phone for your visit. These locations were my favorite things in this most idyllic German town .

TIP: One way to ensure you will see the most important sites in Bremen is by booking a walking tour .

What I love most about a guided tour is the history you will learn on your journey .

Unless you are Googling each site as you stand there, and who wants to do that, you don’t learn anything.

📲 Downloadable Map of Bremen Germany

📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!

My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!

👩🏻‍💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary !

Top Sites in Bremen, Germany

Visit the bremen town hall.

Am market 21, 28195 Bremen, Germany

The Bremen Town Hall, a Renaissance-style building with intricate façade decorations including statues and reliefs. The exterior combines sculpted stone and brickwork, with large windows and a series of arches at ground level providing shelter to people below.

The Bremen Town Hall is an iconic symbol of the German city of Bremen. The Renaissance town hall was built in Gothic Style during the 15th century and has been the crown jewel of the city for centuries!

This most impressive building along with The Statue of Ronald has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Bremen city hall is home to several art galleries and museums where visitors can view a variety of medieval artifacts, including armor and weapons from the Middle Ages!

The Bremen Town Hall also hosts concert venues and markets throughout the year. The beautiful baroque hall with intricate stucco ceilings and frescos is the perfect setting for the town’s musicians to rejoice.

You will find the Bremen city hall in the market square along with the Bremen Cathedral and Bremen town musicians statue.

The Statue of Roland

A close-up of a stone sculpture featuring a classical face, possibly a part of a larger monument or fountain, holding a shield emblazoned with the Bremen coat of arms, which displays a black eagle on a golden background.

The Roland Statue , one of the top attractions in Bremen, Germany, was erected in 1404 and can be found in the heart of Bremen in the market square.

Various cities have the Roland statues as a symbol of the city of civic liberty and freedom.

This former Holy Roman Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire was deemed the hero of the Battle of Roncevaux Pass.

The Roland Statue is a symbol of the city’s freedom. Bremen, Germany will remain free and independent as long as the bronze statue of Roland stands to protect it.

The Statue of the Brothers Grimm

The "Town Musicians of Bremen" statue, depicting the famous fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. The sculpture shows four animals stacked atop one another: a donkey at the bottom, a dog standing on the donkey, a cat perched on the dog, and a rooster crowing at the top.

The Brothers Grimm Statue in Market Square depicts Wilhen and Jacob Grimm, the brothers who wrote the beloved fairy tales such as Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, and Rapunzel.

This is the town musicians’ statue of Bremen, Germany. Located between the Bremen cathedral and the town hall.

The bronze sculpture created by Gerhard Marcks in 1953 stands over 12 feet tall!

You will notice the donkey’s legs and nose are now gold from tourists and locals grabbing the legs for luck.

Night Tour: Walking Tour with German Night Guard

Beck’s Windmill (Mühle Am Wall)

am wall 212, 28195 Bremen, Germany

A traditional windmill set against a partly cloudy sky in Bremen, Germany. The windmill's red and white sails are prominent, and it stands atop a small hill, surrounded by leafless trees suggesting an early spring or late autumn season.

Another famous site and must-stop is to visit the Bremen Windmill (Mühle Am Wall) . This iconic building in Bremen was built in 1898 and is open to the public.

The Bremen Windmill is one of the oldest working windmills in the world and has been in operation since 1540. Visitors can typically climb to the top for a 360-degree view of the city. *Check the official site for details.

The windmill is one of the reasons Breman has a whimsical reputation as a fairy tale town.

You don’t have to travel far to reach the windmill, which is located in the city center.

Check here for Directions .

St. Martin’s Church

Martinikirchhof 3, 28195 Bremen, Germany

St. Martin’s Church is a large 12th-century Luthern Church. It is the oldest church in Bremen is St. John’s church, but St. Martin’s church is one of the most important for its history and elaborate architecture.

The church was originally constructed as an abbey for Benedictine monks who resided in the church until the year 1803.

Enjoy the building’s Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance features and its beautiful stained glass windows.

Inside the church, you can find various sculptures dedicated to the saints and many great relics including the seven Bremen bishops and four archbishops.

Climb to The Top of St. Petri Dom (Bremen Cathedral)

Sandstrasse 10-12, 28195 Bremen, Germany

The Bremen Cathedral (Bremer Dom), a striking example of Gothic architecture with its two towering spires, dominates the photo. The cathedral’s façade features a large rose window and multiple arched windows, with detailed stone carvings adorning the entrance.

St. Petri church (St. Peter’s Cathedral) is a Lutheran church located in the city centre of Bremen that you can’t miss. The church dates back to the late Middle Ages and was built during the 15th century.

It is one of the few remaining churches in Northern Germany that have maintained some of its original Gothic design elements.

If you have the stamina to climb to the top , I would highly recommend it. While I visited on a very cloudy day, the views of Bremen from the top of this church were still breathtaking.

For more information and hours of operation, check the website here.

Small Shops in Bremen

Böttcherstasse 28195 Bremen, Germany

A narrow alley in Bremen, Germany, paved with bricks and flanked by historical brick buildings with a distinctive Hanseatic architecture. On the left, a bicycle is parked against a window beneath ornate wrought-iron railings. On the right, the buildings feature arched doorways, with a prominent clock hanging from a wrought-iron bracket.

Nothing like a little shop till you drop on your trip to Bremen. You can stroll around the market square to explore everything this town offers.

Don’t miss the shops on Böttcherstasse, Obernstrasse, and Sögestrasse, located in the old town, containing unique souvenir shops and locally made goods.

These boutique shops are where you will find more unique souvenirs and gifts.

If you are looking for more traditional shopping like a mall, there is a MEIN outlet, Columbus Center, Weserpark, and Lloyd Passage to keep you busy.

The Schnoor Quarter

A cobblestone street in Bremen, lined with charming, colorful, old European buildings with gabled roofs. The architecture suggests a blend of residential and commercial properties. To the left, there's a building with large windows, and an empty signboard hanging above, indicating a place for a shop or a cafe. To the right, a vibrant red building stands out, next to a white one with an arched doorway. Outdoor furniture suggests a quaint café setting.

The Schnoor Quarter is Bremen’s oldest district and it gives the city the most fairytale-like vibes. If you don’t know where this little pocket of magic is, you could miss it!

I read about the Schnoor in another blog about Bremen and was incredibly grateful I did!

This medieval center of Bremen gets its name from the old handcrafts that are associated with shipping. These narrow streets and adorable cafes will have your heart.

It is one of the oldest parts of the city dating back to before the 13th century.

The traditional brick buildings and half-timbered houses create a unique atmosphere where the town musicians of Bremen come to life.

Enjoy a little coffee or cocktail outside one of the many restaurants that line these winding streets, it was by far one of the best things I did. You can not leave Bremen without adding this hidden gem to your itinerary.

And don’t forget your camera , I couldn’t get enough pictures of the architectural styles of these gorgeous buildings!

Tour Idea: Walking Tour of Schnoor

Museums to Visit in Bremen

There are several museums in Bremen! If the weather isn’t great, it is the perfect way to spend some time indoors.

The Kunsthalle Bremen is an art Gallery with various artworks from the Renaissance period to the modern day. Located close to the Bremen Old Town on what is referred to as the “Culture Mile.”
Übersee Museum located next to Hayptbanhop is the Ethonolfical Museum founded in 1875. It holds a wide range of artifacts and art objects that have been collected from around the world.
The Universum Science Center in Bremen is the best place to explore the wonders of science. It is an interactive museum with many exhibits and activities that fascinate and educate its visitors.

Where to Eat in Bremen

One of my favorite things to do in Bremen, Germany, was eat!

The cuisine has influences from other cultures, such as the Nordic. It is easily identifiable with the cuisine of Bremen.

You find a lot of fish and pickled herring, much like in Nordic countries.

Beer lovers shouldn’t miss Beck’s Brewery – Get a guided tour!

Best Restaurants Bremen

Bremen Ratskeller is one of the oldest and most beloved restaurants in Bremen! The restaurant is decorated with historical artifacts from all over Europe. I don’t eat meat, so if you are a vegetarian, options are limited, but there are menu items for you.
Spizen Gebel is a bar and restaurant located in the old city center. It has been around since 1854 and it’s one of the oldest pubs in Bremen. It is a casual spot where I enjoyed the best dark bier.
Ständige Vertretung serves up traditional Bremen and Rhenish specialties. Its English country-style house combines original Hanseatic elements. For a casual menu in a historic setting, try this place!

Do you consider yourself a wine lover? If so, check out the wine capital of Germany !

If you are visiting in the summer months, head down to the Weser River just before the Wilhelm Kaisen Brücke (bridge) and enjoy Beck’s beer in the many restaurants along the water.

Where to Stay in Bremen

If you are making your one day more than just a day trip, I recommend staying in the city center of Bremen’s historic old town.

Best Hotels In Bremen

East Village No. 5 A 14-minute walk from Bremen Central Station, this is an affordable apartment option in the center of Bremen. It features a kitchen and washing machine, and some units have a terrace. This is the perfect spot to stay for your weekend in Bremen!
Dorint City-Hotel Bremen Dorint City Hotel Bremen is just 5 minutes from the central train station. An ideal location for a weekend stay. The hotel features a spa, an onsite restaurant, and a bar. The private rooms all have air conditioning and are pet-friendly!
Designhotel ÜberFluss Designhotel ÜberFluss is a fabulous 4-star hotel that features an indoor pool and spa! Many of the rooms come with a lovely view of the Weser River. Just 650 feet from the Modern Art Museum and steps away from Bremen’s old town.

Where To Go After Bremen?

After spending the best day in Bremen, there are lots of places to jet off by train or by renting a car!

If you want to continue your exploration in Germany, make your way to Southern Germany! I spent an incredible day in Nuremberg!

From Nuremberg, you can visit 2 of the most idyllic villages, Bamberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber. These destinations are all easy day trips from Nuremberg by train!

Christmas Markets: The Most Magical Berlin Christmas Markets

FAQs For Visiting Bremen

The months of June, July, and August are lovely times to visit Bremen, Germany. The weather will be its warmest.

Bremen, Germany covers an area of 325 km2 (125 sq miles) and has a population of around 547,000 people. It is the 11th most populous city in Germany.

The time of year you visit will be a factor in how expensive accommodations are in Bremen. During the winter months, it is more affordable. Consider taking public transit and seek out budget-friendly pubs and street food vendors to keep costs lower.

Pin it for Later

Panoramic collage capturing the essence of Bremen with the towering St. Peter's Cathedral, the bustling Marktplatz, and the iconic bronze sculpture of the Town Musicians of Bremen.

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

A woman standing in front of a pool with a beautiful sunset in the background

Are Solo Trips to Greece Safe For Women? The Truth From Female Travelers

If you are wondering “is Greece safe for solo female travellers” you’ve come to the right place. I have been taking solo trips to Greece for the past 10 years! It’s definitely a safe place for women to travel. In 2023, I moved and found a new home in Athens, a place where I’ve always…

Copenhagen 3-Day Itinerary For Solo Traveler’s + Map

Three days alone in Copenhagen will go by in the blink of an eye, so you want a well-thought-out itinerary. Copenhagen has so much to see from the famous Nyhavn Harbor, historic Tivoli Gardens, and the infamous Freetown Christiania. And without proper planning, you could miss something! While 3 three days in Copenhagen may never…

Ultimate Guide For a Safe Solo Trip to Amsterdam

So you are thinking of doing a solo trip to Amsterdam? Right on, Amsterdam is awesome. But is the city safe? An important question to ask for sure. Let me give you some assurance, YES! Amsterdam is safe. Take it from me, someone who’d spend hours searching “Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travelers?” reading…

A Solo Woman Traveling in Verona Italy standing at a ledge with the city in the background

The Complete Day Trip to Verona Itinerary & Guide + Map

Let me take you on a day trip to one of my favorite Italian cities, VERONA! I’ve been to this picturesque town twice in the last few years! It is one of the easiest places to reach from nearby destinations such as Milan, Florence, and Bologna! Depending on where you are in Northern Italy, Verona…

How To Spend 3 Days in Belfast Solo + Map

Looking for ways to spend 3 days in Belfast solo? More and more women are traveling to Belfast solo, and I was one of them! I had only planned on visiting Belfast for one day, but I loved it so much I stayed for three! Belfast itself is pretty small, so if you don’t have…

A picturesque winter vista showcasing the tranquil waters of Lake Bled reflecting the historic church on the islet, with snow-dusted trees and the distant Julian Alps under a clear blue sky.

10 Most Magical Things To Do in Lake Bled in the Winter

Looking for the best things to do in Lake Bled in the winter? Though my visit was short, I was pleasantly surprised by all the fun things to do around the lake! It was the perfect little place to escape for a weekend. During winter time, Lake Bled is VERY quiet. I went at the…

I love Bremen. It is such as beautiful city. This article made me wish I could go back and visit again. The Bremen Rathaus is one of my favorite buildings. If I remember my history correct, it isn’t nearly as old as it appears as it was reconstructed post-WWII.

Hi! I’m Vera from Portugal and I loved your article about Bremen! What a beautiful and useful article! 🙂

I have just booked a trip to Bremen and I´m going to stay at the Best Western Hotel Bremen City.

May you help me with some doubts? Do you think it’s safe to travel alone to Bremen? Is the hotel in a good location? Is it safe for a girl to be on the streets at night?

I hope you will be able to reply before I go (April 22nd) and thank you so much!

Hey Vera! I am so excited you are going to Bremen! It is one of my all-time favorites in Germany!

I did feel very safe on my own walking around in the evening. Mind you I don’t stay out very late, maybe 9-10 pm.

With regards to the hotel, I am going to send you an email, so look out for it. Check your junk mail if you don’t see it : )

Comments are closed.

What are you looking for?

Home » Europe » Germany » 13 Fun Things to Do in Bremen, Germany

13 Fun Things to Do in Bremen, Germany

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: January 25, 2024

Bremen, Germany, is at once a modern university town and a port city with more than 1200 years of history. Its Old Town reflects its medieval and Renaissance past, but many of the old merchant houses are now restaurants, and neighborhoods where tradesmen lived have the same charming exteriors but are boutiques and art galleries inside. When the weather is nice, residents spill down the banks of the river at outdoor cafes and markets.

Historic merchant houses in Bremen Germany.

Bremen is close enough to Hamburg that it’s easy to visit but far enough away to make it just off the main tourist route for many international visitors, which is one of the many things that makes it a great place to spend a couple of days. Here some of our favorite things to do in Bremen on a short visit.

Visit Town Hall

Wish upon the bremen town musicians, see the statue of roland and marketplatz, tour the bremer ratskeller wine cellar, visit st. peter’s cathedral, wander in schnoor, enjoy the schlachte embankment, try traditional food, visit am wall windmill, visit beck’s brewery, breathe deeply at the flower market, browse the böttcherstrasse, see the glockenspiel house.

Red brick building with lots of windows,

Built in 1405, Bremen’s beautiful Gothic Town Hall (Rathaus) has witnessed six centuries of history in the Hanseatic City and is one of the top places to see in Bremen. On the outside, its detailed, red-brick façade made us feel like we’d stepped into a fairy tale. On the inside, we saw the vestiges of a powerful merchant city that hosted mayors, emperors, and other influential dignitaries beginning in the Middle Ages.

Room with replica ships hanging from ceiling.

Somehow, this brilliant building—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site —survived the fighting that destroyed much of the city during World War II. That means that its structure as well as many of its works of art and decorations have been preserved for visitors today. From Wilhelm II’s marble cabinet to the ornate Golden Chamber, there is still very much to see inside Bremen’s Town Hall .

Statue of donkey, dog, cat, and rooster.

One of the top attractions is the Bremen Town Musicians statue just outside of the Town Hall. This quirky statue, based on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale of the same name, is essentially the symbol of the city.

The bronze statue features a donkey, dog, cat, and rooster—the band of musicians who set out together to make a living in Bremen. Touching the donkey’s front hooves is said to make wishes come true. You’ll find other statues and representations of the famous animals all over town (and even as far away as Bremen’s sister city, Riga, Latvia ).

Historic merchant houses in city square.

Bremen’s Marktplatz (Market Square) is the heart of the city’s Old Town. With its historic merchant houses now mostly transformed into shops and cafes, it is one of the most picturesque places we’ve ever seen to meet friends or have a cup of coffee. Or you may just lose yourself in staring at the beautiful buildings like we did.

During certain times of the year—namely late October, November, and December— Marktplatz is lit up with the lively Freimarkt , an ancient fair with a 1000-year history, and Bremen’s Christmas market.

Statue of a person with a shield in front of merchant houses .

On the side of the Marktplatz nearest the Town Hall is one of the most important city sights, the Bremen Roland statue, which shares the UNESCO designation with the Town Hall. The 33-foot-tall limestone statue built in 1404 depicts an important figure from the time of Charlemagne as a symbol of civic liberty and freedom from the dominance of the church.

Bremen is home to one of the most prestigious wine collections in Germany. Housed in the 600-year-old wine cellar at the Bremen Ratskeller are hundreds of bottles from across Germany’s 13 wine-producing regions. A tour here will show you many of the current bottles, the special vintages kept in the cellar’s “treasure chest,” and the massive wooden barrels that used to be the primary storage vessels.

We opted for a wine tasting of a wine specially selected by the cellar master. The tasting is worth it for the setting alone—you’ll be sipping alongside barrels filled with some of the best and oldest wines in Germany, including a priceless vintage that was last tried by Queen Elizabeth II. A visit here is definitely one of the best things to do in Bremen.

Cathedral with two towers and rose stained glass window.

Constructed in the 11th century, the medieval St. Peter’s Cathedral is an important city landmark. Partially destroyed during World War II air raids, the cathedral’s 320-foot-tall twin towers dominate Bremen’s skyline. You can visit one of them for great views of the city.

Major highlights of the cathedral include its striking choir, the organ, and the intriguing mummified bodies in the Lead Cellar.

Storefronts along a narrow, cobblestone street.

Schnoor—a maze of narrow, winding streets a few minutes from Marktplatz—is Bremen’s charming medieval neighborhood. The oldest part of the city, Schnoor was once the fishermen’s quarter. Today, its 15th-to-18th century buildings are full of cafés, boutiques, and galleries. It’s the perfect place to have lunch or do a bit of souvenir shopping. Our favorite lunch spot was Teestübchen im Schnoor .

Once one of Bremen’s harbors, the Schlachte Embankment is now popular for its restaurants, beer gardens, and river boats. Stroll down to the promenade along the River Weser to enjoy some of the most fun places in Bremen, especially during the spring and summer. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the eclectic weekend markets here.

Labskaus, a traditional dish of meat topped with fried eggs.

Thanks to its location near the North Sea, fish of all kinds are popular in Bremen. Since it’s Germany, beer (especially Becks) and sausage (especially a local variety called pinkelwurst) often make an appearance as do potatoes, kale, and cabbage.

There are also lots of international cuisine options, but trying the local food is a great way to get a sense for the place. We opted to try labskaus, a dish of pureed corned beef, potatoes, onions, and beets, topped with gherkin and fried eggs with herring on the side. Travel is nothing if not a culinary adventure!

Seeing windmills in a place like the Netherlands makes sense, but we didn’t expect to find them in Germany. Yet, walking from the train station to the city center, one of the first things to catch our eye was Am Wall windmill (Muhle am Wall). It’s one of the most interesting things to see in Bremen, especially if you haven’t seen one up-close before.

Located in the lovely Wallanlagen Park, the 19th-century windmill houses a restaurant and is open to tourists. The surrounding park is a great place to go for a walk or relax outside.

Just across the river from the old town, you can visit Beck’s Brewery. Brewing since 1873, Beck’s makes one of the most famous beers in Germany and around the world.

On Monday through Saturday, guests ages 16 and up can take a 3-hour tour of the brewery’s museum, the raw material room and the brewhouse to see the operation at work. Like all good tours, it ends with a tasting.

Flowers and bulbs for sale at an outdoor market.

It wouldn’t be a proper visit for us if we didn’t find a market. From tulip bulbs and mums to roses and orchids, just about every flower on your list can be found at the daily flower market. Outside the Church of Our Lady, this spot is a fun place to browse the colorful offerings and watch locals go about their daily business.

Originally occupied by coopers, Bremen’s narrow Böttcherstrasse was transformed into a street of art in the 1920s. The project, commissioned by Bremen native and inventor of decaf coffee Ludwig Roselius, led to the creation of museums as well as sculptures and works of art lining the street. You can’t miss the huge gold sculpture at the street’s entrance, which will lead you past unusual expressionist architecture and unique galleries.

Bells strung between rooftops at The Glockenspiel House on Böttcherstrasse in Bremen

The most impressive feature of the Böttcherstrasse is the Glockenspiel House. Stretched between the peaks of two rooftops, rows of 30 porcelain bells ring at regular intervals. To the left of the glockenspiel, panels depicting explorers, seafarers, and aviators rotate with the music, which plays for an impressive 8.5 minutes.

January through March, the bells play at noon, 3pm, and 6pm. The rest of the year, they play every hour from noon to 6pm.

Where to Stay Radisson Blu Bremen : Modern sophistication with prime location Dorint City-Hotel Bremen : Business hotel in the real heart of the city Designhotel UberFluss : Ultra modern hip hotel with a cool roof garden Atlantic Grand Hotel Bremen : Sleek and sophisticated

We were guests of the German National Tourist Board . All opinions of the charming and historic are our own.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

Share this post:

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Ryan K Biddulph

Saturday 6th of March 2021

I love the architecture Laura. Beyond magical.

Carrie McClung

Sunday 15th of September 2019

This is my hometown and I'm about to go back for a week after 20 years in Texas. You have done an excellent job describing the charming beauties of my great city. Thank you!

Katelynn Dorn

Wednesday 30th of May 2018

Love your post about Bremen, Germany. What time of year do you recommend going?

Between April and September is your best chance to have warm and sunny days.

City breaks in Europe Germany

Top 10 Things to Do in Bremen, Germany

As an old Hanseatic city , Bremen has so many attractions to offer due to its eventful history. Did you know, for example, that Bremen’s impressive town hall is over 600 years old? But I was very surprised when I recently discovered some great spots in Bremen outside the usual tourist magnets! I’ll show you what you should see in the Hanseatic city and give you some pretty good insider tips that you’d otherwise have to search long and hard for!

1. Schnoorviertel

The oldest district of Bremen is an absolute must-see! Like a small oasis, the Schnoorviertel (or “the Schnoor”) is located in downtown Bremen. Schnoor, by the way, comes from the German word for string, “Schnur”, because the many small houses are strung together like pearls on a string.

Welcome to my travel blog!

Hey, I’m Tatiana, a German-Brazilian living in Berlin & the author behind The Happy Jetlagger. I’ve been writing about my travels since 2014. In addition to my job as a flight attendant, this blog is my passion project!

Some alleys are so narrow that you can touch the facades of the houses on the right and left at the same time with your arms outstretched! Unfortunately, the Schnoorviertel consists of only a few streets, but they are an absolute feast for the eyes with their pretty half-timbered houses.

You will also find some small stores and restaurants – some of them very touristy – but it’s worth a closer look!

➜ Tour through the Schnoorviertel district* .

My recommendations: The Note – perfumery with an extraordinary assortment The perfect address if you love individual perfumes! 808 Boba Bar – Delicious bubble teas in minimalist style No seating, but perfect as to-go during a stroll through the Schnoor district

2. The Bremen Town Musicians / Bremer Stadtmusikanten

Curiously enough, the melody of the old children’s song about the Bremen Town Musicians is always the first thing that comes to my mind when I think of Bremen: Eeeh-aah, woof-woof, meow, cock-a-doodle-doo! The fairy tale of the Brothers Grimm is simply inseparable from the city.

Since the 1950s, a bronze statue of the Town Musicians has also adorned Bremen’s Town Hall. But if you think of a huge statue here, you are mistaken – the four animals are not depicted life-size, and the statue is somewhat hidden on one side of the town hall. By the way, clasping the donkey’s legs with both hands at the same time is said to bring good luck!

3. Bremen City Hall

The first Bremen town hall is said to have stood here on the market square as early as the 13th century. The town hall, what you see here now, was built from 1405 to 1410 and is still used by the Bremen Senate and the mayor! The striking building can also be visited from the inside – it’s worth it! Today it is also called the Old Town Hall , after an addition, the New Town Hall , was added in 1917.

You can book a guided tour of the city hall here: Tickets for the Old Town Hall

Tip for foodies: In Bremen’s Ratskeller , located under the Old Town Hall, you can enjoy the rustic ambience with hearty delicacies!

More sights around the town hall and Bremen marketplace: St. Petri Cathedral from the 11th century Spit stone in the cathedral courtyard: at this place the serial killer Gesche Gottfried was beheaded in 1831

By the way, are you a True Crime fan? Then this might be an exciting tour for you to get to know Bremen better: ➜ Bremen crime scene: Of manslayers and cutthroats *

Advertising / *affiliate links

4. Bremer Roland

The Bremer Roland is one of the most important landmarks of Bremen! The large statue of Roland in front of the town hall shows a knight with a sword and symbolizes the independence of a city and the associated city rights.

With the separation from the until then ecclesiastical rule and the change to an independent city around 1400, Bremen was the forerunner among many European cities. Therefore, the Bremen Roland as a symbol of freedom and self-determination has great significance to this day and can be found as the name sponsor for many Bremen institutions.

5. The Schlachte

Going out in Bremen? No problem – the Schlachte is the promenade on the Weser and is located in the middle of the city. Here you can also sit on the Weser promenade during the day, drink coffee or enjoy an after-work beer and people-watch. In the evening it gets more crowded depending on the day of the week.

For a real maritime feeling, visit the old sailing ship “Alexander von Humboldt”, which is located directly on Schlachte and houses a restaurant and hotel. ➜ Prices & availability on the “Alexander von Humboldt” *

6. Böttcherstrasse

A narrow dark alley leads from the spacious market square down to a very special street in downtown Bremen – and if I hadn’t spotted a small sign saying “to Böttcherstraße,” I probably would have walked right past it. Indeed, if you walk down the narrow Schüttingstraße from the market, you walk directly towards the impressive archway that marks the beginning of Böttcherstraße.

Here, since 1931, art, culture and crafts are concentrated on a small street that seems like a whole other world. With the support of coffee HAG (a very popular decaffeinated coffee brand in Germany until today, many German still call decaf coffee “Kaffee HAG”) inventor Ludwig Roselius , a center for creative people was created here at the beginning of the last century, which has retained its charm to this day.

Every single house on Böttcherstrasse is individually designed: The Paula Modersohn Becker House , which contains the associated museum about the painter’s life’s work, is particularly striking.

Especially at the time of the Third Reich, the expressionist style of the house was controversial; in any case, I was very impressed by the unusual architecture.

Worth seeing here, in addition to the small stores and studios, are the Seven Owls Fountain (Sieben-Faulen-Brunnen) whose story is based on a Bremen folktale, and the Craftsmen’s Courtyard (Handwerkerhof).

Learn more about the interesting history of this unusual street on this short tour: ➜ Tour of Böttcherstraße *

Best Activities in Bremen

Advertising / *affiliate link

7. Wallanlagen & the Mill

You feel a bit like you’re in Holland when you look at the mill in the Wallanlagen. Located in the middle of the ramparts of the old Bremen city wall, the former coffee mill is not only a pretty photo motif, but also houses a restaurant today. (But you can also stop here just for a coffee.) However, sometimes there are some shady around from the nearby main train station, the Hauptbahnhof. So better just walk along here during the day and be a bit more careful.

8. The Viertel

This neighborhood was my very big surprise in Bremen. Or maybe I just didn’t notice it before simply because of the name. The Viertel in German means actually just “the neighborhood” .

The Bremer Viertel stretches from Sielwall to Sankt-Jürgen-Strasse and is something like THE hipster district of Bremen. Actually just a small part of town, but here you can spend the whole day strolling and eating. Or at least that’s how I felt! I have discovered so many great little stores and fantastic food locations, that the next time I’m in Bremen I’ll definitely go straight to the Viertel and check out my favorites first!

My secret tips for the Viertel:

Juli liebt Kaffee good coffee, but also great interior design Delicious breakfast/brunch in a relaxed atmosphere. Worth coming out of downtown for.

Fritzfrank Concept Store right next door Owner Anastasia chooses everything herself with a good hand and taste If you like supporting small businesses, you’ve come to the right place. At fritzfrank you will find decoration and accessories from many small labels, which you will definitely not find everywhere in Germany.

Nora’s I’ve only had a Turmeric Latte and a Carrot Cake here, and that alone is a reason to come back; because I would have loved to taste more! The ambience is refined yet casual, the service attentive, and really everything on the menu is homemade according to clean-eating principles. Eating healthy has rarely been better. Still affordable. Also available to go.

9. Parks & other great outdoor experiences in Bremen

In Bremen there are a few more tips and sights that you can also still see during a longer stay:

Maritime Meile Vegesack – outside the city center you can learn more about Bremen’s maritime history around the old Vegesack harbor, for example, in the Museumshaven . Bürgerpark – located behind Bremen’s main train station, you’ll find a huge green space with plenty of opportunities to relax, unwind or play sports. Rhodendron Park – May is the perfect month for a trip to Rhodendron Park: that’s when the more than 10,000 plants are at their best in full bloom! Admission is free, by the way.

10. Museums in Bremen

It’s not just when the weather is bad that you might want to treat yourself to a visit to a museum. Anyway, still on my list are these two museums that make Bremen an exciting destination.

Kunsthalle Bremen – In addition to its own collection, which includes works from over 700 years of art history, you will also find interesting temporary exhibitions here. A look at the website with the current events is worthwhile! Phil Porter Salon Obscura – Somehow more of a whole art event than an art exhibition seems to be the Salon Obscura, which has recently moved from the Viertel to the Schnoor district. For me, it’s at the top of the bucket list for the next visit to Bremen – and if you make it before I do, feel free to write me how it was!

Stay overnight in Bremen

If you’re not traveling from the surrounding area, you may need a place to stay. Not a problem in Bremen! You should take a closer look at the following locations:

Klabauterbett * Sleep on a two-mast clipper! Cozy ship very close to the old town and Schlachte. Vienna House Bremen City * stay comfortable, modern & at a good price. A bit outside the city center, but due to the short distances and good public transport in Bremen you are still close by. Advantage if arriving by train: it’s within walking distance of the main train station. Designhotel Überfluss * a bit more expensive, but with a wellness area and absolutely centrally located by the Weser river. For a nice weekend for two but quite affordable if you want to treat yourself!

Best Things To Do In Tirana, Albania

Blick auf die Stadt Bilbao mit Guggenheim Museum, Nervion und Iberdrola Tower

The Best Things to Do in Bilbao

The Banys Àrabs in Palma de Mallorca

26 BEST THINGS TO DO IN BREMEN – TIPS BY A LOCAL

WHAT TO DO IN BREMEN – BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE

Are you planning your Germany itinerary , but not sure which German city should be at the top of your list? Allow me to help! Bremen is an absolute must-see – it’s full of historic architecture and attractions, and beautiful parks perfect for picnics or strolls in the sun.

All this means one day in Brmen isn’t enough; 2 days in Bremen should do justice but if you can stay 3 days in Bremen – even better. So plan accordingly and find out about the best things to do in Bremen! However, even with only one day in Bremen, you get to see the main sights and I am sure, you will be smitten!

As a local, yes I am happy I can call this beautiful city my hometown, I might be biased but I have spoken to sooo many people who all agreed with me. So buckler up – a fter discussing the best things to do and see in Bremen, I am sharing some essential travel tips for your Bremen trip.

Read: South Germany: A Travel Itinerary for Germany

DISCLAIMER: THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. THIS MEANS I MIGHT EARN A SMALL COMMISSION WHEN YOU BUY A PRODUCT/SERVICE (AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU. MORE ABOUT IT HERE .

BEST THINGS TO DO IN BREMEN

Let´s start with the most beautiful places and best things to do in Bremen in 1, 2, or more days.

Bremen Market Square

Ready to explore Bremen? Why not start at the bustling heart of it all – the city center of this vibrant city center? The market square of Bremen.

If the weather is good, you will find musicians and artists here – spending some time here is a wonderful pastime! But the market square is also home to some of the best sights and attractions in Bremen – which I will talk about now.

Bremen Town Hall

Not only can you find the wondrous Rathaus (town hall)- a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Germany ‘s most stunning city halls.

The Town Hall of Bremen is a gorgeous architectural masterpiece. Built in the Gothic style, it is one of the oldest town halls in northern Germany and stands as an imposing symbol of the city’s rich history.

To get the full experience, take part in one of the Rathaus guided tours offered by the Bremen Tourist Information Office for a fascinating insight into the city’s history – and see the elaborate chambers, including its two-story high main hall , decorated with intricate wall designs and carvings.

Tourists flock from around Europe just to get an inside look at this majestic place. No matter how often I come here, its beauty never ceases to amaze me – trust me when I say ‘it’s worth it’!

Roland Statue

Not to be missed is the impressive statue of Roland that stands in front of the building – a symbol of freedom and justice from medieval times. The Roland Statue has been standing there for more than 600 years now and is the protector of the city and is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

St.Peter´s Cathedral

Next to the Rathaus is the 1200-year-old St. Peter´s Cathedral . Looking to explore one of the – once – most mightiest Archbishoprics in northern Europe? Then, you should definitely check out St. Peter’s medieval church while on your visit!

Not only can you purchase art and organ guides from their “Dom-Shop,” but they also give visitors a chance to take an adventure into their own cathedral museum. And don’t forget – if all that exploring makes you feel daring enough, why not climb the tower? The steps are narrow but it is surely one of the best views of Bremen you have from there – overlooking the market square and more.

Entry to the cathedral is free. There is a small entrance fee of a few € for getting up the tower.

Here is another beauty located on the market square – The Schütting, a stunning historical building located in the heart of Bremen’s bustling Marktplatz. Originally built as a guild house for the city’s merchants and tradesmen, it later became a chamber of commerce in 1849, playing a vital role in Bremen’s business community.

This building has been under monument protection since 1973, preserving its unique architecture and rich history. Come and explore this iconic landmark, filled with stories of the past and ready to inspire the future. We can’t wait to share it with you!

Bremer Loch

Looking for a fun and unique way to donate some money? Say hello to the Bremer Loch! This playful donation box is located on the market square and lets you toss in some coins while hearing the sounds of Bremen’s most beloved animals – from a donkey, a dog , a cat, or a rooster.

Plus, your donation goes to a great cause as the money is collected once a year and given to charity. So why not add a little fun to your philanthropy and check out the Bremer Loch today?

Bremen Town Musicians

Next to the Rathaus (but on the other side), you will find the worldwide famous Bremer Stadtmusikanten (The Bremen Town Musicians ) – probably the most famous landmark. Some of you might remember the fairy tale of the four musicians (thanks to the Brothers Grimm). Well, in Bremen you can visit them.

The Bremen Town Musicians is one of Germany’s most beloved folk tales. It tells the story of an old donkey, a dog, a cat, and a rooster who team up to become town musicians in the city of Bremen. On their journey, they come across a house filled with robbers, and scare them away!

However, I know that some people are a little disappointed because they are smaller than expected. It´s easy to overlook them.

TIP: For some extra luck in your life, rub the donkey’s feet (or the nose). This makes sure you will have some luck in the future, so do not forget to do so :).

Alternatively, take a stroll through the city center and you’ll find statues of the four musicians spread around town.

Böttcherstrasse

Another main attraction in Bremen is the Böttcherstrasse. It is right opposite the Town Hall, so if you are standing on the Market Square, turn away from the Town Hall and walk towards the Böttcherstrasse.

The Böttcherstraße is a hidden world within Bremen – an extraordinary and unique cityscape! This “city-in-the-city” has been enchanting visitors since 1931 with its intricate architecture, art exhibitions, and impressive handicrafts…not to mention irresistible regional food & drinks made from only the freshest home ingredients.

The Böttcherstrasse is small, yet houses some of the most unique attractions in Bremen.

The Glockenspiel might be one of the best surprises to watch and listen to! There is a little app to download for free for further information on the buildings.

The Casino is also here in the Böttchertstrasse – though it is quite small compared to other casinos, at least we have one here in Bremen. I have not made it inside yet, but make sure to dress fancy if you want to visit.

Another attraction, which I have just discovered, is the Himmelssaal ( Sky Room) inside the Radisson Blu Hotel Bremen – though popular, it is still a hidden gem in Bremen. If you are in one day in Bremen, I would probably skip it, though.

It is a beautiful salon where you can celebrate parties and weddings. If you book a tour (Böttcherstrasse Tour) or ask at reception, you can also visit (please ask in advance if your tour covers visiting the Himmelsaal ).

Gewerbehaus / Handelskammer

Among the many stunning structures in this magnificent city, the “Gewerbehaus” is undoubtedly a standout. Serving as the headquarters for the chambers of commerce, this 17th-century gem has been restored to its full glory after being largely destroyed during World War II.

Situated in the city center, the details of this building are nothing short of breathtaking. So make sure to marvel at its gorgeous features and soak up the rich history that surrounds it!

Welcome to the lively and bustling Domshof town square, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. This vibrant square is not just a hub for markets and May Day demonstrations, but also home to stunning architecture and cozy cafes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a quick bite.

Don’t forget to check out the farmer’s market, held every Monday to Friday, for a taste of local produce and culture. Join the fun and excitement at Domshof, where there’s always something to discover and enjoy!

Old Town of Bremen / Schnoor

The Schnoor or Schnorrviertel (Schnoor Quarter) is probably one of the best districts in Bremen. Visiting is one thing you have to do even when you are in Bremen for a few hours only.

I grew up, living in a city with one of the most beautiful old towns in Germany/Europe, so I always thought this was standard. Then I realized that it is not normal to have such an old town with cute little streets, old doors, lovely small cafes, and many souvenir shops that sell lots of handmade products. I don’t know anybody who didn’t like that beautiful part.

The Schnoor is also home to the smallest hotel in the world and the most famous cafe might be the Katzencafe in one of the small side streets.

After visiting the Schnoor, you can either walk along the river Weser and enjoy the beautiful view. Or you walk along the busy streets of the Viertel.

The Viertel Quarter 1/4

The Viertel is one of the most vibrant districts, the hipster district in Bremen, and it is also not far from the Marktplatz .

As a kid, I was told not to go there because it is the “Redlight district,” if you can even call it like this. The drug addicts worried my parents worry, but actually, the 1/4 quarter, is a lively and vibrant neighborhood, full of colorful houses with oriel bay windows and more.

This district has become extremely popular, especially among students and other open-minded people, and it has become way less “scary.” I love the alternative lifestyle and the cafes, small restaurants, and shops and that you can do whatever you want to without anybody caring.

Weser Stadium

If you walk up the Viertel (no matter if you walk it along the river or the parallel streets), you will arrive at the Weserstadion – at some point.

I would call it the heart (apart from the Marktplatz) of Bremen. It´s where our team Werder Bremen wins most of its games (unfortunately not this season) and where the big open-air concerts take place.

Alte Mühle/ Old Mill

Every summer, the Old Mill, the Alte Mühle, becomes a highlight for tourists when the front garden turns into a colorful flower bed.

The Alte Mühle is between the city center and the main train station, and there is a little cafe in the mill, which makes it a perfect place to soak in the view and relax.

One of the best things to do in summer is to visit Cafe Sand. At least if you are looking for an “authentic Caribbean” feeling, you should visit Cafe Sand, which is close, but opposite the Weser Stadion.

Well, you cannot really expect a Caribbean feeling at Cafe Sand, but Bremen has indeed a little beach (and by little, I really mean a little, but it’s nice to spend time at the water and have a drink or play beachball).

If you only have two days in Bremen, you will be busy enough to check out the above places.

A top thing to do is visit the Schlachte. Visiting is great at any time of the year, especially on a warm day (when the Beer Garden is busy and lively) or when the Christmas Markets take place.

City Centre (Obernstrasse / Sögestrasse)

The Obernstraße in the city center is the main shopping street with the most prominent shops (mainly chains) and some cafes and restaurants. But it is not only this street. Several side streets are worth checking out and some smaller shopping malls (e.g., Katharinenpassage).

Not too far from the city center, you´ll find another beautiful park called Bürgerpark. The Bürgerpark is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit with kids.

Lazy days are well spent at the Bürgerpark. I spent many Sundays there when I was a kid and still loved it though I hardly visit these days. It has a big playground for kids. You can rent a boat and paddle, play mini-golf, and visit the little “zoo. “ You can have a drink in one of the few restaurants or just lay down and enjoy the sun.

I also spent, just recently, a beautiful evening at Botanica – a beautiful green park with a cafe and a Rhododendron Park.

Wallanlagen

The Wallanlagen is a lovely green park stretching several kilometers between the city center and the central train station. Visiting is one of the best things to do in Bremen if you are looking to spend some time in a park.

Though the Wallanlagen is very central, it is rarely crowded, and the little river makes a perfect place for great strolls. Start your walk from the Old Mill and head towards the Viertel Quarter from there.

We locals are very proud of the Freimarkt – this fun fair takes place once a year, and Bremen gets crazy. For two weeks, all kinds of carousels and stalls are placed behind the Bremen Main Train Station – and that is where you will find all the locals and visitors.

Especially in the evening, it gets cramped – because who doesn’t love all the special food and carousels?

You might end up spending a lot of money, but if you are around at this time of the year, you don’t want to miss out as it is the better “Oktoberfest.“ And don’t worry, one of the biggest fairs in Germany surely has a lot of beer to offer, too.

Tip: If you visit during the second week, there is the big “Freimarktsumzug“ parade. The streets – stretching over several kilometers – are full of people and carriages with people in them, throwing sweets and more to the spectators. Kids especially love it, but also adults as there is music, alcohol, and more (and it is free to attend).

DATES: 18th October until 3rd November 2024

If you visit Bremen in July, join the Breminale. It is a music festival spread out along the Weser River and is also free to attend. It takes place over several days with more than 100 bands playing, tons of food stalls and – of course – opportunities to drink German beer and other alcohol.

The Breminale in Bremen takes place from 12 to 16 July 2023 .

If you visit around Easter and are into fairs, visit the Osterwiese. It is much smaller than the Freimarkt, with fewer food stalls and fewer carousels, but it is also fun to visit. Like the Freimarkt, it is free to attend, and you only pay for rides and food/drinks.

The Osterwiese in Bremen takes place from 31st March to 16th April 2023 .

Christmas Markets

Bremen is known for its wonderful markets – there are two main markets in Bremen, but you will find food stalls basically all over the city center. The two main ones are at the market square and then at the Schlachte – so, if you visit around that time, make sure to visit both.

Whether you are vegan or not – there are tons of options to munch and drink – and there are even some carousels for younger ones. So, it definitely is the best winter activity in Bremen.

The Christmas Markets in Bremen will take place from 27th November to 23rd December 2023

TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR BREMEN ITINERARY

Here is some info for your trip to Bremen.

General Info

Bremen is maybe not the biggest city in the world but for sure one of the most charming. I don´t say that because I am from Bremen, it just is a fact :).

Once you have visited Bremen, you will agree with me – for sure.

I know, Bremen is not as trendy as Hamburg , not as cool as Berlin (find out what to do Berlin here) , not as posh as Munich, and not so friendly as Cologne.

However, there are tons of other reasons for visiting this awesome city. With about 500,000 inhabitants, it is the 10th biggest city in Germany and one of the 16 states in Germany – yes, that is true. Bremen is not only a city but its own state (well, together with Bremerhaven).

First of all, Bremen is an extremely cosmopolitan city, and though people here don’t overdo it with friendliness, they are open-minded and totally relaxed.

How to Get Around Bremen

Bremen isn´t geographically huge, but the city is stretched, so it can take a while to get from Bremen-South to Bremen-North.

However, public transport is good during the day, and a day ticket is about 8€ (not that cheap). Still, if you stay close to the city center you probably might not even need a day ticket since many attractions and interesting areas are located close to each other.

Distances: Main Station – Airport: about 5 km
Main Station – City Center: 1 km
Distance to Hamburg is about 120 km – which makes Hamburg a great day trip from Bremen

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bremen is from May- September as winter can be cold in Germany. There are many activities to do in summer including festivals, that are well-visited and very popular.

However, since the Christmas Market in Bremen is considered one of the best in Germany, December would be perfect for those interested in Christmas Markets.

We are one of the few places in the world with 5 instead of 4 seasons. Each year in October/November, we celebrate the “Freimarkt” – one of the biggest fairs with tons of carousels, snack stalls, and fun activities. For these 2 weeks, Bremen is getting crazy and is in a state of emergency (in a positive way), and it is another great time to visit.

Where to Stay in Bremen

Though Bremen´s public transport is not bad, I definitely recommend staying close to the city center. I would recommend the Radisson Blu , a beautiful 4* hotel located in the city center. CHECK OUT RATES HERE
Bremen has only one 5* hotel – if you fancy staying in a luxury hotel in Bremen, opt for Dorint Park Hotel . Located in a tranquil part, it is still close to the train station and city center. CHECK OUT RATES HERE

Where to Eat in Bremen

Bremen has many restaurants, and there is something for every taste and every budget.

My favorite restaurant (for more than 20 years) is El Mundo . They have changed location a few years ago and are now located in Überseestadt. It is the biggest restaurant in Bremen (about 700 seats), and they have delicious food. They offer good vegetarian and vegan food as well, and decent portions.

Schlachte , a promenade in the city center, is an extremely popular place in summer or winter. There are many restaurants and beer gardens. In summer, if you are lucky to get a nice spot where you can overlook the water. It is definitely the place to be seen, and I love their, almost, Mediterranean flair in summer. I used to work at Camarillo restaurant as a student, and I still enjoy eating there.

Ratskeller is Bremen´s best-known restaurant and located on Market Square. It´s Bremen´s fine dining address, and it has an exceptional charm.

The best French Fries are definitely to be found at CTK´s in the Obernstraße.

The Viertel also has many nice restaurants and is definitely a great place to dine (from fancy to fast food, you´ll get everything there). Die Gemüseküche (mostly vegan) is there as well as tons of other international delis/restaurants.

The most beautiful cafe is now in the city center (Sögestraße) and is called Creamlovers . It has just opened and has a lot of desserts and sweets and a cute interior design.

Read more: The best Germany travel tips
Would you like to visit more cities in Germany? Find out what to do in Dresden Germany

FINAL THOUGHTS ON BEST BRMEN ACTIVITIES

Bremen surely has a lot to offer – and while every German knows Bremen, it is still a hidden gem outside the country. From some of the most gorgeous historic sights to a lot of greenery – Bremen has all that and more. Of course, as a local, I might be biased but I can confidently say, Bremen is a gorgeous place to visit and there are many things to do.

Hopefully, this post has inspired you to visit the city, and also, you have now found out about the best things to do in Bremen – a beautiful hidden German gem!

Pin It on Pinterest

Bremen Travel Guide: 21 Best Things To Do & See

A small big city.

We instantly loved being in Bremen!

Despite being a relatively big city, it has a cosy small-town vibe with a more relaxed pace which we really enjoyed.

Bremen is compact and you can explore much of it on foot or by bike, yet it’s large enough to offer a variety of experiences : historic sites, vibrant neighbourhoods, green areas, museums, UNESCO World Heritage landmarks, old churches and a lovely coffee scene (+ lots of good food in general).

There’s something for everyone.

In this travel guide, we will walk you through the best things to do and see, how long to stay, along with practical tips to make the most of your visit to this delightful city.

Table of contents

Where is Bremen?

How long to stay in bremen, what to do in bremen, how to get around bremen, how to get to bremen, when to visit bremen, tips for visiting bremen, what to bring to bremen.

Victoria in Bremen with green space and a lake

Bremen is located on the River Weser in Northwestern Germany, about 60 kilometres (37 miles) south of the river’s mouth on the North Sea.

Bremen is the capital of the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen (Freie Hansestadt Bremen) , a two-city state comprising Bremen and Bremerhaven.

After Hamburg, Bremen is the second largest city in Northern Germany with around 570,000 residents.

How many days you need in Bremen depends on your personal wishes and circumstances.

We stayed for three nights and found it a good amount of time to fully experience the city without rushing.

If you’re on a tight schedule, you can see most of the highlights in one day as they are conveniently close to each other but 2-3 days will be ideal for most people.

That way, you will have time to enjoy the many green areas, strolls along the river and a museum or two.

With even more time, you can easily use Bremen as a base for exploring the surrounding region and visit nearby cities on day trips.

Bremen is a compact city chock-full of great things to do – whether you visit at the height of summer where you can enjoy all the green areas or at a colder time where you can truly appreciate the medieval atmosphere and fascinating museums.

Here are the best things to do and see in Bremen:

Bremen Town Hall (Bremer Rathaus) – Stunning town hall on the market square
St. Peter’s Cathedral (Bremer Dom) – The city’s most important church
Statue of the famous Town Musicians (Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten) – Unmissable city icon
Statue of Roland – A symbol of Bremen’s freedom
Böttcherstraße – A historic street
Schnoor (Schnoorviertel) – Charming, narrow and colourful houses
Schlachte – Beer gardens by the river
Osterdeich – Relax along the Weser River
Viertel – Bremen’s liveliest neighbourhood
Street art – Art on the walls of Bremen
Go on a city tour – See the city with a new perspective
Wallanlagen Park (Die Wallanlagen) – Bremen’s old city walls
Mühle am Wall – Picturesque old windmill
Bürgerpark – Bremen’s green heart
Botanika – Bremen’s World of Nature Discovery
Coffee roastery tour – See how your coffee is made
Universum Science Center – Interactive museum shaped like a whale
Theater am Goetheplatz – Musicals, dramas and operas
Kunsthalle Bremen – Art museum with European art
Tour a beer brewery – Learn all about beer
Übersee-Museum Bremen – A natural history museum

1. Bremen Town Hall (Bremer Rathaus) – Stunning town hall on the market square

On our trip to Bremen, we were really impressed by the Bremen Town Hall (Bremer Rathaus) – a UNESCO World Heritage site .

The building is a beautiful mix of Gothic and Weser Renaissance styles, pretty much dominating the market square in the middle of the city.

If you have the chance, see if you can join one of the guided tours to see the impressive interior as well.

2. St. Peter’s Cathedral (Bremer Dom) - The city’s most important church

Germans are not only pretty good at building impressive city halls; they also know how to build darn big cathedrals!

Bremen Cathedral (Bremer Dom) welcomes visitors to the market square with its more than 90-metre-tall twin towers and imposing facade.

A church has stood here for more than 1,200 years (!) . That obviously makes for a lot of history. To learn all about it, check out the museum inside the church.

3. Statue of the famous Town Musicians (Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten) – Unmissable city icon

If you’ve ever heard of Bremen, it’s likely from the Brothers Grimm fairy tale “The Town Musicians of Bremen” (Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten) .

Although the animals in the story never actually made it to Bremen, the donkey, the dog, the cat and the rooster stand proudly on top of each other right next to the Bremen Town Hall and is surely one of the city’s most beloved landmarks.

Naturally, it’s also a popular spot for photos with many tourists following the local tradition of rubbing the donkey’s legs for good luck .

If you follow suit, remember to rub both of them with both hands. Otherwise, it’s said that “one donkey is shaking the hand of another”!

4. Statue of Roland – A symbol of Bremen’s freedom

Speaking of statues, the statue of Roland is also hard to miss on the market square.

The 5.5 metre tall, legendary knight is a symbol of Bremen’s freedom and is also included with the Town Hall as a UNESCO site.

Roland statues were commonly erected during the Middle Ages in German towns. With a total height of more than 10 metres, Bremen’s Roland is likely the largest and oldest surviving Roland statue.

5. Böttcherstraße – A historic street

Böttcherstraße connects the Weser River with the market square and is a must-see in Bremen.

This narrow, car-free street is full of history and showcases a curious blend of architectural styles with a mix of Gothic and expressionist architecture.

We even visited twice as we really enjoyed the atmosphere.

6. Schnoor (Schnoorviertel) – Charming, narrow and colourful houses

We absolutely loved the cute neighbourhood of Schnoor ( Bremen’s oldest neighbourhood !) and wandered every street on two separate occasions.

The area is quite small and compact, but you can easily spend a few hours here walking down the winding lanes and exploring the cool artisan shops and small cafés.

7. Schlachte – Beer gardens by the river

After checking out Schnoor, we followed the Weser River towards the waterfront area of Schlachte – a former harbour in the middle of the city.

The promenade is full of beer gardens, bars and restaurants – many of which have great views over the river.

At night Schlachte becomes a hot spot for locals and tourists alike who enjoy the maritime atmosphere.

8. Osterdeich – Relax along the Weser River

For a relaxing stroll in Bremen, it’s hard to beat the Osterdeich.

Stretching for about 4 kilometres southward from Schlachte, the dyke is one of the city’s favourite places for jogging, cycling and BBQs.

We walked (and cycled) here on several occasions and really appreciated having such a serene spot right next to all of Bremen’s top attractions.

From the Osterdeich, you can also take the Sielwall ferry (Sielwallfähre) to easily go to the beach on the opposite side of the river.

9. Viertel – Bremen’s liveliest neighbourhood

When we visited Bremen, we stayed in The Viertel (Das Viertel) – translating into “the quarter”.

As the name suggests, it’s very much an “it” place where many young people hang out, eat and drink at the cool bars and cafés.

It was perfect staying here for us as it’s a very veggie-friendly part of town with lots of vegan and vegetarian options.

Even if you don’t come here for the food options, it’s a really cool neighbourhood to just stroll around to catch the vibe . Especially after sunset!

10. Street art – Art on the walls of Bremen

Bremen is a creative city which is also evident from some of the commissioned (as well as uncommissioned) art pieces on walls around town.

The aforementioned Viertel is a good place to start but there is actually street art all over . Happy hunting!

11. Go on a city tour – See the city with a new perspective

Going on a guided walking tour around Bremen can be a great way to appreciate its history and discover hidden gems .

We went on a picturesque tour and saw the classical highlights of the market square, the Schnoor area as well as some of the Schlachte Embankment.

12. Wallanlagen Park (Die Wallanlagen) – Bremen’s old city walls

Back in the days, this former defensive moat kept invaders out of Bremen.

Today, the park situated alongside the moat instead welcomes visitors with its nice green paths that are perfect for a leisurely stroll in the city centre.

Don’t miss the windmill – described below.

Sign saying moin in Bremen's Wallanlagen Park

13. Mühle am Wall – Picturesque old windmill

The highlight of visiting Wallanlagen Park for us was seeing the Mühle am Wall – a charming old windmill that has become one of Bremen’s most recognisable landmarks .

While the mill used to be in use for grinding flour, it has now been turned into a café where you can enjoy the peaceful scenery in the park.

14. Bürgerpark – Bremen’s green heart

Not only is the very central Bürgerpark one of Germany’s larger urban parks, it even borders the Stadtwald forest making for a lot of green space .

The Bürgerpark itself features a plethora of walking paths , several playgrounds, a lake where you can rent a boat, a free mini “zoo” with mostly typical farm animals and lots more.

We were surprised to find such a huge wonderful park so close to the city centre and loved that the locals can get a nature fix and go feed the soul with some green therapy that easily.

15. Botanika – Bremen’s World of Nature Discovery

One of the highlights of our time in Bremen was visiting the botanical gardens of Botanika – “Bremen’s World of Nature Discovery”.

Located inside the Rhododendron Park – which is worth a visit by itself – Botanika is built around showcasing the diverse plant life of different regions of Asia with a focus on rhododendrons.

Apart from the immersive landscapes, there’s a Japanese garden with a special Peace Buddha, a butterfly house as well as a discovery centre where you can learn all about the plant and animal kingdoms.

The Peace Buddha for Europe statue inside the Japanese garden in Botanika, Bremen

16. Coffee roastery tour – See how your coffee is made

We are big coffee enthusiasts. In fact, we made a documentary film about sustainable coffee a few years back.

Bremen being one of Germany’s (and Europe’s!) most important coffee cities , we were delighted to tour both the roastery of Münchhausen and the Johann Jacobs Haus.

Getting insight into the coffee roasting process is fascinating, so if you’ve ever wondered how your morning cup of coffee came to be, Bremen is a great place to learn more.

Fun fact: The original process of decaffeination was invented in Bremen.

17. Universum Science Center – Interactive museum shaped like a whale

Universum Science Center, often just called Universum, is a cool museum (shaped like a whale!) at the eastern end of the Stadtwald.

Here you can learn all about physics and the universe, often with interactive experiments that kids will surely love. It’s also the perfect activity for a rainy day.

We unfortunately didn’t have the time to visit Universum this time around, but hopefully next time!

18. Theater am Goetheplatz – Musicals, dramas and operas

Theather am Goetheplatz, also called the Goethetheater, is a theatre showing musicals, dramas and operas.

Built in the neoclassical style, it’s one of the oldest buildings in Bremen .

If you’re looking for a cultural experience, you can explore the lineup of performances at the theatre on your travel dates.

19. Kunsthalle Bremen – Art museum with European art

Right across the street from Theater am Goetheplatz you’ll find Kunsthalle Bremen – an art museum with an impressive collection of European art including works by artists like Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet .

20. Tour a beer brewery – Learn all about beer

As Bremen is a famous beer city , it’s a great place to go on a tour of one of its international or craft breweries.

We aren’t huge beer drinkers ourselves (and had our 1-year-old with us) so we skipped touring a brewery but it looks fun if you want to know more about beer and how it’s made .

21. Übersee-Museum Bremen – A natural history museum

Located right next to the central station in Bremen, this museum combines ethnography, trade and natural history under one roof.

It looks like it offers fascinating exhibits from around the world with a focus on global cultures and ecosystems.

Bremen’s city centre (Mitte) is fairly compact, making walking the most convenient way to explore . It’s both easy and safe.

For context, a walk around the city centre following the waterfront and moat covers about 4 kilometres and takes around an hour.

Bicycling is also a great way to get around.

For longer stints or to save some time, Bremen’s trams are a very comfortable option.

Tickets can be bought on the trains. Consider the all-day or weeklong options if you intend to use the tram and bus system a lot.

Driving your own car around Bremen is mostly unadvisable – unless you have easy access to parking at your accommodation and are going a bit further away to Botanika or similar.

Walking around Bremen in the Schlachte area

Car to Bremen

Bremen is well connected to the German autobahn system (national motorways). That means it’s easy to get here by car from all over Europe.

Travelling from Hamburg , take the A1 Autobahn southwest towards Bremen and you will arrive in about an hour and 15 minutes.

Be aware that cars on the autobahn generally drive fast – and by fast, we mean up to 200 km/h!

There are several sections with no speed limit at all so it’s important to look thoroughly in the rearview mirror and side mirror before changing lanes and overtaking.

Take the train to Bremen

Bremen is well connected to the German train network.

A direct train from Hamburg Central Station (Hamburg Hauptbahnhof) to Bremen takes about 1 hour, with trains departing roughly every 30 minutes during the day.

From Hannover , the journey also takes about an hour, while a trip from Berlin (via Hannover) takes approximately 3 hours.

We have previously used the Deutsche Bahn website to order train tickets and they’re very reliable.

Flights to Bremen

Bremen has its own airport, Bremen Airport (Flughafen Bremen) . Year-round, there are flights to cities such as Munich, Vienna and London. Additionally, seasonal flights connect Bremen to other destinations across Europe.

Nearby Hamburg Airport (Flughafen Hamburg) is much much bigger and very well-connected both nationally and internationally.

Getting to Bremen from Hamburg Airport is easy . Just hop on the S-Bahn (suburban rail network) line S1 to Hamburg’s central railway station. It runs every 10 minutes and takes less than half an hour. From there, you can take a train to Bremen as described above.

There’s no bad time to visit Bremen, though each season offers a different experience. So, when is the best time to go?

We visited Bremen in August and enjoyed warm, sunny days – ideal for exploring.

As with most popular destinations, it’s wise to plan your trip outside the busiest holidays , if possible. Visiting during the shoulder seasons lets you avoid the largest crowds and find cheaper accommodation.

Don’t worry too much if traveling outside the holidays isn’t an option as Bremen rarely feels overcrowded.

Spring (March, April and May) is a beautiful time to visit Bremen with sunny days and blooming flowers. It can still be a bit chilly, so check the weather forecast before you pack.

Summer (June, July and August) is of course the hottest season and the temperatures can get quite high in July and August. At the same time, it’s also at its rainiest in the summer so pack a rain jacket or an umbrella, just in case. The sun is usually shining from early morning until very late in the evening. The summer holidays in Germany are spread out between mid-June and mid-September.

Autumn (September, October and November) is a wonderful time to visit Bremen. The autumn colours go well with the old, charming buildings in the city. The most beautiful yellow, orange and red autumn colours can typically be seen at the end of September and in October, perhaps also at the beginning of November before the leaves fall off the trees.

Winter (December, January and February) is generally cold but on the other hand, there are usually fewer tourists. If you’re planning to visit during Christmas or New Year, it’s smart to book your accommodation ahead of time.

Credit cards can be used in most shops, but as in the rest of Germany, cash is still often used and it’s not unusual for cash to be used in parking and ticket machines, at cafés and the like.
Get up early and be one of the first at an attraction if you want to avoid long queues in the high season.
Drink tap water . It’s not only good for the planet, it’s also good for your wallet. The tap water in Bremen is absolutely safe to drink – so bring a refillable bottle.
Travel to Bremen outside of the holidays . Accommodation prices are lower, good deals are easier found and there are fewer tourists.
Walk, walk and walk some more . Walking around Bremen is free, easy and simply the best way to get around. And you’ll probably find many hidden gems along the way.

Travel insurance (adlink) . Never travel without it!
A good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
Sunscreen (adlink) . Especially if you visit Bremen in the summer. We recommend that you use an organic, vegan sunscreen without oxybenzone and other harmful chemicals.
Hiking shoes, sneakers, sandals or other shoes you can walk in comfortably.
Swimwear if you are staying at a hotel with a spa area.
A refillable water bottle and snacks . You can drink the tap water in Germany.
Cash for parking and other small purchases, especially 1 and 2-euro coins. Not all places in Germany accept credit cards.

Thanks for reading

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Bremen. We hope it has been helpful!

What do you think about the city?

If you’ve been to Bremen, it would be awesome to hear your best tips and tricks.

If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments below. We’re happy to help.

Our favourite travel resources:

Booking.com for cheap hotels.
Momondo for the best flight deals.
SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
See all of our camera gear here .

Baden-Württemberg Travel Guide: 10 Best Things To Do & See in Germany’s Sunny Southwest - Everything you need to know about the Baden-Württemberg region including what to do, when to visit and where to stay
Travel Guide to Schleswig-Holstein: 12 Best Places to Visit in Germany’s Northernmost State - Everything you need to know about visiting Schleswig-Holstein including what to do, which towns to visit and when to go
Büsum Travel Guide: 10 Best Things To Do & See by the Wadden Sea - Everything you need to know about Büsum including what to do, when to visit and where to stay
Bad Segeberg Travel Guide: 8 Best Things To Do & See Around the Fascinating Mountain - Everything you need to know about Bad Segeberg including what to do, where to stay, when to visit - and when not to!
Travel Guide to the Duchy of Lauenburg Region: 7 Best Things To Do & See - Everything you need to know about the Duchy of Lauenburg region including what to do, when to visit and where to stay

Top 10 Things to Do and See in Bremen

From war-ridden cathedrals to myth-enshrouded statues and mysterious mummies, Bremen has plenty to explore. We take a look at the highlights the Hanseatic city in Germany’s north has to offer and compiled a list of the top 10 things to do when you’re in town.

Bremen cathedral.

Market, Building, Cathedral, Church, Market

The ‘Stadtmusikanten’ statue

Schlachte embankment, the schnoor district.

Become a Culture Tripper!

See privacy policy .

Art Gallery

Böttcherstrasse

Book a brewery tour.

Beer has been an intricate part of Bremen’s culture since the 11th century, and the long-standing tradition has spruced one of Germany’s most loved beers – Beck’s. An estimated 3,000 bottles are being opened every minute across the world. A guided tour takes you into the brewhouse and around storage rooms, malt silos and fermentation tanks and offers a few samples at the end of it. Though Beck’s provides a great experience, craft beer fans might want to consider venturing out to Bremen-Osterfeuerberg to peek behind the scenes of the Union Brewery.

Beck’s Brewery, Am Deich 18/19, Bremen, Germany

Union Brewery, Theodorstraße 12-13, Bremen, Germany

The Roland statue

The lead cellar.

The 10 Best Day Trips From Dresden

The 11 Best Day Trips from Munich, Germany

Must-Visit Attractions in Dusseldorf

The 9 Best Castle Tours to Take in Germany

The 10 Best Day Trips from Cologne

Must-Visit Attractions in Cologne

The 7 Best Day Trips from Frankfurt

The 9 Best Day Trips From Hamburg

Exploring Art And History With Berlin’s 10 Best Cultural Tours

The 10 Best Day Trips from Leipzig

The 7 Best Day Trips From Dusseldorf

Top 17 Things To Do And See In Hamburg, Germany

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

Post ID: 1739621
Sponsored? No
View Payload

11 Interesting & Beautiful Places to Visit in Bremen

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure for more info.

Possibly most famous for a fairytale by the Brothers Grimm, Bremen is a two-city state in Germany with much more to discover than some weird barnyard animals!

The Town Musicians of Bremen is a German fairytale about barnyard animals who plan to become musicians in Bremen, but actually never get there after scaring off some robbers and moving into their house instead. Even so, the group of animals is forever associated with the town of Bremen, even featuring in a famous statue.

Together, the two cities of Bremen and Bremerhaven make up the smallest state in Germany, which is called the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen, but there are still many fun things to explore in this small area.

In this post, we’ll be sharing our top picks for places to visit in Bremen, both in and around the two cities.

We hope you enjoy our recommendations, and be sure to let us know in the comments which Bremen must-sees we should add to our list!

One of the cutest parts of Bremen to visit is the preserved medieval neighbourhood known as Schnoor, located next to the River Weser by the Wilhelm-Kaisen-Brücke (Bridge).

Back in the day, Schnoor used to be the poorer part of Bremen, mostly inhabited by fisherfolk since it was next to the river. The name Schnoor actually means string, since the neighbourhood was also where many ropes and cables were produced for shipping.

Today, Schnoor is one of the most popular places to visit in Bremen. Nearly all the buildings here are tall and narrow, many with timber frames looking down over the winding cobbled alleys. Exploring this area is a delight, as there are all manner of cute cafés, bakeries, tea shops, and stores selling everything from clothing to musical instruments to toys.

There are also many art galleries in Schnoor, as well as a theatre and a couple of interesting museums. A wander through this historic neighbourhood is an absolute must while in Bremen!

2. Bremen City Hall

Bremen’s City Hall is one of the best examples of Brick Gothic and Weser architecture in Bremen, which is why it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the Bremen Roland statue standing in front of it.

On the exterior walls of the hall, you’ll find 16 sculptures of emperors, prince-electors and philosophers. In front of the hall is a statue of a knight with a drawn sword, which is called a Roland (for the mythological figure who fought under Charlemagne) and denotes that a German medieval city had town privileges.

Apparently, so long as the statue remains then Bremen will remain a free and independent city. It’s also commonly believed that there is a spare statue kept within the vaults of the town hall in case the statue should ever fall, they can quickly replace it!

While here, you can easily admire another one of Bremen’s main tourist attractions – a statue of the Musicians of Bremen from the fairytale, which can be found between the City Hall and the Church of Our Lady on Schoppensteel Street.

3. Marktplatz

Bremen’s City Hall faces out over another one of the prettiest places to see in Bremen, the Marktplatz or main square of the city.

This square is no longer used for markets (except during Christmas when there is quite a magical Christmas Market to experience) but it is ringed by historic buildings and cosy cafés for people watching. The Friemarkt Fair is also held here in October each year and is one of the oldest fun fairs held in Germany, going strong since 1035.

Along with the town hall, Bremen’s Cathedral (more on that later) and State Parliament building tower over the cobbled Marktplatz. Make sure to also keep an eye out for the Bremer Loch, or “Bremer Hole”, a bronze donation box that’s installed in the ground in front of the parliament building. If you put a coin in, it will play a musical thank you from one of the four animal musicians!

4. Schlachte

Not far from Bremen’s city centre is a delightful promenade next to the river known as the Schlachte.

Named for the street next to the river, this area was once part of Bremen’s harbour but is now more famous for being lined with restaurants, pubs, beer gardens and boats, some of which also offer onboard dining. Visitors can enjoy a stroll next to the river or take advantage of a boat cruise to see the sights.

While the Schlachte is definitely a great spot for a German beer in summer, you can enjoy it year-round. On Saturdays, there’s a flea market held on the promenade and during winter it’s the location of a unique Christmas market, where even the ship masts are strung with festive lighting.

5. Böttcherstraße

One of the most unique things to see in Bremen is Böttcherstraße, a small street that’s only about 100 metres long, but packed with unusual architecture and interesting relief sculptures.

While parts of Böttcherstraße (and Bremen itself) date to the Middle Ages, many of the most interesting buildings here were built by Ludwig Roselius, a German coffee merchant who founded the company Café HAG (originally Kaffee HAG in German). He had a number of modern buildings constructed in different expressionist styles, which have been protected since 1973.

A wander down Böttcherstraße will lead you to see some fascinating sculptures and architectural styles, like the House of the Seven Lazy Brothers which features statues of the not actually lazy brothers.

Other highlights include the curved dome of the Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum, the beautiful Glockenspiel House (pictured below) which houses 30 bells made of Meissen porcelain, and the golden Lichtbringer sculpture of the archangel Michael at the entrance to the Böttcherstraße street.

6. Bremen-Vegesack

North of the city of Bremen is a district called Bremen-Vegesack that’s usually just shortened to Vegesack by locals.

This neighbourhood is located further up the Weser River where it connects with the Lesum River and was traditionally used for sailing ships to berth in winter or during bad weather. Between 1619 – 1623 a proper harbour was constructed here, which was also both the first artificial harbour of Germany, and one of the first in Europe!

Today Vegesack’s harbour is a sort of open-air museum rather than a working harbour, with the beautiful full-rigged sail training ship Schulschiff Deutschland one of the highlights. The first weekend of June is also when the Vegesacker Hafenfest (harbour festival) takes place, featuring live music, shanty choirs, maritime attractions and stands offering up culinary delights.

7. Rhododendronpark

The Rhododendron-Park und Botanischer Garten Bremen is easily one of the most beautiful places in Bremen, featuring 46 hectares of gardens, most of which focus on rhododendrons and azaleas.

Every year for six weeks around the month of May, more than 1,000 types of rhododendron and azalea bushes come into bloom in a stunning display of colour. Even if you visit outside of this period, there’s also a lovely botanical garden with different sections displaying other plants from around the world.

One of the best parts of Bremen’s Rhododendronpark is that it’s completely free to enter, and you only need to pay a small fee if you also want to explore the Discovery Centre and thematic greenhouse complex called Botanika. It’s a fun way to experience plants from the mountains of the Himalayas to the rainforests of Borneo without ever leaving Bremen!

8. Kunsthalle Bremen

One of the best places to visit in Bremen on a rainy day is the Kunsthalle Bremen, an art museum located close to the Bremen Old Town on what’s known as the “Culture Mile”.

The Kunsthalle Bremen was designed and constructed by the city’s art society in 1849, becoming the first such society in Germany with its own building. And while places like Berlin , Munich and Paris may be more famed for their art, Bremen’s gallery contains a surprising number of works by well-known greats.

Inside the Kunsthalle Bremen are paintings and sculptures dating from the 14th century, including pieces by Claude Monet, Édouard Manet, Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Cézanne.

During WWII many pieces from the collection were moved to keep them safe from bombing after the original Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze was burnt by a fire bomb. Unfortunately, many pieces were looted and more than 1,500 works from the Kunsthalle remain missing today.

9. Mühle am Wall

If you’re looking for Bremen places to visit where you can eat and also enjoy nice views then you shouldn’t miss Mühle am Wall, a restaurant in a former flour mill that’s surrounded by gardens!

When you look at Bremen on Google maps you can see a sort of zig-zag-shaped park next to water surrounding the eastern edge of the city centre. These parks were once part of the city’s ramparts, or walls, which served as Bremen’s defence along with a moat. Within the walls were six gates as well as six grain mills.

While the walls and windmills were later removed, one of the mills was reconstructed on the original spot in 1833 and renovated in 1998, when a café was also opened inside. Today the sight of this Dutch-style windmill is a surprising symbol of Bremen and usually called the coffee mill by locals.

As well as coffee, snacks and lunch, Mühle am Wall offers a set brunch menu on Sundays. Don’t miss the flower field directly next to the windmill for your photos either!

10. St. Petri Dom Bremen

Bremen’s Cathedral, also called Bremer Dom or St Petri Dom, is an imposing structure which stands next to the Bremen City Hall on Marktplatz.

The current building was constructed between 1043-1072, after the church before it was destroyed in a fire. It was built in the cruciform style with rounded Romanesque arches and a crypt beneath. Between 1219-1258 the more Gothic parts of the cathedral were added although it fell into disrepair when Protestantism swept through northern Germany around the 1520s.

Both of the main towers also collapsed at different times, one of which remained an open ruin for nearly two and a half centuries. The cathedral was restored in the 1880s, reopening in 1901 and today receives around 420,000 visitors per year.

Highlights when visiting include the Cathedral Museum, where guests can learn more about the history of the building for free. You can also climb up to the viewing platform of the south tower and descend into the crypts to see mummies from centuries past!

11. Universum Bremen

Universum Bremen is one of the most fascinating Bremen attractions; a science museum where visitors are encouraged to touch and explore around 250 interactive exhibits!

Not only are the museum exhibits fascinating, but the museum building itself is worth a stop just for a photo of the eye-catching curved metallic building, which looks a bit like a crashed or parked UFO, depending on which side you view it from.

There are three main themes explored in the museum: Technology, Humans and Nature. Since 2007 there has also been an outdoor area with exhibits about water and wind, including a tower offering views over the city from 27 metres high.

The Universum Bremen is definitely a great place for kids in Bremen, or just anyone who is interested in science and/or likes interactive exhibits rather than just looking at stuff.

Did we miss any of your favorite places to visit in Bremen?

Let us know in the comments so we can add more to our list!

12 things to do in Bremen, Germany

Post author: Andrew D'Amours
Post published: July 10, 2024
Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
Post comments: 0 Comments

From a small fishing village to a modern cultural hub, Bremen has grown into a fantastic travel destination over the last 1000+ years. But the Northwestern Germany city is usually overlooked by travelers heading to nearby Hamburg and other popular destinations, such as Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich.

If you take the time to stop off in Bremen, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in its major metropolitan area with about 2.5 million inhabitants (similar to Vancouver), Germany’s 10 th -largest.

There’s a medieval town center, historical landmarks, fantastic food, art galleries, museums, and more! And without so many crowds, it’s the perfect time to visit the fun and exciting Hanseatic city before it becomes more popular.

Here’s what you need to know about the top things to do in Bremen.

1. Marktplatz and City Hall

The central market square in Bremen, Marktplatz , is a beautiful open square with stunning architecture and several important monuments, such as the Roland Statue (Bremer Roland), a statue of a fictional knight who symbolizes the city’s freedom.

Typical German brown and orange-toned buildings in Bremen’s marketplace (Marktplatz)

The Bremen City Hall is the most recognizable and impressive building here. The stonework is decoratively carved with incredible figures and statues.

It’s so incredible that the tandem formed by the City Hall and the Roland Statue is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

People walking in front of Bremen’s brown-bricked and green-roofed City Hall

Inside the City Hall is equally beautiful, with incredible wooden structures. It’s still in use, but the building itself exhibits history in every corner.

Besides the Roland Statue, there is a modern statue of a donkey, rooster, dog, and cat that represents the famous Brothers Grimm’s Town Musicians of Bremen fairytale.

2. Bremen Ratskeller wine cellar

Right in the heart of Bremen is Germany’s oldest barrel of wine, dating back to 1653. It’s also stored in one of the oldest wine cellars, Ratskeller , which has been in the same place since 1405.

Closeup of the metal door to the treasure chamber, where the most expensive wine is stored, letting a blue light come through in the red-lighted cellars of the Ratskeller in Bremen

Since 1330, the town council has regulated who can buy and sell white wine. Since the council needed a cellar to store the wine, for hundreds of years, the most expensive wines were kept here. And now, you can take a tour and taste the wine! There’s even a specific wine that was last tasted by the late Queen Elizabeth II.

The wine cellar has multiple halls and cellars as well as meeting rooms used for notable guests like Kaiser Wilhelm, Hitler, Wagner, Strauss, and Otto von Bismark. If you’re feeling fancy, you can eat at the on-site restaurant , which has amazing food and even better wine, straight from the cellars.

3. Handwerkerhof and the Bonbon Manufaktur

Handwerkerhof translates to “craftsman’s courtyard,” and it’s a small but beautiful courtyard right in the heart of the city. The shops here are all traditional, and you can find local artisans and craftspeople selling their work.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Benjamin Tiyaworabun (@benjamin.tiyaworabun)

The highlight of this courtyard is the Bonbon Manufaktur , the sweet maker. The smells that waft from the shop, and the bright displays of hard sweets and candies are enticing enough to lure you in.

There is a window into the kitchen in the shop, where you can watch over 100 different sweets being made using traditional techniques. It’s the best souvenir!

4. Böttcherstraße

Although it’s only 100m long, the Böttcherstraße (Böttcher Street) in the center of Bremen is one of the city’s biggest attractions. The whole street was constructed in under 10 years in the 1920s but it seems to be much older.

Bronze textured sculpture of a war angel with a sword on a reddish brown brick wall at the entrance of the Böttcherstraße in Bremen

The buildings are unusual in the expressionist style and have stunning brickwork — and were commissioned by Nazi sympathizers in the 1930s. Directly above the street, that massive bronze relief is called Der Lichtbringer . It was dedicated to Germany’s most infamous artist, Adolf Hitler, but he called the work “degenerate art”.

Böttcherstraße now has stylish bars, small boutiques, and art galleries. There are also some restaurants and museums, making it a lovely place to slow down and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

On this street, you can find the famous Haus des Glockenspiels (House of the Carillon). The building is gorgeous, and if you visit at the right time, 30 porcelain bells play sea shanties and old folk songs — it’s magical!

A lesser-known attraction is Himmelsaal (Heaven Hall), hidden inside a historic building called Haus Atlantic . Visits are very limited, but if you can make it work, you’ll be able to admire a mystical place. The adjoined staircase is also impressive and is usually more accessible, by going through the Radisson Blu Hotel Bremen .

Himmelsaal of the Haus Atlantis with a light wooden floor, rows of red chairs, a blue and clear square mosaic glass roof letting the sun shine through in the whole room

5. Kunsthalle Bremen

The private Bremen Art Society has run the Kunsthalle museum for over 200 years. It has a vast collection of artworks, drawings, and more. The museum features art and artists from all over Europe dating back to the 14 th century.

Bremen’s brown-bricked Kunsthalle building with big windows and sculptures over them

There is a huge collection of 19 th and 20 th -century art, including works by Delacroix, van Gogh, Edvard Munch, and Alfred Sisley.

One of the highlights of this museum is the print and drawing department, which has thousands of sketches, doodles, prints, and more from the 1400s through today. The modern section, meanwhile, showcases interactive and digital art, which is a fun contrast.

Tickets cost €10 (∼ C$15), and you’ll want to allow a few hours to take it all in. If you want to visit other art museums, Schnoor One and Weserburg are also highly rated.

6. St. Peter’s Cathedral

The huge St. Peter’s Cathedral (also called the Bremen Cathedral or St. Petri Dom ) is hard to miss. With 2 giant towers and spires with traditional green roofing, it has an unusual mix of styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Gothic Revival.

St.Peter’s Cathedral brown bricked building in Bremen with black detailing and its 2 high green-roofed pointed towers on a sunny day

As impressive as it is outside, it’s even more impressive inside. Some parts of the cathedral date back over 1,000 years, including the crypt where you can see 8 mummies in glass cases; creepy! You can also head up one of the towers for one of the best views in the city.

St. Peter’s Cathedral interior with chandeliers hanging from the white painted ceiling in Bremen, Germany.

The cathedral has a museum with many amazing artifacts which are no longer displayed in the main church, along with details about the building’s history, the renovation work, and its style.

Opposite the church, there’s a unique attraction: a spuckstein (spit stone). Bremen citizens still spit on a special basalt stone that marks where the head of the last person to be publicly beheaded in the city fell. Her name was Gesche Gottfried, and she was a female serial killer who had poisoned 15 people in the early 1800s.

7. Altstadt and Schnoorviertel

Like many German towns, Bremen has an incredible, picture-perfect old town that you’ll want to explore on foot. It’s called the Altstadt and it’s where you’ll find many of the attractions from this post.

Brown and white buildings on a narrow cobblestoned street of Schnoorviertel in Bremen

The most beautiful part, with the most medieval feel, is the Schnoor . This tangled knot of narrow, cobbled streets features amazing traditional architecture and beautiful timber-framed houses.

Once the neighborhood of poor fishermen, it’s now a chic, attractive area with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and hand-crafted souvenir stores. You can stop for tea and traditional cakes before trying handmade sweets, supporting a local artist, or just doing some window shopping. The Viertel neighborhood just east is also worth a stroll.

Colorful buildings on a narrow cobblestoned street of Schnoorviertel in Bremen at night featuring gratifies on the doors of a red-bricked wall

8. Schlachte

The Schlachte is Bremen’s waterfront promenade on the River Weser, the longest river entirely in Germany. The pedestrian walkway runs the entire length of the old town and beyond.

Illuminated harbor with boats at night in Bremen with the city in the background

It has a section with bars and Biergarten (beer gardens) where locals gather to sit on the banks of the water and talk over a drink. You’ll also find a market, food stalls, or street music to enjoy.

You can board a river cruise from here. If you cross the river, you can also visit the Beck’s brewery , as Bremen is the home of this well-known beer.

9. Bürgerpark

Bremen has plenty of parks, but the most popular is Bürgerpark (citizen’s park). This vast park covers over 200 hectares and has something for everyone: carefully manicured gardens, dedicated sunbathing spots, beautiful lakes, mini golf, boat rentals, and several boules pitches.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stadt Bremen (@bremermoment)

It attracts people looking to have a picnic, go jogging, catch up with friends, or play sports. You’ll find plenty of locals here, and yet because it’s so big, it never feels busy.

There is also a famous animal enclosure, which once had kangaroos, camels, and reindeer wandering around freely. Now, you can find guinea pigs, donkeys, geese, boars, wild pigs, peacocks, sheep, and alpacas.

The animal enclosure in Bürgerpark, Bremen with goats eating grass and a thatching roof and white walls house behind it

Depending on your schedule, you could spend all day here just exploring the park, but you’ll want to allow 1-2 hours at a minimum.

10. Museums

Bremen has many popular museums.The Universum Bremen is a science museum worth visiting if only for the building’s unique architecture. It’s located not too far from the city center and Bürgerpark, near the University of Bremen. That’s where you can visit the Fallturm Bremen , one of only a few microgravity drop towers in the world (a structure where weightlessness can be produced).

The large egg-shaped metal modern building of the Universum Bremen with the sun beaming on it

The Overseas Museum ( Übersee Museum ) is a natural history and ethnographic museum that dates back to 1887 and is located near the old town.

The Bremer Geschichtenhaus (House of History) has costumed actors telling the history of the city and is located in the Schnoor neighborhood.

11. Valentin submarine pens

Slightly further down the river from Bremen are the incredible Valentin submarine pens (also called the U-boat Bunker). This huge factory was meant to produce and shelter German U-boats during WWII. It was the largest in Germany and the 2 nd -largest in the world.

Aerial view of Bunker Valentin by the water in Rekum with a countryside village in the background

Although the pens were never fully constructed, and no submarine was ever made here, they are now a commemorative site enriched by an extensive photo collection. You can reach them by car or using public transport, and it is free to visit.

You can take a self-guided tour , which is incredibly thorough. You’ll learn about the construction — tragically marked by the loss of 6,000 slave prisoners, the technical aspect of building a submarine, as well as more general information about the impact of WWII in the area.

12. Relaxation

If you want to relax after busy days of exploring the city, you can splurge on a nice hotel for at least a part of your stay. Trivago has plenty of accommodation options in Bremen.

But the best option is a beautiful free hotel — and it’s easy to get! Take advantage of travel rewards deals like our Flytrippers readers who have earned over 3 million dollars in free travel with them (especially with this hotel deal).

Bronze-toned bar and reception of the Moxy Bremen featuring red neon lights and accent decor pieces, gray and black walls and floors, and a table with red chairs

The Moxy Bremen is a beautiful and recent hotel near the waterfront in the newly redeveloped harbor area, close to the old city and all the attractions.

It costs 9,500 Marriott points per night (47,500 for 5 nights) in May — and even less if you travel in the low season. That’s just 4,750 points per person per night with a companion! It’s not as cheap as Marriott hotels in Southeast Asia of course, but that’s not bad at all for Western Europe.

The current welcome bonus on the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card gives you 53,000 points (or 106,000 points if your companion takes advantage of it too).

Price screenshot of the Moxy Bremen of a 5-night stay at 47,500 reward points on the Marriott website

The cash price is C$850 ($170/night for 5 nights), so using points can give you excellent value — those particular dates give you almost twice our conservative Flytrippers Valuation! You can read how Marriott Bonvoy points work .

Moxy is the most hip, young, and lively of Marriott’s 30+ different hotel brands . Hotels have fun lobbies that are actually a bar and a game room all at once, with a great social atmosphere.

The social lounge and bar area looks like a great spot to chill if you want to spend a day at a slower pace while in Bremen.

Learning how to travel for less

Join over 100,000 savvy Canadian travelers who already receive Flytrippers’ free newsletter so we can help you travel for less (and inspire you, too)!

Sign up for our free newsletter

Bremen is like a fairy tale town. It’s full of authentic charm and important historic sites. You’ll have a great time checking out the museums, enjoying the nightlife, and relaxing by the Weser River.

What would you like to know about traveling in Germany? Tell us in the comments below.

See the flight deals we spot: Cheap flights

Discover free travel with rewards: Travel rewards

Explore awesome destinations : Travel inspiration

Learn pro tricks : Travel tips

Featured image: Bremen, Germany (photo credit: Jahanzeb Ahsan)

Share this post to help us help more people travel more for less:

Andrew D'Amours

10 best islands to visit in the Mediterranean Sea

6 heavenly beaches in Europe that are even more incredible in winter

9 things to do in Bucharest, Romania

25 Fascinating Things To Do in Bremen, Germany

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here .

Let’s Explore Some Awesome Things to Do in Bremen, Germany!

Is Bremen, Germany worth visiting? We think the answer is yes! From the gorgeous old town to the riverside walk, there are plenty of reasons to check out this German city.

You might have even heard of a few of the top attractions in Bremen – like the Bremen Roland statue or even the Bremen Christmas markets?

We got to explore the city over the course of a day trip and actually full-on considered moving there. Dead serious.

It’s just so livable and beautiful that we couldn’t help but wonder what life would be like there.

Bremen’s location just a few hours from Hamburg means that you should make it down once you are done with all the great things to do in Hamburg .

In any case, there are plenty of free, paid, and unusual things to do in Bremen – from exploring museums to rubbing donkey statues for luck (seriously). So, here are some great ideas for things to do and see in Bremen!

If you want to see what Bremen looks like, you can watch a short video on our YouTube Channel here !

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do and See in Bremen, Germany

Okay, so here we are with the things to do and see in Bremen! Now, keep in mind that this list is pretty extensive but not complete.

That said, it definitely includes the top sights in the historic centre (which we loved) with a few of the lesser-known museums, attractions, and areas that we got to check out.

We had an amazing time exploring Bremen and we want to get back soon to see the rest of the city!

Bremen Marktplatz

old town market square with houses and city hall bremen things to do

If you are heading to Bremen, there is no better place to begin your adventure than at the main Marktplatz.

This open square is home to many of the top attractions, important architectural buildings, and an amazing city atmosphere that you should experience – from the Town Hall to Bremen Roland, the Cathedral, and more.

There is a TON to learn about in the Marktplatz alone, so consider a Bremen Old Town walking tour to learn all about the little details that you might miss on your own.

We ended up having a coffee and cake at Beck’s Bistro – a restaurant/cafe with loads of seating right on the square.

That said, there are cafes all over the place so just have a look at the menus and choose a spot you like. We wanted to sit in the sunshine so this one made the most sense for the time of day we visited.

white and gold building on old market square bremen germany

As we sat, we just got to enjoy the world around us. From the historic houses behind us (now cafes) to the Haus Schütting to out left, it’s almost overwhelming how pretty the square is.

Fun Fact: the Haus Schütting (in the photo above) served as a guild house for merchants and tradesmen. It was built and rebuilt (burned down in 1944) over the centuries.

water in fountain with horses and trees behind bremen

The whole square is also home to some impressive fountains, sculptures, and other little points of interest. You can find them scattered around the place.

We really liked the Neptunbrunnen which you can see above. The Marcus-Brunnen (near the entrance to the main shopping street) was neat to see, too.

Address: Am Markt 2, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Explore Bremen Like a Pro! Get a Bremen Erlebniscard – for transit pass and discounts on attractions!

Bremen Town Hall

historic town hall with cathedral tower behind bremen germany

Also known as the Bremen Rathaus, the historic town hall in Bremen is definitely one of the reasons people stop in for a visit. Originally built over 600 years ago, this Town Hall is quite the sight.

Known for its famed Upper Town Hall and Golden Chamber – it’s no wonder it draws so many visitors. The Town Hall is extra important to a city like Bremen – given the city’s mandate to remain largely autonomous for centuries.

The current version of the Town Hall was actually redone in the 1600s in a Renaissance style – that’s what you can see today.

In fact, there are little dates above the right and left top windows which put a time stamp on the exterior design.

Because of the rich history and beautiful architecture, the Town Hall was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 (along with the Roland Statue and the Marktplatz, in general).

Today, you can go inside (book a spot below), and there’s even a restaurant (Ratskeller) in the vintage wine cellar below the Town Hall.

The entrance is just to the left of the front. You can book a guided tour through the English version of the tourism website for Bremen here .

Address: Am Markt 21, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Bremen Roland Statue

stone statue in german town square with blue sky things to do in bremen

“Roland” statues mean a lot to medieval cities in Germany. Built back in 1404, Bremen’s stone Roland statue has a very significant meaning to the city to this day!

Think of the statue as Bremen’s version of the “Statue of Liberty”. As the legend goes, Roland – depicted as a knight (a noble figure of the Medieval Ages) was erected in cities to reinforce their belief for preserving/upholding a city’s freedoms and market rights.

Bremen’s Roland was built to face the Cathedral – a direct “stand-off” with the seat of the archbishops of the time (who imposed rule on the city).

Things have cooled off these days and in 2004 Bremen’s Roland was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, the statue can be seen with a crowd gathered – taking photographs and learning about its history. The location directly in front of the Town Hall helps with the popularity, though.

Address: Am Markt, 28195 Bremen, Germany

The “Town Musicians of Bremen”

statue of animals on top of one another in old town bremen germany

If you visit Bremen, you might see artwork in shops or tourist takeaways that feature a donkey, dog, cat, and rooster.

Confused yet? You shouldn’t be! Bremen is the setting for a fairy tale by the famous German writers – the Brothers Grimm.

One of their childhood tales is about those animals as they become musicians and head for the city of Bremen. The tale was from centuries before but the Brothers’ Grimm published it in 1819.

Today, you can’t visit Bremen without checking in with the four animals at the famous sculpture located to the left of the Town Hall if you are facing it.

Completed in 1953, apparently it’s good luck to touch the donkey’s nose or touch his legs which Lisa had to try.

There’s also a circle plaque and coin slot in the main square (literally in the cobblestone ground) where you can drop money to hear the animals make their sounds!

If you want to learn more about the folklore of the animals, the connection to Bremen, and the history of the old town itself, you can join a “Musicians of Bremen” historic walking tour !

Address: Schoppensteel 1, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Bremen Cathedral

two towers of cathedral on bremen germany with blue sky behind

Also called the St. Petri Dom Bremen, the Bremen Cathedral is definitely one of the top sights in the city.

Named after St. Peter, the cathedral has a very long history – one that would be way too complicated to get into in this post.

Just know that an original timber building was built back in 789. Since then, it’s been changed, rebuilt in the current form in the 13th century, been damaged by fire, age, WWII bombing, and more.

Parts have been added, removed, changed, and renovated into the structure you see today!

green statue of man on horse beside bremen dom things to do

Of course, we can’t do a visit to the Cathedral justice – so it’s best to go and see the inside for yourself.

The Cathedral offers many different areas like its 5 organs, and tombs and crypts that have famous German figured buried there.

There’s an interior Bible Garden and you can even check out one of the towers (for a small fee) in the summer months!

sun rays shine on brick walls and old windows of cathedral bremen germany

Tucked away behind the cathedral, you can find the Cathedral Museum.

Opened in 1987, you can learn about the history of the Cathedral through medieval paintings, sculptures, and other important artefacts.

There’s more than one room to check out so it’s worth the time if you’re interested in Bremen history. You can learn more about visiting the Museum here !

Address: Sandstraße 10-12, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Church of Our Lady

old church with tiny wooden framed house beside bremen germany things to do

Also known as the “Kirche Unser Lieben Frauen”, this smaller church tucked away behind the Town Hall on the market square is still pretty important!

The original building was built back in the 11th century. Since the crypt still exists in the church today, the “Church of Our Lady” is actually the oldest surviving church in the city!

The outside structure you see today was created in the 13th century – much like the Bremen Cathedral.

You can visit the church and check out its stunning features – including statues on the exterior, beautiful old murals on the inside dating from the 14th century, and even a crypt.

Address: Unser Lieben Frauen Kirchhof 27, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Schnoorviertel

old timbre houses down alleyway in bremen germany

If you want to wander around an area of Bremen and feel like you have been transported back in time to the Middle Ages (15th century), then head to Schnoorviertel!

Also known as the Schnoor Quarter, this historic area is home to classic winding alleyways and wood-timbered houses that date back to as early as the Medieval Ages.

The area was associated with shipping – producing ropes, cables, and anchor chains.

timbered small houses down small alleyway in bremen germany

However, most houses you see today were built in the 17th and 18th centuries. Luckily, much of the area was undamaged by bombing in World War II which is why it’s so well preserved.

Today, the whole quarter is lined with shops, galleries, cafes, restaurants, and even a tiny, tiny guesthouse which you can stay in !

signs hanging from old shops down small alleyway in bremen things to do

Overall, the area is definitely something you should check out. We loved our wander through. You might even stop for a bite to eat, a coffee, or even a beer – like Beck’s!

If you want to check out the Schnoorviertel and learn all about it from a knowledgeable guide, consider a Schnoor guided walking tour !

Address: Schnoor, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Beck’s Brewery

Speaking of Beck’s, you might not have known that Bremen is actually the home of Beck’s beer!

Founded back in 1873, Beck’s is a beer that is recognizable in many places around the world – and the brewery where it all began is in town!

In fact, it’s just across the river from the Old Town. If you want to learn more about the famous beer, the history of brewing it in Bremen and give it a sip or two, check out a guided tour of Beck’s Brewery .

Address: Am Deich 20, 28199 Bremen, Germany

Böttcherstraße

golden statue with red brick alleyway behind bottcherstrasse breman germany

Another street that catches plenty of attention in Bremen (besides Schnoorviertel) is Böttcherstraße.

Located just off the main market square to the south, this short and narrow street is quite a sight to see.

The street is only about 100 metres long but served as a link between the river and the main square in medieval Bremen.

After it became less important (the main harbour moved), the area was bought and developed in the early 1900s by Ludwig Roselius. There is a mix of architectural styles and materials used along the street.

In fact, the varying architecture used during the inter-war period of the 1930s was a point of contention for Hitler himself.

Today, there are plenty of attractions to check out along the street – as well as just wandering down the street itself.

fountain with candy shop behind in bremen germany

We will dive into a few of the specific top attractions on Böttcherstraße just below.

However, just so you know, there are lots of shops (like the Bremer Bonbon Manufaktur Candy Shop), museums (some more notable than others), bars, and even cafes you can sit at to enjoy the atmosphere.

We loved our wander down the street – everywhere you look there’s something unique to check out!

If you want to learn more about the history and the little details of the street (there are loads!) then check out a guided walking tour of Böttcherstraße .

Address: Böttcherstraße, Bremen

Glockenspiel House

old clock on red brick building in bremen germany

One of those top attractions down Böttcherstraße is the Glockenspiel House.

While the building existed beforehand, the 30 porcelain bells that make up the carillon were added between the building gables in 1934.

Along with the 10 rotating wooden panels that depict famous seafaring explorers and aviators, the bells ring multiple times a day and last for about 8 and a half minutes!

We were there right when it started at 5:00 pm (in April) and there was a small crowd standing in the square below the bells just enjoying the show and music. It was really cool to see… and hear!

Address: Böttcherstraße 4-6, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum

red brick tower in old town alleyway museum bremen

One of the other more notable museums along Böttcherstraße is the Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum.

Opened back in 1927, the museum was done in Brick Expressionist architecture – a very important example of that style to this day.

Even cooler, the museum was the first museum in the world devoted to a female artist!

Known for her role in early Expressionist painting, Hitler called it “degenerate art” and could have had it destroyed – but didn’t.

These days, there are more works by other artists which you can also check out. You can learn more about visiting the museum here .

Address: Böttcherstraße 6-10, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Weserburg Museum of Modern Art

Housed in the middle of the river on the Teerhof peninsula, the Weserburg Museum of Modern Art is a modern and contemporary art museum.

It was originally opened in 1991 and has housed the works of the most influential contemporary artists.

The unique point about the Weserburg is the fact that it’s known as a “collector’s museum” meaning that there is no permanent art collection onsite.

Instead, the works in display/in the exhibits are constantly changing since they come mainly from private collections!

The fact that it’s housed in an old factory building adds to the experience, too. You can learn more about visiting the Weserburg Museum here .

Address: Teerhof 20, 28199 Bremen, Germany

Kunsthalle Bremen

large museum entrance with blue sign in front things to do in bremen

If art is still your main interest, then visiting the top museum in the city should be high on your list!

The Kunsthalle Bremen, built in 1849, has grown and changed a bunch of times to house more and more works of European art.

The museum is located on the “Culture Mile” which also has a whole bunch of other museums, galleries, and theatres on it!

In all, the building has paintings from as early as the 14th century to today and sculptures from a little more recent.

The museum has works from famous painters like Monet, Cézanne, and Paula Modersohn-Becker (who we’ve talked about already!). There’s also a large collection of prints.

Interestingly (and sadly) enough, the building was firebombed in 1942 and some works were lost. The remaining works were spread across Germany in castles and bunkers to protect them.

However, when the Soviets took a castle at the end of the war, they also took works of art with them. To this day, over 1,500 pieces remain missing somewhere across Europe and the globe.

pathway over small pond with green trees around bremen germany

If you wander behind the museum, you can actually find a very tranquil green space with a long pathway over a pond.

If you cross the bridge (in the photo) you end up behind the Kunsthalle where there is a small cafe area.

There were plenty of people hanging out back there enjoying a coffee and other beverages on the hot day we had.

In any case, you can learn more about visiting the Kunsthalle at their official website (in German).

Address: Am Wall 207, 28195 Bremen, Germany

The Schlachte (Weser River Promenade)

pedestrian walkway beside river with blue sky things to do in bremen

If you want to enjoy the sea breeze while in Bremen, the best thing to do is to head down to the river for a walk of the Schlachte – this massively long promenade on the east bank of the Weser River.

We headed down for a walk of just the portion near the Bremen Mitte (city centre/old town) and it was honestly lovely.

The path is plenty wide for walkers, joggers, and even bikes. Then on the hillside there were loads of people enjoying picnics, beverages, and some sunshine! You can even find various boats tied up to the side of the river.

Many of them have been turned into museums, accommodations, theatres (Theaterschiff Bremen), and even clubs (MS Treue)!

Address: Schlachte, Bremen

Overseas Museum

Highlighting various aspects of Natural History, the Bremen Overseas Museum is something to be visited.

Located close to the central train station in a 19th-century building, the museum has a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits from around the globe.

The main purpose of the museum is to highlight three main aspects: Nature, Culture and Trading.

The museum itself is divided up basically into continents/regions of the world which you can explore. It’s basically a way to travel around the world to learn about people, culture, plants, and animals from the comfort of Europe/Bremen!

It’s nice to know that while most exhibits offer information in English, they also offer audio guides in English – and even have guided tours which you can schedule in advance in a number of languages (including English).

You can learn more and plan your visit with the official Overseas Museum website .

Address: Bahnhofsplatz 13, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Theatre am Goetheplatz

white pillars in front of opera house with trees around bremen germany

If you were super into performances and wanted to catch something while you were in Bremen, you might consider checking out the Theatre am Goetheplatz.

Built back in 1913, this Neo-classical style theatre is the main theatre in Bremen and home to the official State Theatre group.

It’s located on the Culture Mile with the other galleries and museums (understandably).

The theatre was actually rebuilt a bunch of times – notably after World War II and then again in the early 2000s to modernize the technical requirements of modern performances.

Performances are in German, but you can still go and check it out! If you wanted to visit, you can check the website for performances and dates (in German only).

Address: Goetheplatz 1-3, 28203 Bremen, Germany

Gerhard Marcks House

small museum with white pillars at front entrance bremen things to do

If you were inspired by the sculpture of “Town Musicians of Bremen” in the main Marktplatz, then you might want to visit the Gerhard Marcks House/Museum.

This is because he’s the guy who created the famous display of stacked animals!

Opened in 1971, the Gerhard Marcks House holds over 400 sculptures, 1,200 prints, and 12,000 drawings.

As more of a contemporary artist, the museum does a great job of highlighting work across his career. If this kind of art interests you, check out the official website here .

Fun fact: the two buildings (this one and the one below – the Wilhelm Wagenfeld House) were built in 1825 as a prison and a pair of gatehouses.

Up until 1848, they were used to “close” the city at night at the east entrance!

Address: Am Wall 208, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Wilhelm Wagenfeld House

small art gallery with white pillars at roadside bremen germany

Once you are done across the street at the Gerhard Marcks House, you can pop over to the Wilhelm Wagenfeld House.

This smaller museum and exhibition centre is dedicated to showcasing the works of Wilhelm Wagenfeld.

This Bremen-born industrial designer is actually responsible for the way that many household items from the 20th century look! If you want to learn more, you can check out the official website .

Address: Am Wall 209, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Located within the grounds of Rhododendron-Park Bremen (another attraction that can be on this list) Botanika is a nature museum dedicated to learning all about plants from around the world.

These indoor gardens have information on display (in English, too) and even live guides/staff who can tell you about things as you explore through different rooms/climate zones.

Besides plants, onsite at Botanika there are special rotating exhibits, live animals (like rabbits and a butterfly section), a pond filled with koi, and even a cafe/restaurant which you can eat tea/cake at!

If you want to visit Botanika, you can plan a visit with their website !

Address: Deliusweg 40, 28359 Bremen, Germany

Universum Bremen

If interactive museums are more for you (or you are travelling to Bremen with kids), then checking out the Universum Bremen is a must!

With over 300 exhibits to check out (and interact with), there are loads of things to keep you busy. The museum was opened in 2000 and focussed on three main areas of science: Technology, Humans, and Nature!

One of the biggest reasons people visit the museum when they are in Bremen is for the design. The massive metallic-looking building is a mix of a whale or a clamshell.

Whatever you think it looks like, it certainly is eye-catching. The museum is located to the northeast of the city centre but still very much within distance of public transport.

There’s also an outdoor area that has been developed for interaction through even more hands-on exhibits and lovely green space. You can learn more about visiting the Universum Bremen .

Address: Wiener Straße 1A, 28359 Bremen, Germany

Wallanlagen Park

green lawn with tree and statue in front park bremen

If you want to enjoy a bit of green space, then you should check out Wallanlagen.

This park was built back in the 18th century and zigzags across the north end of the Old Town featuring a moat. Why the odd shape?

The green space was built on the site of Bremen’s old city walls – the ones that once protected the inner city from danger!

These days, there are no enemies threatening the city, so you can stroll the park checking out sculptures, fountains, and animals running about.

It was sunny the day we visited so the whole length of the park was covered in people laying on the grass or getting some exercise along the various paths.

If you follow the park long enough, you’ll end up crossing paths with the Windmill – which we’ll get to right below!

The Am Wall Windmill

windmill with colourful flowers and grass in front things to do bremen

Known as the “Mühle Am Wall” in German, this historic windmill is quite a sight to see.

At first, we drove past and saw the amazing flowers and then noticed the windmill behind them. Naturally, we had to visit later in the day – and we are glad we did!

Originally built back in 1699, various versions of this “Dutch-style” windmill have been damaged or burnt down over the years.

The current building you see today is from 1898. Today, you can visit the inside and grab a bite to eat because there’s a restaurant inside it. You can visit the website for it here .

On that note, if you walk about the garden paths and photograph the flowers and scenery, please don’t trample on or pick the flowers.

We were honestly disgusted with how many people were just walking into the flower beds to get the perfect photos.

We even saw more than one person (children and adults!) with a full-on bouquet of freshly picked flowers to take with them.

If everyone does that, there would be no flowers left – so just enjoy the place with your hands-off.

Address: Am Wall 212, 28195 Bremen, Germany

The Ehrenmal Memorial on the Altmannshöhe + Views

red brick memorial with iron gate in bremen park

Close by to the back of the Kunsthalle, you will find a small hill. If you climb it, you will see this giant red circle.

We sure did – and we got curious – so we went. Turns out, these bricks are part of an open-air memorial.

Opened in 1935, you can find the names of 10,000 German soldiers from Bremen alone who died in World War 1. There’s nothing to do there – it’s just fascinating to see.

views of river and trees from above lookout bremen germany

The real gem is if you turn around from the memorial. Since you climbed a hill close to the river, you are greeted by a bunch of nice benches and a great view of the street, river walk, and river below!

We sat up there for some time – others came and went while we sat, just admiring the views. Overall, a pretty good little side hike!

Speicher XI Dockland Museum

Located in an old cotton warehouse over in the port area known as Überseestadt, the Dockland Museum is one way to blast through 120 years of seafaring history!

The development of Bremen has a vital connection to the river, so the museum itself is fascinating by presenting the port’s history through various exhibits.

You can learn about the building of the port, the jobs that the locals have worked over the years, and even see what life was like living on a ship back in the day.

So, if history is your thing, you can plan a visit and learn more at the official website . You should also check out the Überseestadt area while you are over there since there’s loads to see and it’s further from the historic centre!

Address: Am Speicher XI 1, 28217 Bremen, Germany

Valentin Submarine Pens

If World War II history is what you want to keep exploring, then head to the Valentin Submarine factory (or what’s left of it).

Towards the end of the war, the bombing had basically halted the production of U-boats so this massive concrete structure was erected.

This shelter was built (through slave labour) between 1943 and 1945 – and it was designed to build and protect German U-boats (submarines) from bombing.

Though it was just months from completion, it was the biggest U-boat factory (that was fortified) in Germany.

These days, visitors can head far up the Weser River to the northwest of the Bremen Old Town and walk the path through the grounds and into the actual bunker.

You can go on a self-guided tour which takes you by the memorial for those who faced “Extermination through Work”, and then by 25 other information stations.

The Information Centre gives you even more information about the history of the area. Admission to the grounds is free and you can pick up an audio guide (in English and German) for a deposit.

You can even book a tour in advance of your visit for a small fee. You can learn all about visiting the Submarine Pens at this website .

Address: Rekumer Siel, 28777 Bremen, Germany

Things to Consider When Visiting Bremen

If you plan on checking out Bremen for a few days or just a day trip, here are a few things you should know – from getting there to getting around the city.

In case you love the city so much that you want to stick around, we’ve even got you covered for where to stay in Bremen!

How to Get to Bremen

Fun Fact: Bremen (along with Bremerhaven to the north) is actually its own state in Germany called the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen.

It’s the smallest of the German states but still counts! Bremen is located in the northwest of Germany about one hour 15 minutes southwest of Hamburg and about 2 hours north of Bielefeld.

If you are renting a car , the drive to Bremen is relatively simple – and there is plenty of parking downtown (as we experienced).

Another great way to get to Bremen is by train. It’s no secret that Germany has a great rail system and the central station in Bremen is just northeast of the old town/city centre.

You can check the train schedules at the DB Website – we use it (and the DB app) for trip planning literally every week.

Another form of transport you can take to Bremen is the bus. Again, taking a coach bus across Germany is really easy with lots of great connections to even the smallest of cities. You can check the bus connections on the Flixbus website .

Getting Around in Bremen

Once you are in Bremen, there are many options for getting around the city. The easiest is to just walk since the city centre is fairly flat and pretty accessible/compact.

The only difficulties for someone with mobility impairment are the cobblestones and/or green spaces you’ll find scattered around the city.

For the most part, there are good sidewalks and paths throughout these spaces. The river even has a nice wide walkway (mentioned below!).

If you want to reach things to do in Bremen that are farther from the centre or along the river, you can easily take public transit.

The system is made up of buses and trams. In fact, the tram runs RIGHT through the historic centre in front of the Town Hall so be careful where you stand to take photos! You can find ticket prices and trip planners for Bremen Transit (BSAG) here .

If you want to use transit and plan on seeing many sights, you might consider getting a Bremen Erlebniscard .

This Bremen pass works as your transit pass for 1 to 3 days and offers discounts at various attractions and places in Bremen. Might be worth looking into if you are exploring for a few days!

Where to Stay in Bremen

hotel entrance with red carpet and bushes things to do in bremen

Given that Bremen is such a popular city to visit and explore, there are plenty of great accommodation options to suit all different travel styles and budgets.

There are quite a few great hotels right in the city centre – so you are just a quick walk from all the top sights and the river! You can check here for Bremen accommodations .

We actually parked at the Radisson Blu (shown above) and walked through the lobby/restaurant – it looked gorgeous.

The hotel is located right in the old town so check out the Radisson Blu for a very central hotel choice.

red brick hotel through trees with blue sky swisshotel bremen

Another place that we stumbled upon is the Swissôtel Bremen.

This hotel is located right by the beautiful Windmill and is just outside the old city walls – making it a quick walk to the historic centre and the Bremen main train station. Check out the Swissôtel Bremen here .

That said, if you are interested in a hostel or a cheap hotel, there is a small handful of places to choose from – so check for hostels in Bremen here .

And there you have it – our rundown of the best things to do in Bremen, Germany! In the end, this is a good list but there are plenty more things to do and see.

They’ve got a pretty good football (soccer) team, you know! As we said, we loved the time we had in the city – and will definitely be back to explore more. Let us know how you liked it!

As always, Happy Bremen Waddlin’, -L&E

If you’re travelling to Germany and need travel tips or inspiration, here are some below!

Beautiful Places in German recommended by German bloggers
Get Your German Phrases Ready Before Exploring Berlin
Bremen made our Germany Itineraries for 5 to 14 days !
Discover Small Gems like Bamberg , Würzburg , or Aschaffenburg !
Check Out Other Cities Like Wiesbaden and Mainz
Some Hostels In Germany That We Loved
Compare flights on Skyscanner
Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
Research plug types and possibly get a travel adapter
Go over our packing list

Pin it for later!

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Destinations

Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

Things To Do In Bremen In 48 Hours

Last Updated August 16, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Attractions & Experiences » Things To Do In Bremen In 48 Hours

When we think about Germany, we often think lederhosen, unnecessarily large beer steins, castles, cuckoo clocks, and sausages but the country is so much more. Those that are seeking for something equally as beautiful, culture filled, but at the same time incredibly approachable, and easy to explore, make sure to add Bremen to that list.

With this list of things to do in Bremen in 48 hours , you can easily add this as one of your destinations for day trips from Hamburg. Read more to find out what you can add to your trip itinerary as you plan your trip through Northern Germany. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Bremen!

#1 – Bremen City Hall/Town Hall

#2 – viertel, #3 – beck’s brewery, #4 – böttcherstraße & haus des glockenspiels, #5 – town musicians of bremen, #6 – schnoor quarter, #7 – guided walking tour, #8 – universum bremen, #9 – markthalle acht, #10 – craft bier bar, #11 – bremer ratskeller and cellar tour, a quick bremen travel guide, travel resources for your next trip, things to do in bremen, germany.

You might not know too much about Bremen but this is a city that played a pretty significant part in European history. As a Free Hanseatic City from the 12th century, in Medieval times, this was a booming port city. The Weser River was the lifeblood of trade that brought in trade from all corners of the globe.

Today, it might not be as prosperous as it once was, but there are still a lot of remnants of that history and a fascinating contrast of pre-war, post-war rebuilding, and modern developments to discover.

Now if you only have 48 hours in Bremen , here’s what I recommend that you try to tackle in the limited time that you have. Hey, if I was able to do it, so can you!

things to do in bremen in 48 hours town hall city hall

This is the centrepiece of Bremen’s Market Square and one of the most beautiful civic buildings in all of Europe. Built in 1412, the Bremen Town Hall is over 600 years old and has since gone through its own evolution. It started off as a brick Gothic hall and 200 years later, the Renaissance reliefs were added to give it its beautiful facade. Finally in 1910-1911, an extension was added to the rear of the hall.

Standing outside and walking around the entire building is enough to get you marvelling at all the intricate carvings, gables, arcades, and statues that achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in 2005.

However, what most people miss out on are all the details inside and outside that are truly exquisite and fascinating. Highly recommended is the daily walking tours run by the city that take you inside to the Upper Hall, “secret” Golden Chamber, secret escape staircase, and ballroom. It’s through this tour that you truly get an understanding of the city’s innovation when it came to government, and the relation between church and state.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Hours: Mon-Sat 4PM and Sun 12PM. 1 hour length.

Price: €6.50 per person, free for children aged 12 or under accompanied by an adult.

Meeting point: Meet at the Town Hall entrance nearest the cathedral, next to the statue of the knight on horseback (small door on the left, next to the display case)

Are cameras allowed? Yes they are but flash is not allowed.
Is there a cloak room/coat check? – The foyer has a place for your jackets and bags. In fact, backpacks and shopping bags aren’t allowed os you will have you leave them behind. It’s unattended but this is in quite the secluded part of the city hall so it’s pretty safe.
What language is this in? English.

Book the tour

things to do viertel bremen neighbourhood

A neighbourhood with spunk, attitude, and no f*cks given. While you have the old part of town for history, culture, and architecture, locals spend most of their time here to eat, drink, and live. In that, there’s an unbounded energy to this area that’s grounded by the corner street where you’ll find my favourite cafe, Coffee Corner which I talk about in my Bremen and Bremerhaven itinerary .

Other things you’ll find in this neighbourhood is the awesome alley that I’ve coined “graffiti alley”, perfect examples of townhouse construction, Bermuda Triangle bar district, classic shops featuring art deco design, and the invention of the local favourite “rollo”.

In other cities, you’d call Viertel hipster but I think the locals would like to think of this spot as home.

becks brewery tour bar sampling in bremen

I hope I’m not the only ignorant one that had no clue that Beck’s originated from Bremen, Germany. This was certainly one of the big surprises of my visit and having done many brewery visits over the years, this is by far one of the best executed I’ve been to.

becks brewery tour silos things to do in bremen

What makes this a great brewery tour is that unlike the Heineken tour in Amsterdam, this is not a theme park experience. To gain entry, everyone has to wear a reflective work vest, and once you’re learning about how Beck’s makes their beer, you’re on the real production floor, with real beer being brewed, and real beer being bottled to be sold.

The other part that always makes a brewery tour fun is the end where you get to sample all types of beers that they make including the local Haack-Beck, and special variations that often never make it out of Germany.

Hours: Mon-Sat 3PM, except holidays. 3 hour length.

Price: €13,90 per person

Meeting point: Beck’s and Haake-Beck Visitors’ Centre ( Am Deich 18-19 , 28199 Bremen, State of Bremen, Germany )

Are photos allowed? They are only allowed in the museum and tasting room. Once you’re in the main facility, no photos are allowed. The main reason given is because there are real people working.
How many beers can you sample? – You get to sample 4 types of beer. You also get pretzels to cleanse your palette.
Can you buy souvenirs? The visitor centre has a selection of Beck’s souvenirs you can purchase.

Tips:

You can save 10% if you have an ErlebnisCARD
Reservations are required.

bottcherstrasse historic street in bremen things to do 48 hours

This small street may not be very big or long but this is the most unique part of the city that’s packed with so many little odds and ends in terms of stories, stores, hidden secrets, and architecture that almost feels out of place.

4 day itinerary in bremen and bremerhaven germany bottcherstrasse street

Let’s start with the architecture. At the turn of the 20th century, it was Ludwig Roselius, the inventor of decaf coffee who bought all of the houses in this rundown street and rebuilt it to be this architectural masterpiece to connect the market square and the Weser river. What makes Böttcherstraße unique is that it is primarily constructed out of red brick and assembled in an ornate art-deco fashion. What makes it almost whimsical here is that there are no specific rules that the design follows. Bricks protrude out from the wall to create shapes that are meant for your own interpretation, you have domes, triangle roofs, concave indentations, and sculptures.

If you’re strolling, there’s a lot to see too with a mix of souvenir shops, boutique stores, big brands such as Le Creuset, a wonderful candy shop, museums, and a big glockenspiel near the end of the street. Haus des Glockenspiels consists of 30 bells made of Meissen porcelain and play old folk songs. If you pay attention, there are wood panels that rotate to the tune of the bells to show important voyagers of the past.

bremen lightbringing relief closeup on bottcherstrasse

When it comes to secrets, the big one is the giant golden relief that you see at the entrance to the street. While it innocently depicts a god-like figure slaying a dragon, this was actually a piece of work commissioned by Nazi’s that actually shows a representation of Hitler slaying down his enemies. This became obvious when I zoomed in on the little people doing the Nazi salute.

If you’re looking for a guided tour of this street specifically, take a look at this Bottcherstrasse Walking Tour .

If you want to catch the Haus des Glockenspiels in action, make sure you come at the right time.

Hours: Winter (Jan-Mar) at 12PM, 3PM and 6PM and Summer (Apr-Dec) every hour between 12PM to 6PM. The show lasts 8.5 minutes.

Location: The building which houses the glockenspiel is located at No. 4 Böttcherstraße.

Read the reviews

Get the ErlebnisCARD

Whether you have 1 day or 3 days, this is a city pass card that gets you unlimited access to the local transit and also discounts for everything from tours, shows, souvenir stores, and restaurants. The great part is that the free public transportation starts 6PM the day before the starting date. Note: Single ticket bus/tram rides are 2.80 EUR in Bremen.

things to do in bremen town musicians of bremen

This fairy tale by the Brother’ Grimm follows 4 aging domestic animals who run away from their masters to become town musician in the city of Bremen. They don’t actually make it to the city because of a chance encounter with a band of robbers but they eventually live happy for the rest of their days.

They’re the mascots for the city and it’s quite a fitting one because it’s a story that follows the theme of “strength in unity”, and “living a life of no regrets”.

Just outside of the Town Hall is this copper statue that has the rooster, cat, dog, and donkey on top of each other. It’s smaller than you think but one of those sights in the city you have to stop by for a photo.

TIP: When taking a photo with the Town Musicians of Bremen, make sure to touch both legs of the donkey to make sure your wish is granted.

schnoor quarter things to do in 48 hours in bremen

This is the oldest neighbourhood in Bremen and as such is full of character and winding and narrow cobblestone streets that are begging to be explored.

You might be surprised to hear however that this wasn’t always a charming place to be. Situated right by the river, this was where the fishing community resided and was one of the poorest areas. Here, you’d find maritime businesses that focused on making parts for the ship such as the rigging. It was really the Toolbox of Bremen.

Today, classic timber-framed houses from the 15th and 16th century have survived and are occupied by galleries, cafes, bars, restaurants, and handicraft shops.

threesome bath statue in schnoor bremen things to see

There’s a beautiful courtyard that has patio seating for the nearby cafes but if you pay attention, in the middle is a statue of literally a threesome in a bath. This goes back to the seedy nature of this area back in the day and how city officials would take secret underground tunnels to access the “red light district”.

When you’re in Schnoor, also make sure to try to find the most narrow part of the neighbourhood at 53 cm.

If you have time, there’s a House of History museum (Bremer Geschichtenhaus) that’s quite interesting. For a guided tour of Schnoor, there’s an easy 1 hour walking tour that you can book.

Here’s a little more about the House of History museum. Learn about the city’s colourful historical characters including Gesche Gottfried, the mass poisoner.

Hours: Mon 12PM-6PM, Tue-Sun 11AM-6PM. Last tour always at 5pm.

Location: Wüstestätte 10, 28195 Bremen / Schnoor

Price:

Adults €7.20
Children aged 6 and under free of charge
Family ticket €14.90
Seniors €6.80

Book online

guided city tour of bremen in must do activity 2 days

I know this isn’t exactly a specific attraction or place but to truly get a full appreciation of the city and to hear all the little anecdotes and stories from its storied past makes all the difference when it comes to

This walking tour is run by the tourism office so you know that all of their guides are legitimate and well-trained. I was lucky enough to be guided by Pierre who not only had excellent easy-to-understand English but was incredibly knowledgable and full of energy.

bremen night watchman guided walking tour

The tour takes you through all the main areas of old town including the market square, Bottcherstrasse, and Schnoor Quarter where your guide will point out significant points in history, changes that have occurred, and things that look more than meets the eye.

If you’re looking for a different type of tour, take a look at Bremen Night Watchman Tour which is really good. Just note that this tour is in German only.

When: Daily at 1:30PM May – December, Saturday at 1:30PM from January – April. 2 hours in length.

Price: €8.50 per person. Free for children under 12 years accompanied by an adult and persons with wheelchair are free of charge. Save €1 with the ErlebnisCARD .

Location: Meet on the right side in front of the Tourist Information, Glockenspiel House, Böttcherstraße 4.

Are reservations required? Yes.

I was attracted to this museum because of it’s futuristic structure. Scaled with metallic tiles, it resembles a clam shell jutting out from the water that could also be easily mistaken for a flying saucer. At night, lights shine on it which makes for really interesting photos.

Universum Bremen by day is a science museum with over 300 exhibits and designed in a way to be very hands on and challenge young minds to solving problems. The three subject areas are Technology, Humans, and Nature.

There’s also a 27 metre high tower that offers great views of the city and more surprising exhibits to try and explore.

This is the perfect spot to go to on a rainy day or if you’re travelling with kids.

Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM and Sat-Sun 10AM – 6PM

Children, students, seniors €11
Evening ticket (1.5 hours before closing) €5
Family (2 adults, 1 child) €40

Directions: Wiener Straße 1A, 28359 Bremen. Take Tram #6 to Universität-Süd stop.

Parking: There isn’t specific parking for the museum but there are car parks in the vicinity.

Is there a cloakroom? – There is a cloakroom that can be used. In addition, there are also lockers available (for € 1.00 or € 5.00 deposit).
Is there English? – All of their exhibit and panel texts in the permanent exhibition are also in English.

Buy tickets online

where to eat in bremen markthalle acht 48 hour itinerary

If you’re the kind of person that doesn’t know what they want to eat until they see it or if you love food halls, Markthalle Acht is the place you want to be at. With up to 20 food stalls at any given point in time, they’ve brought the collective geniuses of chefs and restaurateurs in one spot to highlight some of the best food from around the world.

You’ll find the market near the heart of the centre of the city and just a little off from Market Square. I love the youthful vibe the space as, reclaimed from what used to be bank. A lot of the materials used are reclaimed and reused which I love seeing. A ton of light comes into the courtyard which has a transparent canopy that covers it all.

Hours: Tues-Wed 11AM-7PM, Thurs-Sat 11AM-10PM, Closed Sunday and Monday.

Location: Domshof 8-12, 28195 Bremen, Germany

craft bier bar where to drink in bremen germany itinerary

Okay yes I know craft beer and bars are all over Europe and really all the rage around the world but this one was such a great hidden gem of a find that I had to add it to the list.

Featuring 40 taps in total, there’s something for everyone here. With an overwhelming number of labels to read, I just let the bartender know that I wanted something light and on the sweeter end of things and she recommended one from Cologne that turned out to be amazing.

What really rounds out this bar is the lounging space that they have here. From high tables, to sit down corners, shuffle board, and an eclectic mix of giant pillows on big wooden steps, you’ll love being able to drop everything down and curl in a corner, sipping an epic pint.

Location: Am Wall 175, 28195 Bremen, Germany

Hours: Tues to Fri 5PM -1AM and Sat at 5PM – 12AM

things to do in bremen bremer ratskeller 48 hour itinerary

If you read the 4 Day Bremen and Bremerhaven Itinerary , this was the first spot I got to go to for lunch. The Bremer Ratskeller ( the reviews ) is a highly regarded restaurant located underneath the famous Town Hall. Here, you can have truly traditional German fare from the region. In addition, what makes it truly famous is its largest collection of German wines in the world

It’s a bit more of a formal setting but here but this is your chance to try dishes such as Labskaus and Bremer Knipp. They’re not the prettiest of dishes but you won’t be able to have them anywhere else. Don’t forget to try their wines as well.

The Town Hall’s splendour extends beyond its upper floors and down into the vaulted cellars that are over 600 years old which is more reason why the whole site has UNESCO World Heritage status.

Beyond the restaurant, I highly recommend that you take a guided tour of how wine made its way into Bremen and what makes the Ratskeller so special. This is your chance to walk into the historic Apostle Cellar where you’ll be greeted by a candle-lit room and you’re instantly surrounded by the aroma of Germany’s oldest barrel of wine that dates back to 1653. Delve deeper underground and you’ll be able to get a rare glimpse into the Ratskeller treasury of wines. During the tour, your guide will tell you untold stories and you’ll also be able to sample a small glass of wine.

The restaurant information is easy to find but if you’re interested in the Ratskeller Cellar tour here are the details that you need to know.

Hours: January 4 – November 15 Friday at 4PM. 1 hour length.

Price: €15 per person. Save 1 EUR with the ErlebnisCARD .

Location: On the right side in front of the Tourist-Information / Glockenspiel House in Böttcherstraße No. 4.

Are drinks included? Yes you get a glass of wine (grape juice for children).
Are reservations required? Yes.

Money – Euros are welcome but credit card is widely accepted throughout the city. You’ll also find ATM’s scattered around so you can withdraw money using your debit card in a pinch.

When is the best time? – High season is during the summer between June to August. As with other destinations, shoulder seasons are always the best so think about going in the Spring (April – May) or Fall (September – November).

Getting here – Bremen has an international airport (BRE) that welcomes 30 non-stop flights from many countries in Europe and North Africa including London, Amsterdam, Paris, and Istanbul. To put alerts on the flights and find the best deals, I recommend using Skyscanner . If you’re already in Germany or neighbouring countries, the easiest way to get to Bremen and Bremerhaven by rail.

How do I get around Bremen? – It’s really not necessary to rent a car in Bremen since it’s such a small city and there’s a good transit infrastructure of trams and busses. I highly recommend that you pick up an ErlebnisCARD which is primarily a single-day or multi-day unlimited-use transit card with local discounts.

Where should I stay? – The most comprehensive platform for accommodations based on personal experience is Booking.com . They have everything from hotels, hostels, and guesthouses and you’ll easily find the perfect place to stay based on your style of travel and budget. As an alternative, there’s also Agoda and VRBO .

Here are my recommendations for where you should stay in Bremen.

I STAYED HERE

TOWNSIDE HOSTEL

Located in Viertel, this is a low-key hostel that comes with a fully equipped kitchen, and a mix of shared rooms and private rooms that are all newly furnished and renovated. A comfortable stay.

TripAdvisor

Booking.com

FERIENWOHNUNGEN HANKENSTRASSE

Newly renovated in 2016, this apartment has one bedroom with a double bed and another one with two single beds. Note that this is on the third floor with no elevator. Great property for an affordable price.

MOTEL ONE BREMEN

A brand that you can depend on – this is centrally located in Bremen’s Old Town. Free wifi is included and all rooms are furnished in a contemporary style. An excellent buffet breakfast is served but at an added cost.

inside bedroom suite of swissotel bremen

SWISSSÔTEL BREMEN

Located in a quiet location in Bremen city centre, it is also only 500m from Market Square. Rooms are elegantly furnished, spacious, and cozy. Free public transportation and wifi are included. Buffet breakfast is amazing.

Do I need a visa? – The easy answer is that if you’re part of the EU, no visa is required. If you’re not in the EU, visitBerlin has a handy list of countries that don’t require a visa if you’re staying less than 90 days and those that need a visa regardless.

Do I need travel insurance? – As always, travel insurance is highly recommended. My philosophy is that you want to make sure you’re covered in case the unknown happens. Make sure to read our guide on choosing the right travel insurance for you. Overall, World Nomads has the best balance of price and coverage.

How about you? What are your top favourites from your travels in Bremen? Do you have a question planning your upcoming trip? Drop a comment down below.

What you should read next

How to Spend 4 Days in Bremen and Bremerhaven in Germany – An Itinerary
Go Off The Beaten Path in New York City
Things to do in Buffalo – How to spend 24 hours in the city
Things To Do in St. Petersburg, Florida
1 Week in Cape Town Itinerary – Wine, Sharks, Lions, Tables, Townships, and more!

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

park sleep fly airport parking discount code

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300 ) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.

AloSIM – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15%
KnowRoaming – Use code GAP10 to save 10%.
Airalo – Use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase.
Ubigi – AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key ).

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

Pinterest 381

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

Find us on social media

IMAGES

11 Top Tourist Attractions in Bremen & Easy Day Trips
25 Best Things to Do in Bremen (Germany)
15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen, Germany
25 Best Things to Do in Bremen (Germany)
15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen, Germany
The 26 best Bremen tourist attractions you don't want to miss

VIDEO

Oktoberfest in Bremen (2009)
Große Neueröffnung vom Weserpark Bremen
Weser River Ferry Ride ⛴️ #kidsouting #dayout#funday #ferry#bremen#youtubeshorts #weserreport #vlog
Things to do in Ulm, Germany 🇩🇪
Visiting Bremen Germany 4K
BSAG Fahrt mit der Straßenbahn Linie 4 in Richtung Bremen Arsten

COMMENTS

15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen, Germany
Bremen's narrow Böttcherstrasse, transformed between 1926-31 into a street of museums, is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Although only 100 meters long, its many examples of unusual expressionist architecture make it tremendously fun to explore.
25 Best Things to Do in Bremen (Germany)
In the 1970s the graves of eight medieval bishops were discovered, and the finds from these excavations include rings, a staff, vestments and chalices. 3. Bremen City Hall. One of the most beautiful civic buildings, not just in Germany, but all of Europe, Bremen's City Hall earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2005.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Bremen (2024)
ANGELO V. Milan, Italy4,548 contributions. Bremer Rathaus. Bremer Rathaus (Bremen City Hall) is one important examples of Brick Gothic and Weser Renaissance architecture in Europe. Since 2004, along with the Bremen Roland statue, the building was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites .
22 Top Things To Do In Bremen [Don't Miss Them!]
Top 21 Things To Do In Bremen Germany. Here are the best Bremen attractions. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe. If you only have one day to visit Bremen tourist attractions, find our one day Bremen places to visit itinerary below. Bremen's Old Town
Must-See Sights in Bremen
You can find the Must-See attractions here: The Bremen Town Musicians Schoppensteel 1, 28195 Bremen. The town hall and Roland Statue Am Markt 21, 28195 Bremen. The Schnoor quarter Stavendamm 16, 28195 Bremen. Böttcherstraße Böttcherstraße, 28195 Bremen.
15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen Germany
Plan your visit to Bremen for an unforgettable travel experience. ... Top 15 Attractions in Bremen Germany. Bremen, officially known as the "Free Hanseatic City of Bremen," is a vibrant port city situated on Germany's lower Weser River. Just an hour's drive west of Hamburg, Bremen offers a rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and a ...
Bremen Tourism: Visit the Hanseatic City
Bremen's always worth a visit, no matter whether you're travelling with your best friend, your partner, the family, a group or on your own. In addition to its multitude of tourist attractions, this vibrant city in the heart of north-west Germany offers cultural and culinary delights, a laid-back Hanseatic atmosphere and an exuberant variety of activities and shopping opportunities.
All Sights in Bremen at a Glance
Here you will find an overview of the top attractions and sights in Bremen and the surrounding area. Discover now! Zur Hauptnavigation; Zum Inhalt; Zu Social-Media-Links; Zur Fußzeile; Home. Tourism. Sights. Sights in Bremen . Get ready for Sightseeing in Bremen! ... is the entrance to Germany's oldest wine cellar. In Bremen's Ratskeller, the ...
The 26 best Bremen tourist attractions you don't want to miss
The storied history of Beck's Brewery in Bremen, Germany, dates back over 160 years and is a major tourist destination for beer lovers. The brewery, whose portfolio consists of distinctive Pilsner beers, offers guided tours highlighting the traditional brewing process, including malt roasting and hop storage.
Best of Bremen in One Day Itinerary + Map
Bremen Roland Statue. The Roland Statue, one of the top attractions in Bremen, Germany, was erected in 1404 and can be found in the heart of Bremen in the market square.. Various cities have the Roland statues as a symbol of the city of civic liberty and freedom. This former Holy Roman Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire was deemed the hero of the Battle of Roncevaux Pass.
13 Fun Things to Do in Bremen, Germany
Visit St. Peter's Cathedral. Ornate facade of St. Peter's Cathedral. Constructed in the 11th century, the medieval St. Peter's Cathedral is an important city landmark. Partially destroyed during World War II air raids, the cathedral's 320-foot-tall twin towers dominate Bremen's skyline.
Top 10 Things to Do in Bremen, Germany
Rainy day in Bremen. 1. Schnoorviertel. The oldest district of Bremen is an absolute must-see! Like a small oasis, the Schnoorviertel (or "the Schnoor") is located in downtown Bremen. Schnoor, by the way, comes from the German word for string, "Schnur", because the many small houses are strung together like pearls on a string.
26 Best Things to Do in Bremen
To get the full experience, take part in one of the Rathaus guided tours offered by the Bremen Tourist Information Office for a fascinating insight into the city's history - and see the elaborate chambers, including its two-story high main hall, decorated with intricate wall designs and carvings.. Tourists flock from around Europe just to get an inside look at this majestic place.
Bremen Travel Guide: 21 Best Things To Do & See
Here are the best things to do and see in Bremen: Bremen Town Hall (Bremer Rathaus) - Stunning town hall on the market square. St. Peter's Cathedral (Bremer Dom) - The city's most important church. Statue of the famous Town Musicians (Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten) - Unmissable city icon. Statue of Roland - A symbol of Bremen's freedom.
Top 10 Things to Do and See in Bremen
The Roland statue. Market. Armed with a sword and shield, the 1404 statue of Knight Roland stands towering over Bremen's medieval market square. Even though statues of the medieval knight are scattered across Germany, Bremen's Roland is believed to be the oldest and most representative of its kind. The proud depiction of the warrior ...
11 Interesting & Beautiful Places to Visit in Bremen
1. Schnoor. One of the cutest parts of Bremen to visit is the preserved medieval neighbourhood known as Schnoor, located next to the River Weser by the Wilhelm-Kaisen-Brücke (Bridge). Back in the day, Schnoor used to be the poorer part of Bremen, mostly inhabited by fisherfolk since it was next to the river.
12 things to do in Bremen, Germany
From a small fishing village to a modern cultural hub, Bremen has grown into a fantastic travel destination over the last 1000+ years. But the Northwestern Germany city is usually overlooked by travelers heading to nearby Hamburg and other popular destinations, such as Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich.
THE 30 BEST Things to Do in Bremen, Germany
1. Schnoor Viertel. 2,778. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Historic quarter with car-free cobbled streets, lined by 15th-century houses, quaint shops, and intimate dining spots. Offers local culture and art in a picturesque setting. See ways to experience (9) 2. Universum Bremen.
25 Fascinating Things To Do in Bremen, Germany
Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum. The architecture on the street is very cool to see up close…. One of the other more notable museums along Böttcherstraße is the Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum. Opened back in 1927, the museum was done in Brick Expressionist architecture - a very important example of that style to this day.
Bremen Attractions Map
With our walking tours, you'll skip the mundane historical tours ... Get to know the city through the eyes of a local guide. With no ... Interactive map of Bremen with all popular attractions - Bremer Marktplatz, Town Hall, Böttcherstraße and more. Take a look at our detailed itineraries, guides and maps to help you plan your trip to Bremen.
Things To Do In Bremen In 48 Hours
Read more about Germany. Bremen and Bremerhaven 4 Day Itinerary; 1 day Hamburg itinerary; Germany travel guide; How to get the best deals in travel. Hottest deals - Bookmark the travel deals page. Car rentals - stop getting ripped off and learn about car rental coupon codes. Hotels - Use corporate codes or get Genius 2 tier with Booking.

15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen, Germany

Explore Bremen's Historic Marktplatz

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More on Germany

25 Best Things to Do in Bremen (Germany)

1. Bremen Cathedral

2. Cathedral Museum

3. Bremen City Hall

4. Marktplatz

5. Kunsthalle Bremen

6. Böttcherstraße

7. Haus des Glockenspiels

8. Schnoor Quarter

9. Schlachte

10. Schütting

11. Focke Museum

12. Ludwig Roselius Museum

13. Universum

14. Bürgerpark

15. Mühle am Wall

16. Das Viertel

17. Bremer Geschichtenhaus

18. Church of Our Lady

19. Übersee-Museum

20. Rhododendron Park

21. Botanika

22. Beck’s Brewery

23. Valentin Submarine Pens

24. Bremer Bonbon Manufaktur

25. Weser River Tours

25 Best Things to Do in Bremen (Germany):

22 Top Things To Do In Bremen [Don’t Miss Them!]

An Introduction To Bremen

Top 21 Things To Do In Bremen Germany

Bremen’s Old Town

Rathaus (Town Hall)

Roland Statue

Town Musicians Of Bremen

Dom St Petri (And Bleikeller)

Kirche Unser Lieben Fraue (Church Of Our Lady)

Böttcherstraße

Haus Des Glockenspiels

Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum

Ludwig Roselius Museum

Schlachte Riverside Walk

Wallanlagen Park

Weserburg Museum Für Moderne Kunst

Gerhard Marcks Haus

Wilhelm Wagenfeld Haus

Universum Science Centre

Beck’s Brewery

Weser River Cruise

Bunker Valentin

Bremen Things To Do In December/Winter

Bremen Christmas Market

What To Do In Bremen In One Day

Places To Visit In Bremen Germany Map

Best Place To Stay In Bremen

BEST – Designhotel ÜberFluss Review

VALUE – Select Hotel City Bremen Review

FUN – Segelyacht Bremen City Review

How To Get To Bremen

Bremen With Kids

Final Words

Related Articles:

By Sharon Gourlay

Leave a comment Cancel reply

15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen Germany

15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen Germany

About Bremen Germany

Major Cities in Bremen

Plan Your Vacation Now!!!

Top 15 Attractions in Bremen Germany

1. Marktplatz

2. Christmas Market

3. Bremen Town Hall

4. Bremen’s Medieval Schnoor Quarter

5. Cathedral of St. Peter

6. Böttcherstrasse

7. Schlachte