Bremen, located in northwest Germany, is one of the country's favorite cities. It's a city where it's easy to stroll through its typical neighborhoods, and rich in historic monuments. We also enjoy strolling along the Weser river, discovering museums and relaxing in its parks, which are the green lungs of the city. As you can see, we loved our stay in Bremen. In this article, discover 15 good reasons to plan a city trip to one of Lower Saxony's most fascinating cities.
1. Bremen's St. Peter's Cathedral
Demolished and rebuilt several times over the course of its history, Bremen 's St. Peter's Cathedral boasts a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Once you've taken the time to take in the details on the outside, head inside to discover its remains and visit the museum, which exhibits religious objects and other finds from archaeological digs. You can also climb to the top of one of the towers for a panoramic view of Bremen.
If you'd like to find out more about the city's history, we recommend this this guided walking tour of downtown Bremen.
2. Take a break at Marktplatz
Located in the heart of Bremen's historic district, the Marktplatz is a must-see when visiting the city. Once on the square, a 360° turn around the square reveals an array of superb monuments, including St. Peter's Cathedral. But you can also see the Town Hall, the Parliament, and sights such as the Roland statue and the Bismarck monument. The square is also home to many cafés and restaurants. This makes it a prime spot in the city for a drink or a bite to eat at lunchtime or in the evening.
Immerse yourself in Bremen's fascinating history by booking this dramatized tour of the Old Town, including Bremen Cathedral and Marktplatz.
3. Photograph Bremen City Hall
This is one of the most eye-catching buildings on a stroll through Bremen's historic center. Thetown hall dates back to the 15th century and is a pure jewel of the Weser Renaissance style. Take time to admire the details of its façade, rich in intricate carvings and charming arcades. Guided tours are also available to discover the interior and some of its remarkable rooms.
Immerse yourself in over 600 years of history by booking this this guided tour of the Bremen Town Halla UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. What to do in Bremen Stroll along Böttcherstrasse
One of the city's most popular thoroughfares! Böttcherstrasse is a picturesque street where you have to venture out to admire its pretty brick facades. Only 100 meters long, the street is home to museums, studios and galleries celebrating Bremen's artistic and cultural heritage. We were really struck by the gentle atmosphere and the harmonious blend of art and architecture. Be sure to put it on your list of things to do in the city.
We recommend booking this special tour of Bremen's Old Town. In Böttcherstrasse, you'll learn what decaffeinated coffee, art and the Germanic cult in Bremen have to do with each other.
5. Visit the Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum
Böttcherstrasse is home to one of Bremen's most fascinating museums, dedicated to the Expressionist artist Paula Modersohn-Becker. Inside, you'll find the key works of the artist's career, as well as the most important collection of artworks by sculptor and architect Bernhard Hoetger. Paula Modersohn-Becker, often overlooked outside Germany, is one of the country's leading artists, who had to fight to establish herself as a woman painter, and whose style broke with the good taste of the time, at the very beginning of the 20th century.
Petit Futé's money-saving tip: by booking your 1, 2 or 3-day BremenCARDhere, you'll be able to use public transport in Bremen free of charge, and benefit from discounts on the city's attractions, tours and shows.
6. Stroll through the Schnoor district
Schnoor, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Germany, is the city'soldest district. It's well worth a stroll to discover its medieval charm, with a maze of winding alleys and beautiful brick, colored and half-timbered houses. It has a pleasant bohemian atmosphere, with many independent galleries, jewelry shops and artisan souvenir boutiques. It's also one of the best places in town to enjoy a drink in a quaint café or discover local culinary delights. A magical place where you'll want to wander endlessly.
Discover the medieval district of Schnoor in Bremen's Old Town, with its small houses and narrow streets, and admire the many 17th and 18th century houses on this guided tour of this historic district.
7. Stroll along the Schlachte
The Schlachte is a historic promenade along the river Weser. Locals and visitors alike love to gather here to enjoy its maritime atmosphere. The promenade is lined with cafés and restaurants, with terraces that are always packed on sunny days. You can also take advantage of being in the area to do a little shopping. For your information, boat excursions leave from the Schlachte to discover Bremen from the gentle side of the river.
Unusual activity to book in Bremen: Dive into Bremen's underground world on this 2-hour guided tour, which takes in the ABC bunker under the station forecourt, the Hochbunker on Admiralstraße or the catacombs of the Church of Our Lady.
8. Discover Bremen's trendy Viertel district
Behind Weserdeich, the districts of Ostertor and Steintor form what locals simply call "the district" (das Viertel). Just a stone's throw from Bremen's city center, this popular and lively district boasts a colorful arts and culture scene, numerous pubs and bars, independent boutiques, a wide choice of restaurants and cafés, as well as many examples of typical Bremen houses.
The activity to book for families with children in Bremen: We recommend this guided tour, which centers on the famous tale of The Bremen Musicians, a story about courage, solidarity and the dream of a better life. Discover the history of the Fairytale Route and why the musicians have become a world-famous symbol.
9. Spend a few hours at the Universum
TheUniversum Bremen is an interactive museum in the shape of a whale. Visitors discover a wide range of captivating exhibits exploring the themes of man, nature and technology. A special area is dedicated to children. Also not to be missed is the vast 5,000 m2 outdoor area, where families can enjoy a wide range of outdoor experiences involving water and wind. We warn you, kids won't want to leave!
10. Going green at Wallanlagen
Wallanlagen is an urban park where visitors can stroll along tree-lined paths. There's also a pond in the middle. One eye-catching feature in the heart of Bremen's must-see green space is a windmill, which not only adds charm to the area, but also houses a restaurant. Whether in spring, when it's covered in flowers, or in winter, when snow can immaculate the ground, the Wallanlagen remains one of the best places to recharge your batteries in Bremen.
11. Visit the Kunsthalle, a masterpiece of art and culture
One of Germany's most prestigious art museums. The Kunsthalle houses an exceptional collection spanning a wide range of artistic movements and styles. Renaissance, Baroque, Romanticism, Impressionism, Modernism and Contemporary styles are proudly represented. The museum is renowned for its fine collection of 19th-century German and French paintings. Works by artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, van Dyck, Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Francisco Goya, Albrecht Dürer and Pablo Picasso are on display.
Book my admission to the Kunsthalle Museum
12. Walking in the Bürgerpark
Bremen's Bürgerpark is a vast 19thᵉ century landscape park and a jewel of greenery in the heart of the city. Its winding paths reveal ancient woods, lakes, streams, bridges and fountains in a romantic atmosphere. You can explore it on foot, by bike or by boat, and admire pavilions, statues, oak groves and architecture from 1900, such as the janitor's house or the Meierei. A café and a 15-station educational trail complete this peaceful escapade.
13. Put a coin in the Trou de Brême
The Bremen Hole is a little curiosity hidden in the cobblestones of Marktplatz. This round bronze plaque, pierced by a hole, lets you hear animal grunts and cries when you slip a coin into it. Each sound evokes the donkey, dog, cat or rooster of the famous Bremen Musicians, whose statue can be seen nearby. A playful tradition and a good-luck gesture, this discreet, amusing treasure attracts travelers and locals in search of a nod to the Brothers Grimm fairy tale.
14. Visit Beck's Brewery
Fans of German beers can take advantage of their visit to the city to take part in a guided tour of the Beck's brewery. Lasting 3 hours, this is an opportunity to learn more about the company's history and discover the art of brewing beer. The tour ends, of course, with a tasting session. In Germany's Bremen region, beer has pride of place in numerous bars and pubs, from one district to the next.
Get a fascinating insight into the art of beer brewing by booking this 3-hour guided tour of Beck's Brewery. You'll learn about the famous brands and taste three different beers.
15. Get lost in Überseestadt
Formerly a trading port, Überseestadt is now one of Bremen's trendiest and most dynamic districts. Its old brick warehouses stand alongside bold contemporary architecture, creating a unique blend of maritime past and modernity. Visitors can stroll along the lively quayside, between design cafés, art galleries, trendy restaurants and waterside markets. A place with a creative atmosphere, cosmopolitan ambience and beautiful views of the Weser.
Where to stay in Bremen?
A Hanseatic city of historic charm, Bremen is as attractive for its medieval alleyways as for its modern dynamism. Three hotels reflect this diversity, combining contemporary comfort, bold design and classic charm.
- Atlantic Hotel Universum, for modern comfort
Located next to the Universum Museum and Science Park, theAtlantic Hotel Universum is a contemporary-style establishment to book here. Its spacious rooms, "Campus" restaurant and bar make it an ideal address for both business travelers and those wishing to combine culture, nature and relaxation in one of northern Germany's most pleasant cities.
- Designhotel ÜberFluss, elegance on the banks of the Weser River
This boutique hotel is all about design, with rooms bookable here decorated by leading names in contemporary design. Its spa with swimming pool and sauna, refined restaurant and idyllic location on the banks of the Weser make it both trendy and relaxing. The Designhotel ÜberFluss is also just a few minutes from the city's main sights.
- Hotel Classico, in the heart of the Old Town
Right in the heart of historic Bremen, theHotel Classico captivates with its personalized atmosphere. Each room is decorated with a unique theme. Its in-house café, renowned for its pastries and coffee roasted on site, adds to the charm of this establishment located opposite Bremen's emblematic monuments, which you can book here.
Bremen or Hamburg: which to choose?
Choosing between Bremen and Hamburg means hesitating between two faces of northern Germany. Hamburg impresses with its colossal port, UNESCO-listed warehouses and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Ideal for a lively city-trip, the city fascinates with its museums, frequent concerts and intense nightlife. Bremen, more intimate, charms with its medieval old town, market square and picturesque alleyways, particularly those of the Schnoor. Here, you can take your time to stroll around and enjoy the Hanseatic atmosphere. In short, Hamburg seduces with its grandeur, Bremen with its authenticity. It all depends on the pace you're looking for.
In fact, for those planning to visit Hamburg after Bremen, don't miss our article dedicated to the city's must-sees!
See also the most popular things to do in Bremen:
