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Bremen Information - Tourist Information Office

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If you're looking for a reminder of your trip to Bremen, we stock a good selection of souvenirs, including books about Bremen, T-shirts, postcards, mugs, Bremen Town Musician soft toys and lots more.

Opening times

Mon - Fr: 9.00 am - 6.00 pm Sat: 9.30 am - 5 pm Sun: 10 am - 4 pm

Visit our city-centre Tourist information office in Böttcherstrasse 4 (Glockenspiel house), close to the market square and the famous Bremen Town Musicians . The popular guided walks start on our doorstep.

What awaits you on site

Our Tourist information team not only give you plenty of handy tips, they also offer lots more:

• Tourist information about Bremen
• Brochures and event listings
• Information about the arts, shopping, restaurants and cafés
• Hotel reservations at up-to-the-minute rates
• Booking service for guided tours of the city, tours of the town hall, sightseeing tours and riverboat cruises
• Tickets for museums and events
• BremenCARD (discovery card) on sale
• Audio guides for hire (in German, English, Italian or Spanish)

Wheelchair hire

Even though Bremen is a compact city, it can still take a long time to make your way around it because there is so much to see. If you struggle to get around on foot, you can borrow a wheelchair free of charge from the tourist information office. All we request is a refundable deposit of €50 and a copy of your ID card or passport. Specifications:

• Seat width 48cm, seat depth 42cm
• Backrest height 43cm, seat height 50cm
• Max. 130kg body weight
• Incl. drum brakes for use by companion or carer

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15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bremen, Germany

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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.

See also: Where to Stay in Bremen

1. Explore Bremen's Historic Marktplatz

2. experience an authentic german christmas market, 3. take a tour of bremen town hall, 4. wander through bremen's medieval schnoor quarter, 5. see the cathedral of st. peter, 6. take a stroll along the böttcherstrasse, 7. enjoy a boardwalk stroll along the schlachte, 8. get your art fix at kunsthalle bremen, 9. see the blossoms at rhododendron-park and mühle am wall, 10. get smart at universum bremen, 11. explore the overseas museum, 12. learn about bremen's history at the focke museum, 13. visit the german maritime museum in bremerhaven, 14. take a drive to the valentin submarine pens, 15. see the views from the zarm drop tower, where to stay in bremen for sightseeing.

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

Luxury Hotels :

• Those seeking a high-class stay couldn't do much better than booking into the historic Hommage Parkhotel Bremen . This elegant five-star luxury lakefront hotel is unique for its peaceful parkland setting, classic décor, as well as its amenities, including a sauna and outdoor heated pool.
• Another good choice in the luxury hotel category is the chic ATLANTIC Grand Hotel Bremen, which offers upscale rooms and suites just a few minutes' walk away from the Old Town Hall and cathedral.
• The boutique-style Hotel Munte am Stadtwald is popular with families for its proximity to top attractions like the Universum science center, as well as its spacious rooms and world-class amenities, including a restaurant, spa, swimming pool, and four saunas.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The modern-looking Dorint City-Hotel Bremen , located just a short stroll from the city's main railway station and overlooking a large park near the Old Town, is a great choice for those seeking a reputable mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms. It also has a spa and fitness center.
• Equally suitable is Motel One Bremen , a three-star hotel with modern and stylish rooms, comfortable beds, and bike rentals, which are very handy to get to nearby attractions such as the Marktplatz, as well as those a little further afield.
• Check availability at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Bremen , too. This quality four-star location offers clean, modern rooms, and is within easy walking distance of major tourist attractions such as the Old Town Hall.

Budget Hotels :

• A favorite place to stay for those seeking affordable accommodations, the B&B Hotel Bremen-Altstadt features budget rates and a sleek space-themed design, all in a convenient Old Town location.
• Another recommendation is INNSiDE by Melia Bremen . Although a rather plain-looking building and situated a few kilometers away from the downtown core, this hotel offers superb river views, as well as clean, comfortable, affordable rooms.
• Finally, be sure to check out Select Hotel City Bremen . While on the higher end of the budget scale, its clean rooms and great location just minutes away from the heart of the Old Town by foot make the slightly higher costs worthwhile.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Trains Take away the Strain : Thanks to its fast, efficient, comfortable, clean, and extremely punctual railway network, Germany is a delight to explore by train. Just an hour away from Bremen by rail, the port city of Hamburg boasts plenty of fun things to see and do . Highlights include exploring its vast port area with its many fine tourist attractions. Be sure to make time for the International Maritime Museum, as well as its inner city lakes, the Inner and Outer Alster.

Also easy to get to by rail, lovely Hanover offers amazing historic architecture to explore, from the Old Town Hall and churches in the Marktplatz, to the elegant New Town Hall and majestic Opera House.

Although further afield, the three-hour train ride to the university city of Düsseldorf is worth it for the chance to stroll along the beautiful Königsallee, widely regarded as Germany's most elegant avenue.

Medieval Architecture : The Germans have done a tremendous job of preserving, or even rebuilding, the many fine examples of medieval architecture found within their borders. The beautiful town of Augsburg , for example, features many magnificent medieval-era buildings, one of the finest examples being its 11th-century cathedral.

Then, of course, there's Nuremberg , which boasts one of the largest collections of medieval structures anywhere in Europe, including its famous castle and Old Town Walls.

However, no destination in Europe quite matches Rothenburg when it comes to the sheer quantity of well-preserved medieval architecture. Here, you'll find everything from the beautiful 13th-century Town Hall (Rathaus) and the nearby 14th-century Council Tavern, numerous old churches, and many fine old half-timbered houses, which together make Rothenburg one of the prettiest of German towns.

Big City Escapes : Germany's many big cities have also done their bit to preserve their past. Some of the best examples, of course, can be found in the country's capital, Berlin , where in the space of a few minutes' walk you'll find the splendid Brandenburg Gate, the opulent Charlottenburg Palace, and the city's famous Museum Island, home to five of the country's oldest and most important museums.

Other big city destinations to consider visiting include Frankfurt , where you can wander one of the largest public squares in Europe while taking in its many beautiful half-timbered homes and merchant buildings, now home to great restaurants and boutique shops, and Cologne (Köln) , famous for its magnificent cathedral and well-preserved Old Town.

More on Germany

Bremen travel guide

Bremen tourism | bremen guide, you're going to love bremen.

Modern, dynamic but with a charming historic core, Bremen is one of the most laid-back and enjoyable destinations in Germany. Packed with museums, blessed with plenty of green spaces, fine restaurants and more, Bremen always proves a rewarding place to visit.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Bremen

1. the beautiful alstadt.

Bremen was one of the Hanseatic trading ports of the middle ages, and the people used their wealth wisely, creating a stunning old quarter featuring fine buildings like the 15th-century Rathaus and the Markt.

2. Excellent Art Galleries

Bremen offers one of Germany's best galleries in the Kunsthalle Bremen. Don't miss the Expressionist collections in particular, and find time to visit the artistic colony in nearby Worpswede as well.

3. The Winding Streets of Schnoor

Schnoor is one of Bremen's most atmospheric areas, with its labyrinthine streets and passages. It's the place to go to find clothing boutiques, hidden cafes, and bars to down a few of the city's excellent beers.

4. Fine Architecture and Public Sculpture

Art is everywhere in Bremen, not just in the galleries. The elegant Jugendstil buildings on Böttcherstrasse and the many sculptures dotting the old town are particular treats.

5. Relax at Blockland

Bremen's green spaces are a major highlight, and none are livelier than Blockland. Watch theater performances, skate in winter, or relax in riverside surroundings.

What to do in Bremen

1. marktplatz: marketplace of magnificence.

Dominated by the awe-inspiring City Hall, The Marktplatz (German for Market Square) is an attraction mainly for its fresh vegetables, flowers, and fruit. As you walk into the magnificent piazza, the first thing that meets the eye is the colorful Rathaus. Breathe in the fresh scent of local produce from the region and delicacies from across the world. Being a free-entry marketplace, the Marktplatz plays a key role in the daily lives of Bremen's inhabitants today.

2. Bremer Rathaus: The Gothic-Style Palace

With its splendid architecture and attractive design, one might mistake this impressive structure for a world-class museum. Instead, the Bremer Rathaus is Bremen's City Hall, and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 1405 and 1410, the Bremer Rathaus is over 1,200 years old. It has miniature cannons that are fired off for special occasions. While there, pass by The Town Musicians of Bremen, a comical bronze sculpture depicting farm animals stacked atop one another. Pass by the Roland Statue that serves as a symbol of trading rights and global freedom.

3. Bremer Dom: Miracles in Every Corner

At the heart of Bremen lies the stunning Bremer Dom (Bremen Cathedral), dedicated to St. Peter and first erected around 789. The exterior of the cathedral is just as attractive as the interior, and it ought to be, considering it has undergone a couple of renovations through the years. Take a slow walk through the halls and marvel at the original medieval vaults, arcs, and the 19th-century pillars. Discover the history and experience the wonder of every sculpture, altar, and aisle that makes the Bremer Dom such a remarkable sight.

4. Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum: Art Through the Ages

One of the art-highlights of Bremen, this is the first-ever museum to be dedicated entirely to the work of a female painter. It was established in honor of its namesake, Paula Modersohn-Becker, a female artist who lived between 1876 and 1907. The building itself is considered a prime examples of Expressionist architecture in Germany, and was designed by architect Bernhard Hoetger. Arouse your artistic senses as you walk into the ornate brick construction and take a journey through this exceptional artist's expressionist works, and explore works from her estate.

5. Kunsthalle Bremen: A Fusion of Art and History

Another excellent art museum, the Kunsthalle Bremen was established in 1823. It boasts of a collection of over 200,000 prints and drawings (one of the largest collections in Europe) and a vast array of paintings spanning from the 14th century to the present day. Catch a glimpse of the amazing artwork of Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, and John Cage. The entire exhibition takes about two hours, but you can always relax at the museum's charming Museums restaurant Canova with a tasty "Kaffee" and cake.

Activities & attractions in Bremen

Art & performing arts.

Where to Eat in Bremen

Bremen's gastronomic highlights include the Bremer Ratskeller (under the market), and Spitzen Gebel, which dates back to the 1400s. Meals should cost around EUR10-20 at most restaurants.

When to visit Bremen

Sightseeing is best during summer (June through September), but spring and fall are great times to visit as well.

How to Get to Bremen

Many low-cost airlines fly into Bremen. After touching down at Bremen Airport (BRE), catch the number 6 tram straight into town. Tickets cost EUR2.40.

Bremen has excellent rail connections to other German cities as well as France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Intercity services terminate at the Hauptbahnhof, near the city center.

Those driving from Hamburg should take the A1 Autobahn, while you can take the A24, then the A1 from Berlin.

Intercity buses run into Bremen from all over Germany, and Eurolines is the major operator.

Airports near Bremen

Airlines serving bremen, where to stay in bremen.

Bremen has a wealth of great hotels. Some leading city center luxury choices include the Radisson Blu, Dorint Park Bremen, and the riverside Steigenberger Hotel.

Popular Neighborhoods in Bremen

The Altstadt - the heart of Bremen is home to architectural marvels like the Rathaus, St. Peter's Cathedral, and sculptures like Roland - the town's iconic hero.

Schnoor - once home to Bremen's large fishing population, Schnoor is nowadays one of the most charming historic neighborhoods, with quaint houses, restaurants, and cafes aplenty.

Überseestadt - Bremen's dockland area, Überseestadt is being regenerated in style, with museums and bars that are open all night.

Where to stay in popular areas of Bremen

Most booked hotels in bremen, how to get around bremen, public transportation.

Bremen's transport system is exceptional, with trains, buses, and trams. Day tickets are a good option, costing EUR7.90 or EUR10.50 for two adults.

Taxis tend to be expensive, but can be a handy transportation option. Rates will be around EUR2 per mile.

You can rent a car from companies like Hertz, Sixt, and Europcar, with prices starting from around EUR15 per day, so it's an excellent option.

The Cost of Living in Bremen

Shopping streets.

The best place to shop if you love independent stores is definitely Schnoor, where you can wander through countless craft stores and boutiques.

Groceries and Other

Supermarkets in Bremen include REWE and Aldi, and prices are usually moderate. You can expect to pay about EUR2.50 for a gallon of milk.

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

How to Spend 4 Days in Bremen and Bremerhaven in Germany – An Itinerary

Last Updated April 26, 2023 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » How to Spend 4 Days in Bremen and Bremerhaven in Germany – An Itinerary

In the Northwestern part of Germany lies a hidden gem.  No, it’s not Hamburg,  it’s a city called Bremen and if you follow the Weser River north, you’ll reach its sister city, Bremerhaven.  They’re off the beaten path for most but if you’ve been as I have, you know that these two cities have an incredible amount to offer.  With this 4 day itinerary of Bremen and Bremerhaven, be surprisingly delighted with what you can see, eat, do, and experience.

• 4 Day Bremen and Bremerhaven Itinerary Highlights

As a Hanseatic city of the past, there’s a true sense of grit, down-to-earth, and charm that you can’t find elsewhere.  While the glory days of it being a highly successful trading port behind them, both Bremen and Bremerhaven have had to re-invent themselves.

Here were my top 5 highlights of Bremen and Bremerhaven:

• Guided Bremen Tour
• German Emigration Center
• Schnoor District
• Climate Museum
• Beck’s Brewery

Curious where our favourite place we stayed was?  More on that below but I highly recommend the Adena Hotel in Bremerhaven  which is conveniently located near the city center, has comfortable rooms, and a great free breakfast!

Read more about Trips To Europe

• 48 Hours in Bremen – Things You Must Do
• If You Only Have 1 Day In Hamburg
• Best SIM Cards For Data In Europe
• Cheapest Way To Travel Europe On A Budget

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.
• Flights  – Have you ever heard of the  “Everywhere” feature ?
• Insurance  – Make sure you’re covered and learn more about  where to buy the best travel insurance .
• Table of Contents

Looking for something specific in this itinerary?  Jump to what you want to read.

In This Article

Trip Planning Map

Day 1 – bremen and beck’s, day 2 – discover bremen, day 3 – story of emigration in bremerhaven, day 4 – climate museum in bremerhaven, a quick bremen and bremerhaven travel guide, the bremen and bremerhaven experience, your 4 day itinerary in bremen and bremerhaven.

While you could certainly use more days in this part of Germany, 4 days is the minimum you need to be able to see the highlights of the sister cities of Bremen and Bremerhaven.  In this itinerary,  follow a precise break down of how you should plan each day, what to see, where to eat, where to stay, and insider tips that you won’t find anywhere else.

This is a helpful little map that has all the spots mentioned in this 4 day Bremen and Bremerhaven itinerary pinned which will allow you to reuse it for your trip.  This has become part of my trip planning process because I can just pop this open in Google Maps when I’m trying to figure out where to go to next.

Tip: View the Bremen and Bremerhaven planning map in full screen and create a copy for yourself.  Make tweaks for your own trip and in Google Maps, you’ll be able to view it by going into the menu, selecting “My Places” and the “Maps” tab.

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When you arrive in Bremen, get settled into your hotel or drop off your bags.  Once you’re all set, it’s time to explore!

TIP: A must-have when you get to Bremen is the ErlebnisCARD which gives you unlimited access to the city’s public transportation for 1-3 days and also  discounts to city attractions, tours, and shows.  This is super convenient because when I had it, I could just hop on a tram once I got to the main station and use it freely without having to figure out the logistics of buying a ticket.  It starts at 9.90 EUR for one adult.  It’s the ErlebnisCARD discounts  that make this pass really worthwhile with discounts up to 50% off.

The Market Square is the heart of the city and where the action starts.  If you’ve arrived around noon time, this is perfect timing to have lunch at one of the most iconic restaurants in the city, Bremer Ratskeller , which is located right underneath the Town Hall.  When you’re here, make sure to try the traditional dishes known as Labskaus or Bremer Knipp.  They may not look like much but will surely intrigue your tastebuds.

One of the big reason why the Bremer Ratskeller is such an institution is because of its status as holding the largest collection of German wines in the world.  The wine menu alone is 20+ pages.  For over 600 years, its vaults have held exceptional and rare liquid gold in the form of wine.  If you’re doing some forward planning, make sure to book a tour of its old cellars and take a peek inside the treasure vault of wines including a Rüdesheimer white wine that date back from 1653.

Round out your afternoon in Bremen by making the scenic walk along the Weser River towards the Beck’s Brewery.  It’s impossible not to spot with its towering metallic storage tanks, silos, the siphoning of materials from river ships.  The Beck’s Brewery Tour is easily one of the highlights for anyone that loves beer.

Over the course of 3 hours, get taken through the museum which catalogues the history of the brewery and machines they used to use.  From there, visit the raw materials room and a perfectly preserved brew house that still have the original copper tanks.  You’ll learn about the different silos and tanks you see from the ground as workers busy about.   From here you’ll then get an opportunity to see a live bottling assembly line before finishing off at the guest pub to try out 4 types of beers.

To close out the day, try a Rollo from the restaurant that invented it, Tandour .  This is essentially a kebap wrap but think of it as a cross between a burrito and gyro where the pita wrap is made fresh and crispy on the outside and depending on the type of Rollo you order, that’s all rolled in together like a burrito.

What you’ll see:

• Market Square

What you’ll do:

• Bremer Ratskeller Cellar tour  (15.00 EUR per person, 1 hour, includes one glass of wine, save 1 EUR with the ErlebnisCARD ) – Reservations required
• Beck’s Brewery Tour (13.90 EUR per person, 3 hours, Mon-Sept at 3PM, offered in English, save 10% with the ErlebnisCARD ) – Reservations required

Where you’ll eat:

• Lunch – Bremer Ratskeller – A gourmet restaurant that serves local dishes and makes their vast collection of wines available.
• Dinner – Tandour  – Cheap and easy bite that has the Rollo which is well-known to locals.

Where to stay:

Booking.com has an awesome collection of accommodations that vary from hotels, B&B’s, apartments, and hostels.  Here, I share with you where I personally stayed but also recommended alternatives that I think you’ll like based on different budgets.

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.

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.

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast at Coffee Corner .  Their crepes are excellent and so are their smoothies.  Once you’re powered up and ready to go, it’s time to spend the day to learn about what Bremen is all about.

TIP:  The standard greeting for locals of Bremen is “Moin!” but don’t say it twice because that’s distinctly something someone from Hamburg would say and let’s just say they have a friendly rivalry.

The first area to walk around is the neighbourhood known as The Viertel and is centered on the intersection where you can find  Coffee Corner.  During the day, it’s your chance to see truly how dynamic this neighbourhood and at night, this is where all the bar lights turn on and it’s buzzing with activity.  To me, this quarter is one where you can see classes coexist between the wealthy and the hipster youth.

Using the Google Map provided, look for the graffiti alley where the full stretch of the street is dazzled with all the colours of the rainbow with randomness and social messages intertwined.  From there, continue strolling in counterclockwise fashion where you’ll drop by  Holtorfs Heimathaven where you’ll see great surviving examples of art nouveau design from the 1910’s.  There’s also really cool Spider-man piece around the corner to a bar named Eisen.

Make your way around to the other corner of the quarter and head up to the area known as “ Bermuda Triangle ” to locals which has a sequence of bars that are known to trap anyone that heads here in the evening because of their rolling happy hours.  Finish with a walk along Mathildenstrasse to see examples of Bremish townhouses, a style born from this city that you see replicated in European cities and even places like New York City.

As you walk around take note of how there’s a perfect yin and yang of contrasting cultures that seem to find their own harmony despite being next door neighbours.

Take tram #2 or #3 into the Altstadt or Old Town and grab lunch at Markthalle Acht (Market Hall Eight) .  At the site of a former bank, the owners have revitalized this space to include a courtyard turned into an indoor space that is filled with a ton of natural light, and up to 20 food stalls with cuisines representing countries all over the world.  It’s truly an international food hall that has something for everyone.

My favourite was Bab’Maria where owners, Natalie and Yaroslavl have brought their grandmother’s incredible Ukrainian recipes to life.

Next, head to the meeting point for your English guided city walk tour .  Let the local experts talk you through the city and go deeper than simple sightseeing.  Through your guides, learn about the history that’s steeped in the city, how it developed into what it is today, and stories that go into the architecture, art, and people of the past.

During the two hours, you’ll be taken through all the main sights of the city including Market Square, the Town Hall, Böttcherstraße street, and the historic Schnoor quarter.  Take this opportunity to ask a lot of questions and also make a mental note of all the places you might want to come back to.

When you’re done, rush back over to the Town Hall because the guided tour there is not to be missed.  From the outside, you can see the splendid Renaissance facade with its arcades and gables but inside, you get a look at the Upper Hall which is the seat of the government that dates back to 1412 which makes it 600 years old.  Dangling from the ceiling decorated by paintings of Emperors past are giant models of war ships that used to protect the ships that made the city so prosperous.

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.

You’ll also get a look into the Golden Chamber, learn about the escape hatch for officials in case of an uprising, and the ballroom.  There are so many fine details that the tour takes you through that will simply amaze you.

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.

After a busy day of walking, it’s time to rest your weary legs with the modern version of liquid gold.  With 40 taps to choose from,  Craft Bier Bar is the perfect spot to wind down.  Located in the downtown quarter, this cozy hangout has an awesome set of steps that are homely filled with an eclectic mix  of cushions.  It’s down to earth wood and recycled furniture and calming neon further set the scene as one of the coolest bars in town.

While you won’t be able to go into the Universum Bremen science museum but if you’re interested in taking photos of it at night, take the Tram #6 to the Universität-Süd stop and walk a few blocks west.

To round out your day, have dinner at Edel Weiss where you’ll find a wide variety of traditional German dishes (primarily southern).

• The Viertel
• Böttcherstraße street
• Bremen Town Hall
• Town Musicians of Bremen
• Schnoor quarter
• Universum Bremen
• English guided city walk tour (8.50 EUR per person, daily at 1:30PM May – December, Saturdays only off season, 2 hours, save 1 EUR with the ErlebnisCARD) – Reservations required
• Guided tour of the Town Hall (6.50 EUR per person, Mon-Sat at 4PM and Sunday at noon, 1 hour, save 20% with the ErlebnisCARD) – Reservations required
• Breakfast – Coffee Corner – Awesome selection of breakfast foods, snacks and of course coffee.
• Lunch – Markthalle Acht – International food hall that has an impressive array of restaurants.
• Drinks – Craft Bier Bar – With brews from all over the world, this is a great spot to hang out and drink excellent beer.
• Dinner – Edel Weiss – Traditional southern German fare that is a bit kitschy in its decor but regardless served delicious dishes and is close to Hbf.

Where to stay:   Staying in the same accommodations as Day 1 in Bremen.

There’s a super convenient local train that connects Bremen to Bremerhaven and it only takes 45 minutes.  They run practically every hour so you won’t have any problems catching a ride into Bremerhaven before noon.

Get settled into your hotel and it’s time to discover what makes Bremerhaven so special.

TIP:  Pay attention to your train ticket.  If it says “Bremerhaven+City” this means that this ticket includes public transit from the train station into the city so you don’t need to buy a separate bus ticket.

Start off your adventures by walking into the city center.  Bremerhaven is a small city of 113,000 and like Bremen, what makes it charming is that everything is compact, easy to explore, and impossible to get lost.

The downtown consists of a large pedestrian-only street named  Bürgermeister-Smidt-Straße and this is where you’ll find a healthy dose of retail therapy, cure for the worst of hangry, and tingling sweet tooths.

For a quick and cheap bite, I recommend checking out OZ UFRA Grillhaus on the main street that has great Turkish food.

Once you’re recharged, make your way over to the harbor and to the German Emigration Center .  With European Museum of the Year Award honors in 2007, this may not immediately hit you as an interesting museum but once you learn the history, I guarantee that you’ll be enthralled by the stories of everyone that passed through Bremerhaven to risk it all in the “New World”.

Why is Bremerhaven so significant?

This part of history is easily forgotten and a story that’s not often told but in the boom of emigration of Europeans from 1830-1974, 7.2 million people made the decision to leave their home to start a brand new life in countries like the United States of America, Canada, Australia, Brazil, and Argentina.  The reason why Bremerhaven became so popular was because it was one of the few reliable ports in Europe that had good reputation for quality ships, and cheap prices.  Today, at the very same site where emigrant ships set sail, is the Deutches Auswandererhaus and it tells the story of its pivotal impact on immigration around the world.

Learn more about the German Emigration Center

What makes the German Emigration Center so well done is that they created a museum that’s doesn’t bore you with artifacts behind glass and photos with descriptive plaques.  Instead, this is a completely immersive experience where they’ve designed the museum around walking in the shoes of emigrants from the wharf where they had to say goodbye, to boarding the cramped ships, to landing in Ellis Island, and figuring out where to go from a replica of Grand Central Station.  With your RFID “boarding pass”, walk through life-size dioramas and tap audio stations to listen to commentary and interviews in your language.

TIP:  When you buy your ticket, make sure to add on the Photo pass for 1.50 EUR which allows you to take photos inside the museum.

There is also a recently built extension wing to the museum that focuses on the topic of immigration into Germany and doing it in an interesting way by setting the stories inside a 70’s shopping mall and a 50’s themed cinema.  It’s here that you can conclude your visit by accessing a family research room where you get access to 4 international databases if you’re interested in tracing your ancestry.

Sufficed to say, you’ll need to plan for at least 3-4 hours here!

TIP:  If you’re keen on taking photos of the Klimahaus at night with it lit up, make sure to pack your tripod.  The museum is right next to the German Emigration Center and by the time you get out, it’ll be close to sunset so you can definitely take advantage.  Great spots to shoot are on the bridge that cars drive in to find parking and also across the water from Klimahaus and to the right of the glass bridge.

You’ll be no doubt famished at this point so head over to Sascha’s Leuchtfeuer which was recommended to me by @foodiebremerhaven .  The steak here is amazing in addition to the laid back ambiance, and excellent service.

• Bremerhaven downtown
• Adults: 14.80 EUR
• Children: 8.80 EUR
• Family (2 Adults, 1 Child): 38 EUR
• Family (1 Adult, 1 Child): 25 EUR
• Photo fee: 1.50 EUR
• March – October – 10AM – 6PM
• November – February – 10AM – 5PM
• Lunch – OZ UFRA Grillhaus – Popular Turkish restaurant that was always packed with people on the main street
• Dinner – Sascha’s Leuchtfeuer  – Modern and laid back grill house that is known for their steaks

Despite being a small city, there are quite a number of properties available that span all budgets.  Here are a few places you should definitely consider as you plan your trip to Bremerhaven.

ADENA HOTEL

Comfortable bed and breakfast style property that’s located just north of the downtown core of Bremerhaven. The rooms are comfortable and cozy, the free wifi is fast, and the buffet breakfast is quite good.

B&B HOTEL BREMERHAVEN

Located only 600 from Klimahaus, this property offers rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Bremerhaven. Free WiFi is included.

NORDSEE HOTEL

This modern hotel is located right in the heart of the city.  Rooms are comfortably appointed and service is excellent.  Free wifi is included.

THE LIBERTY HOTEL

Located immediately next to the German Emigration Centre, this brand new hotel in Bremerhaven gets top notch scores in terms of hospitality, comfort, decor, comfort,  and food with its Mulberry St restaurant and top floor bar.

Looking for deals?

Kick off the day by exploring Bremerhaven’s maritime heritage by making your way down to the historic area known as  Shop Window Fishery Harbor (Schaufenster Fischereihafen).  In old times, this was the site where fishermen would bring in their haul and auction their seafood to the local market.  Today, the former Packhalle IV has been transformed into a centerpiece of restaurants, pubs, souvenir shops, and modern consumer marketplace.

TIP:  When it comes to riding the bus in Bremerhaven, there are no kiosks so make sure you have cash on hand to pay the bus driver.  Single rides are 2.50 EUR.

Spend the morning exploring the area which also features North Sea cruises, cooking studio, aquarium, and smoking of fish.

Before you head out, make sure to walk around the famous Fiedlers Fish Market and the adjacent  Fiedlers Räucherdiele .  In the fish market, you’ll be able to find an assortment of food souvenirs and fresh seafood to eat on the go if you’re interested.  In Räucherdiele, dig into fresh fish and chips.

Make your way back into town and head into the Climate Museum .  I recommend that you account for at least 4 hours in this museum.

Unique in concept, Klimahaus is more than just about climate and it’s more than just a museum.  Themed around the idea of travelling along the 8th longitude east, you get to travel from country to country, seeking out the stories of the locals that live there, the pressing issues in climate, impacts on weather, and the living animals and plants that we co-exist with.

Similar to the German Emigration Center, it’s more of an interactive experience and that’s best exemplified by the first thing that you encounter once you start your journey – a skee-ball carnival game to advance cows to the finish line while in the Swiss Alps.  In that way, it’s more of a science center, zoo, and theme park all-in-one.

Nearby the museum is the brand new The Liberty Hotel which is New York themed and on the top floor is a bar that serves excellent drinks, has comfortable seating, and offers great views of the harbor from its balcony.

Treat yourself with dinner at Restaurant CHALET which was another recommendation from a local I met.  Their traditional Swiss cheese fondue was to die for.  Note that this restaurant doesn’t take international credit cards so make sure you have cash.

• Shop Window Fishery Harbor
• Adults: 17 EUR
• Evening ticket for Adults (90 minutes before closing):  12 EUR
• Children: 12 EUR
• Family (2 Adults, 1 Child): 49 EUR
• Family (1 Adult, 1 Child): 36 EUR
• Hours:  Varies throughout the year.  Read Klimahaus opening hours .
• Lunch –  Fiedlers Räucherdiele – Casual fast-food style seafood that’s extra fresh.
• Drink – The Liberty Hotel – One of the newest hotel bars in town is a great spot to lounge and grab a top notch drink.
• Dinner – Restaurant CHALET – Swiss-inspired fondue restaurant in the northern part of town.

Where to stay:   Staying in the same accommodations as Day 3 in Bremerhaven.

Money – Credit card is widely accepted in most places in both cities however there were a few instances where I needed cash.  You need cash for public transit so make sure you have coins on hand. Buses do return change so you don’t need to worry about having the exact amount.  The other place it was needed was at Restaurant CHALET.  To my surprise, they don’t take international credit cards.

When is the best time? – Shoulder season (April, May, September, October) are great times to go as the weather is still warm.  Summer time is great because there are a lot of activities and festivals that happen including Bremerhaven’s Seaside  City Festival and Bremen’s special markets such as Lenzmarkt and Loggermarkt.   Another unique time to come would be during the holiday seasons when you can find Christmas Markets in both cities that rated as some of the best in Germany.

Getting here – Bremen’s international airport (BRE) has 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.

Tip :   If you’re taking the train, get the DB Navigator App.  Once you purchase your ticket online, you can load your ticket on the app.  This allows you to track your train, delays, and platform numbers.  The QR code is also scannable by the ticket checkers which means you don’t have to fumble for your paper tickets.

 How do I get around both cities? – The beauty of these cities is that both are highly walkable.  When the distances are a little further, Bremen has trams that are easy to navigate and both cities have buses.  I recommend that you grab a map at the tourist information center to help navigate or just use Google Maps to guide you as I did find their schedules and routing to be quite accurate.

Where should I stay? – The most comprehensive platform for bookings based on personal experience was Booking.com .  They had everything from hotels, hostels, and guesthouses and we always managed to find an awesome place for a great place.  As an alternative, there’s also Agoda and VRBO .

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.

These 4 days in Bremen and Bremerhaven sure surprised me.  I didn’t know what to expect going into this trip because I honestly didn’t know anything about these Northern Germany cities.

In a way, that’s what made the trip that much more of an adventure and a memorable journey because I didn’t have any preconceived ideas or expectations.  I was just a big sponge of sights, sounds, local interaction, knowledge, and experiences.

Both of these cities are well worth the trip for their incredible charm, ability to create truly world-class museums that don’t feel like museums, and understated maritime Hanseatic heritage.

Got questions for your own trip to Bremen and Bremerhaven or the rest of Germany for that matter? Let me help by simply  dropping a comment down below !

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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.

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Bremen blog — the fullest bremen travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

Located in the northwestern Germany, Bremen is also known as a beautiful ancient merchant city with the gentle river Weser flowing through. Back in time, Bremen was part of the Hanseatic League, was an alliance of trading cities along the Nordic coast in the late Middle Ages. Traveling to Bremen you will experience of a peaceful life with charming, gentle alleys and street corners. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Bremen, the little charm city of Germany for the first-time? Let’s check out our Bremen travel blog (Bremen blog) with the fullest Bremen travel guide (Bremen guide, Bremen tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Perhaps few tourists know that Bremen is home to the Brothers Grimm’s short story “Town Musicians of Bremen”. And, of course the famous “Grimms’ Fairy Tales” attached to the childhood of many of us such as “Little Red Riding Hood”, “Sleeping Beauty”, “Snow White”. Joining us to explore Bremen’s history and culture and experience the famous tourist attractions of the city.

Bremen blog: When to visit?

Due to the city is located in the north and quite close to Hamburg, the Bremen climate is quite similar to Hamburg. Spring is the best season to visit Bremen, not too cold and more sunny and service prices are not too high. Summer is the peak tourist season in Bremen with beautiful sunshine and bustling, crowded everywhere. If you plan to go in winter, you should probably go only during the Christmas time, the streets are beautifully decorated. However, the daytime will be very dark and cold.

Bremen blog: How to get to Bremen?

There are many ways to get to Bremen from other German and European cities. As the smallest state in the federal, you can easily take a train from other cities to Bremen. Bremen is just over 1 hour from Hamburg by ICE high speed train, 3 hours by train from Berlin and more than 4 hours from Frankfurt.

Self-driving to Bremen is also quite easy, you can rent a self-driving car and experience Germany’s famous Autobahn highway. Bremen Central Station is not too far from the city center, from here you can easily take a tram to the hotel.

Regarding on how to travel by train in Germany you can refer to this article . In general, to travel from a European city to Bremen, for example Paris, you will need to change 1 or 2 trains. From Paris you will have to take a train to a big hub transport in Germany is Frankfurt, then continue to change trains from Frankfurt to Bremen. In order to avoid much researching, you should book train tickets through Trainline.com , it will outline the optimal routes and schedules for you.

You also can getting to Bremen by air. Bremen Airport Hans Koschnick is located just 3.5km from the city center and it takes about 10 minutes to get to there. Outside the arrival hall of the airport has a tram stop, from there to the Domsheide stop is only 9 minutes, or stop at other stops such as Blumenthalstr/Bremen Exhibition Center which takes only 15 minutes of riding.

Bremen travel guide: Getting around the city

Bremen is a relatively small-sized city, so it has no subway system but only bus and tram. The bus network spreading throughout the city and surrounding areas while tram mainly operating in the city center. Normally, in the central area you can completely walk because the attractions are quite close to each other. With a radius of about 1 km there are many attractions such as square, cathedral, Old Town, Marktplatz and other shopping places.

The company BSAG (Bremer Straßenbahn AG) operating tram and bus networks. Tram system has 4 lines and 46 stations, single ticket price for a single tram / bus trip is €2.80. You should buy unlimited travel day pass for €8 / day and 7-day pass for €22.80. Pass can be purchased at BSAG ticket counters. Ticket vending machines are usually only available at airport and major stations.

Bremen blog: Where to stay?

The most convenient place to stay in Bremen is Old Town. This old quarter is centrally located in the city and easy access to major attractions. The central district of Bremen is Mitte, you can book hotels in this neighborhood on Booking.com or Agoda.com . If you have an abundant budget, you can consider to stay at the Parkhotel Bremen (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) which was designed as a splendid palace with the standards of a top luxury hotel in Bremen.

Of course, the hotel room rates here are also more expensive than other areas, so to saving more you can stay a little bit far for better price and really it’s not too far from the center because the city of Bremen is also quite small. You can refer to the a&o Hostel Bremen Hauptbahnhof (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) that I stayed during my visit, it’s quite close to the central station, convenient to travel. A&O hostel chain is present in many big cities in Europe, so you can rest assured about its quality.

My room at A&O Bremen was very spacious, located on a high floor and overlooking the city with train tracks running through. In general, the room was very clean, nice and fully equipped, the first floor was a spacious hall for common activities. Walking to the central station was only about 10 minutes, but if you have a lot of luggage, consider taking a single bus trip.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Dorint City-Hotel Bremen ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Steigenberger Hotel Bremen ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Atlantic Grand Hotel Bremen ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• prizeotel Bremen-City ( Booking.com )
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Bremen ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Bremen blog: What and where to eat?

Traditional food.

Similar to Hamburg because of the same geographical region, traveling to Bremen you can experience some traditional North German cuisine. Below we suggest some traditional Bremen dishes you should try.

Kale and Pinkel: Bremen people love kale and this is a popular ingredient in many dishes here. The most popular dish served with kale is pinkelwurst , a smoked sausage made from pork, bacon, oats and onions.

Labskaus: This is dish I ate in Hamburg, consisting of salted meat or corned beef, potatoes, onion, pickled herring and fried eggs, served with some pickled radish. Enjoy this dish and sipping a glass of German beer is great.

Knipp: Another type of sausage made from mixing minced such as liver, beef, or pork then seasoned with salt, allspice, pepper and then fried.

Aalsuppe: A traditional eel soup like the Vietnamese eel soup. Eel is a quite popular food in the Weser river region and is loved by local people.

Real experience at some delicious restaurants in Bremen

Visiting Bremen you can not help but experience some restaurants with traditional German dishes. In the Town Hall area where there are many famous and delicious restaurants, I found a restaurant right next a road with a quite unique design. This restaurant is located under a small, cozy basement.

The Bremer Knipp dish I chose has a strong traditional flavor of Bremen, served with bread, two pieces of pork bologna and added potatoes and pickled vegetables. Its taste is a bit bold, the pork bologna is mainly meat, its taste is quite similar to the grilled clam worm (alitta succinea, ragworms, pile worm) of Vietnam.

Markthalle Acht: This place can be known as a culinary center of Bremen with 20 food stalls offering a full range of traditional dishes prepared from the best chefs of Bremen.

Address: Domshof 8-12, 28195 Bremen, Germany Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday: 11AM–7PM/Thursday, Friday,Saturday: 11AM–10PM/Monday, Sunday: Closed

Bremen blog: What to do and where to go?

Bremen is a small city, its tourist attractions are also concentrated mainly in Town Hall area – the Old Town. This city owns gentle, tranquil, quaint alleys and street corners and has a long-standing of history and culture. I was strolling around just in the deserted old town for many days without getting bored. The films and photos from here must be said to be beautiful.

Bremen City Hall / Town Hall

Located in the heart of Bremen Market Square, this City Town Hall was built in 1412 and has undergone many ups and downs, many remodeling and renovation. Just standing outside and walking around the building was enough to make me amaze at its intricate carvings, architecture designs with statues have recognized as UNESCO World Heritage in 2005. You can book a walking tour to visit the interior of the building and learn more about the development of the city through the time.

Address: 232 Tallapoosa St, Bremen, GA 30110, United States Hours: 8AM–5:30PM/Saturday, Wednesday: 8AM–12PM/Sunday: Closed Admission: €6.50 / adult, free for children under 12 years old accompany an adult.

Bremen Market Square

The typical Gothic architecture here is quite similar to the Town Hall in Brussels with many old buildings surrounding a large square. Coming here during the Christmas season, I could feel the festive atmosphere at every corner. The Christmas market was set up in the middle of the square with stalls selling food, souvenirs, and decorations. There are many tram routes running here, so it is very convenient to travel from the square to the different points in the center.

St. Peter’s Cathedral Bremen (St. Petri Dom Bremen)

St Peter’s Cathedral is located the Bremen square which was built in the 11th century and upgraded from the 13 to 16 century. From a distance, the church stands out in the middle of the neighborhood with two iconic Gothic-style towering bell towers at 98m high. The atmosphere inside of the church was really quiet, you can access here for free, but if you want to go to the top of the tower, you will have to buy a ticket. The church’s museum (Dom-Museum) is also very interesting because it also preserves 8 mummies from the Middle Ages.

Address: Sandstraße 10-12, 28195 Bremen, Germany Hours: 10AM–6PM/Sunday: 2–6PM

Böttcherstraße and the Glockenspiel House

Böttcherstraße is a small street with stores and shops selling all kinds of goods on both sides of the street. The walls here are built of red bricks similar to the main color tone of the old town of Bremen. In the early 20th century, Ludwig Roselius – an investor who bought all houses here and rebuilt as a structure connecting the Weser River and the large square in the center.

Haus des Glockenspiels – The Glockenspiels House is located at the end of Böttcherstraße street with 30 Meißener porcelain bells painted in blue on the outside and gilded inside. If Bremen has a large square, the outside area of the Glockenspiels can be seen as a small square, decorated under splendid lights during the Christmas season.

Schnoor Quarter

Bremen tourist place that I like the most. I spent 2 mornings here, especially an early morning with a light sunny dawn. This oldest neighborhood in Bremen was once the poorest part of the city, right next to the River Weser, but now it’s Bremen’s most beautiful place.

The narrow alleys are just enough to walk to see the old houses on both sides. The highlight is the colorful streets, sometimes stopping at small corners with full of vintage look, with rows of chairs, flowers and plants along old walls. You can take pictures here all day without getting bored and also could not to visit all the beautiful little street corners.

Town Musicians of Bremen

This statue can be considered as a symbol of the city of Bremen that depicting characters in the famous Grimm fairy tales. These animals including donkey, dog, cat and chicken have fled from their owners and become artists of the city. The statue was not too big, located right outside of the city hall, the animals standing on top of each other.

Universum Science Center

The Universum Science Center stands out with its futuristic architecture. From a distance you see it like a large seashell protruding out of the water but many people mistake it for an alien flying saucer. This science museum has more than 300 exhibition areas covering all topics about technology, people and nature. In addition, there is a 27m high tower where you can see the whole city.

Address: Wiener Straße 1a, 28359 Bremen, Germany Opened: September 9, 2000

Wallanlagen Park

In addition to the above attractions, you can consider to visit Wallanlagen Park, it’s also near the old town and Town Hall. This park has lush green grass, walking paths and a small river running through. The special feature of this park is that on a not too high mound is a beautiful windmill, very suitable for virtual live photography on sunny days.

Address: 28195 Bremen, Germany

Bremen travel guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Bremen you can refer to

• Bremen: Walking Tour in German with Night Guard
• Bremen: Walking Tour of Historic Schnoor District
• Bremen: Night Watchman Guided Tour for Children (in German)
• Tour of Bremen’s Underworld
• Bremen: Old Town 2-Hour Tour with Costumed Performer
• The Dark Side of Bremen: Killers and Criminals
• Bremen: In the Steps of the Bremen Town Musicians

Are you looking for more guide and top things to do in famous destinations in Germany: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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Admission and opening

Please note that there may be increased noise in the museum for a short period of time due to reconstruction of the Oceania exhibition.

Opening hours

Regulary Tue to Fr 9 am to 6 pm Sat + Sun 10 am to 6 pm Closed on Mondays

Special opening hours on the holidays

• May 1st 10 am – 5 pm
• Ascension Day 10 am – 5 pm
• Whit Sunday 10 am – 5 pm
• Whit Monday 10 am – 5 pm

Admission fee

Free admission.

• Children up to 5 years
• KiTa- and preschool classes
• Pupils from general education schools in Bremen in a class group (made possible by Sparkasse Bremen)
• Members of the Freundeskreis Übersee-Museum e.V.
• Media representatives with press card, members of ICOM, Members German Museum Association

Guided tours* of the permanent exhibitions

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By Bus & Tram

You can reach the Übersee-Museum Bremen with the tram lines 1, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 and the bus lines 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 63 stop Hauptbahnhof. The Übersee-Museum is also located right next to the Central Bus Station (ZOB), where numerous intercity buses stop.

The Übersee-Museum is located directly at the main station of Bremen. Those arriving by train use the exit in the direction of the city and turn right at the station square. The Übersee Museum’s main entrance is located at the end of the meadow. Plan your journey with the Deutsche Bahn here.

Parking facilities

Due to the central location of the Übersee-Museum directly at the main station, parking possibilities for cars are limited. The next parking possibilities are:

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Photography for private purposes is allowed without flash and tripod. Exhibits that may not be photographed are marked accordingly.

Bringing pets

Dogs and other pets must remain outside and are not admitted to the museum.

Accessibility

The accessible entrance is located to the right of the main entrance. From there you can enter the museum and the restaurant “Übersee”. There are also four public disabled parking spaces at the barrier-free entrance. All exhibitions at the Übersee-Museum are accessible to people with walking difficulties and wheelchair users. The museum has disabled toilets in the main building and in the foam magazine “Übermaxx”. Here you will find the digital accessibility statement .

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Watch CBS News

Venice becomes first city in the world to charge day trippers a tourist fee to enter

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Aimee Picchi

Updated on: April 26, 2024 / 10:37 AM EDT / CBS News

On Thursday, Venice, Italy became the first city in the world to charge day tourists a fee  just to visit its historic canals and other attractions on peak days. 

The measure is designed to counter over-tourism and mitigate the deleterious impact large crowds can have on some of the city's fragile sites, while also persuading some tourists to visit during less busy times of the year.  

The roughly $5.37 fee only applies on 29 days that are deemed to be the busiest between April 25, a holiday in Italy, and July 14, in a trial phase of the reservation-and-fee system. 

Most people entering the city must register and obtain a QR code, or a ticket for visitors without smartphones, but some tourists are exempt from paying the fee. For instance, visitors who spend the night in a hotel or Airbnb-style accommodation are not subject to the nominal tourist fee. Likewise, residents, people born in Venice, people visiting relatives who are residents, workers, students and visitors under the age of 14 do not have to pay either.

There is no cap on the number of tourists who may reserve a visit on a given day. 

In a public video, Luigi Brugnaro, the mayor of Venice, called the new system an "experiment" to protect the city. 

"We do it with great humility," he said. In a social media post , he added that the rollout was "going well" and "the atmosphere is relaxed."

Simone Venturini, the tourism councilor of Venice, added, "The whole world would like to visit Venice, and this is an honor for us. But not everyone in the world is able to do so on the exact same day."

Experts are skeptical the tourist charge will meaningfully reduce crowds or generate enough money to cover the costs associated with accommodating large numbers of visitors, like managing water and waste.  

"For cities like Venice, most research shows that an additional tax does not lower arrivals, as is often contended," Megan Epler Wood, managing director at the Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program (STAMP) at Cornell University, said in a statement. "In order to address the invisible burden of tourism, new destination management entities will need to determine the cost per tourist to ensure there is an equitable and sustainable use of local resources. Once such costs are determined, tax reform will be required to cover these costs."

Some residents protested the new policy on Thursday, according to media reports. Some were seen clashing with riot police, while others tried to break through a blockade, CNBC reported .

The fragile lagoon city has a population of roughly 50,000, a sliver of what it was a couple of generations ago. On its busiest days, it can draw nearly as many tourists as it has residents.

A United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage property, the city features masterpieces from Giorgione, Titian, Tintoretto and others. 

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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Venice tests a 5-euro fee for day-trippers as the city grapples with overtourism

The Associated Press

Stewards check tourists' QR code access outside the main train station in Venice, Italy, on Thursday. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Stewards check tourists' QR code access outside the main train station in Venice, Italy, on Thursday.

VENICE, Italy — Under the gaze of the world's media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro (around $5.35) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Visitors arriving at Venice's main train station were greeted with large signs listing the 29 dates through July of the plan's test phase that also designated separate entrances for tourists, and residents, students and workers.

Venice will limit tour groups to 25 people and ban loudspeakers to control tourism

"We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,'' said Simone Venturini, the city's top tourism official. "We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days."

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism , insisting that only a resurgence in the population will restore balance to a city where narrow alleyways and water buses are often clogged with tourists.

Hundreds of Venetians protested against the program, marching festively though the city's main bus terminal behind banners reading "No to Tickets, Yes to Services and Housing." Protesters scuffled briefly with police with riot gear who blocked them from entering the city, before changing course and entering over another bridge escorted by plainclothes police. The demonstration wrapped up peacefully in a piazza.

Citizens and activists stage a protest against Venice Tax Fee in Venice on Thursday. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Citizens and activists stage a protest against Venice Tax Fee in Venice on Thursday.

Tourists arriving at the main station encountered almost as many journalists as stewards on hand to politely guide anyone unaware of the new requirements through the process of downloading the QR code to pay the fee.

Arianna Cecilia, a tourist from Rome visiting Venice for the first time, said she thought it was "strange" to have to pay to enter a city in her native country, and be funneled through separate entrance ways for tourists. She and her boyfriend were staying in nearby Treviso, and so downloaded the QR code as required, but she was still caught off-guard while soaking in her first view ever of Venice's canals by the sight of the entrance signs and her boyfriend telling her to get out the ticket.

On the other side of the entrance ways, workers in yellow vests carried out random checks at the train station. Transgressors faces fines of 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320), but officials said "common sense" was being applied for the launch.

With Waters Rising And Its Population Falling, What Is Venice's Future?

The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free and unchecked.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, and officials hope that the pilot project can help provide more exact figures to better manage the phenomenon.

The city can track the number of hotel visitors, which last year numbered 4.6 million and is down 16% from pre-pandemic highs. But the number of day visitors, which make up the majority of the crowds in Venice, could only be estimated until recently.

Stewards check a tourist's QR code access outside the main train station in Venice. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Stewards check a tourist's QR code access outside the main train station in Venice.

A Smart Control Room set up during the pandemic has been tracking arrivals from cellphone data, roughly confirming pre-pandemic estimates of 25 million to 30 million arrivals a year, said Michele Zuin, the city's top economic official. That includes both day-trippers and overnight guests.

But Zuin said the data is incomplete.

"It's clear we will get more reliable data from the contribution" being paid by day-trippers, he said.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. On peak days, local police set up one-way traffic for pedestrians to keep the crowds moving.

Residents opposing the day-tripper tax insist that the solution to Venice's woes are to boost the resident population and the services they need, limiting short-term rentals to make available more housing and attract families back from the mainland.

Last year, Venice passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

Venice mayor calls out 'imbeciles' surfing Italian city's historic canals

"Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,'' said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

"You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park. You don't pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice," he said.

Venice officials expected paid day-tripper arrivals Thursday to reach about 10,000. More than 70,000 others had downloaded a QR code denoting an exemption, including to work in Venice or as a resident of the Veneto region. Hotels in Venice, including in mainland districts like Marghera or Mestre, should provide a QR code attesting to their stay, which includes a hotel tax.

Venturini, the tourist official, said that interest in Venice's pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities, and municipalities abroad such as Barcelona, Spain, and Amsterdam.

But Marina Rodino, who has lived in Venice for 30 years, doesn't see the fee as the cure-all. Neighboring apartments in her residential building near the famed Rialto Bridge once inhabited by families are now short-term apartment rentals.

The corner butcher shop closed. Yet she noted that the new entrance fee requirement will still allow young people to flood the city in the evening for the traditional aperitivo, which can grow rowdy.

She was passing out mock European Union passports for "Venice, Open City," underlining the irony of the new system, and challenging its legal standing with citations from the Italian Constitution guaranteeing its citizens the right to "move or reside freely in any part of the national territory."

"This is not a natural oasis. This is not a museum. It is not Pompeii. It is a city, where we need to fight so the houses are inhabited by families, and stores reopen. That is what would counter this wild tourism,'' Rodino said.