Located in northern Germany, Bremen is a charming city full of history, culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re interested in architecture, museums, or simply strolling through picturesque streets, Bremen has something to offer. In this guide, we’ll give you our recommendations for how to spend 3 days in Bremen, including top attractions, food and accommodation tips, and more.
Day 1: Discover the Old Town and the Weser River
On your first day in Bremen, we recommend starting in the Old Town, which is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Make your way to the Market Square, where you’ll find the famous Roland Statue, a UNESCO World Heritage site that symbolizes the city’s freedom and independence. Nearby, you can also see the beautiful Town Hall, which dates back to the 15th century and features intricate Renaissance architecture.
After exploring the Market Square, take a walk down the Schnoor Quarter, a charming neighborhood full of narrow streets, traditional houses, and artisanal shops. Be sure to stop by the Böttcherstraße, a unique street with unusual architecture, avant-garde art, and plenty of photo opportunities.
In the afternoon, head to the Weser River and take a stroll along the Weserpromenade, a scenic pathway that offers beautiful views of the water and the city. You can also take a boat tour to see Bremen from a different perspective.
Day 2: Explore the Arts and Culture Scene
Bremen has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. Start your day at the Kunsthalle Bremen, one of the largest art museums in Germany. Here you can admire works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Vermeer.
Next, head to the Bremen Theater, a historic building that dates back to 1913 and features a beautiful Art Nouveau façade. Check the schedule for upcoming performances and enjoy a night at the theater.
In the evening, make your way to the Schlachte Promenade, a lively area on the banks of the Weser River. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes where you can enjoy a delicious dinner or a drink with a view.
Day 3: Visit the Science Center and the Botanical Garden
For your last day in Bremen, we recommend visiting some of the city’s lesser-known attractions. Start at the Universum Bremen, a fascinating science center that combines hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations. This is a great place for both kids and adults to learn about science and technology.
Next, head to the Bremen Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. Here you can admire a wide variety of plants and flowers from around the world, as well as some local wildlife.
After spending some time in the garden, make your way back to the Old Town and visit the Bremen Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church that dates back to the 11th century. Climb up the tower for panoramic views of the city.
Where to Stay in Bremen
If you’re looking for a central location, we recommend staying in the Old Town or the Schnoor Quarter, where you’ll be close to most of the main attractions. Some of our favorite hotels in Bremen include:
- Hotel Atlantic: a historic hotel with a great location and elegant rooms.
- Hotel Ambiente: a modern hotel with spacious rooms and a friendly staff.
- Star Inn Hotel Bremen Columbus: a budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms.
Where to Eat in Bremen
Bremen is famous for its hearty cuisine, which includes dishes such as Labskaus (a type of corned beef hash), Grünkohl (kale stew), and Knipp (blood sausage). Some of our favorite restaurants in Bremen include:
- Ratskeller: a historic restaurant in the basement of the Town Hall, famous for its traditional dishes and excellent wine list.
- Taverne: a cozy restaurant in the Schnoor Quarter, serving delicious German and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Weinlounge: a stylish wine bar and restaurant in the Old Town, offering a wide selection of wines and tapas-style dishes.
Free Tours in Bremen
If you’re on a budget or simply want to learn more about the city from a local perspective, there are several free walking tours available in Bremen. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Bremen Free Walking Tour: a 2-hour tour that covers the main landmarks in the Old Town.
- New Europe Bremen Walking Tour: a 2.5-hour tour that covers both the Old Town and the modern part of the city.
- Bremen Free Tours by Foot: a series of themed tours, including a beer tour, a street art tour, and a haunted tour.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Bremen? Bremen can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the city hosts several outdoor events.
- Is English widely spoken in Bremen? Yes, most people in Bremen speak English, especially in tourist areas.
- How do I get around Bremen? Bremen has a good public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can also rent a bike to explore the city.
- What are some other attractions near Bremen? Some popular day trip destinations from Bremen include the seaside town of Bremerhaven, the picturesque town of Verden, and the Hanseatic city of Hamburg.
Bremen is a hidden gem in Germany, with a rich history, a vibrant cultural scene, and plenty of delicious food. Whether you’re interested in architecture, museums, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Bremen. We hope our guide has given you some inspiration for your next trip to this charming city.
For more information on what to do in Bremen, visit the official tourism website.
