Bremen travel guide

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Introduction to Bremen

Bremen, Germany — When thinking about this city in the Bremen federated state, Germany, images of the spectacular Schnoor, Town Musicians of Bremen, and Rhododendron-Park Bremen instantly come to mind. As you explore beyond these attractions, you'll find that this city in Germany is more than what we see in books and social media. Bremen, and its community of more than 569.4 thousand people, is a culturally rich and diverse travel destination offering plenty of unforgettable experiences.

Traveling to Bremen is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Easily accessible from Bremen, Bremen is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Germany at any time of the year. For a comprehensive understanding and to unearth hidden gems, visit Bremen's official website.

History of Bremen

Bremen, situated in Northern Germany, is steeped in rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The city's origins can be traced back to the 8th century as a bishop's seat, but it gained prominence in the 12th century when it became a member of the Hanseatic League. This powerful alliance of trading cities boosted Bremen's economic and political status.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Bremen experienced significant growth due to its thriving coffee, tobacco, and cotton industries. However, the city also saw periods of hardship, particularly during World War II when it suffered heavy bombardment.

Post-war Bremen witnessed a swift recovery and transformation into a modern, cosmopolitan city. Today, Bremen is renowned for its maritime trade, aerospace industries, and vibrant cultural scene. Its historic city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the city’s rich past, offering visitors a glimpse into its intriguing history.

Local culture and customs in Bremen

Bremen, located in Northern Germany, is renowned for its rich culture that wonderfully blends traditional German customs with elements of maritime life. The city's history as a significant destination in the Hanseatic League is evident in its celebrations such as the annual Bremen Freimarkt, a funfair that has been held for over 970 years. Here, you can enjoy traditional German music, food, and games.

Bremen locals, known as 'Bremer', are generally reserved yet friendly and they value punctuality. German is the main language, though English is widely spoken. The city's cuisine is a must-try, with a strong emphasis on fish dishes, reflecting its coastal connections. Try local delicacies such as 'Bremer Kluten', peppermint bars coated in chocolate, or 'Kohl und Pinkel', a hearty kale and sausage dish.

When visiting Bremen's historical sites, such as the UNESCO-listed Town Hall or the Bremen Roland statue, be respectful as these are treasured symbols of the city's pride and heritage. Finally, don't forget to rub the legs of the donkey statue at Bremen Town Musicians for good luck, a quirky local tradition loved by both locals and tourists.

Currency information for travelers in Bremen

The official currency of Bremen, as with the rest of Germany, is the Euro (€). Most establishments in the city accept major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard, although it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments, outdoor markets or in case of an emergency. ATMs are abundantly available throughout the city for cash withdrawals, although bank charges may apply. It's advisable to inform your bank of your travels to avoid any potential card blockage. Bremen is a relatively affordable city compared to other major European destinations, but budgeting should consider dining, attractions, transportation and potential souvenirs. Tipping in restaurants and cafes is customary, typically rounding up the bill or leaving 10-15%.

Language tips for travelers in Bremen

While many locals in Bremen speak English, learning some basic German phrases can enhance your experience. Start with greetings like 'Guten Tag' (Good day) or 'Hallo' (Hello), 'Danke' (Thank you), and 'Entschuldigung' (Excuse me). When dining out, 'Ich hätte gerne...' (I would like...) can be useful. Although Bremen has its own Low German dialect, standard German is widely understood. In case of language barriers, don't hesitate to use translation apps or phrasebooks. Also, remember that Germans appreciate politeness, so always use 'Sie' (formal you) when addressing strangers. However, don't be overly concerned about language issues, Bremeners are usually patient with tourists attempting to speak German.

Best time to visit Bremen

The best time to explore Bremen, Germany is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These periods offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant natural scenery, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Springtime in Bremen is particularly enchanting, with colorful blossoms adorning the city. Autumn, on the other hand, is marked by a beautiful palette of fall colors. For those interested in cultural events, Bremen hosts the Freimarkt, one of Germany's oldest fairs, in the last two weeks of October. Winter (December to February) can also be a magical time to visit Bremen, especially for the enchanting Christmas market. However, the weather during this period is quite cold and may also include snow. It's worth noting that the summer months (July and August) are the peak tourist season. While the weather is warm and pleasant, the city may be crowded and accommodations can be more expensive. Ultimately, the best time to visit Bremen depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip.

Local tip for visiting Bremen

Bremen, like many German cities, is known for its beer culture, with numerous breweries dotting the cityscape. The insider tip here is to visit during 'Freimarkt' (literally 'Free Market'), the oldest fair in Germany, held in October for two weeks. Locals often refer to it as the 'fifth season' of Bremen. During this time, not only can you enjoy a diverse range of beers but also traditional German food, music, and various fairground attractions. However, the real local secret is the unofficial 'Kleiner Freimarkt' (Small Free Market) held in the charming neighborhood of Vegesack. Less crowded, it offers an authentic experience of Bremen's culture and hospitality. Remember to try the local dish 'Kohl und Pinkel,' a savoury sausage and cabbage stew, which is a traditional meal during Freimarkt. Visiting Bremen during the Freimarkt, especially the 'Kleiner Freimarkt', gives you a unique chance to immerse in true Bremen tradition, away from the usual tourist trail.

Top services in Bremen

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Bremen, Germany. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Bremen, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Germany. Check out the best things to do in Bremen by browsing over 19 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the stays and 8 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Bremen with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Bremen from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Bremen with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Bremen travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Bremen!

Learn more about Germany

With destinations such as Bremen, a trip to Germany needs no further explanation. Spanning over 357,588 square kilometers, Germany is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Germany has something to enchant every traveler.

In Bremen alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Schnoor, Town Musicians of Bremen, and Rhododendron-Park Bremen. Thus, a trip to Germany becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Germany offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Germany. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Germany and its offers.

What to see in Bremen

Photo of ancient Bremen market square in the centre of the Hanseatic City of Bremen with view on famous Church of Our Lady.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Bremen, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Bremen offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Bremen travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Bremen

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Bremen is more than just a wonderful city in Germany. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Germany's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Bremen is the unforgettable Schnoor. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Bremen.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Bremen, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Bremen, including the fascinating Schnoor, Town Musicians of Bremen, Rhododendron-Park Bremen, Bremen Market Square, and Universum Bremen.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Bremen.

Things to do in Bremen

Photo of Am Wall Windmill or Muhle am Wall is an important and iconic building in Bremen, Germany.

You've explored Bremen's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Bremen. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Bremen, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Bremen

A visit to Bremen gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Walking Tours, Historical Tours, Adventure Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Bremen, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Bremen. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Bremen offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Bremen

In Bremen, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 7 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Activities.

Activities offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Bremen. For example, the fantastic e-Scavenger hunt Bremen: Explore the city at your own pace.

Bremen also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Bremen English Self-guided Audio Tour with Quizzes on your Phone, for example, is the cheapest Nature Walk option in the city. This experience costs around 7 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Bremen adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Bremen right below.

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Search for things to do in Bremen

Discover the best things to do in Bremen. Choose from 19 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Bremen. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Bremen.

What to eat in Bremen

The culinary landscape of Bremen, Germany, is a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary dining experiences. Bremen's old town, Schnoor, is a celebrated district for food lovers, offering a variety of dining options from street food to high-end restaurants. It is among the best places to eat in Bremen, where you can savor the city's traditional dishes like Knipp, a crunchy local sausage, or Kohl und Pinkel, a hearty cabbage and sausage stew. Don't miss out on tasting the Bremer Klaben, a rich fruit bread that is a Christmas specialty. Another culinary hotspot is the Viertel district, known for its diverse range of global cuisines. For seafood lovers, a visit to the Fish Market is a must, where you can enjoy freshly caught delicacies. Pair your meals with a glass of local Ratskeller wine or a mug of Beck's, Bremen's world-famous beer. Remember to book in advance for high-end restaurants, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Best Shopping in Bremen

The city of Bremen is a shopping haven, offering a range of traditional, modern, and local shopping options. The best place to go shopping in Bremen is the Böttcherstraße, a historic street lined with boutique shops offering local handicrafts, exquisite jewellery, and unique souvenirs. The Bremen Schnoor Quarter is another must-visit for its art galleries, antique shops and traditional tea houses. If you're after high-end fashion, head to the Obernstraße and Sögestraße, where you'll find international brands and local designers alike. For a more modern shopping experience, the Weserpark shopping centre offers over 170 stores, ensuring a variety of choices. The Bremen Christmas Market is a seasonal highlight, boasting over 170 stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to festive food and drink. Remember, most shops close by 8 pm and are closed on Sundays. Lastly, be sure to try out local delicacies like Kluten (peppermint chocolate) and Bremer Klaben (fruit bread), perfect take-home souvenirs from this charming city.

Best free things to do in Bremen

Discover the best free things to do in Bremen, a city brimming with historic charm and cultural vibrancy. Explore the grandeur of the Bremen Town Hall and the beautiful St. Peter's Cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage sites nestled in the heart of the city. Wander through the medieval Schnoor Quarter, an enthralling maze of narrow, winding streets lined with 15th and 16th-century houses. Admire the imposing statue of Roland, a symbol of freedom and rights, standing majestically in the market square. Delight in the Bürgerpark, one of Germany's most beautiful parks, offering a serene escape with its lush greenery, picturesque ponds and beautiful sculptures. Visit the Universum Bremen's outdoor area, where you can engage in interactive science experiences, or immerse yourself in the vibrant street art scene in the Viertel district. The Schlachte Promenade along the Weser river offers a scenic stroll, and the Wallanlagen Park, a former fortification turned botanical garden, is a stunning sight to behold. In Bremen, the possibilities for free, enriching experiences are abundant.

How to get to Bremen

International travelers can fly to Bremen by booking flights with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Ryanair, Sundair, SunExpress, and Wizz Air, offering flights to Bremen. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Bremen.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Bremen, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Bremen. Go to this page to compare all flights to Bremen.

Find cheap flights to Bremen

Photo of colorful facades with bremer roland statue in Bremen, Germany.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Bremen is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Bremen. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Bremen, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Bremen even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Bremen both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Bremen

Travelers visiting Bremen can easily access the city via Bremen, offering direct connection to 190 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Bremen below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Bremen and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Car rentals in Bremen

Photo of Colorful houses in historic Schnoorviertel in Bremen, Germany.

To navigate Bremen effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 8 car rental companies in Bremen, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Bremen start at 26 EUR per day or 179 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a G1 Polestar 2. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Bremen, starting at 23 EUR per day or 161 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Hyundai I10.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Bremen, Germany below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Bremen

Renting a car in Bremen is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Bremen, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Bremen for your upcoming adventures in Germany below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Bremen

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Bremen. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Bremen, Germany, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Bremen

Photo of In der Dämmerung liegen Dreimaster vor der Promenade an der Weser in Bremen.

The city of Bremen is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Germany. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Germany has it all.

Each destination in Germany offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Germany that are as magical as the city of Bremen. The most popular travel destinations in Germany are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Germany

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Germany. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Transportation in Bremen

Bremen, a bustling city in Northwestern Germany, offers various efficient and reliable transportation options to navigate through its picturesque streets and attractions.

The city’s public transportation, operated by Bremer Straßenbahn AG (BSAG), includes trams, buses, and night lines. They offer a comprehensive network covering both the city center and the outskirts. You can purchase tickets from vending machines at the stops, onboard, or via the BSAG app.

Taxis are readily available throughout the city and can be hailed from designated taxi ranks or ordered by phone. They are metered, providing a trustworthy and convenient means of transport.

For those who prefer driving, rental car services are widely available. Major rental companies have offices at the airport and central locations. Remember, driving is on the right side in Germany.

Bremen is also known for its bike-friendly attitude. With an extensive network of well-marked bike paths, renting a bicycle can be a delightful way to explore the city. You can rent one from numerous stations using the 'WK-Bike' bike sharing system.

Domestic flights from Bremen

Photo of Kunsthalle Museum in the historical centre of Bremen ,Germany.

Experience the authentic charm of Germany by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Bremen. Explore other destinations around Germany with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Bremen to other amazing locations in Germany, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Germany for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Bremen.

Popular domestic flights from Bremen

Travelers in Germany can catch flights to domestic airports in Munich, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Cologne, and Berlin. Domestic flights in Germany are operated by 9 airlines, including KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Ryanair, Sundair, Wizz Air, and Pegasus. There are around 34 scheduled flight routes operating to Bremen on a weekly basis.

From Bremen, travelers can book scheduled flights to 20 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Bremen depart to many top-rated destinations in Germany and are offered by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Ryanair, and Sundair.

Search domestic flights from Bremen

Traveling to another city or region in Germany? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Bremen to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Germany on the selected dates.

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