I was debating whether to write a ‘top things to do in Bremen’ type post considering there are so few things to see in Bremen for a relatively large city. I think I’ve visited every German city and town that I have ever wanted to. But Bremen was on my list as I’d heard it has a beautiful UNESCO listed historic centre, which is absolutely the case.
With the majority of the main attractions located in the Old Town, I saw all the highlights in one leisurely afternoon. That’s not to say Bremen isn’t worth a visit, it definitely is, but it only needs to be a quick visit. One night should be enough for most visitors or you could visit on a day trip from a nearby city like Hamburg for example.
Alternatively, this is the perfect place to stop while on a road trip in Northern Germany and that’s exactly how I found myself in Bremen.
Things to do in Bremen
A scan of the Bremen tourism site shows around 6 top attractions and things to do and see.
- Rathaus – the gorgeous Town Hall and UNESCO site.
- Bremen Cathedral – 13th-century cathedral across from the Rathaus.
- Bremen Roland – a statue in the centre of the main square and also part of Bremen’s UNESCO site.
- Town Musicians – a quirky statue based on a folktale by the Brothers Grimm.
- Schnoor Quarter – an old quarter with narrow lanes and many cafes.
- Böttcherstrasse – a small street with unusual architecture from the 1920s.
If the old town isn’t enough you could also stop by the modern Uberseestadt docklands area and the Das Viertal hipster area. I was in Bremen on my way from Copenhagen to Brussels so didn’t venture further from the Altstadt but I would if had my time there again.
I’m not sure I would go out of my way to visit Bremen but if you are interested in UNESCO sites, German culture, folktales, historic sites, or you just happen to be curious then here are my tips for things to do in Breman.
Rathaus – Bremen’s Town Hall
Bremen’s Town Hall is the most beautiful building in Bremen and I think the main reason to visit. You can’t miss it on the main Marktplatz with its Gothic and Renaissance style architecture. Along with the Roland statue, the Town Hall is part of Bremen’s UNESCO listing.
Roland Statue
Roland was a warrior and hero under Charlemagne and is the protector of the city. According to legend, Bremen will remain free as long as Roland watches over the city.
You can watch over Roland while having coffee and cake or a beer or two at one of the cafes on the main square.
Town Musicians of Bremen
It took me a while to find the statue of the Town Musicians as it’s in a quiet spot to the side of the Town Hall. The statue refers to a folktale by the Brothers Grimm where a donkey, dog, cat and rooster leave their farms for Bremen, a city known for its freedom.
Schnoor Quarter
The Schnoor Quarter of Bremen is one of the cutest areas of the city with its narrow lanes and 17th and 18th-century architecture. This is the Bremen of old and the city would be incredible if it all looked like this.
Böttcherstrasse
This small lane is easy to miss and I did miss it when I first walked by. If you’re on the main square look for the huge gold mural as that’s the entrance to the street. I’ve seen the architecture on Böttcherstrasse described as both Art Nouveau and Expressionist. Whatever it is, it’s quite unusual and worth a look.
Bremen is mostly a modern city lacking in character which is understandable considering the damage caused during the war. But what remains or has been rebuilt in the traditional style is worth seeing if you’re in the area. It would be a shame not to stop to see the gorgeous Town Hall and Cathedral if you are passing by.
Where to Stay
I stayed at the Prizeotel, a budget boutique hotel just behind the main train station. The location is excellent if you’re arriving by train or car and the rooms, wifi and staff are all good. Cheap parking is available across the road so it’s a good hotel option if you’re road tripping through the region.
—
Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels in Bremen, Germany. This means we get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.