Located on the Weser River, this northwest German city has a 600-year-old UNESCO Town Hall, the iconic Bremen Musicians statue, and a modern science center with space research facilities.
Bremen, a city on the Weser River in northwest Germany, has a rich maritime past and a thriving present in science and industry. In the city center, you'll find the UNESCO-listed Town Hall and Roland statue. You can also see the whimsical Bremen Town Musicians statue, explore the interactive Universum Science Center, or take a tour at Airbus or Mercedes-Benz facilities.
Getting Around Bremen
Bremen's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike. For longer journeys, the city has an efficient tram and bus network. From the main train station, you can walk to the exhibition grounds in a few minutes and reach the city center in about 10 minutes. If you're flying in, a tram connects the airport to the city center in just 11 minutes.
Scientific Discovery and Industrial Innovation
At Universum Bremen, an interactive science museum, you can experience a simulated earthquake or take a virtual journey into space. The botanika center within the Rhododendron Park lets you examine plant life cycles through multimedia exhibits and experiments.
To see Bremen's industrial sector up close, book a tour at the Airbus Defence and Space headquarters. You'll learn about rocket component construction and life aboard the International Space Station. At the Mercedes-Benz factory, you can observe the car manufacturing process and even test drive vehicles on their off-road track.
Exploring Bremen's Historic Center
The heart of Bremen is its Altstadt (Old Town). At its core stands the Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site alongside the adjacent Roland statue. This 600-year-old building has maintained its original form since medieval times. Local legend says Bremen will remain free as long as the stone Roland keeps watch over the square - a task he's performed since 1404.
Near the Town Hall, you'll find the bronze statue of the Bremen Town Musicians, depicting the Grimm Brothers' fairy tale about four animals seeking a better life. To see more of Bremen's past, walk through the narrow lanes of the Schnoor quarter. This 15th and 16th-century neighborhood has half-timbered houses now occupied by boutiques, galleries and cafes.
Riverside Relaxation and Local Flavors
After sightseeing, you can unwind along the Schlachte Embankment. This promenade along the Weser River has restaurants and bars, some aboard moored ships. Try local specialties like Knipp (a type of sausage) or Klaben (a fruit bread).
To taste Bremen's beer, visit the Beck's brewery for a tour and tasting. The city has brewed beer for over a thousand years, and you can learn about the process before sampling some yourself.
