Aside from the Bremen Cathedral and Marktplatz, there are loads of other places to see in this beautiful city. From the UNESCO-listed Town Hall and Roland statue, to a top-notch art museum and interactive museums!
The Kunsthalle is a top-notch art museum located on the “Culture Mile” in Bremen’s Old Town. Its collection includes European masters starting from the 14th century.
Marktplatz
Located in the center of Bremen’s beautiful Old Town, Marktplatz is the city’s main marketplace. You can shop for fresh produce, flowers, and delicacies from around the world here.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the square is dominated by a spectacular Town Hall with a 600-year history. It’s also home to the renowned Roland statue and the beautiful St. Petersburg Cathedral, as well as the modern State Council and Schutting Chamber of Commerce.
It’s a great place to take in the sights of this beautiful German city! In winter, the Marktplatz is the setting for the city’s famous Christmas market (Bremer Weihnachtsmarkt), which runs for a month in the lead-up to the holidays.
Another must-see attraction is Bottcherstrasse, a narrow street that was converted between 1926 and 1931 into a collection of museums. It’s only 100 meters long, but it’s a delight to walk down because of its many examples of eccentric expressionist architecture. Look for the “Light Bringer” (Lichtbringer), an impressive gold sculpture that’s situated over the not-so-secret archway entrance!
Bottcherstrasse
What to see and to do
A short street that zigzags between the main market square to the south and the Weser River, Bottcherstrasse is famous for its brick architecture. This narrow lane houses a variety of museums, artist studios and restaurants.
The houses have been carved and painted by local artists and the street is a great place to stroll around. It's also home to the Glockenspiel House, where 30 bells ring 3 times a day.
Another attraction in this area is Universum Bremen, a science museum designed to be interactive and hands-on for children of all ages. They have over 300 exhibits spread out over three subjects: Technology, Humans and Nature.
If you're into more contemporary art, you can also check out the Gerhard Marcks House and Museum. He created the stacked animals sculpture in the Marktplatz and is one of Germany's most celebrated sculptors.
Schnoor
The historic neighborhood of Schnoor, also called the “Schnoor Quarter,” is an ideal place to visit if you’re looking for a sense of Bremen’s medieval past. Winding alleyways and wood-timbered houses from the 15th century form a charming contrast to the contemporary shops and cafes that dot the area.
If you’re curious about the history of this part of the city, it’s best to take a guided tour with a local guide. They’ll tell you about the changes that have taken place and tell you about the people who lived here in years gone by.
One of the most interesting places to visit in the Schnoor district is the Bremer Geschichtenhaus, a living museum where historical re-enactors recreate important scenes from the city’s past. It’s an easy walk from the market square and a great way to get the inside scoop on the area’s fascinating history.
Weser River
The River Weser is an essential element of life in Bremen. Whether it’s a walk along the dyke, a day in the park or a visit to one of the many bars and restaurants at Schlachte or Uberseestadt - Bremeners often meet at the Weser to relax and spend some time.
The Weser River is a classic European river run, with wide paths along both sides of the river and a number of parks with terrific water views. The full loop is up to 14 km but shorter options are available as well.
The path begins in downtown, passing the Performing Arts Center and continuing through Schlachte (downtown waterfront embankment). Then continue on to Deichwiese and Osterdeich parks before circling around to the Weser Stadium and sports complex at 4 km. From here, the route hugs the river on waterside paths until reaching the Erdbeerbrucke [brucke=bridge] at 6.7 km.
