Art galleries and antiquities give visitors an insight into this historic harbour town in northern Germany.
Bremen is the oldest coastal city in Germany. It grew from a small fishing village into one of the biggest harbours in Europe, with the size of its population making it the second biggest city in northern Germany.
If you only have one or two days to spare, you can spend your short trip discovering the historic quarters and buildings of Bremen, many of which have been very well preserved. Bremen lies north-west of Hannover, near the North Sea, to which the city is connected via the River Weser. Der Schütting, a guild house from the 16th century, and the Böttcherstraße, a reconstruction of a medieval street with many shops and galleries, are typical examples of the Renaissance and Gothic architecture found throughout the city. The Böttcherstraße was rebuilt after the Second World War with the aim of recreating everyday life in the city during the Middle Ages.
On a stroll through the Schnoor Quarter you will stumble across many artists and artisans selling African souvenirs, jewellery and Christmas decorations in the shops and art galleries found in the quarter's impressive medieval buildings. This reconstructed historical quarter in the city's east was once inhabited by river fishermen and sailors.
If, on your travels, you feel the urge for a shopping spree, you should visit the Lloyd Passagewhere you will find a range of exclusive designer shops. Or you could visit the Waterfront an der Weser Shopping Centre, home to more than 80 shops in which you can buy fashionable clothes, accessories, shoes and handbags. In addition, throughout the year Bremen plays host to various festivals, concerts and gastronomy events.
In Bremen's shopping quarters countless pubs offer something to suit every taste. If, however, you're looking for traditional restaurants and cafés, you should go to the Schlachte Promenade on the banks of the River Weser. On the Böttcherstraße you can try cabbage and fish dishes typical to the area, including Labskaus, a sailor's meal with potatoes and corned beef.
Take a tour through the Beck's Brewery and enjoy the nightlife on the Schlachte or in the surrounding quarter which attracts a predominantly younger crowd. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, you should try out the pubs and bars on the Böttcherstraße. The city's international airport is only three kilometres south of the city centre. You can arrive speedily into the city via bus and tram.
