Both a commercial and industrial hub with a major port, the city of Bremen stretches along each side of the River Weser. It is the second largest populated city in Northern Germany and the tenth in all of Germany. Bremen holds the distinction of once being an important member of the Hanseatic League in medieval times.
Tour the Town Hall
Dating back to the 15th century, Bremen Town Hall is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This impressive structure remains an influential example of brick Gothic architecture in Europe. A restaurant within serves wine, some as vintage as 1653 and still stored in their original barrels in the basement.
Spot the Bremen Town Musicians
Located next to Bremen Town Hall is the city’s most photographed attraction, the famous characters from the Grimm fairy tale, “The Bremen Town Musicians”. Immortalized in bronze by German sculptor Gerhard Marck, the beloved mascots include a rooster, cat and a dog riding piggyback upon a donkey. Touching the donkey’s nose is considered good fortune.
Find the Knight of Charlemagne in the town square
Well-known since 1404, Roland, Knight of Charlemagne, stands on Bremen’s town square. The imposing 10-meter tall statue proudly holds his decorative shield and sword while watching over all of Bremen and its people. This guardian of the city was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004.
Drink Beck’s beer in its place of origin
World famous Beck’s beer has been brewed on the riverbanks of Bremen since 1879. The brewery includes tours of the brewing rooms, malt silos, fermentation tanks and a laboratory. In addition, there is a museum, a small cinema featuring two short films and of course, a snack of beer and pretzels to conclude the visit.
Indulge in chocolates!
The traditional Hatchez Chocolatier base their chocolates on original recipes established in 1890. Sweet treats offered include pralines, chocolate truffles and the famous Bremen “Kluten” (peppermint sticks covered in chocolate). Their dedication shows from cocoa bean selection to completed product and packaging.
