From Medieval Myths to Modern Marvels: Bremen is Calling Your Name
An important city (within the Land of the same name) in Germany, Bremen is located in the north of the Teutonic nation, in a point of great geographical peculiarity since it is 60 km from the sea and on the banks of a key river route, the Weser, on which the urban center has built a port since 1619, making it in a short time a commercial hub, a harbinger of increasing wealth already largely acquired from the northern coast.
The History of Bremen
Some proven historical documents testify to its existence at least from 782, and only 5 years later, Bremen emancipated itself as a city of enormous religious importance thanks to the foundation of the Diocese by Charlemagne. The erection of the walls around the town dates back to 1300, a protection that became necessary for what would be future wars, especially the Thirty Years’ War, following which Bremen was proclaimed a “free city,” ready to annex itself to the German federation as a sovereign state.
Occupied by the Allies together with the newly formed Bremerhaven in 1945 (after various bombings and attacks that caused the almost total destruction of the historic center and 3,562 victims), only two years later, it formed the Land Bremen, a member state of the Federal Republic of Germany.
What to See in Bremen
Today Bremen is a European pearl on a tourist scale, largely visitable on foot but equipped with adequate means of transport to travel far and wide. It is a good idea to begin the tour in the historic center, where the 10-meter-high sculpture of Roland the Paladin stands proudly in the Marktplatz. The statue symbolizes freedom and independence and is an essential landmark of the city.
Nearby is the Cathedral of San Pietro, a Gothic building built in the mid-13th century. Its façade, rose window, and twin towers (one of which offers a panoramic climb of 265 steps) are must-see highlights. Inside, visitors can marvel at the baptismal font and the Bleikeller, a crypt with mummified bodies that create a macabre yet fascinating atmosphere.
The Town Musicians of Bremen
The bronze statue of the Town Musicians of Bremen is a beloved symbol inspired by the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale. Featuring a donkey, dog, cat, and rooster, this sculpture is a tourist favorite. Legend says touching the donkey’s nose brings good luck!
The Schnoor District and Böttcherstrasse
The Schnoor District is a charming maze of medieval alleys, while Böttcherstrasse, with its unique red-brick houses and artistic reliefs, reflects Bremen’s architectural ingenuity. Both areas offer countless opportunities to shop, dine, and experience the city’s historic charm.
The Schlachte Riverside
By the Schlachte Riverside, visitors will find vibrant pubs, restaurants, and markets, along with opportunities to enjoy river cruises, often paired with a refreshing Beck’s beer, brewed locally.
Events and Demonstrations
Bremen is a city that is always active and knows what it means to have fun, which is why the year is filled with events that are truly not to be missed. The list is long, as benefits a large urban agglomeration of 554,000 people: New Year’s Eve celebrations along the river, the traditional Eiswette in January, the famous Carnival in February, and the Freimarkt, Germany’s oldest free market, dating back to 1035. The Christmas markets in the Marktplatz are equally unmissable.
How to Get to Bremen
From Italy by car, you travel 1,100 km through Switzerland and the A5 and A2 motorways, the latter passing through Frankfurt (the alternative is the A7, which passes through Ulm and Hannover). The Bremen Hauptbahnhof (central railway station) is located at Bahnhofsplatz 15. The reference airport is the Flughafen Bremen, which includes connections with the major European cities and world capitals. Bremen also has 12 tram lines and 46 bus lines.
Where to Stay
- Atlantic Grand Hotel Bremen (Bredenstraße 2): Perfect for luxury stays with top amenities and proximity to the Marktplatz.
- Motel One Bremen (Am Brill 10): Stylish, affordable, and ideally located.
- Radisson Blu Hotel Bremen (Böttcherstraße 2): A high-end option for design lovers near the Schnoor District.
- H+ Hotel Bremen (Wachtstraße 27-29): Comfortable rooms and a great location near the town center.
- Dorint City-Hotel Bremen (Hillmannplatz 20): Family-friendly with spacious accommodations and a wellness center.
Where to Eat
- Ratskeller Bremen: Historic restaurant with a vast wine selection and traditional German dishes.
- Bremer Ratsheringe: A favorite spot for fresh seafood lovers.
- Schüttinger Gasthausbrauerei: Brewpub offering hearty meals and locally brewed beers.
- Al-Dar: Renowned Syrian cuisine with vegetarian options.
- Cafe Sand: A relaxing riverside café, perfect for light meals and desserts.