BREMEN: LIKE A LOCAL
A major cultural and economic hub on the banks of the river Weser, Bremen is a buzzing Hanseatic city that is one of Germany's ten most popular destinations for city trips. Here are a few tips on things to do in Bremen when you stay at Penta.
1. Where to go to get away from the crowds.
Whatever the season, Bürgerpark is ideal for families, couples and just about anyone. Relax and enjoy all the green vibes with no itinerary needed. It’s a walker’s delight, where you can breathe a tranquil breath of air away from big crowds. Play a round of mini golf, hire a paddle boat or try out one of the four restaurants and enjoy a cool drink and the leafy view. Or – you can stay very close to the hotel and take a stroll through gorgeous Rhododendron-Park, which includes Bremen’s Botanical Gardens.
2. Unmissable galleries or museums for any self-respecting art buff?
Viertel – where shopping meets culture – is one neighborhood you cannot miss in Bremen. There you will find the Kunsthalle Bremen art gallery, the Gerhard Marcks House, the Wilhelm Wagenfeld House and Bremen Theatre, all in the one place. Check out the outstanding exhibitions, and a wide range of opera, dance, and theatre. The district also boasts plenty of small shops and boutiques as well as many restaurants, cafes, bars, and pubs.
3. The best local market and what to buy there.
‘Fit, fair and familiar’, the Findorff market has over 70 stalls selling fresh, local produce. Taking place three times a week and loved by locals, you can buy a huge variety of fruit, vegetable, cheeses as well as charcuterie, bread, flowers, handicrafts and more.
4. Tips for a rainy day?
Head to the Universum, a science center with over 250 exhibitions waiting to be explored, covering topics such as mankind, earth, and the cosmos. Housed inside a stainless steel, mussel shaped building designed by Bremen architect Thomas Klumpp, people of all ages can discover astonishing things about technology, nature, and the human body.
5. What’s unique to your city?
Bremen’s ‘Gute Stube’, as the locals call the market place (or Marktplatz) at the heart of the city, is surrounded by magnificent historic buildings. Both the town hall and the famous statue of Roland have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. You’ll also find the gothic-styled St. Peter’s Cathedral on the south-east side of the Marktplatz and the famous Bremen Town Musicians: a statue from 1953 and a tribute to the popular fairy-tale by the Brothers Grimm.
6. Any indie shops you recommend?
Second-hand shops are increasingly popular in the city with so you’re sure to find some lovely things at bargain prices. Located in the Viertel (see tip number 2) is Modemarkt Bremen where you can find luxury brands such as Prada, Marni, Vivienne Westwood and Gaultier. If you’re after something a bit more casual Defibrillator offers a wide range of ‘clothes with experience’, a trip through time back to the 70s, 80s and 90s, with something for everyone!
7. What’s worth checking out in the region around the city?
A popular place to get out in the fresh air and relax is the Werdersee. The promenade along the water is popular with joggers and cyclists and is also the perfect place to read, chat or play games. During the summer you’ll find the locals in their natural habitat, swimming or enjoying a barbecue. Sunbathing is a must on the sandy beach to the north.
