Bremen, the city on the Weser, is a much-loved destination for all those who love a touch of nautical flair. The city offers a variety of unique experiences and attractions in and near the water, ranging from historical ships to modern water sports.

Below, we look at some of the maritime-themed experiences and activities available to visitors and locals in 2024:

Maritime Bremen: A journey through history and the present
As a Hanseatic city, Bremen can reflect on a long seagoing tradition. This is evident not only in the city’s appearance but also in the prominence it is given at the Übersee-Museum Bremen and the Hafenmuseum in Speicher XI.

The city’s maritime heart beats along the Weser, where numerous traditional ships are still moored. Bremen’s historic Schlachte promenade is full of restaurants, bars, and cafés perfect for lingering.

Visitors can not only soak up the atmosphere but also step aboard a ship and experience the city from the water.

Hotel ships and city beaches: Bremen’s floating accommodation and sandy oases
One of the things that sets Bremen apart from other cities is its hotel ships, including the Alexander von Humboldt, the Perle and the Klabauterbett, all offering unique overnight experiences. The proximity to the water and the gentle rocking of the waves on the river makes for a relaxed atmosphere you just cannot find in a conventional hotel room.

You can also stay on a houseboat at the Lankenauer Höft. This city beach is also the perfect place to enjoy a sunny day, recharge your batteries, have a cocktail, and watch the sunset as the ships pass by.

Bremen’s gateway to the North Sea: From the city centre to the sea
Bremen’s proximity to the North Sea is a convincing argument for anyone seeking a little nautical flair.

Bremerhaven, the gateway to the North Sea, is just a short drive from Bremen. Bremerhaven is famous for its nautical heritage, the Klimahaus climate museum, the Auswandererhaus telling the story of emigration, and the largest fishing port in Germany.

This combination of education, culture and culinary treats makes an excursion to the North Sea an unforgettable experience.

Fun on the water: Lots of fun for all ages
In Bremen, there are all sorts of ways of getting out on the water, with the focus here being on the water sports experience, whether it is stand-up paddle-boarding, canoeing or sailing. Families and amateur skippers can explore the Weser and its tributaries on their own and get to know the city from a new perspective.

The Torfhafen harbour in Findorff can be found next to the Bürgerpark. Between April and October, if you are interested, you can take a ride in a faithful reproduction of an original turf barge.

Überseeinsel and Hopfenjäger: Foodie culture in the modern era
Überseeinsel, once the site of Kellogg’s breakfast cereal factory, has, over the last few years, been undergoing a transformation into a modern city district with a blend of residential, business and leisure properties.

It is becoming a lively space that nurtures creativity and innovation and aims to appeal to both visitors and locals. The John & Will Hotel is opening in a converted grain silo in August. The whole project prioritises elements of sustainability.

The Hopfenjäger brewery is now established in the heart of this sophisticated development. With hand-made beers and regular brewery tours, it offers an in-depth insight into the art of brewing.

2024 event highlights: Experience maritime Bremen

There are numerous events relating to maritime Bremen in the second half of 2024. Explore the nautical culture and enjoy live music.

International Festival Maritim, 2 – 4 August
The International Festival Maritim is a must for all music fans. Musicians from all over the world meet to celebrate their love of seafaring music. It is a weekend to look forward to, with lots of charming melodies and maritime cheer in the Vegesack district of Bremen!

More than 170 concerts are planned across eight stages, with all sorts of colourful fringe events.

Seebühne Bremen, 12 July to 4 August
The Seebühne Bremen is a cultural meeting point offering a wide range of theatre, music and dance performances. Visitors can enjoy unique open-air events and unforgettable summer evenings. The Seebühne Bremen is the first and only stage with direct access to the water.

Maritime Week from 14 to 22 September
The Maritime Week in Bremen is a festival for lovers of the sea and marine travel. With a lively mix of boat parades, information stands, and maritime activities, the event promises fun for all the family.

It culminates in the festival weekend on the Schlachte and Martinianleger quaysides. Visitors can enjoy the research promenade, water sports presentations, and an impressive fireworks display.

You can learn more about all the above events, as well as information on many more things to see and do in Bremen, at https://www.bremen.de/.