Complete Guide to Bremen & Lower Saxony (2025)

Bremen is a city in northern Germany, located on the Weser River. It is the capital of the state of Bremen, which is made up of two cities, Bremen and Bremerhaven. Bremen has a rich history and is known for its Hanseatic heritage, as well as its role as a major port city. It has a population of around 570,000 people, making it the 10th largest city in Germany.

The city is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Bremen Town Musicians statue, the 15th-century Gothic-style Bremen Cathedral, the medieval Schnoor quarter, and the iconic Bremen Roland statue in the historic Market Square.

Bremen is also known for its cultural scene, with a variety of museums, theaters, and music venues, such as the Bremen Shakespeare Company, the Kunsthalle Bremen art museum, and the Bremen Music Festival. The city is also famous for its beer culture, with several breweries and beer gardens, and hosts one of the largest beer festivals in the world, the Bremen Freimarkt.

Overall, Bremen is a vibrant and historic city with a unique culture and attractions that draw visitors from around the world.

Göttingen is a city located in Lower Saxony, Germany, and it is also a stop on the Fairy Tale Route. The city is known for its historical and cultural landmarks, including the Göttingen Old Town, which is home to several half-timbered buildings and the St. Johannis Church, a Gothic-style church built in the 14th century.

In terms of the Fairy Tale Route, Göttingen is famous for its connection to the Grimm Brothers. Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm worked at the University of Göttingen as professors of linguistics and philology from 1829 until their dismissal in 1837 due to political conflicts. During their time in Göttingen, they continued to research and collect fairy tales, and published several volumes of their famous fairy tales.

Visitors to Göttingen can explore the Grimm Brothers’ legacy by visiting the historic university campus, which includes the Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm Center, a library dedicated to their works. The city also hosts an annual fairy tale festival, where visitors can enjoy fairy tale performances, art exhibitions, and other cultural activities. Additionally, the Göttingen International Handel Festival is a major cultural event that takes place every year, celebrating the life and works of composer George Frideric Handel.

Hamelin (also spelled Hameln in German) is a town in Lower Saxony, Germany, located on the banks of the River Weser. The town is famous for its association with the medieval folk tale of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, which tells the story of a piper who lures away the town’s children with his magical pipe after the townspeople refuse to pay him for ridding them of rats.

Hamelin is a charming town with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and picturesque cobblestone streets. Its historic center features many half-timbered buildings, including the famous Hochzeitshaus (Wedding House) where wedding ceremonies have been held for over 400 years.

In addition to the Pied Piper legend, Hamelin is known for its Christmas market, which draws visitors from all over Germany and beyond. The town is also home to several museums, including the Hamelin Museum, which showcases the town’s history and culture, and the Museum Hameln, which focuses on the life and work of Heinrich von Kleist, a renowned German writer.

Hannoversch Münden is a charming town located at the confluence of the Werra and Fulda rivers, where they merge to form the Weser River in Breman and Lower Saxony in Central Germany. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval and half-timbered buildings, many of which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, and is often referred to as the “pearl of the Weser Renaissance.”

Visitors to Hannoversch Münden can explore the town’s picturesque streets, visit museums and galleries, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling along the nearby rivers and forests. Some of the town’s most notable attractions include the historic town hall with its beautiful Renaissance façade, the Dr. Eisenbart Museum which showcases the history of medicine and surgery, and the Gothic-style St. Blasius Church.

The town is also a popular starting point for boat tours on the Weser River, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and visit nearby attractions such as the medieval castle of Hann. Münden and the 14th-century Welfenschloss Castle. With its scenic location, rich history, and charming architecture, Hannoversch Münden is a must-visit destination on any trip to Germany.

Bodenwerder is a small town in the Breman and Lower Saxony region of Germany, located on the banks of the Weser River. The town is best known as the birthplace of Baron Münchhausen, a fictional character based on the real-life nobleman Hieronymus Karl Friedrich von Münchhausen who was famous for telling tall tales and exaggerated stories. In honor of the Baron, Bodenwerder hosts an annual Münchhausen festival that celebrates his legacy with a variety of events, including a parade, live music, and historical reenactments.

In addition to the Münchhausen connection, Bodenwerder is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and boating along the Weser River. Visitors can explore the nearby Schaumburg Castle, a historic fortress that dates back to the 11th century and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The town itself has a charming, old-world feel with traditional half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and a picturesque market square.

Fürstenberg is a small town located in the district of Holzminden in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is situated on the banks of the Weser River, surrounded by beautiful forests and rolling hills.

The town is well-known for its porcelain production, and visitors can learn more about this craft at the Fürstenberg Porcelain Museum. The museum houses a collection of porcelain artifacts dating back to the 18th century, as well as a workshop where visitors can watch skilled artisans create porcelain pieces by hand.

Fürstenberg is also home to a 16th-century castle, Schloss Fürstenberg, which has been beautifully restored and is open to the public for tours. The castle has a fascinating history, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout the centuries.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and cycling along the many trails that wind through the surrounding forests and hills. In the summer months, the Weser River is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Overall, Fürstenberg is a charming and picturesque town that offers visitors a glimpse into Germany’s rich history and culture.

Hannover, located in the Bremen & Lower Saxony region, is a dynamic city that balances green spaces with urban energy. It’s a great destination for travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor experiences. The Herrenhausen Gardens are a standout, with their baroque design, fountains, and seasonal flower displays offering a peaceful escape within the city. Nearby, the Maschsee lake is ideal for walking, cycling, or renting a boat in warmer months, creating a relaxing atmosphere right in the heart of Hannover.

For those interested in arts, science, and city life, Hannover delivers with diverse museums, galleries, and theaters. The Sprengel Museum is a highlight for modern art lovers, and the city center offers plenty of shopping and dining options. Visitors can follow the “Red Thread,” a self-guided walking tour marked on the pavement, leading past key sites like the New Town Hall and Opera House. Whether you’re after a day of culture or a few hours in a leafy park, Hannover’s balanced pace and variety make it an easygoing and rewarding stop.

Goslar, located in the Bremen & Lower Saxony region, is a charming town nestled at the foot of the Harz Mountains, ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty and cultural atmosphere. Its medieval Old Town is a delight to explore on foot, filled with narrow cobblestone lanes, half-timbered houses, and cozy squares. Landmarks like the Imperial Palace (Kaiserpfalz), Market Church, and the carillon at the Market Square add layers of interest for a leisurely day of discovery. Cafés, small shops, and traditional restaurants offer plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the town’s relaxed pace.

Beyond the town center, Goslar is a great base for outdoor adventures in the surrounding Harz region. The nearby district of Hahnenklee offers hiking, biking, and winter sports options, while the Rammelsberg Mine adds a fascinating industrial heritage site to the itinerary. Whether you’re visiting in summer for its cool mountain air or in winter for its festive charm and snowy trails, Goslar provides a peaceful yet engaging experience in one of northern Germany’s most scenic corners.

Braunschweig, located in the Bremen & Lower Saxony region, is a vibrant city with a mix of historical landmarks and modern urban life. Its compact city center is ideal for walking, with highlights like Burgplatz, the impressive Brunswick Cathedral, and the iconic Lion Statue creating a strong sense of heritage and local pride. The surrounding streets offer a blend of medieval charm and contemporary shopping, cafés, and public art. It’s a great destination for travelers who want to explore a lively city with a strong cultural identity.

The city also has a thriving museum and arts scene. The Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum features one of the oldest art collections in Europe, while the Happy Rizzi House adds a splash of pop-art whimsy to the cityscape. Along the Oker River, you’ll find peaceful green areas and even the option for a relaxing boat ride. Whether you’re there for a day trip or a longer stay, Braunschweig offers a rich variety of experiences in a manageable and welcoming setting.

Lüneburg, situated in the Lower Saxony region, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends medieval charm with contemporary vibrancy. The city’s well-preserved architecture, characterized by red-brick Gothic buildings and narrow cobblestone streets, invites visitors to explore its rich heritage. Strolling through the historic Old Town, one can admire landmarks such as the Am Sande square, lined with impressive gabled houses, and the iconic St. John’s Church with its towering spire. The bustling Stintmarkt area along the Ilmenau River offers picturesque views and a variety of cafés and restaurants, perfect for experiencing local flavors.

Beyond its architectural allure, Lüneburg offers a range of cultural and recreational activities. The German Salt Museum provides insight into the city’s prosperous salt-trading past, while the nearby Lüneburg Heath presents opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore expansive heathlands, especially vibrant during the late summer bloom. With a lively student population from Leuphana University, the city also boasts a dynamic arts and entertainment scene, featuring theaters, galleries, and music venues that contribute to its contemporary appeal.

Celle, located in the Bremen & Lower Saxony region, is a delightful town that effortlessly combines fairytale architecture with a relaxed, walkable atmosphere. Its Old Town is filled with over 400 meticulously preserved half-timbered houses, creating one of the most charming historic centers in Germany. Strolling through the narrow streets, visitors will discover boutique shops, cozy cafés, and inviting squares that make Celle ideal for a day of relaxed exploration. The baroque-style Celle Palace stands at the heart of it all, anchoring the town’s elegant feel and providing a picturesque backdrop for photos and cultural visits.

Beyond its beauty, Celle also offers a lively cultural scene and access to peaceful green spaces. The French Garden and Castle Park are perfect for unwinding, while the art museum and various galleries provide insight into both regional and modern creativity. Celle is compact and easy to navigate on foot or by bike, making it a pleasant escape from busier cities. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, or simply soaking up a tranquil town with strong character, Celle is a rewarding destination year-round.