The Exciting Christmas Markets In Bremen Germany 2023
Figuring out where to find the best Christmas markets in Bremen can be overwhelming when you have little knowledge of the area.
Having experienced numerous Christmases at Bremen’s festive markets, we’ve got the inside scoop on the absolute best and most exciting ones for you to check out this holiday season.
Keep reading to discover the top yuletide markets around the city, the best seasonal foods to try, fun activities, unique gifts you can take home, and how to get around town.
Top Christmas Markets in Bremen
Bremen has some pretty cool Christmas markets that pull in folks from all around the world during the holidays.
There’s the usual traditional market setup with fancy stalls, and then there’s this quirky maritime-themed one that’s totally one-of-a-kind.
Roaming around these Christmassy lanes, you can’t help but soak in the cozy vibes.
So, if you’re around, slot in Bremen’s Christmas markets on your to-do list for a memorable holiday experience.
Traditional Christmas Markets in Bremen
The charming city of Bremen in northern Germany hosts some of the most classic Christmas markets in the country.
If you are looking for a truly authentic dose of Weihnachtszauber (Christmas magic), it’s time for a visit to these traditional Christmas markets in Bremen that capture it best amid the glow of lanterns and frost-dusted pines.
Main Bremen Christmas Market in the Old Town
The main market at Bremen’s Market Square is where all the Christmas magic happens.
It is right smack in the UNESCO-listed area, surrounded by cool landmarks like the town hall, Schütting, and the Roland statue.
This has been a tradition for over 160 years. So, catch how the city turns into a winter wonderland from November 27th to December 23rd.
We guarantee that spending a day in the Bremen Christmas market is a full festive adventure.
Special Activities
The market has over 170 stalls that look like old-school taverns with crafts, souvenirs, jewelry, toys, and clothes for your gifting needs.
We always end up buying little gifts and trinkets for our family and friends here.
But it’s not just about shopping; it’s a whole experience.
They’ve got this cozy scene with nicely decorated stands, twinkling Christmas lights, candlelit stalls, and a village vibe.
Plus, they have this carousel in the main square, perfect for families with kids. Let the little ones ride while you browse and sip some mulled wine.
One of our favorite activities is watching the street musicians play jaunty tunes. It’s all part of the special vibe that makes this market so cheerful.
You really can’t go wrong with any of the food options here. Take a stroll, and you’ll catch the scents of sausages, grilled meat, roasted almonds, and gingerbread everywhere.
Also, make sure to try their local treats like kluten and Bremer klaben.
And if you’re feeling something sweet, they have plenty of tasty options to satisfy that craving, too – schmalzkuchen (a sweet dough pastry made with lemon-vanilla batter and topped with powdered sugar), crepes, and waffles.
Don’t leave without sipping their mulled wine served in clay pots – your visit won’t be complete if you pass on it!
For just a few bucks a mug, the mulled wine warms you up while you browse.
For all you fur parents out there, the market is pet-friendly, so bring your pets along to let them get into the holiday spirit.
But we advise leaving them at home, especially on weekend nights when it’s packed.
Opening Hours
If you’re thinking of hitting up the Christmas market in Bremen, they’ve got the stalls open from Monday to Thursday, chilling from 10 am to 8:30 pm.
On Fridays and Saturdays, they stretch it a bit, keeping the festive vibes going from 10 am until 9 at night.
And if you’re more of a Sunday stroller, they’re open from 11 in the morning till 8:30 at night.
There is plenty of time to soak in the holiday spirit without stressing the clock.
Cost of Entry
Feel free to visit the Christmas Market because it doesn’t require any entry fees.
How to Get There
Getting there is easy – public transport or by car. But heads up, driving into the city can be a hassle. Parking’s tight, and there’s always traffic getting downtown.
We suggest hopping on a tram or bus if you’re at the Central Station, and you can get off at Domsheide station. From there, it’s just a nice 15-minute stroll to the market.
Findorffer Winterdorf Christmas Market
The Findorffer Winterdorf Christmas Market is like a little village within the city. It’s been around for about 9 years now, opening up from November 9th to early February.
The market is tucked away at the corner of Hemmstraße/Fürther Straße, away from the city chaos.
Special Activities
They’re all about being eco-friendly, using reusable materials, and throwing in some cultural events and surprises.
The wooden huts they put together, along with the winter lights and trees, make it a chill scene, totally different from the big markets in the city.
You can also do company events or throw a party here – perfect for a get-together. And they’re hosting 50 different artists, covering everything from cabaret to live music.
We really had a great time here with good drinks and plenty of food options. You’ll see 54 hot drinks, both boozy and non-boozy, in eight huts.
And if you’re looking for the usual Christmas market stuff, this is the perfect place – you’ll find mulled wine, crepes, bratwurst, Feuerzangenbowle, Fairtrade, and vegan goodies here.
Opening Hours
You can swing by Monday to Thursday between 5 pm and 10 pm.
On Fridays, the market is open until 11 pm. Saturdays kick off early at 4 pm and roll with the Friday vibe until 11 pm.
Sundays also start at 4 pm, but wrap things up a bit sooner, calling it a day at 9:30 pm.
Cost of Entry
You can visit the Findorffer Winterdorf for free!
How to Get There
It’s easy to find as it’s just conveniently set up right by the Bürgerpark train station in Bremen’s Findorff hood.
To reach the market, just catch bus #26 from the Bürgerpark station.
Themed Christmas Market in Bremen
The magic of the holiday season comes alive at Bremen’s themed Christmas market.
With so much detail and decoration put into this market, it is truly one-of-a-kind.
You will definitely have an immersive and unforgettable Christmas experience.
Schlachte-Zauber Christmas Market
The Schlachte-Zauber Christmas Market in Bremen is a cool spot during winter.
It’s right by the Weser River, and from November 27 to December 23, it’s all lit up and buzzing with festive vibes.
Special Activities
It’s a bit different from the usual Christmas market scene but in a good way.
They’ve got this maritime theme, with blue lights on the quays, ships all decked out, and an old-school winter feel.
There are many medieval-looking stalls along the promenade where you can buy jewelry, soaps, candles, and many more stuff that would make good gifts.
They’ve got some tasty eats to go, too, along with the nifty gift shops. Make sure to check out their smoked fish, roasted meat, and freshly baked bread when you’re here.
And there’s always something happening – music, artisans doing their craft, jugglers, and open-air performances – giving it a fun vibe.
Local musicians even dress up in maritime costumes and jam on a small stage in the middle.
And don’t miss out on this pirate village in Hanseatic League style. There are pirates everywhere, from the food to the drinks to the entertainment.
Opening Hours
The Christmas market warmly welcomes visitors with its festive charm throughout the week. It is open from 11 am to 8:30 pm from Sunday to Thursday.
On Fridays and Saturdays, the festivities continue from 11 am until 9 pm.
Cost of Entry
Visiting the Christmas market is free, but note that some activities like theatres require tickets.
How to Get There
Getting there is easy; your target train station is Am Brill because, from there, it’s just a walking distance to the Christmas market.
If you’re at the Central Station (about 0.75 miles away), just hop on tram line 1 until you reach the Am Brill stop.
You also have the option to take a bus (lines 26 or 27) heading to Neustadt/Huckelriede and get off at Am Brill.
Helpful Tips for Visiting the Christmas Markets in Bremen
Arrive Early
If you really wanna soak in those Christmas markets in Bremen, we’d suggest getting there early.
It is best to wander and explore the Christmas markets without being stuck in long lines, as this may prevent you from fully experiencing the true vibe of the place.
Pace Yourself With The Food
The Christmas markets in Bremen have loads of grub that might make you want to gobble it all up. Take it easy, though, so you can savor the flavors.
And don’t forget, you can stash some goodies for later munching. We were all about bagging those nuts – perfect road trip snacks, no doubt.
Bundle Up
Bremen gets quite chilly in December, so remember to pack warm clothing. Bring gloves, a hat, a scarf, and your warmest winter coat.
Temperatures often dip below freezing at night. So, layering is key to adjusting for fluctuating temperatures between outdoors and indoors.
Waterproof boots with good traction are also a smart idea for navigating slippery streets.
Check the Schedule
The markets host all sorts of festive entertainment, like carolers, dance performances, and craft demonstrations. Make sure to review the schedule before going to the market.
It is also best to time your visit to catch a unique cultural performance that fits your interests, especially as some occur only on certain days.
Use Public Transportation
Getting around Bremen’s old city is a breeze on foot, but riding a tram or bus ride can save your legs, especially when it’s freezing.
They are also quick, convenient, and budget-friendly. But if you’re feeling a bit extra, Uber or taxis are in the mix for those longer hauls.
Look For Accessible Lodging
If you’re crashing in Bremen, we greatly suggest the H+ Hotel.
It is nestled right in the heart of Bremen’s old town and is a great spot that makes for a handy home base if you’re up for diving into one of Germany’s Christmas markets.
The hotel is just a hop away (180 meters) from the festive buzz of the Bremen Christmas Market.
You can also easily reach landmarks like the Town Hall and St. Petri Dom Bremen.
Plus, public transport options are practically at your doorstep, with trams, buses, and trains close by.
The hotel lets you enjoy the perks of climate control, free WiFi, and smart TVs – all geared towards making your downtime as comfy as possible.
So, if you’re all about soaking up the festive vibes at Bremen’s Christmas markets without sacrificing convenience and service, the H+ Hotel Bremen could be your ticket.
Things to Do in Bremen During the Holidays
The holiday season in Bremen is pretty awesome. You’ve got the famous Christmas markets with all the lights, snacks, and cool crafts.
But there’s more to do beyond just wandering the markets.
Whether you’re into holiday vibes, family fun, or just getting lost in a festive mood, Bremen’s got you covered this Christmas.
Ice Skating at Paradice
If you’re ever in Bremen during the holidays, you should totally check out the Paradice ice skating scene at Waller Heerstraße.
It is perfect for families, school groups, teenagers, and adults. We totally love it here.
If you don’t have your own skates, no worries – skates are available to rent at the rink.
For little kids who are just learning how to skate, they’ve got these things called “penguins” that you can hold onto for balance.
And if you get hungry, there’s food around. Just a heads up, they’re closed every Monday.
Also, the hours may change, so it’s a good idea to check before you head out.
We definitely recommend getting there early to grab your skates and avoid the crowds.
Go on a Historic Tour
Even though it’s freezing, winter in Bremen is prime time for off-season exploring.
Take a chill winter stroll in Bremen and check out UNESCO Market Square, which we can say is one of the prettiest in Germany.
It is all lit up for the holidays in December. You’ve got the Weser Renaissance and Gothic vibes from the Town Hall and St. Peter’s Cathedral.
Then, get lost in the narrow lanes of Schnoor, the oldest part of Bremen.
It used to be all about fishermen and sailors, but now it’s all arts and crafts, cozy cafes, and classy restaurants.
Böttcherstraße is a must-see—a short street in the old town with funky Gothic brick architecture. It is a narrow alley where coopers once made barrels.
To have the best experience, get your tickets online to skip the line. You may join a guided tour group to gain some important information about these historic places in Bremen.
> Experience a Guided Tour of Bremen’s City Center
Witness the City Lights
Bremen is throwing the ‘Lights of the City’ on January 1, 2023. And, to keep it short and sweet, the whole event wraps up in just over two weeks. So, don’t miss this out.
This year’s theme is ‘Glimpses of Light,’ showcasing chill light displays on old-school buildings.
They’ve got spots like the Schnoor, Our Lady Church, town hall, the Schütting, and many more, all dressed up in colors every day from 4:30 pm.
Stroll along the Riverside Promenade
The riverside experience has a perfect blend of scenery, shopping, and seasonal cheer. It’s way more chill than those big-shot markets.
A winter walk isn’t complete without indulging in the delightful scents of baked treats from nearby bakeries.
Just a heads up – keep an eye out for those sneaky icy spots on the sidewalks. They can get really slippery.
So, take it easy, stroll at a chill pace, and make sure your kicks are anti-slip.
And don’t forget to peep the Bremen weather forecast before you hit the road, especially with those chilly winds hanging out by the riverside.
Take a Tour of the Beck’s Brewery
If you are curious about the fascinating world of beer-making in Bremen, just like us, explore the charm of Beck’s Brewery.
The tour spills the brewery’s history since 1873 and the secrets of its beer production.
They also have this brewery’s cinema that offers a closer look at the art of beer making.
And don’t forget to swing by the guest room to try the brewery’s three signature beers.
It is advisable to wear sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable exploration of the brewing facilities.
And note that this brewery tour is best suited for those 16 years and older.
> Bremen: 3-Hour Beck’s Brewery Tour
Are You Ready to Experience the Magic of Bremen in the Winter?
Bremen’s got that classic Christmas charm going on with all the food, drinks, cultural stuff, and shopping you’d expect.
You’ve got your traditional markets and some with cool themes, making it a total holiday vibe.
And there’s more than just shopping – you can hit the ice rink, take tours showing off the city lights, and stroll along the riverside for some nice views.
Just a heads up: it can get pretty chilly, so bundle up, use public transport to get around, and don’t go overboard on those tasty German treats – pace yourself.
If you’re looking to catch some serious Christmas spirit, Bremen is where it’s at.
