Bremerhaven, although a young city, has a rich history. It was founded in 1827 mainly as a seaport for Bremen (although the very first settlements are documented from the year 1139).
Today, Bremerhaven is recognized as having one of the largest European emigrant ports and therefore, has played a crucial part in Germany’s trade industry.
The first facility that you should visit is the German Emigration Center. The more than seven million people who emigrated overseas via the city between 1830 and 1974 left it with the largest museum dedicated to Emigration. The German Emigration Center provides history not just on Bremerhaven, but on Germany as a whole, and therefore, this facility is a must-see!
It’s a short walk to the German Maritime Museum. The same designer of the Berliner Philharmonie Philharmonia, Hans Schauron, designed this 7,000 square meter museum. The museum provides a wide array of maritime history and even provides an up-close view of some original German ships.
Situated on the bank of the Geeste River is the award-winning Historical Museum Bremerhaven (and a short walk from the German Maritime Museum). That museum provides a rich history of both the city and the region and is something you can’t afford to miss.
The City theater is located in downtown. It was built in 1911 and continues to host operas, plays, musicals, and ballets. If you’re an art-lover, you can’t afford to miss visiting the Art gallery and the Chamber of Current Art (next to the entrance to the Kunsthalle) which are both also located in the center. You’ll be able to view some impressive works of art at these galleries.
Another must-see is the Zoo at sea. What an experience! This is fun for both kids and adults. The zoo specializes in nordic animal species and hosts an array of nordic animals. When visiting the animal park you’ll also experience a breath-taking view of the Weser estuary.
If you’re an artist looking for a place to stay, the studio of Bremerhaven painter, Paul Ernst Wilke (1894–1971), is also a hostel for artists visiting Bremerhaven for a short period of time. The studio is a great outing whether you’re staying there or not.
If it starts to rain, as Bremerhaven is widely-known for its rainy weather, head indoors to enjoy a German beer and some tasty local Bremen food. Seafood is, of course, a must!
Enjoy this young German city on the North Sea for its rich history and the many activities it offers you today.
