Getting Around Bremen. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Overview

Bremen's public transit, managed by VBN, includes an efficient network of trams (Straßenbahn) and buses. Trams form the backbone of city center transport, with buses serving different zones.

There is no metro (U-Bahn) system in Bremen. The compact city layout makes many areas accessible by tram and bus.

Transit Information

Route maps at stops, vbn.de, or VBN FahrPlaner app.
Central Hubs: Hauptbahnhof, Domsheide.
Tickets from drivers, machines, VBN app. Validate machine tickets.
Operating Hours: Early morning to late night, night buses weekends.

Trams & Buses

Efficient network covers city and region.

Ticket Options

Single, 4-trip, day, small group tickets available.

Accessibility

Modern trams and buses are generally low-floor.

Ticketing Tips

Maximize Value

BremenCard offers unlimited transport and attraction discounts.
TagesTicket (Day Ticket) is economical for multiple daily journeys.
Kleingruppen-Ticket (Small Group Ticket) for up to five people.

Convenience

Download the VBN FahrPlaner app for real-time info and tickets.
Understand your destination stop. Use apps for live directions.
Remember to validate machine-purchased tickets onboard.

Fare Options at a Glance

Einzelticket

One journey, one direction.

Er-Ticket

Four single trips, slight discount.

TagesTicket

Unlimited travel for one person, one day.

Kleingruppen-Ticket

Unlimited travel for up to five people, one day.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing offer convenient alternatives for direct routes or late-night travel.

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis are typically beige or cream, with a 'TAXI' sign.
Hail on street, find at stands (Hauptbahnhof), or call dispatch.
Meters used, fares regulated. Cash and cards often accepted.
Licensed taxis are generally very safe and reliable.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber operates in Bremen for convenient bookings.
FREENOW (formerly MyTaxi) books licensed taxis, estimated fares.
Apps offer driver ratings, trip tracking, in-app payment.
Ride-sharing services generally safe with app features.

Taxi Fare Structure

Base charge applies to all rides.
Per-kilometer charge for travel over long distancesed.
Waiting time charges possible.

Surcharges for luggage or night service.
Airport to city center approx. €10-€15.
Confirm card payment with driver at start of ride.

Payment Options

Cash

Always taken for taxi services.

Credit/Debit Card

Many taxis accept major cards, but confirm first.

In-App Payment

Uber and FREENOW facilitate payments through their apps.

Rental Options

Various rental options exist for independence or specific what you need for your trip.

Car Rental

Major companies: Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Enterprise.
Offices at Bremen Airport and city locations.
Min. Age 21 (often 25 for categories), surcharges apply.
Credit card required for security deposit.

Bicycle Rentals

Bremen is bike-friendly, various shops offer rentals.
Bike sharing: 'Call a Bike' (Deutsche Bahn), registration via app.
Some hotels provide bicycles for guests.
Flat terrain makes cycling accessible for all fitness levels.

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common for tourists; generally not recommended for touring the city.

Driving Laws

Drive on right, seatbelts mandatory, speed limits strictly enforced.

Parking

Paid parking in city center. Park & Ride options available on outskirts.

Road Conditions

Quality

Excellent, well-maintained network of Autobahns and local roads.
Sections of Autobahn may have no general speed limit.
Traffic can be congested during rush hours in urban areas.

Safety

German drivers are typically disciplined and follow traffic rules.
Be aware of cyclists on bike paths.
Winter tires are legally mandatory during winter weather.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Less common for tourists.
Not generally recommended for general city sightseeing.
Traffic, parking, and weather conditions can be challenging.

Specialized shops might offer them.
Consider safety aspects carefully.
Check local regulations for licensing requirements.

Walking & Cycling

Bremen's layout is ideal for exploring on foot or by bicycle. Flat terrain and exclusive pathways present pleasant options.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Altstadt (Old Town): Mostly pedestrianized, safe for strolling.
Schnoor Quarter: Narrow, cobblestone alleys exclusively for pedestrians.
Weser Promenade (Schlachte): Pedestrianized riverside with beautiful scenery.
Wallanlagen (Ramparts): Green belt encircling old town, perfect for leisurely strolls.

Cycling Information

Extensive, well-maintained cycling paths and lanes.
Helmets are not legally required but recommended for safety.
Cyclists generally have right-of-way on designated paths.
Be aware of pedestrians and congestion.

Walking Tour Options

Bremen Tourism offers guided tours; self-guided options are numerous.

No "No-Go" Areas

Bremen has no specific "no-go" areas. Normal city safety measures apply.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Extensive, well-maintained cycling paths. Flat terrain makes cycling accessible.

Accessibility Services

Public Transport

Modern trams and more recent buses are increasingly accessible with low-floor vehicles.
Many public buildings and attractions feature ramps and lifts.
Accessible restrooms are usually available.

Challenges & Advice

Older historic regions such as the Schnoor Quarter, with cobblestones, present challenges.
Bremen Tourism provides information on accessible routes.
Research specific venues in advance.

Navigation Ease

Bremen's compact city center, combined with its efficient public transport, makes navigating without a car very easy.

Many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Where to Stay in Bremen

Next Up: Where to Stay in Bremen. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

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