Bremen

The Osterdeich embankment is the most popular place for Bremen locals of all ages to meet up and relax. Conveniently situated between the city centre and the Weserstadion stadium, the Osterdeich is the ideal location for barbecues, meeting friends or simply sitting and watching the sun go down. In summer, it's the venue for the Breminale: a five-day festival of music and culture held along the banks of the River Weser. And if you want to get that "holiday feeling", simply take the Sielwallfähre ferry across the river to the Café Sand: you will find a sandy beach and leisure activities, such as beach volleyball, which make it a popular destination for day trips. However, as any Bremen local knows: there's no telling what the weather will do.

The Knoops Park is a magnificent 19th century garden in the north of Bremen. It was designed by the landscape designer Wilhelm Benque, who also created the Bür-gerpark (People's Park). The park's highlights include the elegant Mühlenthal palace and the sensory garden, which gives people with impaired vision the chance to enjoy the natural world in an approachable and accessible way. In summer, the Knoops Park hosts a series of classical concerts as part of the "Summer in Lesmona" music festival.

The Werdersee (Werder lake) is Bremen's largest and most popular recreational lake, and dates back to the 1950s. A former tributary of the River Weser, it was closed off, and embankments, sunbathing meadows and even a sandy beach were then created on its banks. There's never a dull minute around the Werdersee, because it's such a great place for keeping active, whether you prefer cycling, skating, rowing or canoeing. In summer, major events such as the "Große Bremer Ruderregatta" (Bremen rowing regatta) are held at the Werdersee.

Founded more than 150 years ago, the Bürgerpark has more than enough space for people to relax or take part in sport. There's any number of ways of keeping active here – running, cycling, rowing on the lakes or playing mini golf. Children can let off steam in the many playgrounds or visit their furry friends (goats, sheep and guinea pigs) in the open air animal enclosures. The grassy meadows are the perfect place to have a picnic. Alternatively, there's a great selection of refreshments available at any of the park's four restaurants. The municipal forest is located right next to the Bürgerpark. Its lake (also known as the Unisee (university lake)) is a wonderful place for swimming in summertime.

The Bremen BIKE IT! project is working to promote cycling throughout the state of Bremen. It's not just a project though. BIKE IT! is a means of discovering the city and its surroundings by taking thematically inspired cycle routes. Pick up a flyer from the Tourist Information Office, from the ADFC (German Automobile Association) or from BIKE IT! bicycle stations. Alternatively, download the Bike Citizens App and get the tickets sent directly to your mobile phone. Get on your bike and off you go!