Bremen

The Gerhard Marcks House on Bremen's "cultural mile"is dedicated to sculpture. This internationally recognised sculpture museum is home to the vast majority of the artworks created by Gerhard Marcks, a sculptor from Berlin who, among other things, gifted the City of Bremen with his famous statue of the Town Musicians. The collection continues to expand, with the addition of works by other sculptors, including contemporary artists.

Founded in 1983, the Bremer Shakespeare Company (BSC) plays a unique role in the city's theatrical life. Although, as you can infer from its name, this company's focus is on Shakespeare's dramas, it also stages its own productions. The BSC has the largest repertoire of Shakespeare's plays in Europe, which it performs not only to the delight of local audiences but also to those further afield, when the company goes on tour. In summer, be sure not to miss "Shakespeare in the Park" when the players take to the stage in the verdant surroundings of the Bürgerpark (People's Park).

The Bremer Philharmoniker orchestra has already celebrated its 200th birthday, making it one of the oldest orchestras in the world. Its deep-rooted traditions and the variety of its artistic outreach programmes secure its place as an essential part of musical life and culture in North West Germany. Former conductors of the Bremer Philharmoniker include world-renowned musicians such as Johannes Brahms. The orchestra has an innovative and wide-ranging repertoire that includes opera, chamber music and philharmonic concerts. It also performs benefit concerts for charities and has an active outreach programme to promote young musicians. If you want to listen to the Bremer Philharmoniker for yourself, the best place to go is the "Glocke", the ensemble's official residence.

Where art lovers feel right at home! The historic Kunsthalle is home to masterpieces dating back almost 600 years and contemporary works of art. Its extensive collection of paintings, sculptures and graphic art works is regularly complemented by special themed exhibitions. Take care you are not so entranced by the contents that you forget to admire the exterior of the Kunsthalle! The classical lines of the original building are brought into sharp relief by its modern extensions. In the evenings, the light installation by artist James Turell adds a special dimension to the museum.

The fame of the Theater am Goetheplatz and its four dedicated performance spaces extends far beyond the city of Bremen. With a repertoire encompassing opera, youth performances, dance theatre, musicals and classic drama, there's something to delight the heart of every theatre-goer. Situated in the artists quarter of the city, at the start of the Wallanlagen park, this neoclassical theatre has been a jewel in the crown of Bremen's cultural life since 1913.

This former storage hall is now home to a centre for classic cars. Its repair shops, where you can watch mechanics at work, dealerships and cafés bring new life to the historic harbour and the cars themselves. Visitors can admire glossy vehicles from past decades while expert mechanics carry out restoration and repair work on others. Step back in time on a guided tour, and find out everything you could possible want to know about these impressive collector's vehicles.

Thrilling shows, a magical atmosphere and truly excellent food and drink – all this and more await you on a visit to the GOP Varieté Theater in Überseestadt (the New Harbour District). Gasp in amazement and laugh with delight as you experience unforgettable moments in an ever-changing programme of shows staged by this international theatre ensemble.