Christmas Journey by Tram: Excursion through the festive season in Bremen via tram cars during Christmas
The city of Bremen is gearing up for the festive season, and a beloved tradition is set to make a comeback. Tram number 3055, a staple of the BSAG tram fleet for over three decades, has been transformed into a dazzling Christmas tram.
Initially part of the regular fleet, tram 3055 has served faithfully for around 30 years before its recent transformation. The makeover includes new, festive red cushions, candy cane-like handrails, and an abundance of Christmas decorations, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for passengers.
The inaugural ride was attended by Claudia Wiest, Commercial Director of BSAG, Oliver Rau, Managing Director of WFB Wirtschaftsförderung Bremen GmbH, and Thorsten Harder, Technical Director of BSAG. This collaboration between Bremer Straßenbahn AG (BSAG) and WFB Wirtschaftsförderung Bremen GmbH marks a unique project for Bremen marketing.
Oliver Rau emphasized that the Christmas tram brings the Christmas spirit to neighbourhoods and serves as a great photo opportunity for residents and visitors. Meanwhile, Claudia Wiest stated that the Christmas tram is a unique project for Bremen marketing.
The Christmas tram will be deployed on Line 8, which operates as a loop line. A request box has been installed in the tram for passengers to submit music requests, adding to the festive ambiance.
During the holiday season, the Christmas trams in Bremen will run mainly on weekends (Friday/Saturday and Saturday/Sunday nights) and depart about every 30 minutes from the central station. They will operate almost through the entire night during these days and charge a small surcharge of one euro on top of the normal fare. Tickets can be bought on board or in advance, with options for individual rides, day passes, or weekly passes.
The Bremen Christmas market is renowned, often described as one of the best in the world, featuring charming old town settings with colorful houses, boutique shops, and a year-round Christmas shop in the Schnoor district. The Christmas market and related events take place mainly in the central areas of Bremen, especially near the historic old town.
For exact tram route maps and schedules, including special Christmas tram lines, Bremen's public transport services and tourist information offices provide updated maps and timetables close to the holiday season. Additional Christmas events include festive walking tours, markets, and family-friendly activities throughout the city center, especially around the Schnoor Viertel and the historic Altstadt (old town).
To find the most up-to-date schedule and event info for your visit, it is best to check official Bremen public transport websites or local tourist information closer to the Christmas season, as the schedule can vary slightly year to year.
After the holiday season, the transformed tram will be displayed at the Museum of the Friends of the Bremen Tram (FdBS) in Bremen-Sebaldsbrück from January. The few remaining GT8Ns are gradually retiring, but tram 3055 is expected to return to service during the Christmas season next year.
The Christmas tram, at 36 meters long and adorned with festive motifs, is sure to bring joy and holiday cheer to passengers and onlookers alike. So, as the festive season approaches, don't miss the opportunity to hop aboard this magical tram and immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit.
Amidst the holiday season, Bremen also introduces a sustainable living project with the introduction of the Christmas tram on Line 8. The tram, adorned with festive decorations, invites passengers to embrace home-and-garden-inspired sustainable living, as it carries the Christmas spirit to neighbourhoods.
