Hamburg and Bremen: Art Nouveau to Art Modernism

Step into a world where elegant façades and decorative artistry meet the bold spirit of modern design. This five-day cultural tour of northern Germany reveals the transformation from the ornate charm of Jugendstil to the streamlined confidence of early Modernism.

Led by acclaimed Art Nouveau specialist Professor Anne Anderson, this immersive architectural and artistic journey uncovers the unique character of Hamburg and Bremen—two cities steeped in mercantile history and creative experimentation. From Hamburg’s exquisite arcades and pioneering commercial buildings to Bremen’s fairytale townscape and the visionary village of Worpswede, discover a region that shaped, and was shaped by, the artistic revolutions of the early 20th century.

With expert commentary, exclusive museum visits and hand-picked examples of Art Nouveau, Expressionism and early Bauhaus influence, this tour is ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of European art and architecture.

ITINERARY 

Day 1: Fly from London Heathrow to Hamburg
Depart London Heathrow to Hamburg and transfer to the elegant Hotel Reichshof, located in the city centre. Time permitting, join Professor Anne Anderson for a short orientation walk before a welcome drink and group dinner at the hotel. Anne’s opening talk, “Jugendstil: A National Modern Style”, introduces the key themes of our tour.

Day 2: Hamburg 
We spend the day on foot exploring Hamburg’s rich array of early 20th-century architecture, taking in the decorative façades of Poststraße, the refined arcades of Neuer Wall including the exquisite Mellinpassage. Highlights include the Hübner-Haus, Gutruf-Haus and Australhaus. After lunch (own expense) we visit Hamburg's renowned Decorative Arts Museum. This evening, Anne’s second lecture, “Jugendstil to Expressionism”, traces the evolution of the style into bolder forms.

Day 3: Bremen
We travel to Bremen to discover its unique architectural flair. Our day begins with a private visit to the fascinating Atlantis House (now the Radisson Blu Hotel), famed for its exquisite Heaven Hall and Art Deco stairwell. We continue with a walking tour of the Böttcherstraße—an Expressionist vision brought to life by local artists and patrons. Entrance to the Paula Modersohn-Becker and Ludwig Roselius Museums follows, before free time for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided visit to Bremen’s magnificent Town Hall and Gilded Chamber, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Day 4: Worpswede
A full day excursion to the tranquil village of Worpswede, once a haven for artists escaping the bustle of urban life. We explore key sites and museums that shaped German art history. After lunch at a local restaurant, we enjoy a guided tour of the Museum am Modersohn-Haus, dedicated to the landscape painter Otto Modersohn. Our farewell dinner is served back in Hamburg.

Day 5: Depart Hamburg for London Heathrow
Enjoy some free time this morning to relax or explore independently before we transfer to Hamburg Airport for our return flight to London.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 25 passengers.

Tour Grading: Please note this tour has been graded as moderate with lots of time spent on foot, and standing time for viewing attractions. Please visit the mobility page of our website for further information or call our team to discuss any mobility issues prior to booking.  

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Heathrow to Hamburg
• Four nights’ bed and breakfast at the four-star Reichshof Hotel, Hamburg, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome drink and two dinners with wine
• One lunch
• Two lectures at the hotel
• Transfers, tours and entrance fees
• Anne Anderson and tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - £468
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Reichshof Hotel, Hamburg

This elegant 4-star hotel perfectly combines historic architecture with contemporary design. Centrally located opposite Hamburg’s main station, the Reichshof offers stylish rooms, a relaxing spa, and a sophisticated restaurant and bar—ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Hotel Website