The Allure of Berlin
Berlin is one of the heartbeats of Europe – a city with centuries – old traditions, a non – slackening spirit and perfectly combined the intension of the antiquity and presence of the High Tech. It could be very confusing for first time visitors to be touring such an energetic city but don’t worry, a free walking tour is a recommendable way to kick start your tour. That is why in this blog post, we plan to focus on the most interesting peculiarities of Berlin as well as share our impressions after the free walking tour.
Why Choose a Free Walking Tour?
If you are a budget traveller or if you have little time to navigate a city independently, free walking tours are highly recommended. These are organized and conducted by experienced and informed tour guides and take clients round the main points of interest, sites that are of archeological, historical and cultural importance in addition to other areas that are of interest in the city. To note, the tour is free but there is always expectations for the tourist to tip the tour guide if he or she did an excellent job. This is good news all round – for travelers and residents of Arizona!
Our First Impressions
Before I could begin to explore the city on my audio tour of Berlin, the first thing that made an impression were the walls and structures of Berlin. Our local guide, Anna, agreed to meet us with a friendly welcome and walk with us starting with the Brandenburg Gate.
The Brandenburg Gate
Towering high as a representation of a united and, more specifically, a unified Germany the Brandenburg Gate is one must-see symbol. Anna was able to narrate numerous us about the importance of the place as well as the events which took place at this location. Staring at this magnificent building we simply could not resist the opportunity to reflect on the history of the city of Berlin.
The Reichstag Building
To continue with our journey we headed to the next point which was the Reichstag Building – the house of the German parliament. Anna was full of interesting information about the construction work and its history – wars that destroyed it, occupation and rebirth as symbol of freedom. It [the parliament] had a glass domed ceiling, where from, the city’s skyline stimulated the senses of many.
The Berlin Wall
Proceeding on, the next stop was the location of old Berlin Wall; this has to be one of the most important sightseeing attractions. Anna’s narrations painted a clear picture, and brought us back to the era of the world division and afterwards the reunion. While we stood before this historical landmark we contemplated on the strength of the human spirit and the effect that the demolition or the Wall had globally.
Discover Berlin’s various boroughs
Just like most capitals, there is much more to Berlin than its tourist attraction. We had a professional guide who explained that it was the multicultural city, and every district had its own mood. Walking through Kreuzberg filled with the energy of multicultural such artistic, excitable neighborhood, gastronomical treats locked our eyes. This diverse area is a typical example of Berlin’s artists and bohemian type of getaways, from murals on walls to warm cafes.
Cautionary Tips
Wear comfortable shoes: Berlin is also a great walking city so make sure you wear comfy shoes so your feet will not ache.
Weather essentials: There’s weather forecast information every morning so, ensure you check before you go out in order to dress appropriately. Weather in Berlin is rather changeable, and it is better to be prepared and take a jacket or an umbrella with you.
Stay hydrated: Regardless, walking tours can take a long time, so water should not be far away. Bring an empty reusable water bottle and avail of the numerous drinking water facilities that are available all over the city.
Ask questions: You should not be shy to talk to your tour guide and or pose questions. They are a mine of information and can be very useful.
Take breaks: There are severable disadvantages associated with walk and learn activity; the activity can be physically exerting especially to people who cannot walk for a long time. From time to time one may need a break, thus do not shy off to tell the guide that you need one.
Wear comfortable shoes: To get a close look at Berlin it is best to walk and you are likely to realize midway through the day that the best things were seen on your feet!
Weather essentials: consult the weather for the day then dress to the weather. Sometimes in Berlin the weather can be rather capricious so it will be a good idea to take a jacket or an umbrella.
Stay hydrated: Any tour that involves the use of feet is a long one, therefore people should ensure they take enough water along. Bring your own reusable drinking water bottle and take advantage of the availability of water fountains all over the city.
Ask questions: No information is ever too trivial or too silly to ask your tour guide. They are full of wisdom and may give useful information.
Take breaks: Walking tours are tiring since the visitor is likely to cover a number of destinations in a given area within the tour duration. It is sometimes possible to get tired, and that is perfectly okay, just tell your guide that you would need to rest a bit.
In Conclusion
Berlin is that special city that always leaves visitors enthralled in some way or the other. There is no better way than doing a free walking tour in order to explore it’s past, tradition and some secrets it has to hide. Whether it is the majestic Brandenburg Gate or the actual pieces of the wall dividing East and West Berlin, the modern day market places, Berlin is never a boring place for any traveler. But get your most comfy shoes, pick up a map and let me take you on a magical antidote through the city of Berlin.
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