Introduction to Free Walking Tours
A free walking tour is a great way to experience the history, culture and hidden gems of Berlin if you find yourself in the place. Passionate local guides lead these tours to Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Berlin’s iconic landmarks and lesser-known spots, offering an excellent opportunity to explore Berlin’s iconic landmarks and mostly overlooked spots. The tours themselves are free, but the guides very much appreciate tips, which they live off of. Here are some very helpful tips to make the most of your free walking tour experience in Berlin.
- Research, choose the right company and then book the tour.
Before you join a free walking tour, though, you ought to research and find a reputable tour company to collaborate with. Check out companies with perfect ratings, guides with enough experience, and a historical track record worth the trouble. Also check the tour duration, route and what sights to and from you will be covered along the tour. Tours range from general tours that include the city’s highlights to tailor made tours of street art or WWII history.
Example:
“Berlin Walks” is an excellent tour company to use. For more than 25 years, they’ve been in the city, running a variety of free walking tours geared toward a variety of interests. The knowledgeable guides on board among all participants make it a captivating experience all the same on board.
- Arrive Early
It’s a good idea to arrive early and at the meeting point to secure your spot and avoid any stressful start. Popular are free walking tours, especially in peak tourist season, so arrive 15 to 30 minutes before the starting time. It’s a chance to check in, meet your guide and each other.
Tip:
Make sure you catch the exact meeting point and add a buffer time to drive to the place if you haven’t visited that area before. In case you need, use a navigation apps or ask locals about the directions.
- Dress Appropriate and wear Comfortable Shoes.
The weather in Berlin is unpredictable so do dress appropriately for the tour. Before you go check the weather forecast, and dress in layers so you stay comfy through the course of the tour. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and you’ll need comfortable walking shoes. Remember: a good pair of shoes makes or breaks your walking tour experience!
- Stay Hydrated and Pack Snacks
That’s the good news: walking tours can be tiring, obviously, but only so long as it’s a warm month. So make sure to always have a reusable water bottle on your person so that you don’t feel like you’ve forgotten to stay hydrated. We do sometimes have break tours, where you can stop, but always bring a bottle of water. In addition, it also helps to bring some snacks like energy bars or pieces of fruit, so your energy level does not plummet down during the tour.
- Be Respectful and Mindful
So, one needs to be respect and keep an eye on things during the tour. Especially when you have the guide explaining things, keep noise to a minimum. Don’t touch or hurt monuments and landmarks, pay attention to local customs and regulations. Carrying a camera is usually permitted, but always ask first if you’re not sure.
Example:
One should be respectful at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Don’t climb or step on the concrete slabs and it’s a place of reflection and remembrance.
- Interact with Your Guide and Ask Questions!
Free walking tour is one of the great advantage because you can meet with the local knowledgeable guides. Feel free to ask other questions, have them point you in the right direction towards something you are interested in, or look for more info about what you are learning about. Take full advantage of guides’ passion about sharing their experience and giving you more!
Tip:
If you’re keen on learning about a particular aspect related to Berlin’s history or culture, or if they just need to know for some reason, think ahead or ask them if they might elaborate on that specific topic during the tour.
- Tip Your Guide
The tour is free, but it’s the custom to tip your guide at the end. An important source of income for the guides, tips are important, so consider how much value you got from the tour, and leave accordingly. So the general recommendation is 10–15 euros per person, you may adjust that down however you like based on your personal satisfaction and budget.
Conclusion
Berlin free walking tours are a really great way to experience Berlin, learn about the city’s history and culture, and meet some knowledgeable local guides. By research, which tour company to chose, arrive early, dressed appread, stay hydrate, be respectful, talk with your guide as much as possible, and tip correctly, you’ll do your best and make the most out of your free walking tour tour in Berlin. Get the walking shoes on, get it ready to have an amazing adventure!