Walking is often overlooked as a method of transport for experiencing a city. Aside from being an eco-friendly mode of transportation, it’s the ultimate way for you to get up close and personal with a place without driving by, discover hidden treasures and really get to know the heartbeat of a place. The capital of Germany, Berlin, is a city that allows you to explore its denser areas easily on foot. Through Berlin’s streets the city lives rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving arts culture. The highlight of this sustainable travel guide is that we will walk you through Berlin’s most famous landmarks, and lesser known gems, and must-see neighborhoods.
Why Explore Berlin on Foot?
One thing that walking does is slow down, it gives you the time to see and interact with your surroundings in a way that other modes of transportation cannot, this is something that I immensely enjoy. Berlin also is a city that aids sustainable tourism, so if you are a traveler who is concerned about the environment, Berlin is a city you will want to add to your list of travel destinations. When walking through Berlin, you’re not only reducing your environmental footprint, you’re supporting local business, experiencing unique experiences and learning more about Berlin’s history and culture. And please lace your walking shoes so we can get started!
The Iconic Landmarks
There if nichts besser als zu Fuß die vielfältigen bei Berlin adjazierenden Zeugnisse und Verkehrteile des 19. Jahrhunderts reichlich entwerfende sich explorieren lassen. The famous Brandenburg Gate is a crucial point to begin your journey taking you through architecture and a symbol of unity. Stroll lazily along the boulevard Unter den Linden in front of this beautiful area with beautiful buildings, museums and parks. Don’t pass up the majestic Berlin Cathedral if history buffs and architecture fanatics are in your group.
Other UNESCO World Heritage sites to visit include the five world class museums on Museum Island, which stand for art, history and ancient artifacts. First, rest a bit in Lustgarten, a park, in the middle of the city, that is then followed by a walk along the Spree River. Another must see is the East Side Gallery, a surviving portion of the Berlin Wall covered in open air art. See the lively murals that tell freedom, unity, and hope.
Neighborhoods Worth Exploring
Mitte: The Heart of Berlin
Having your neighborhood in Mitte, Berlin as a base, allow you to start your trip. As you will see this neighborhood is full of historical sites, trendy boutiques and popular cafes. Alexanderplatz, popular with tourists and where you’ll find an iconic TV tower and a spot to check out panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Hackesche Höfe isn’t a street, but a labyrinth of courtyards packed with quirky, shops, art galleries and cozy cafes.
And don’t miss Museum für Naturkunde, which is a natural history museum that contains the famous dinosaur skeleton Tristan. While somewhere longs to be in Gendarmenmarkt, Europe’s most beautiful square surrounding two magnificent German and French Cathedrals. If you’re interested in history, visit the Topography of Terror exhibit on the site of the former Gestapo and SS headquarters.
Kreuzberg: The Bohemian Paradise
Berlin’s festive Kreuzberg neighborhood, with its alternative arts scene and lush street culture, is definitely a must see. Head to Görlitzer Park, a sprawling green space with on weekends an outdoor market.
Accessed on 8 May 2023 from https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Learn/Server 发生身体的网站 For instance, walk along the Oranienstraße, a famous street, planted with graffiti covered buildings, independent shops and cosy cafés. Along the way you should stop at one of many food stalls and make sure to sample a traditional Turkish doner kebab.
Go to Jewish Museum that’s a thought provoking institution that tell you the Jewish history and culture of Germany. Also if you’re a fan of street art, check out the RAW-Gelände, the heavy industry complex now filled with creativity. There are countless street artists, trendy bars and live music venues here. Finally end your day at the famous East Side Gallery and walk along the traces of the Berlin Wall and look at the brand new murals being painted in there by artists from all over the world.
Parks and Gardens
Berlin boasts a wealth of parks and green spaces for you to get away from the city’s pace. Tiergarten, right next to the Brandenburg Gate, is the biggest city park with a vast lawn, calm lakes and marvellous ways to walk. Come hike, ride a bike or just enjoy a picnic at this urban oasis.
Earlier, I mentioned another gem: Görlitzer Park in Kreuzberg. Every individual and their thoughts added to this park is a melting pot of cultures being enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. There are places where you can relax, other places where you can join in a game of Frisbee, and still others to people watch. Viktoriapark at Kreuzberg: Here you get an even more tranquill view on the city from its hilltop and a stunning waterfall.
Tips for Sustainable Travellers
Here are some tips to ensure your exploration of Berlin on foot is both sustainable and enjoyable:
Pack Light
When you can, you should opt for a small backpack or a crossbody bag that will carry your essentials. It will also make walking more comfortable and reduce your energy expenditure.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a reusable water bottle and fill it up at the dozens of water fountains spread out across the city. Doing so will cut down on plastic waste and you will save a bit of money.
Support Local Businesses
Support local cafes and restaurants and stick to local shops, rather than the international chains. That way, you’ll be supporting the local economy and enjoying Berlin authentic.
When Needed Use Public Transportation
Walking is the best way to explore Berlin, but you may wish to cover bigger distances in case. If you find yourself in this situation, take the tram or bus as it is both efficient and eco friendly way to go.
Respect the Environment
Dispose your trash properly, and keep Berlin clean. Recycle following local guidelines, and avoid parks and gardens disturbing natural habitats.
Engage with the Community
So take some time to get to know some locals and ask for recommendations, and find out about the history and culture of the city. You will learn something, and it will be something that will make you richer in Berlin.
Walking around Berlin is a way to discover this city and to know it better with a small footprint (or a big one if you chose to give it more fuel!). Berlin is for everyone: from iconic landmarks to off the beaten track neighborhoods, it’s all here. Thus, with your comfiest walking shoes on, and map paperwork in hands, set forth in life memory making as you walk the streets of this amazing city. Happy walking!
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