Berlin is a city for walking on the ground and one can discover it by exploring a bunch of attractions and historical sites of the city as well as inhabiting its vibrant neighborhood. But of course, as with any outdoor activity, weather conditions can sometimes be too much. To help you make the most of your walking tours in Berlin, no matter what the weather, we’ve put together this guide with tips and strategies to assist.

1. Check the Weather Forecast

Before you head out for your walking tour you need to look into the weather forecast but this should be accurate and not just fantasy as visiting countries we live in and on foreign soil has taught me over and over. There’s always going to be changes, just pack accordingly. While they might call it “gut weather” in Berlin, just like everywhere else, it pays to be indulgent to changeable conditions and bring layers.

2. Dress for Comfort

It’s especially important that you wear comfortable walking shoes, since you’ll be standing for hours. Waterproof or water resistant shoes or boots should be your choice to keep your feet dry when it rains or you step into puddles. You dress in layers, that you can remove or add as the temperature dictates during the day.

If it’s a lighter, more breathable jacket then maybe you can protect yourself from the rain and wind with it. Just in case it starts to drizzle bring an umbrella or raincoat. Also during sunnier spells, a hat and sunglasses can come in handy.

3. Plan Indoor Stops

When you go exploring the city, be sure to include stops in the city within your walking tour route. Shelter can be had in a museum, gallery or historical site from rain or extreme weather conditions. Check in advance the opening hours and the amount of money you will need to get it.

Some popular indoor attractions in Berlin include:

Museum Island: With many world class museums such as the Pergamon Museum and Neues Museum.

Checkpoint Charlie Museum: Find out about what happened with the Berlin Wall and the Cold War.

Berlin Cathedral: Travel to enjoy the beauty of this famous icon.

Jewish Museum: Find out about Berlin’s Jewish history and culture.

4. Stay Hydrated and Energized

If you are walking tours, please make sure that you should be hydrated and energized all the day. Drink plenty of fluids and a refillable water bottle during the warmer months and be sure to carry some.

Instead, learn to bring some snacks or small meals that will help you maintain the energy levels. Currywurst, pretzels and doner kebabs as well as all other streetfood proffered in Berlin can be taken away.

5. Take Breaks and Rest

And don’t forget to listen to your body and take breaks as well when needed. Just along your route there should be a cozy café or park bench where you can rest and relax. Take advantage of these breaks to re-charge, connect to the local vibes and its environment.

6. It’s All about being Flexible with Your Itinerary

The weather you’re working in could be unpredictable which means that you’ll need to be flexible on when things happen. Be flexible, trust, and be willing to change your plan. If the weather looks like casting a pall over the city that day, have a backup plan, such as visiting indoor attractions or wandering the streets in another neighborhood.

7. Join a Guided Tour

If you don’t feel ready to go alone to discover the city’s weather challenge, then you can go with a guided walking tour. Local guides that are experienced can also best guide you through the routes, adding other considerations like weather and then give historical context to further your experience.

Popular guided walking tours in Berlin include:

Historical Berlin Walking Tour: Take a look at Berlin’s historic landmarks, Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag.

Street Art Tour: Explore Berlin’s endless street art in Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain.

Cold War Tour: Find out about Berlin’s divided past and visit the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie among other Cold War sites.

Conclusion

Sure, as we have with all the other things we’re doing, weather can become a challenge to your Berlin walking tours, but with the right planning you can have a fantastic time having a wander whichever the weather is. It is important to read the forecast, to dress accordingly, to plan indoor stops and be flexible with your itinerary. Take breaks, stay hydrated and, if you like, join a guided tour for people who want to sit back and let experts do the work for them. Get set to experience the weather and our exploration of Berlin on the hoof.