Hello to Berlin, a city full of culture and endless history. If you’re into history or just want to discover the top sites in the town, taking a free walking tour is the right way to dive into the town’s past history. In this blog post, we’ll give you the lowdown on the must see historic landmarks of Berlin and all about how to make the most of your time there.
Why opt for a Free Walking Tour?
If you want to go beyond the mainstream history of Berlin, but don’t want to spend too much money, free walking tours are a good option. With free walking tours, you don’t just have to follow a group or wait for the schedule to finish up; you can explore the city at your own pace, stopping to ask questions, taking photos when you see it fit. Led by knowledgeable and passionate local guides, these tours provide intriguing stories and insights into each landmark as the local guides teach you about Berlin’s past in a way that you appreciate it so much more.
Let’s Begin the Journey
1. Brandenburg Gate
First stop is the famous Brandenburg Gate, perhaps more than anything a symbol unifying nation, a symbol of pride. One of the neoclassical masterpieces, once the entry to the city had stood, and had seen the occupation of Napoleon and the fall of the Berlin Wall. Here, as you stand before this large monument, your guide will fill you in on what this structure has meant to history.
2. Checkpoint Charlie and Berlin Wall
A visit to Berlin wouldn’t be complete however, until you’ve been to the Wall and Checkpoint Charlie. Those, of course, are the remains of the wall, trailing through the city as a stark reminder of where the wall once stood: the city split in two. You’ll be able to walk along the remaining section yourself, hearing about some daring escapes and the conditions in which people live in a city split in two. You’ll also explore the tensions that once wracked the city at Checkpoint Charlie, which was once the most famous border crossing between East and West Berlin.
3. East Side Gallery
The world’s longest open air art gallery is the East Side Gallery, it is situated along a stretch berlin wall where it survived. This section of the wall is covered in colorful murals painted in by hundreds of artists all over the world. The artworks will be explained by your guide and your guide will make sense of the artwork meaning behind, so you get to understand what the different cultural art meant.
4. Reichstag Building
The Reichstag Building, Germany’s parliament, is a powerful testimony to the German nation, and its democratic heritage. At the top of its glass dome you will be provided with stunning views of the city. Take a walk around the building hearing how it was the first to be built in the Nazi time and its designation when it was a symbol of the democracy that Germany had.
5. Museum Island
UNESCO designated Museum Island a World Heritage Site and it is a museum lover’s dream come true, with five world class museums. Each museum will be provided with an overview by your guide including Pergamon Museum which contains incredible ancient civilization archaeological structures and Neues Museum, with the famous the bust of Queen Nefertiti.
Tips for an Enjoyable Tour
Come prepared to walk as it is a tour of the area on foot.
So if you are going during summer bring a bottle of water and a sun protection.
The tour can be popular so arrive early for a spot.
Be mindful of the landmarks and neighbours.
Have questions and interact with your guide during theexperience for the optimum experience.
The tour consists of exploring on foot and so wear comfortable walking shoes.
During summer, especially, bring a bottle of water and some sun protection.
They can draw a big crowd, so either get there as early as you can or be prepared to be turned away.
Do not disturb any landmarks or the surrounding areas.
So ask questions, interact with your guide as much as you can.
Your Berlin Adventure Begins…
By taking part in a free walking tour you will unlock the secrets of historic landmarks in Berlin and find a new respect for the city’s storied past. Local guides tell stories and share their insights of the actual history of Berlin and you are advancing from step to step getting closer to the heart of history of Berlin as it experienced. If you are some sort of walking shoe addict, then why not put them on and get ready to delve into the trove of what Berlin has to offer in terms of historic treasures!
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