Aside from being a large urban center with major cultural and historical significance, Berlin is the capital city of Germany that demonstrates the results of advanced development both in terms of industrial and architectural design. From a small town to being a part of the World Wars and even the Cold War, Berlin has seen its and Europe’s fortunes being made. Anybody who loves history or is interested in going for a tour that will get them acquainted with the past should consider Berlin’s free walking tour of historical landmarks.
The reason why Historical Walking Tours are crucial
A walking tour is an excellent way to get acquainted with the history and culture of a city because it is unique. Walking tour helps one appreciate the beauty of Berlin, see the outcomes of history, and learn more about the history of Berlin. Well experienced tour guides will take you around the site and they tell you many interesting things that you may not learn from a history book.
Why Join a Free Walking Tour?
If you are looking for a cheap way to do a walking tour in Berlin, a free walking tour has to be the way to go. These tours are actually free but it will be considered polite to give a tip to the guide if you had a good experience. Free walking tours involve friendly people with good knowledge of a city and its history, who like helping people get to know the place.
The other benefit of free walking tours is that they are often done in a group most of which are relatively small. This indeed fosters a small group like setting, where it becomes easy to directly interact with the guide, and those participating in the guided tour. You can also ask questions, respond to other people’s questions, discuss with them, or even make new friends and objectify the process which will make your experience even more pleasant.
Free walking tour in Berlin – the most important events at a glance
This is because with a historical free walking tour in Berlin, you are taken through some of the most significant and historical areas in the city. Some of the highlights include:
1. Brandenburg Gate
Brandenburg gate is one of the most famous landmark in Berlin and also represents its checkered history. It was once a physical divide of the east and west which were two sides of Berlin during the Cold War, it is a gate. Today, it can be associated with unity and freedom.
2. Berlin Wall
There is no Berlin trip that can be accomplished without taking time and walk along the remains of the Berlin Wall. This architectural marvel separated the city for nearly three decades of Cold War. Your guide will be with you to lead you to certain neighborhoods including the East Side Gallery; situate yourself for great murals created by international artists.
3. Checkpoint Charlie
The Checkpoint Charlie tour presents a first-hand experience of some of the anniversary action at one of the most famous landmarks that symbolised the Cold War – the Berlin Wall. Check point Charlie was the most famous border crossing point between East and West Berlin. Your guide will paint vivid picture of escapes and the suspense that was characteristic of this city during this period.
4. Holocaust Memorial
The Holocaust Memorial, or the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, is a symbol of sad work dedicated to the memory of the millions of people, who were killed during the terrible historical tragedy known as the Holocaust. Your tour guide will give you description about this place and make sure that when you are going through the mazes of this memorial, you are doing it in the right manner.
5. Reichstag Building
Reichstag Building in which the German Parliament is located is not only the architectural masterpiece but also historical landmark. You will hear about its destruction in World War II, the division and use in cold war, and restoration for the united Germany.
What You Need to Know Before Embarking on a Historical Walking Tour
Before setting off on your historical walking tour, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
1. Dress Appropriately
Some of the aspects that are going to affect your session are the type of shoes you wear and the type of cloth you wear for the session. In terms of clothing, it is mostly important to dress warm since you’re in Berlin and since it was winter time it got really cold sometimes. Additionally there might be a rain shower and thus do not forget your umbrella or raincoat.
2. Bring Snacks and Water
Because walking tours might be a little tiring, it will be wise in case one gets hungry or thirsty, they can take some snacks and a bottle of water during the tour day. Often there are no food stores or cafes for a long time if you have chosen a less popular area.
3. Be Punctual
The tour will begin on the dot therefore it is advisable to be at the rendezvous at least 5 – 10 minutes to the agreed time. In this case punctuality is important because it allows the client not to miss important information that may be given at the beginning of the tour.
4. Take Notes and Ask Questions
Carry with you a small pocket book and pencil to write any fact or detail that you come across as you read. It is also important to ask question because your guide will be more than willing to give extra information concerning the matter or clear things that could have been misunderstood.
Conclusion
A historical free walking tour in Berlin is quite fascinating as it takes you through the ounce-and-count of Berlin and the remains of monumental events that make up the history of Berlin. Beginning with the Brandenburg Gate and stopping at the Wall, at the Checkpoint Charlie, each significant place tells a part of the story of Berlin. If you’re ready to explore yet another Jacob’s club historical free walking tour, put on your shoes, grab your camera and go.
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