There can be no doubt that when one begins dreaming of vibrant capital cities Berlin worth principally the most credit. Rich in culture, history, and energy – this German city is one that cherishes and has much to provide. The city is packed with super famous tourist attractions – Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall Memorial for example – but Berlin is also rich in so called off the track places. And what better way to do that than by joining a free walking tour?
Why Choose a Free Walking Tour?
Many people today prefer free walking tours and there is a good reason why. They are special and engaging enabling you to move around the city, seeing the interested area without being hurried by a guide while at the same time benefiting from the information provided by your guide. While free walking tours, participants are expected to pay what they feel is fair, regarding charges and this makes it modest for anyone especially the travelers on a tight budget.
Another advantage of free walking tours is that they may meander into areas you would not explore otherwise, and you learn a thing or two about the landmark. Berlin, with its historical legacy and districts, is the best place to find out more about through this perspective.
The population of Berlin’s district and Neighbourhoods
However, to better comprehend the idea of free walking tours, there is some background information about the neighborhoods of Berlin. Every area is different in terms of atmosphere, architecture and many times history, which gives different view on the city as whole. Here are a few key neighborhoods to keep in mind:
Mitte: The Heart of Berlin
Being located at the very heart of the city Mitte is the place where numerous historical sights and landmarks are located, including the Museum island, Alexanderplatz and the Brandenburger Tor. These are mainly fitting for first timers and they will take you down memory lane by showcasing Berlin’s past.
Kreuzberg: Embracing Diversity
As one of Berlin’s most popular districts, Kreuzberg is realized as a truly international borough, famous for its graffiti, bohemian coffee shops and clubbing scene. They say that this area was divided by the Berlin Wall, as this place is filled with spirit and people who never give up, this area is perfect for artists and lovers of bohemia.
Prenzlauer Berg: Bohemian Charm
Prenzlauer Berg used to be a decaying area in East Berlin, but rather a chic and stylish quarter at present. Tree lined curbed roads, many parks and wonderful cafes and shops, it is admired by young families and artists.
Exploring Berlin’s Secrets: The Free Walking Tour
Well, now that you know what Berlin is comprised of as far as the distinct neighborhoods you might decide that it’s time for you to move on and start your free walking tour in order to get to know the secret spots of the city. Such tours are conducted for several hours and focus on a particular locality; tourists are told by people who are fond of their city.
Choosing the Right Tour
As you can understand, there are dozens of free walking tours all around the world, and it may be a challenge to pick the best one. Here are a few factors to consider:
Length: Due to current tight schedules, understand how much time you have and go for the tour that will fit the available time best.
Theme: There are practical ones which explore historical areas , some would highlight graffiti, and there are those which explore the local cuisine. Make sure to select the theme you love because it contributes most towards the final results of the competition.
Meeting Point: Starting point of different tours is in different places and hence it is advisable to confirm the meeting point first.
Length: Whenever you are visiting cities, estimate the time you have and choose the relevant tour.
Theme: Depending on the preference some tours offered explore historical backgrounds while others explore Street Art or Food tours. It is better for you to select a theme that can be interesting to you.
Meeting Point: Depending on the chosen tour, people can either begin in the Plaza Mayor or pick it up in another plaza, so just confirm the starting point.
Highlights to Expect
While the itinerary may vary depending on the tour you choose, there are a few hidden gems you’re likely to encounter:
Backyards and Courtyards: Berlin’s secret backyard is full of unexpected treasures and history of art. Such small rooms give a sneak preview of what is concerned with the city’s history and its vibrant artistic life.
Street Art Galore: Tourism on the streets of Berlin is associated with graffiti, and the route will guide tourists through districts where murals can be easily found. Discover the artists who created such beguiling works and what their pictures illustrate.
Alternative Culture Hubs: Find out about the underground Berlin through its stores, galleries as well as unusual cultural venues. Check out the best of the art, music, and fashion scene of the city that lies beneath the mainstream.
Backyards and Courtyards: Even these forgotten court-yards of Berlin are full of history and art. These niches give a feel of the historic centre and the active communities of artists present in the city.
Street Art Galore: Berlin has always been famous for tagging; thus, a walking tour entails a visit to areas whose walls are dead giveaways of tagging artists. Read about the artists who created these lively images, as well as the messages conveyed in those paintings.
Alternative Culture Hubs: Find out the ‘hidden’ face of the city by exploring Berlin’s small boutiques, non-commercial galleries, and non-conventional art locations. Check out the best of the city’s art, music, and fashion subculture.
Suggested for a perfect trip
To make the most of your free walking tour experience, keep the following tips in mind:
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Berlin is very compact, thus expect to spend some good number of hours on your feet while exploring the city. Attire – To go with the trip, comfortable shoes would assure no harm could come with walking around in the sights.
Dress for the Weather: Look at the weather forecast and plan your outfit based on the forecast. When it comes to general dress, one should point out that the weather in Berlin can be rather changeable, so it is better to take an umbrella or a light jacket with you.
Engage with the Guide: Do not be shy to consult your guide, or walk around and get involved with more discussions with the guide. They are a source of information and can bring added value to your experience in terms of the experience or help given.
Support Local Guides: When on the tour, it does not cost anything, however, it is always a good practice to tip your guide at the end of the tour. We are to be grateful for the kind of value that was offered in the tour as mentioned before and this has to be showed as well.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Berlin is not very big, and the best way to get around is on foot so be ready to walk for a couple of hours. Prospective visitors will be able to get around in style without the debilitating aches and pains usually associated with tight heels.
Dress for the Weather: It is advisable to check on the weather forecast and ensure that you dress relatively to the weather. The weather in Berlin is changeable; thus, it is recommended to take an umbrella or a casual jacket with you.
Engage with the Guide: Do not be shy and avoid talking to your guide or asking questions. They are informative and interesting and offer a view that can enrich yours.
Support Local Guides: Nevertheless, it’s a tradition to pay for the service at the end of the free tour, that is to tip the guide. Assess the value for the money that you obtained from the tour and then keep the value mutual.
Discover Berlin’s Secrets Today
First, starting in a free walking tour is a best solution for discovering the hidden parts of Berlin, which usually remain unseen by tourists. These include the Hidden Gems Walking Tours which include; Hidden courtyards and Street Art and Alternative Venice or Rebel Venice Culture Tours offer a view of the cities’ compelling past and a colorful present.
Therefore, put on your walking shoes, pick up a camera and let us discover Berlin unfamiliar sites and faces. You will find a different show to admire and a new thirst for wanting more of this wonderful city.
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