Apart from being rich in history, the capital city of Germany, Berlin is also comprised equally of famous landmarks. A walking tour is a wonderful way to experience all of the iconic sites and the city’s culture and architecture. In this guide, we will introduce you to some of Berline’s famous landmarks and good tips on how will make you the best self guided free walking tour.
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Brandenburg Gate
One of Berlin’s most important symbols is the famous Brandenburg Gate, an 18th century neoclassical monument — the place to begin your walking tour. See the amazing architecture, gain knowledge about the historical value of the symbol of unity and freedom.
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Reichstag Building
Then head north and make sure to pass by the Reichstag Building, seat of the German Parliament. There’s something to be said for enjoying the modern glass architecture with a hint of the historical thrown in. Insider tip: You might sit up in the glass dome of the Reichstag, watching the city pass beneath its feet. Don’t forget to get your free entry online in advance.
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Holocaust Memorial
The Holocaust Memorial is situated, officially known as the “Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe,” a short walk from the Brandenburg Gate. This thought provoking site is a tribute to the millions of Holocaust victims. Gaze up into the maze like scaffolding covering this structure an ponder its history.
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Checkpoint Charlie
Finish your walking tour at Checkpoint Charlie, symbol of the cold war border crossing. Hear about the dramatic history of this site, and see the preserved checkpoint house. And you can even take a photo with actors dressed as US soldiers, or East German border guards!
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Berlin Wall East Side Gallery
Sadly, one of the major sights of Berlin is the Berlin Wall. Go to the East Side Gallery, a 1.3 kilometer section of the wall painted in vivid, thought provoking murals by artists from all over the world. It’s a good thing to take your time and enjoy the art and think just a bit about the division and reunification of Berlin.
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Museum Island
Visit Museum Island, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Five world-class museums are here: Pergamon Museum (which houses the iconic ‘Isis left arm’), Neues Museum, and Bode Museum (housing the headaches of large sums of money), as well as a museum for Islamic art and the Altes Museum (the first museum). The museums don’t take tickets to visit, but the architecture and the surrounding ambiance are stunning.
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Charlottenburg Palace
You should finish your Berlin walking tour by visiting Charlottenburg Palace, which is the largest palace in Berlin. Visit the baroque and rococo architecture, explore the beautiful gardens. If you have time take a walk around the outside and compare this grand palace to other kings’ homes that you may see from the outside to compare.
A Guide to Your Free Walking Tour in Berlin.
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Dress appropriate and wear comfortable shoes
When you’re going to walk for several hours, you’ll need comfortable shoes. Also, since Berlin has temperamental weather be prepared for rain or bring along a rain jacket or umbrella.
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Map or using the reliable navigation app
You can of course explore the landmarks without a map, but a navigation app or a printed map will help you make better and quicker sense of where you are in the city.
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Take breaks and stay hydrated
It can get exciting exploring Berlin’s landmarks but not always physically easy. Whenever you feel like you need breaks, take them and always bring water bottle or cafes you will pass them will be your hydrating tools.
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If you would like to join a guided free walking tour consider!
If you’d rather structure your time, join one of the many free walking tours by local guides. These guides are seasoned with the history and stories, behind the landmarks, offering more to the detail.
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Enjoy the local street food
On your walking tour there will be several food stalls and street vendors. And don’t skip the chance to taste some omelet wurst (the German version of currywurst), or a Berliner (one of the best doughnuts around).
While it is now time for you to set off on a self guided free walking tour of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, with this guide at hand. If you’re visiting these famous sites so you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of this incredible city, get closer to these iconic sites the way you prefer without waiting around in line. Enjoy your journey!
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