Introduction

If you’re visiting Berlin and want to get immersed into its culture, a free walking tour is the perfect place to start. It’s history, it’s arts scene and it has a diverse cultural heritage that makes Berlin a fascinating place — by some. With local guides you can explore the city on foot and learn more about Berlin’s past and present. In this blog post I’m going to tell you why you should join a free walking tour in Berlin, and what interesting sights you can expect from it.

A Free Walking Tour has its Benefits.

• Participating in a free walking tour offers several advantages:
• No upfront cost: Such free walking tours as their name suggests are free. Besides, you’ll have a chance to visit the city without sacrificing a cent.
• Local insights: Local guides are experts in what they do – they are passionate about the city they guide through and share their valuable knowledge on Berlin’s history, culture and often hidden gems. You’ll be able to learn things they never taught you on your own.
• Flexible schedules: Usually free walking tours run on daily basis and you can choose more time slots. It provides you with freedom to select the tour that caters to your schedule.
• Meet fellow travelers: Meeting people from all over the world is easy in joining a walking tour. You can share your experiences and recommendations with your new found friends.

Berlin Walking Tour Highlights

1. Brandenburg Gate

A walking tour of Berlin should start at the BrandenburgGate, the 18th century neoclassical monument symbolizing Berlin’s union. It’s a strong reminder of Germany’s past, and the gate has seen many historical events pass through it.

2. Berlin Wall

When visiting Berlin it’s no good to look in the direction of the Berlin Wall but not take a tour to see the remains of the Berlin Wall. The wall’s construction, its impact on the city and the reasons why it came down in Germany’s reunification. The East Side Gallery is a tough sell in terms of the city’s transformation, but its colorful murals present a compelling one.

3. Museum Island

Berlin’s amazement Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage sight and old contains a plethora of world grade museums. Since your tour might give you a few steps backward on Museum Island and a few info about some of its great museums (like the Pergamon Museum or the Neues Museum).

4. Checkpoint Charlie

Already a historical landmark, the border crossing once known as Checkpoint Charlie lies between East and West Berlin. Find out what motivated people to cross the border during the Cold War era, what happened when they did it, and the stories of those who dared to risk making their way East.

Tips for Enjoying a Great Walking Tour

• To make the most of your walking tour experience in Berlin, keep the following tips in mind:
• Wear comfortable shoes: So if you plan on doing walking tours, it’s going to be quite a bit of ground to cover, you wanna make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Walking along Berlin’s cobblestone streets can be tiresome if worn out footwear.
• Bring weather-appropriate clothing: With Berlin’s weather being unpredictable, keep an eye on the forecast and dress with that in mind. If rain is forecast, it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat.
• Carry a water bottle: Particularly important if you are on longer tours, staying hydrated is crucial, whether in summer. Make sure to carry a refillable water bottle with you to take with or have water available on the tour.
• Ask questions: Asking your guide questions is not something to be afraid of. And they’re skilled and willing to impart knowledge.
• Tip your guide: Though the tour is absolutely free, a tip to your guide is customary. Think back to what you got and tip accordingly.

Conclusion

The best thing about travel, especially to Germany, is that through this free walking tour, you will be able to explore how rich a culture Berlin has. You will understand this vibrant city even further with the historical landmarks, diverse neighborhoods and local insights. Lace up your shoes, pick up your camera and prepare to have the wonderful time ride through the streets of Berlin.