Berlin , Germany

Private Essential 3rd Reich Berlin Tour

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(2 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This a great tour to book whether you have a solid educational background in the Third Reich and the Second World war or just a curious interest. Your guide has had a life-long passion for the Second World War and we can / will literally cover everything related to the rise of the Nazi's, looking at the period between 1918-1933. The establishment of the dictatorship and the road to war and genocide between 1933-1939.

There will be an emphasis as well on the military aspects of the Second World War in Berlin. The impact, ebbs and flows of the strategic bombing raids on the city throughout the war and the final onslaught of the Soviets, the Battle of Berlin. With the near complete destruction and also the political removal of buildings post-war some sites are now merely "ghost sites" but we will endeavor to discover as many tangible, physical things as possible. As well as shattering some common myths and misconceptions along the way!

Available options

Private Essential 3rd Reich Berlin Tour

What's included

Experienced and passionate Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Focusing on the rise and fall of Nazi Berlin, this tour visits the key sites from the darkest chapter of Berlin’s history.

We will discuss how the Nazi seized power and established their brutal dictatorship (visiting the key sites realted to that) and look at how their instruments of terror and suppression (Gestapo and SS) functioned. There will be ample opputunity to learn about Berlin during the war itself and to look at the piecemeal destruction of the Capital of the Third Reich from air and land as the tide of war turned against the Nazi's.

This tour walks through the Government district (Wilhelmstrasse), the nerve centre of the Third Reich. Visiting the former Reich Main Security Office, Headquaters of the SS and Gestapo, the former Luftwaffe HQ, The New Reichs Chancellery and Hitler’s bunker. Whilst the latter is now a “ghost site” we will visit the imposing bunker on Reinhardtstrasse, as well as over-looked sites related to the Battle of Berlin. We will discuss in some depth the Soviet assault on the city at the end of the Second World War and see the many scars that the city still bears. We will also visit several incredible memorials to the victims and victors of the Second World War.

List of site visited:

Brandenburg Gate

Reichstag

Air-raid shelter on Reinhhardt Strasse

Moltkebrücke

Site of the Kroll Opera House

Soviet War Memorial

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Site of the Fuhrer Bunker and New Reich's Chancellery

Former Luftwaffe HQ

Former Gestapo and SS HQ

Stop 2

See the iconic Brandenburg Gate whilst learning the about Germany before at and at the end of the Fist World War and the background to the rise of the Nazis.

Stop 3

Visit one of the most iconic buildings in Germany and discuss it's significance with regard to the establishment of the Nazi Dictatorship as well a recounting the bloody battle fought by the Soviets to take the building

Stop 4

Visit the imposing Soviet War Memorial in the Tiergarten, the only Soviet Memorial in former West Berlin as we talk about the War in the East and the Battle of Berlin. We will also discuss the Allied bombing campaigns over Germany and Berlin.

Stop 5

Visit and experience the largest and most significant of the many, many memorials in Berlin

Now the Finance Ministry but originally the HQ for the Luftwaffe. learn about its history and an overview of the Nazi architecture.

Stop 7

Enter one of the most horrific of all the sites within Nazi Berlin...the site of the SS and Gestapo HQ. Learn how these organizations functioned, what they done on the site and how the site has been memorialized over time.

Stop 8

Learn not only what was below ground but also above ground at what is now one of the world's most infamous car park/Parking lots. Also learn what were the key events in the run up to Hitler taking his life in late-April 1945.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting point is just outside the Academy of Arts (main entrance) and next to the Hotel Adlon Kempinski

About Berlin

Berlin, Germany's capital and largest city, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic nightlife. The city's eclectic mix of modern and historic architecture, world-class museums, and thriving arts scene make it a must-visit destination in Europe.

Top Attractions

Brandenburg Gate

A neoclassical monument and one of Berlin's most iconic landmarks, the Brandenburg Gate was built in the 18th century and has been a symbol of the city's history and reunification.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery

The Berlin Wall Memorial and the East Side Gallery are important historical sites that commemorate the division of Berlin during the Cold War and the fall of the Wall in 1989.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Museum Island

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Museum Island is home to five world-renowned museums, including the Pergamon Museum, the Neues Museum, and the Alte Nationalgalerie.

Museum Half-day to full day €19 (Museum Island Day Ticket) or individual museum tickets

Reichstag Building

The Reichstag Building is the seat of the German Bundestag (parliament) and a symbol of German democracy. The glass dome on top offers panoramic views of the city.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (but advance registration is required)

Potsdamer Platz

Potsdamer Platz is a major public square and traffic intersection in the heart of Berlin. It is known for its modern architecture, shopping, and entertainment options.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining

Must-Try Local Dishes

Currywurst

A popular Berlin street food, currywurst is a sliced sausage served with a curry ketchup sauce and often topped with curry powder.

Snack Contains pork, vegetarian and vegan options available

Boulette

A German-style meatball, usually served with potato salad or mashed potatoes and a creamy sauce.

Main Course Contains beef or pork, vegetarian and vegan options available

Döner Kebab

A Turkish dish popularized in Berlin, consisting of seasoned meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in flatbread with vegetables and sauces.

Main Course Contains meat, vegetarian and vegan options available

Berliner Pfannkuchen

A jelly-filled doughnut, similar to a Berlin-style donut, often eaten during Carnival season.

Dessert Contains wheat, dairy, and egg, vegan options available

Popular Activities

Cycling Hiking Boat tours Rock climbing Spa and wellness Picnicking in parks Café hopping Boat tours on the Spree River

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with tourists and locals enjoying the summer weather.

20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) 68°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Turkish, Arabic, Russian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Berlin is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Keep your passport and valuables in a safe place, and carry a copy of your passport and important documents.

Getting there

By air

Berlin Brandenburg Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By train

Berlin Hauptbahnhof

By bus

Berlin Central Bus Station (ZOB)

Getting around

Public transport

The U-Bahn is a fast and efficient way to get around Berlin, with 10 lines serving 173 stations. It operates from early morning to late at night.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Mitte Kreuzberg Prenzlauer Berg Friedrichshain Charlottenburg

Day trips

Potsdam

35 km (22 miles) from Berlin • Half-day to full day

Potsdam is a charming city near Berlin, known for its stunning palaces, parks, and lakes. It was the former residence of Prussian kings and German emperors and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Spreewald

100 km (62 miles) from Berlin • Full day

Spreewald is a picturesque region of forests, lakes, and canals, known for its traditional wooden houses, pickles, and gondola rides. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial

35 km (22 miles) from Berlin • Half-day

The Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial is a somber and important historical site, dedicated to the victims of the Nazi regime. The memorial includes the preserved camp buildings, a museum, and a memorial cemetery.

Festivals

Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) • February Berlin Carnival of Cultures (Karneval der Kulturen) • Late May to early June Berlin Festival • September

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in German, as it's appreciated by locals and can enhance your travel experience.
Consider purchasing a Berlin WelcomeCard for unlimited public transportation and discounts at attractions.
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions.
Visit Berlin's many parks and green spaces, which offer a peaceful and relaxing escape from the bustling city.
Be open to trying new foods and culinary experiences, as Berlin's diverse food scene offers something for everyone.