WWII and its Ramifications: A Walking Tour through 20th Century German History
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour focuses on the Berlin of the Nazi-era. By singling out a range of buildings the mechanisms and the brutality of the Nazi-regime will get highlighted, as will the fact that besides millions of people losing their lives, at the end of the Nazi-terror lay a city and a country in shame and in rubble, to be subsequently divided, with a wall separating the east from the west. This tour takes visitors back to places where things actually happened by also underlining the fact that the Germany of today is a place different from what it was then, yet still haunted by the phantoms of the past.
Available options
WWII and its Ramifications: A Walking Tour through 20th Century German History
What's included
my experience as licenced and trained tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
See the ruin of a once glamorous railway station, damaged in WWii and later fully taken down.
2
Stop 2
Visit the Topography of Terror (formerly the location of the infamous SS and Gestapo HQ) and see a model of what the government district in Nazi-era Berlin looked like.
3
Stop 3
See one of only three remnants of the original Berlin Wall.
4
Learn more about Martin Gropius and admire one of his greatest buildings, damaged during WWii and with the scars from the war still visible on the facade.
5
Stop 5
Experience what is once again one of Berlin's most buzzing squares, but which was a wasteland during the city's division when parts of it became the infamous "death strip".
6
Stop 6
See the location of where the Führer Bunker used to be, now dubbed "the most expensive parking lot in the world". Find out why!
7
Visit the Georg Elser Memorial and learn more about this courageous man and how he tried to bring Hitler down, all by himself.
8
Discover of what's left of one of the most feared ministries during the Third Reich and find out what's going on in there today.
9
Stop 9
Experience what arguably is one of the starkest, most powerful, and most visited memorials in the world. Learn more about its history and its location.
10
Stop 10
Hear more about the history of the Reichstag, what became of it after 1945, and how it emerged at last as a democratic bulwark in the heart of country which over the course of 100 years went through about 5 different political systems.
11
Stop 11
To conclude our tour, we visit the Brandenburg Gate, symbol of Germany's division as well as its reunification. Learn more about the gate and how it was used and abused by various regimes, notably the Nazis.
What's not included
Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.7
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
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
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Next to the ruins of Anhalter Bahnhof Station
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
