Half-Day Private Berlin Essentials Walking Tour
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In this private tour, you will discover how Berlin went from a provincial capital to one of the world's first metropolises. We'll trace the city's fate through a historical whirlwind of imperialism, democracy, dictatorship and division.
As well as an in-depth look at all the Berlin sights that you *need* to see, I'll leave your group with an abundance of tips and recommendations to make the best of your visit.
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating deep dive into the history of one of Europe’s great cities!
Available options
Half-Day Private Berlin Essentials Walking Tour
Pickup included
What's included
An in-depth private tour of Berlin
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The symbol of the city since Napoleon's triumphant parade in 1806
2
Stop 2
Home of the German Parliament since 1894 (with a few long gaps along the way...)
3
A moving monument to two groups historically labelled as 'gypsies'. At least 500,000 members of these communities were murdered by the Nazi dictatorship
4
Part of the government quarter built in the 1990s, in preparation for the German parliament moving back from the former West German capital city of Bonn
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Berlin's Central Park; the former hunting grounds of the Prussian Aristocracy
6
Stop 6
A powerful and provocative memorial to Soviet soldiers who died taking Berlin in 1945
7
Stop 7
Designed by Peter Eisenmann, this memorial continues to inspire a diverse array of reactions an interpretations.
8
Situated in the Tiergarten Park, this monument is particularly relevant to Berlin, a city that, before the Nazi era, was known to be one of the most accepting of homosexuality.
9
Stop 9
The former Times Square of Berlin; destroyed in WW2, ripped in half by the Berlin Wall and built anew during reunification
10
Stop 10
The bunker where the Nazi dicatator ended his own life in 1945, long covered by a nondescript parking lot
11
Layer upon layer of history upon one corner - the former Air Force Ministry built by the Nazi regime, which in turn became the site of a popular uprising against the post-war Communist dictatorship.
12
Stop 12
One of the longest remaining pieces of the Berlin Wall, which once ran 155km around the western part of the city
13
Stop 13
A location synonymous with the tension felt on both sides of Berlin during the decades of Cold War division and occupation
14
Stop 14
A strong candidate for the title of Berlin's most beautiful square, Bebelpatz is surrounded by buildings constructed during one of the city's more enlightened periods. In 1933, however, the Nazi's carried out their first public book burning in the centre of the square.
15
Stop 15
Berlin's oldest university, from which over 30 Nobel Prize winners emerged
16
Stop 16
A monument to Prussian soldiers who fell in the Napoleonic Wars, this neoclassical gem was turned into a memorial to all victims of war and tyranny in 1992
17
One of the most controversial projects in post-unification Berlin. An ideological battleground that saw two palaces being destroyed in just over half a century, only for the first to be, in a way, rebuilt and reopened in 2020
18
Stop 18
Berlin Cathedral - a misleadingly young building that was more a symbol of imperial power than Christian devotion
19
A Unesco World Heritage site, home to some of the best museums in Germany, and testament to the ambition of both the Prussian and German states.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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
We'll meet in the corner of Pariser Platz, between the Hotel Adlon and the 'Akademie der Kunst'
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
