LGBTQ+ Berlin: Private Walking or Car Tour

Berlin , Germany

LGBTQ+ Berlin: Private Walking or Car Tour

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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

Berlin has long been a centre for LGBTIQ communities in Europe. Frederick the Great, Prussia’s legendary 18th century monarch is widely believed to have been gay; sexologist Magnus Hirscheld pioneered advocacy for homosexual and transgender rights in the early 20th century; Marlene Dieterich cross-dressed on the city’s screens in the hedonistic ‘20s; and Klaus Wowereit, mayor of the city from 2001 until 2014, was openly and proudly gay.

This 3-hour walking tour explores Berlin’s LGBTIQ scenes past and present, and, naturally, is open to all. Topics covered include the work of Magnus Hirschfeld, queer king Frederick the Great, persecution of homosexuals in Nazi Germany and homosexuality within the Nazi Party itself, the experience of LGBTIQ communities in East and West Berlin, and the queer scene in the hedonistic 1920s and in the 1990s as part of the burgeoning techno and club scene.

Available options

Tour with a private vehicle

Duration: 3 hours<br/>Pickup included

Private walking tour

Pickup included

What's included

Professional, local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

First up you will learn how the legendary Prussian king became a queer icon in the German capital.

Stop 2

Next we visit the official memorial for gay victims of National Socialism, and address the violent repression of homosexuality in Nazi Germany and gay personailities within the Nazi Party itself.

Stop 3

Wander through the lush greenery of Berlin's 'Central Park' – a well-known meeting point for gay people.

Stop 4

Now it’s time to head to the heart of Berlin’s ‘Rainbow District’ – Schöneberg. A short walk away you will see where the Anglo-American author lived during the time he lived in Berlin, capturing the excitement and instability of ‘20s Berlin in the semi-autobiographical ‘Goodbye to Berlin’ and ‘Mr Norris Changes Trains’. Time will then be taken to visit one of the city’s oldest gay and trans bars and hear about the queer scene at the height of the hedonistic 1920s.

Stop 5

Next we see where Bowie lived during the time he spent in Berlin in the late 1970s, composing his ‘Berlin Trilogy’ with Brian Eno and Tony Visconti.

Stop 6

Our final stop is the Gay Museum in Kreuzberg, one of the world’s largest institutions for researching, preserving and communicating the history and culture of queer communities.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drink

Public transportation costs

Museum entry costs (none required for the tour)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.