Private Driving & Walking Tour of Berlin Cold War-Era with Wall

Berlin , Germany

Private Driving & Walking Tour of Berlin Cold War-Era with Wall

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About this experience

This is a unique, in-depth Cold War-themed tour of Berlin with an expert historian to help you recreate those uncertain decades. With both walking and driving elements, you will also have a private chauffeur transporting you to the various locations of the tour. Divided into East and West by the Berlin Wall - the city came to be the epicenter of the Cold War. You will see the humbling remains of the Wall, and explore the fascinating museum showcasing memorials and the grim reality of daily life behind the Iron Curtain. You will also visit Checkpoint Charlie, the most famous crossing between East and West Germany. It was guarded by armed soldiers both Russian and Allied during the uneasy post-World War Two era. It is no surprise that Berlin was also the focal point of the famous espionage that the Cold War is famous for. You'll learn about the heroic protests for freedom that took place at Alexanderplatz and the Brandenburg Gate that finally brought down the Berlin Wall in 1989.

Available options

Private Driving & Walking Tour of Berlin Cold War-Era with Wall

What's included

Private chauffeured transportation

In-person: English Guide

Private local Guide

Checkpoint Charlie

Berlin Wall Memorial

East Side Gallery

Oberbaum Bridge

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A poignant stretch of the remains of the Berlin Wall, where you will see the stark and grim reality of daily life of living under the harsh conditions of the Cold War. Emotive memorials to the brutal impact of the Wall on everyday citizens.

Stop 2

Once a symbol of division, now emblematic of unity and peace, standing at the heart of Berlin's history.

Stop 3

the dilapidated artistic Eastside neighborhoods - where you’ll hear about daily life in East Germany.

Stop 4 Pass by

The famous boulevard built by the GDR between 1952 and 1960 in Berlin Friedrichshain and Mitte.

Stop 5

View of the double-decked Oberbaum Bridge: a pedestrian crossing over the River Spree. Now a symbol of reunification, linking the previously divided boroughs of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg.

Stop 6

Alexanderplatz: where the protests happened that eventually led to the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989. A symbol of freedom.

Ronald Reagan Gedenktafel Memorial: Commemorates Reagan's iconic speech and calls for freedom: “Mr Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”

Stop 8

The longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall, it has been transformed into an open-air gallery of political art, graffiti and messages of hope.

Stop 9

The most famous crossing point between East and West Berlin, symbolizing the Cold War's frontline. Because of this, Berlin became the epicenter of the infamous espionage of the era.

Stop 10

THE WALL Panorama: An expo that offers a vivid, 360-degree depiction of what life was like next to the Berlin Wall.

What's not included

Tips and gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Bernauer Straße - at the large wall image of a soldier leaping over barbed wire. Your guide will be holding a LivTours sign.

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.