Private Berlin Tour: Berlin Wall & Cold War First-Hand Stories
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Learn about life in the once-divided city of Berlin on this private tour, led by guides who lived through the Cold War.
Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial Center, with the original Berlin Wall, exhibit and observation deck, and the sites of escape tunnels. Take a train ride on the former “ghost train” line and learn about the former ghost stations at Potsdamer Platz.
See iconic Berlin sites like Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and the East Side Gallery, which is the longest open-air art gallery in the world.
Honor the past at the Berlin Wall Victim Memorial Site and at the Memorial of Peter Fechter, an 18-year-old bricklayer who was shot by East German border guards when he tried to climb the wall and bled out in the “death strip.”
By the end of your private Berlin tour, you’ll have a new understanding of life during the Cold War, from East and West perspectives, told by those who witnessed it first-hand.
Available options
Private Berlin Tour: Berlin Wall & Cold War First-Hand Stories
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private Expert Local Guide
Private Black Van and Driver
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
On this private tour, you’ll learn about everyday life — and its challenges — in the once-divided city of Berlin, directly from someone who lived through it. Follow along with a guide who personally experienced what life was like during the Wall (and its fall), from either a West-Berlin or East-Berlin perspective. Each of our guides has a different story to tell, with plenty of fascinating personal anecdotes about the Cold War, communism, and life in Berlin.
2
Stop 2
On this private tour, you’ll learn about everyday life — and its challenges — in the once-divided city of Berlin, directly from someone who lived through it. Follow along with a guide who personally experienced what life was like during the Wall (and its fall), from either a West-Berlin or East-Berlin perspective. Each of our guides has a different story to tell, with plenty of fascinating personal anecdotes about the Cold War, communism, and life in Berlin.
3
Stop 3
On this private tour, you’ll learn about everyday life — and its challenges — in the once-divided city of Berlin, directly from someone who lived through it. Follow along with a guide who personally experienced what life was like during the Wall (and its fall), from either a West-Berlin or East-Berlin perspective. Each of our guides has a different story to tell, with plenty of fascinating personal anecdotes about the Cold War, communism, and life in Berlin.
4
Stop 4
On this private tour, you’ll learn about everyday life — and its challenges — in the once-divided city of Berlin, directly from someone who lived through it. Follow along with a guide who personally experienced what life was like during the Wall (and its fall), from either a West-Berlin or East-Berlin perspective. Each of our guides has a different story to tell, with plenty of fascinating personal anecdotes about the Cold War, communism, and life in Berlin.
5
Stop 5
On this private tour, you’ll learn about everyday life — and its challenges — in the once-divided city of Berlin, directly from someone who lived through it. Follow along with a guide who personally experienced what life was like during the Wall (and its fall), from either a West-Berlin or East-Berlin perspective. Each of our guides has a different story to tell, with plenty of fascinating personal anecdotes about the Cold War, communism, and life in Berlin.
6
Stop 6
On this private tour, you’ll learn about everyday life — and its challenges — in the once-divided city of Berlin, directly from someone who lived through it. Follow along with a guide who personally experienced what life was like during the Wall (and its fall), from either a West-Berlin or East-Berlin perspective. Each of our guides has a different story to tell, with plenty of fascinating personal anecdotes about the Cold War, communism, and life in Berlin.
7
Stop 7
On this private tour, you’ll learn about everyday life — and its challenges — in the once-divided city of Berlin, directly from someone who lived through it. Follow along with a guide who personally experienced what life was like during the Wall (and its fall), from either a West-Berlin or East-Berlin perspective. Each of our guides has a different story to tell, with plenty of fascinating personal anecdotes about the Cold War, communism, and life in Berlin.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
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
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please let us know if you need a wheelchair accessible tour, we are happy to adapt it accordingly!
Our tours run rain or shine. In case of rain, please dress accordingly and bring an umbrella or a raincoat with you. In winter, temperatures can get quite low, remember that and put an extra sweater into your backpack. But remember - it's your vacation, so if you are cold during the tour, just say so to your guide. There's always a cafe nearby where you can warm up and then go on with the tour.
If you are happy with the services provided by your local guides a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this tour.
Important notes
We will meet you at your hotel lobby. Our guide will be holding a sign with your name. Please call or email us on +49 30 26105715 or info@humboldttoursberlin.com.
HOW DID WE DO? Let us know what you loved (or what we can do better) by leaving a review after your tour. As a local small business, it will mean the world to us. Thank you.
HOW DID WE DO? Let us know what you loved (or what we can do better) by leaving a review.
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
