Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is a city with a rich history that has shaped its culture and character. From the ruins of World War II to the iconic Berlin Wall, there are countless stories waiting to be discovered. One popular way to dive deep into the history of Berlin is through a free walking tour. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating history of Berlin and how you can explore it on a free walking tour.
The Historical Significance of Berlin
Being one of the leading cities in Europe, Berlin was in the center of the most important events in European history. Here are a few key highlights:
- Prussian Empire: For centuries, Berlin grew as the capital city first of the Prussian empire and later as the capital of united Germany at the end of the nineteenth century.
- World War II: The city has been experiencing heavy bombing during the period of the second world war with many losses of both properties and lives.
- The Cold War: After the war Berlin became divided into eastern and the western berlin. The barricades separating East and West Berlin in 1961 later became representative of the Cold War.
- Fall of the Berlin Wall: The first Theater any major Buffer Zone was dismantled was the Berlin wall which fell in 1989 and signified the reunification of Germany and altogether the end of the Cold War.
Admiring the Thievery of Berlin on a Free Walking Tour
Based on previous experience, one of the most efficient ways to learn more about the history of a destination is by taking a free walking tour. These tours are run by professionals who are knowledgeable and enthused to tell you more about the history of the city.
Free Walking Tour – Expectation
During a free walking tour of Berlin, you can expect to:
- See some of the famous tourist attractions that include Brandenburg gate, the Reichstag building and even CheckPoint Charlie.
- Get information regarding the construction of the Berlin Wall and effects it created in the city and the people of Berlin.
- Learn about the past Link to World War II, and find out about the site of the former concentration camp, the Holocaust Memorial and the Topography of Terror.
- Explore the fascinating subcultures of the districts Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain and Mitte and their stories.
- Learn about other prominent personalities in Berlin from the artists, politicians and revolutionaries to world’s celebrities.
Some useful advice that will help to make a walking tour an unforgettable one.
To make the most of your free walking tour experience in Berlin, consider the following tips:
- Arrive early: It is recommended to turn up early especially if it is free walking tour because they can attract a lot of people.
- Dress comfortably: As for clothing people should dress according to the weather as well as wear comfortable shoes that fit.
- Bring water and snacks: This is so because walking tours are often physically demanding and having to eat and drink in the middle of the tour can also be time consuming.
- Ask questions: The guides are actually there to educate and therefore, do not be shy to ask questions and even argue with other participants.
- Tipping: Although the tours are free, it is done based on the notion that one has the right to tip the guides if they saw value in the activity.
Conclusion
Free walking tour is one of the best ways to discover the interesting past of Berlin. Credible and attractive guides, fascinating and remarkable places will make it possible to learn more about the city’s history and its contribution to the present. Therefore, put on your comfortable shoes, take your camera and let me show you a historical tour through Berlin.