Are you going to Berlin, Germany? But, if so, you will want to get the most out of your visit and see the rich history and lively culture of this amazing city. There is no better way to do so than joining a free walking tour. In addition to getting fit and active, you’ll develop new skills and get insider tips from knowledgeable guides. So, in this article we’re gonna take a dive into why free walking tours in Berlin would actually be a great idea to explore Berlin on foot.
1. Get to Know Berlin’s History
It is an exciting story to hear from the history side of Berlin. There is so much to learn from the Prussian era to the divided city during the Cold War. One of the best ways to discover the city’s past and understanding how that history has affected the present is on a free walking tour. Along the way there will be guides, knowledgeable tagging landmarks such as Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall, filled with historic fact and personal anecdotes.
2. Discover Hidden Gems
Since I live in Berlin I know it is a city that thrives on diversity and creativity. But famous sites need to be seen and free walking tours usually wouldn’t show you famous things because they take you off the beaten path and find you things which local people know about. These hidden places give Berlin some unique street art installation, a coffee hangout, or a restful park and help breathe the life and authenticity into your Berlin experience.
3. Stay Active and Engaged
Staying active while on vacation doesn’t have to mean giving up on your active lifestyle. Free walking tours are also a good way to explore your city at a relaxed pace, walk a little, see a bit, and burn a few calories in the process. Also, whilst walking, you are able to interact with the world around you and feel a real sense of the city. There might be a lively market to bump into, or street musicians to overhear, or just people making a life.
4. Cost-Free Exploration
The word “free” is music to any traveler’s ears. The name is free walking tour because these tours don’t need any upfront payment. And you can simply decide how much your tour was worth to you and tip the guide at the end. It is so flexible you can explore Berlin without spending your life’s savings. Keep in mind that while these tours are free, the guides depend on tips of these types to make a living so it’s customary to tip the guides.
5. Local Insights and Practical Tips
A great benefit of joining free walking tours is that you can get to learn from the locals. The guides are usually local people who live in their city and enjoy it so much they want to show it to visitors. They can suggest hidden restaurants, tell you how to get around on public transport, offer insight on lesser known attractions and tell you where to go to feel the best of Berlin’s nightlife.
Tips for a Great Walking Tour Experience
If you’re excited to embark on a free walking tour in Berlin, here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
- Dress and wear appropriate for the weather and you should be wearing comfortable shoes. Winter is known for its drop in temps in Berlin.
- With the tour you might want to take a bottle of water to keep hydrated.
- Get there a few minutes before so you don’t miss the departure time.
- Ask questions! They are there to simply share their knowledge and get some engagement.
- At the end of the tour if you enjoyed the experience, don’t forget to tip the guides!
Conclusion
Free walking tours of Berlin are a great way to explore Berlin with a little fitness, a lot of knowledge, and doing it in the company of locals. Joining these tours allows you to explore the tittle bits of Berlin’s past, possibly see hidden gems, stay fit and get educated by your tour guides. That’s why, lace up your walking shoes and grab a map, and head out to explore, well, the streets of Berlin.
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