Introduction

Welcome to our guide to get you started with East Berlin tours for beginners. No matter if you are a history freak or a tourist ready to explore this city or simply a person interested in the history of Berlin this guide would help. In this article we, will be pointing out some of the general aspects of travel to East Berlin including the history, places of interest and the culture. So, let’s begin our journey!

The History of East Berlin

East Berlin was the main city of East Germany, or the German Democratic Republic (GDR), for forty-one years from 1949 until 1990. After the World War II it became divided into four zones of occupation and Berlin was also divided into two halves, East and West. The erection, of perhaps the most iconic divisive structure globally, the Berlin Wall in 1961, took the separation to fledging ideological heights.

Before the division and especially during the existence of East Berlin, the city has gone through many changes in the political, social and economical aspects. The principal state organ of repression was the Stasi, which was Germany’s secret police. But it should be recalled also that this was the East Berlin – the city with the history, architecture, galleries, and theaters of its own.

Landmarks and Sightseeing

Whenever one visits East Berlin there are great places and attractions that give a view of the region in the past. Here are a few must-visit places:

1. Brandenburg Gate

A landmark silent yet powerful is a wonderful monument of German unity, and it is the Brandenburg Gate. Originally constructed in the late 18th century, it was used regularly as a border checkpoint during the city’s partition. Today this is a symbolic reminder of the Germany united.

2. Berlin Wall Memorial

The Berlin Wall Memorial is a site which presents a preserved section of the Berlin Wall and the Berlin Wall Documentation Center. It is an excellent place to learn about the existing divide within Berlin and experience the lives of the population who experienced the wall.

3. Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie is also related with the division of Berlin. During the cold war period, it was among the key check points that used by the allied soldiers and diplomat.

Studying the Culture of East Berlin

East Berlin was blessed with cultural learnings and residents showcasing their talents through different theatre, galleries and museums. Here are a few places to explore:

1. Berliner Ensemble

Another GDR/Germany success is the Berline Ensemble featuring Bertolt Brecht presenting noteworthy performances of renowned plays dealing with a legacy of a special theater identity developed in East Berlin.

2. East Side Gallery

The East Side Gallery is the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall and takes the form of this major artwork that includes brightly painted murals by artists from around the world. It could be said that it is one of the most vibrant artistic images of hope for freedom.

3. DDR Museum

A rather useful information for those wanting to get more acquainted with the daily life within East Germany is the DDR Museum. This unique museum lets the guest literally live through the life of actual East Germany in terms of living standards, culture and politics.

East Berlin Trip and Tourist Guide

Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit to East Berlin:

• To make sure that you do not miss out on any of the important places you should plan for the tour in advance.
• It is suggested that an overall and colorful vision of the area can be heard on a walking tour of East Berlin.
• One can even get a taste of traditional East German food eating in restaurants that offer traditional German food.
• Walking is also good if you prefer that, movin g around the city by trams or even the underground U-Bahn.
• Check out a few basic phrases to help you get by as you mingle with the locals and maximize your tour.

Conclusion

East Berlin Tour offers a wonderful tour to get to know the real history and beauty of Germany’s capital. It also gives you an insider’s look of the city life, from the artifacts of the once existing Berlin – Wall to the booming arts. Just imagine visiting places used to be divided, seeing the culture and history of the place and feeling the pulse of this amazing city you can fully understand the importance of East Berlin. Thus, set up your travelling and curiosity, and you are all set to go for one of the most enthralling travel experiences.