Do you want to plunge into the world of the Berlin Wall with history? Follow us as we take you through the history behind the relative the greatest souvenir of the Cold War. From the historian’s perspective or tourists, the tour will help the wanderer to take a walk through history and have a solid background on the wall and its effects on Berlin and the rest of the world. So now yes, let’s go on this journey together.
1. Short History of the Wall: The Berlin Wall
The Berlin Wall of1989 was built by theGerman Democratic Republic (GDR)to separate the east and the west of Berlin, act as a barrier during the Cold War period. It still tells the Berliners’ story of difficulties and remains a symbol of reunification after the symbolic destruction in 1989.
2. Choosing a Guided Tour
When organizing this tour, it is important to use a company that has well informed and experienced tour guides. Tour operators you should focus on the working experience of the guides, the size of the group, and the quality of the planned routes. There are various types of tours available, catering to different interests and time constraints:
2.1. Walking Tours
The Berlin Wall has been documented in a multiple ways and one of the best ways is by taking a walking tour. With the help of proficient guides you will have an opportunity to visit the main attractions at Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg gate, East Side Gallery. Such tours may involve historical storytelling, personal histories, and demystification of life in the course of division.
2.2. Bike Tours
For those who like strong, focused format, the bike tour will be a perfect choice. Cycle through the city roads of Berlin and there are great chances of being able to pause at all the places that were embossed with the course of the Wall. Bike tours allow for the company to traverse more ground in less time while being able to take in the lively atmosphere of the city.
2.3. Private Tours
For example, if you prefer the company and attention or have special interests, it is better to take a private tour. Private tours are favorable because the tour can be arranged more freely about themes that are most interesting to the participant at the moment… This is good for family, friends and anyone who want a more personal and private tour.
3. Key Sites and Highlights
On your guided tour you will also be able to explore few other sites local to the area that were involved in the construction of the Berlin Wall. Here are some must-see locations:
3.1. Brandenburg Gate
Born in the 18th century Brandenburg Gate was landmark of unity and freedom was once situated in between the East and West Berlin. It was a symbol of the split city that everyone could see. At present, people know it as the symbol of the unification of Germany.
3.2. Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie referred to the most popular border between East and West Berlin with ability for diplomats, military and foreign people to pass through it. Discover the history of the Checkpoint Charlie Museum to know more about the risk some people had to face in during the Cold War tensions.
3.3. East Side Gallery
The East Side Gallery is a sort of museum composed of avid art installations saved on the 1.3 kilometer (0.8 miles) long part of the Berlin Wall. As part of the artworks more than thousand murals are painted by artists for freedom, unity, and hope all over the world.
4. Ever wondered how to get the best from a country tour? Welcome to the insider tips of a country tour.
Now that you’ve chosen your tour and familiarized yourself with the key sites, here are some insider tips to ensure an unforgettable Berlin Wall experience:
- You need to wear comfortable shoes as some walking tours you are likely to cover a longer distance in town.
- You should carry a water bottle and a bottle of sunscreen especially if you plan to tour during summer.
- Do not leave your camera at home in order to record the inspiring murals and graffiti seen during the trek.
- Talk to your guide and participate in a dialogue to get the most out of the experience and learn the background to the narratives.
- If you want to visit the areas on your own, try to find a tour available with an audio guide.
5. Conclusion
Everyone concerned with historical past and people’s tales should take a guided tour of the Berlin Wall. With the help of the guide, you’ll get an understanding of people’s fear, determination, and, ultimately, victory over the Wall division. Select a perspective that click with you, enjoy the narratives and at the end of the tour, walk away with depth appreciation of a remarkable epoch in human history.