In Germany, November 9th is often referred to as "Schicksalstag," or Day of Fate. This single date has witnessed pivotal events in German history—moments of both hope and horror that have shaped the nation's path through revolution, dictatorship, war, and peace. From the proclamation of the German Republic in 1918 to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, November 9th holds profound historical resonance. Despite its importance, however, this day is not a public holiday. Many be

Berlin is one of those cities with a past that doesn’t just linger; it’s visible on every street corner, woven into the very fabric of the city. But what if that history had taken a different path? Imagine a Berlin that grew undisturbed from the roaring 1920s, with its rich culture, scientific advances, and vibrant communities intact. If no Nazis, no World War II, and no Berlin Wall had ever existed, how would Berlin look today? Here’s a journey through a "What if..." Berlin.

As one of Berlin’s leading private tour guides , I frequently pick up clients from the stunning Waldorf Astoria Berlin . This luxurious...

Tucked away in the Gulf of Cazones off Cuba’s southwestern coast lies Ernst Thälmann Island , a small, narrow strip of land with an...

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a city steeped in history and royal heritage. From the grandeur of Prussian kings to the splendor of German emperors, the city is home to an array of royal palaces and historic sites that transport visitors to a time of opulence, power, and cultural flourish. Whether you're an avid history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a glimpse of regal life, Berlin offers a treasure trove of royal landmarks that are sure to captiv

Berlin, a city renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, has also played a central role in producing a remarkable number of...

When people think of Gustave Eiffel, the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris usually comes to mind. However, fewer are aware of his lesser-known contributions beyond France—especially his hidden work in the heart of Berlin. Among these is the striking iron staircase in a residential building at Joseph-Haydn-Straße 1 , in Berlin’s Hansaviertel. While the building itself is a marvel of late 19th-century architecture, the staircase inside is often attributed to Eiffel and stands as a q

Berlin is a city of contrasts—rich in history, culture, and hidden gems. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, one thing’s certain: exploring Berlin with a local makes a world of difference. It’s not just about seeing the sights; it’s about experiencing the city’s stories, quirks, and hidden treasures that most tourists miss. In this blog, I’ll take you through why touring Berlin with a local, like myself, is far better than going solo, and I’ll

When discussing homelessness, many clients from the U.S. often ask, “Does Berlin have a homeless problem?” The perception may be...

The legend of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, or "Der Rattenfänger von Hameln," is one of Germany’s most famous and haunting folktales. The story centers on a mysterious figure dressed in multicolored clothes, who, after ridding the town of a rat infestation, was denied payment. In retaliation, he used his magical pipe to lead 130 children away, never to be seen again. The tale has enchanted generations and inspired numerous adaptations, but the true origins of this story go far b

In my career as a private tour guide in Berlin, I’ve come across the same intriguing questions and stories time and time again. Many of these tales, often shared with wide-eyed excitement, have taken on lives of their own, appearing in guidebooks and whispered among locals and tourists alike. They seem almost like facts—so ingrained in the city’s lore that you’d think they were true. But here’s the thing: a lot of them aren’t! These stories fall into the category of urban le

In between enjoying the magical Berlin Christmas markets, why not join me for a private tour? Explore the city's sights, hear captivating stories, and take cozy breaks to warm up with a hot chocolate or Glühwein at a café or festive market—your pace, your choice, your unforgettable experience! As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to experience the magic of Christmas than by visiting Berlin's famous Christmas markets . Whether you're strolling through twinkl

When it comes to luxury and history in Berlin, few places compare to Hotel Adlon Kempinski . As one of Berlin's leading private tour...

Are you on a Baltic cruise stopping in Warnemünde and dreaming of visiting Berlin? Or perhaps you're on a North Sea cruise docking in Hamburg with a desire to explore Germany's vibrant capital? While Berlin isn't just around the corner, many cruise passengers make the trip, and it's worth it! Your ship will likely offer excursions, but large groups in big buses can mean less flexibility. Some group members might not be keen walkers, slowing things down, and there's always t

Berlin is renowned for its vibrant graffiti and street art scene, a feature that adds a unique charm to the city's urban landscape. The prevalence of graffiti in Berlin can be traced back to historical, cultural, and social factors that have shaped the city over the decades. The Influence of West Berlin During the Cold War, West Berlin, encircled by the Berlin Wall, became a melting pot of alternative subcultures. The American presence in West Berlin brought with it influence

Berlin is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse accommodations, including an impressive array of 5-star hotels. Whether you're looking for classic luxury, modern design, or unique experiences, Berlin's top hotels offer something for every discerning traveler. Here's a guide to the best 5-star hotels in the city, sorted by location. Make sure to not only book the best hotel in Berlin, but also a top-notch private tour of the city ! 5-Star Hotels in Berlin

So, you and the lads have chosen Berlin for your stag do? Excellent choice, my friends! Berlin's a city that doesn’t do things by halves, making it perfect for a weekend of revelry, adventure, and maybe a smidgen of culture. Whether you're looking to paint the town red, engage in some epic activities, or simply survive the hangover with style, Berlin has got you covered. Here’s the ultimate guide to ensure your stag do in Berlin is nothing short of legendary. Photo by Amy Dia

Welcome to my blog about the diverse city tours available in Potsdam! My name is Matti , and I've been a passionate city guide in Potsdam since 2008. Having moved from Berlin to Potsdam after our son was born, I now know and love every corner of this beautiful city. Sharing both well-known and hidden spots with visitors brings me great joy. With my extensive experience, I can adapt to various requests. I am a licensed guide of the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation . He

Nestled in the serene woods northwest of Bogensee, the Waldhof am Bogensee is a relic of a dark past, once the luxurious retreat of Nazi Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels. Today, this former grand estate, with its sprawling grounds and historical buildings, stands abandoned, shrouded in mystery and neglect. But why does Berlin own this piece of history, and what keeps it in its current state of abandonment ? A Gift of Propaganda In 1936, the city of Berlin gifted Joseph Go

Come along on my guided tour of Berlin's Weimar era, where we’ll bring the rich history of this remarkable time to life! Welcome to the ultimate guide to exploring the remnants of Berlin's Golden Twenties! Step back in time to an era of unprecedented cultural vibrancy, artistic innovation, and social liberation. In this guide, I'll delve into the landmarks, neighborhoods, and hidden gems that capture the essence of this transformative period in Berlin's history. The Golden Tw