Along the Berlin Wall - A Cold War Tour On and Off the Beaten Path
"This was one of the most incredible tours I have ever been on. Matti is an incredible storyteller and historian, with a rare level of insight that only true East Berliners can offer. Weaving in personal stories with those of the years of division was masterful - we left with a real understanding of the complexities of the Berlin Wall and the East German regime, some fun anecdotes of life behind the iron curtain and also saw some otherwise hidden sights along the way."
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In the early hours of 13th August 1961, as most of Berlin was sleeping, thousands of border guards lay the barbed wire foundations that were to become the Berlin Wall and change the city’s history forever. Join me on an immersive tour, a journey steeped in the emotional history surrounding the Wall, where tales of bravery, desperation, and resilience echo through time.
We will see Bornholmer Strasse, where the Fall of the Berlin Wall began and hear why my parents weren't the only ones who missed it. From there, we take the train to a former Ghost Station underneith the border and explore the Berlin Wall Memorial. Some of the best preserved remnants of the Wall can be found here and some of the most spectacular escape stories happened here as well. Where were the most famous escape tunnels? What happened to the buildings in the No Man's Land? And why was this the site of the first victims of the Wall?
Afterwards we head to a more remote area of the former border and learn how East and West developed along the Wall. How could someone build a treehouse in the Death Strip? Why are there still squats along the border? And what does a petting zoo have to do with the Wall? We'll even see a forgotten WW2 ruin, before finishing in an African-Jamaican beach bar, which opened in the former Death Strip - just around the corner from the East Side Gallery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the itinerary?
We will see and hear about: Bornholmer Strasse & The Fall of the Berlin Wall, Ghost Station Nordbahnhof, Berlin Wall Memorial Bernauer Strasse, The Berlin Wall & The Death Strip, Watch Tower, Tunnel Escapes, Church of Reconciliation - and optionally also the Engelbecken & St. Michael's Church Ruins, the Western side of the Wall in Kreuzberg: Squats, a petting zoo and a tree house, an African Jamaican Beach Bar in the former Death Strip and the East Side Gallery. If you want to add any other Cold War location, let me know!
How long does it take to see the Berlin Wall?
The time it takes to see and explore the Berlin Wall can vary based on the specific sites and depth of exploration. A comprehensive tour covering significant remnants and memorial sites might typically take around 2 hours. However, a more focused visit to iconic sections like the East Side Gallery might up to 3,5 hours. As always, it's totally up to you. You tell me your prefernces and I'll make it work!
How much does it cost to see the Berlin Wall on a private tour?
Private tour of the Berlin Wall costs can vary widely, generally falling between 50 and 100 euros per hour. However, the final price can be influenced by various factors like duration, group size, inclusions, and customization. Additionally, the use of private cars or buses for transportation during the tour can increase the overall cost. For accurate pricing based on your preferences and transportation needs, it's best to directly inquire with me.
Where is the best part of the Berlin Wall to visit?
All parts of the Berlin Wall are worth visiting. From the vibrant murals of the East Side Gallery to the historical insights at the Berlin Wall Memorial, and the significance of Bornholmer Strasse, each section of the Berlin Wall presents a unique facet of its complex history. These sites cater to various interests, providing perspectives on art, history, and pivotal moments during the Wall's existence. I'd be delighted to guide you through these diverse locations and share their stories firsthand!
Is a private tour of the Berlin Wall kid friendly?
Absolutely! A private tour of the Berlin Wall can be incredibly kid-friendly. I can tailor the tour to accommodate the interests and attention spans of children, ensuring an engaging and educational experience for them. Plus, I can incorporate activities and stories that are engaging and age-appropriate. Just let me know if there are specific interests or preferences your kids have, and I'll make sure the tour is enjoyable for the whole family!