Overview
Uncover one of the most thrilling stories of Berlin’s past.
This tour will take you back in time to examine the fascinating details of the Berlin Wall, from its inception as a barbed wire fence, erected overnight, to its fate as a mined, multi-wall system, guarded by deadly sharpshooters. Accompanied by East Berlin historians, your day will be peppered with anecdotes about daily life in the socialist’s world, shocking espionage stories, and more.
Your guided tour, by private vehicle, will begin at the impressive Ernst Thälmann Monument, a massive structure commemorating the leader of the German Communist party during the 1920s, who was tortured and murdered by the Nazis. Then continue on to Pernzlauer Berg, the “Montmartre of Berlin.” This old home for intellectuals and artists opposing the communist system is now the center of the city’s “hip” scene, as you will see as you travel through.
Pass by the East Side Gallery, the longest remaining section of the Berlin wall, where you will disembark your vehicle for a closer look at Karl-Marx-Allee, the must-see central boulevard erected in the unique Soviet “sugar bakery” style. The building of this site to communist grandeur sparked the people’s uprising on July 17th, 1953, a turbulent episode which was violently crushed by soviet tanks.
Stop for a quick lunch (on your own) before continuing on with your tour, stopping first at the Alexanderplatz and Berlin TV Tower, constructed by the East German government from 1965-1969. From there it is a quick walk to the Karl Marx Forum, an imposing square with huge industrially-produced concrete buildings.
Next pay a short visit to the Nikolaiviertel, the historical heart of Berlin, which was reconstructed with prefabricated concrete slabs to commemorate Berlin's 750th birthday. View the famous remains of the Palace of the Republic, where the Hohenzollern Castle is reconstructed. Your last stop will be Checkpoint Charlie, the central military checkpoint that connected the American sector with the Soviet empire. Time permitting, you may also stop for a bit of shopping between the impressive Friedrichstraße and Unter den Linden Boulevards.
- Lunch is not included in the price of this tour, but your guide can recommend a great place to fit your tastes.
- Other departure times are available.
- Pricing available for groups of 11-49 people. Call ShoreTrips for details.
- Your guide will be accompanied by a pre-selected driver with a taxi vehicle. The driver will be with you for the entire tour.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:30 AM, duration: 4.5 hours
- 02:30 PM, duration: 4.5 hours
