Are you going to visit Berlin in winter and do not know what to do with winter walking tours? No worries, we have you covered! This guide will leave you with all the tips and tricks to enjoy your Berlin foot exploration even in the winter.
This is the time of Cold and Courage; dress appropriately to face it.
Dressing for the weather when it comes to winter in Berlin, however, is non-negotiable for when you go on a walking tours in Berlin. The list of what you should have in your winter wardrobe includes:
- It helps to wear layered clothing that traps heat and allows them to adjust as they change temperature.
- Outer layer: Weatherproof and windproof outer layer is a warm coat or jacket to protect from cold winds and potential rain.
- Head, neck, hands: Keep your extremities warm with head covering, neck patch, hands cover.
- Insulated socks, comfortable shoes: Thermal socks and comfortable shoes are a must if you do not want to roll in the cold or have footaches.
Shorter distances for your itinerary
Although Berlin is a place well explored by foot, during the winter the weather conditions have to be considered. Planning your walking tours with shorter distances is advisable for your comfort and to avoid exhaustion. Limit yourself to certain neighborhoods, Mitte or Kreuzberg for instance, and see the things to do in them.
Optimize Your Tour Timing
Of course it’s all about timing when it comes to doing a walking tour in Berlin’s winter. Shorter daylight hours remain on your mind and factor them into your tour planning. Make the most of the available daylight: Start early in the day. Also, it’s important to see the weather forecast, to know when not to take the tours due to extreme stormy or icy conditions.
Stay Hydrated and Fuel Up
During colder months of the year, it’s easy to forget about hydration — but it should never be forgotten about as much as in the summer. Also drink regular water during your walking tour to stay hydrated. Furthermore, ensure you have some energizing snacks with you just in case your energy levels dip, and these could be nuts, energy bars or fruits. Please make sure to dispose of your trash and to put yourself to the right bins.
Take Advantage of Indoor Attractions
While you explore Berlin on foot keep in mind to take advantage of the indoor attractions of the city. One pleasant way to cope with the cold weather is to visit museums, art galleries or historical sites. Keep these stops in the itinerary of your walking tour, use them to warm up and add value.
Use Public Transportation When Needed
When the weather has too much of a beating or if you are just tired, don’t think twice about using the efficient public transportation system of Berlin. In this way, you will be able to achieve your desired destinations without giving up comfort. It is excellent to use the U-Bahn, S-Bahn and the trams to move around the city very quickly and with no hassle whatsoever.
Stay Informed with Local Updates
Always check that there are no local updates or announcements before going on your walking tour. It can be information about road re-opening, repaired sidewalks, or even in the case of some unusual museums or other places of interest that might be of importance for your itinerary. Visit Berlin’s official tourism website, or download the tourism apps for the local tourism.
Stay Safe and Travel Responsibly
If it is winter, you should prioritize your safety and traveling responsibly when you walk through Berlin. Keep an eye out on the streets — but, obviously, pay attention to the icy or slippery parts if any, and cross the streets using the designated crosswalks. Join a guided walking tour if you’re totally unacquainted with the locale so that you can do so without any worries.
If you want to use those walking tours in Berlin’s winter to the fullest, this is what you have to do. Take the time to dress warm, be ready to do whatever it is you’re trying to do, and enjoy it all while the city is vibrant and there is even a chill in the air!
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