Being in Berlin and want to get a real touch of the city? A free walking tour is one of the best ways to go through Berlin’s brilliant history, culture, hidden gems, and learn so much. The goal of this blog post is to inform you on what you have to know to take the most out of your free walking tour in Berlin.
Why Choose a Free Walking Tour?
Budget travelers and those looking for a real local insight can opt for free walking tours. Free walking tours are important for these reasons among others.
- Free walking tours, also called ‘Insightful Local Guides’, are often given by local guides, who have a PhD in sharing stories of their city’s history, legends and secrets.
- Free walking tours cover the general tourist attractions, and also can be customized according to the group’s interests. They may add their personal preferences or answer your questions about Berlin.
- While these tours are labelled as “free,” it is customary to tip the guide at the end – Pay What You Want. An example of this pay-what-you-want model means that anyone, regardless of how much money they have, can get to enjoy the tour as well as inspire the guide to do a great job.
How to Choose the Right Free Walking Tour
There are literally a lot of free walking tours in Berlin, which is why you need to choose the one that is in line with your interest. Some factors to contemplate are:
- Duration: The duration of most Berlin free walking tours is about 2 – 3 hours. Make sure to check the duration before meeting to match up with your schedule.
- Some tours have a theme, for example, history, street art or an alternative culture. Select a tour of your liking.
- Tour Frequency and Starting Time: Write down the tour’s starting time and frequency so you can choose a fitting time.
- Larger groups – while not out of the question, they can really affect the overall experience and it is best to lobby for tours that are as small as possible to ensure a much more intimate atmosphere.
- Researching reviews and recommendations: Read online reviews and recommendations of the tour and the tour guide’s expertise.
What to Expect on Your Free Walking Tour
What you can generally expect on your free walking tour as you undertake it below:
- They will give you a brief tour intro of the tour, explaining the main areas, attractions that you will be visiting.
- They’ll tell fascinating stories along the way of Berlin’s history, culture, and events.
- The sites visited may include Scala, a tourist’s landmark, the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall or the lesser known neighborhoods.
- There may be some local eatery, bar or hidden spot your guide might suggest that you would be free to check out in between tours.
- You are free to ask questions, engage with the guide and other participants in the group. Making new friends and sharing travel experiences is such an excellent chance.
Tips for an Unforgettable Walking Tour Experience
If you’ve made it this far and are now ready to book yourself on a free walking tour in Berlin, there is a good chance that you may be looking to improve your experience.
- If you’re going to spend a few hours on your feet, in Berlin, in a walkable city, you will likely walk a lot. And, you will want to be comfortable. You will be comfortable to explore without any discomfort.
- Weather Report: Berlin has a varied weather all year round so watch the forecast and prepare for the weather. Spell out an umbrella or sunscreen, if necessary.
- Arrive on time: It is recommended to reach the meeting point 10 to 15 minutes prior to the meeting time to check in and meet your guide.
- In order to prevent dehydration it is important to Bring a Water Bottle and Snack. Get a refillable water bottle and supply yourself with a small snack to have a constant energy flow.
- Ask Questions: There is no need to be scared and hesitate to ask questions to your guides or share your own insights. The more involved you are involved here, the better you will be enriched here.
- Please be Mindful of Others: Join the group, be mindful of the pace of the tour group, no disruptive behavior and be respectful to the other participants of the tour.
- Please Tip Graciously: So, please tip the guide an amount appropriate for the value they offer at the end of the tour.
In Conclusion
Signing up for a free walking tour in Berlin not only means to be able to walk the city’s highlights but also seeing the city’s well hidden corners and being told the captivating history of the city by passionate local guides. Be sure to look in to your interest and get into the tour and choose a suitable tour for you. Enjoy the authenticity and charm of being in Berlin on this enriching experience!
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