Visiting the Berlin Wall is a must if you find yourself in the vibrant city of Berlin. As a symbol of Germany’s turbulent past, the wall attracts millions of tourists each year. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to get to the Berlin Wall, from the nearest airports to the best transportation options within the city itself.
Arriving in Berlin
If you’re traveling to Berlin by air, you’ll likely land at either Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL) or Berlin Schönefeld Airport (SXF). From both airports, you have several options to reach the city center and begin your journey to the Berlin Wall.
From Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL)
Tegel Airport is closer to the city center compared to Schönefeld Airport. Once you arrive at Tegel, you can easily reach the Berlin Wall by following these steps:
- Exit the airport terminal and head to the nearby bus stop (Bus TXL).
- Take bus TXL towards Alexanderplatz.
- Get off at Unter den Linden / Friedrichstraße.
- From there, you can either walk (about 20 minutes) or catch another bus or tram to reach the Berlin Wall Memorial.
From Berlin Schönefeld Airport (SXF)
Although Schönefeld Airport is a bit farther from the city center, reaching the Berlin Wall is still easy from here. Follow these steps:
- Exit the airport terminal and head to the nearby Schönefeld Airport train station.
- Take the RE7 or RB14 train towards Berlin Ostbahnhof.
- Get off at Friedrichstraße.
- From there, you can either walk (about 15 minutes) or take a bus or tram to the Berlin Wall Memorial.
Moving Around Berlin
Once you’ve arrived in Berlin and made it to the Wall, you’ll want to explore more of the city. Berlin has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around. Here are some options:
Trains and Trams
Trains and trams are the most convenient way to travel around Berlin. The trains are operated by S-Bahn and U-Bahn, while trams cover various parts of the city. Consider getting the Berlin WelcomeCard for unlimited travel on public transportation and discounts to major attractions.
Buses
There are also extensive bus networks available in Berlin, with numerous routes covering the city. The buses can be a great option for reaching specific attractions or areas not serviced by trains or trams.
Biking
For a more eco-friendly and active way to explore the city, renting a bike might be a good option. Berlin is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, and you can easily rent bicycles from various shops or use the popular bike-sharing services like Nextbike or Mobike.
Exploring the Berlin Wall
Now that you’ve arrived at the Berlin Wall, it’s time to delve into its history and significance. Here are some tips for making the most of your visit:
Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial
The Berlin Wall Memorial, located near Bernauer Straße, is a must-visit site that offers a comprehensive view of the wall’s history. The memorial features preserved sections of the wall, a visitor center, and informative exhibitions.
East Side Gallery
Head to the East Side Gallery to see the most famous part of the Berlin Wall. The East Side Gallery is an open-air art gallery where artists from around the world have painted murals on the remaining sections of the wall.
Mauerweg
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a walk or bike ride along the Mauerweg. This trail follows the path of the former Berlin Wall, stretching for around 160 kilometers. Along the way, you’ll pass historical sites and beautiful scenery.
Checkpoint Charlie
Don’t miss a visit to Checkpoint Charlie, one of the most famous border crossings between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. Today, you can see a replica of the guardhouse and learn more about the history of the checkpoint at the adjacent museum.
Conclusion
Visiting the Berlin Wall offers a unique, historical experience. By following the tips above, you can easily reach the wall and explore its various sites. Make sure to take the time to learn about its significance and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Berlin.