Are you a history enthusiast interested in history and you are thinking of paying a visit to Berlin? If so, you’re in for a treat! Berlin is one of the historical cities per excellence and there is no better way of understanding the city’s history than to go through it physically while on a walking tour. Visiting Berlin on foot also immerse a person to the city’s past by seeing them from close up and it was not quite the same when learning it in school or reading it in a book. In this article, we will tell you more about several historical sites in Berlin that you cannot afford to miss and why it is best to explore the sites on foot.
Benefits of Exploring Berlin’s Historical Sites by Foot
This is because strolling along the streets of the city does not only help one to avoid having to spend cash on a mode of transport but also comes with at least four advantages.
- Berlin allows one to feel history, and the essence of historical sites is to visit it in person. The distinct advantages of walking tour are that one is able to touch the bricks and observe the tangible structures; even he or she feels the aura of the place and thus, makes it easier to relate to the events narrated.
- Benefits: exploring small places and paths Berlin is packed with such places that are unknown when using other types of transport. Exploring culturally saturated areas on foot puts one at subjugation to discovering out of bound sites, beautiful districts and better retail and eating joints.
- Walking offers you lots of ‘flexibility and freedom since it does not restrict a person in any way by allowing you to take as much time as you want. One can spend as much time at specific sites, do a slight deviation from the main travel plan or change the plan as per someone’s liking.
- Benefits of Exercise and Health: While sightseeing it is advisable to engage in walking exercises. In doing so, for instance, it enables one to remain updated with the events in town besides being able to engage in physical activities that lead to shedding calories.
- Must-Visit Historical Sites in Berlin
1. Brandenburg Gate
Brandenburg gate is one of Berlin’s significant icons and bears some history and reunification significance. This neoclassical monument is situated in Pariser Platz and it is possible to enter without charge; moreover this sight is better to be viewed on foot. Take a short walk down the gate, which has been a symbol of segregation in the past but not anymore.
2. Berlin Wall Memorial
It is a recommended destination for any historical and art lover and the Berlin Wall Memorial is proof of this. This leads to a section of the existing outer circle wall which has been preserved to offer some sections of the Berlin’s historical divide. When you view it through the belt of its preserved area, then he or she can have a clue of how the city and the people benefited from it.
3. Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie itself is a living history, that was used as one of crossings between East and West Berlin during the Cold War period. Visiting this site, you are able to also watch check-point echo which is the replica of the checkpoint and get informed of the attempts pf escape of East Germans.
4. Holocaust Memorial
Visiting the place is quite inspiring though it is a place that reminds one of the fascinidad massacre of Jews. Walk through the rows of concrete pillars and analyse the intentions of the artist in creating such a mood and ponder over the horror of the holocaust.
5. Reichstag Building
The architecture of the Reichstag Building, where the German clearly sees are interesting, especially the seats of Berlin. The exterior of the building is designed with a glass dome, which represents the government’s openness, but hope for the nation; it is a good place to view the landscape, and the walls are filled with information about political situations in the country.
Tips for Exploring Historical Sites
Here are some suggestions regarding your tour on Berlin’s historical landmarks :
- Itinerary Planning: It is recommended to study the sites of interest and draw a route plan while going for the tour so that most of the preferred sites are covered.
- Carry Casual Clothes: A number of time you will be walking around; therefore, the most appropriate outfits are comfortable shoes and clothes.
- Tour Companies: The next way is to engage with a guided walking tour in order to fully understand the historical backgrounds of the sites.
- Take Breaks: Participants will need to consider employing methods such as taking short breaks in order to relax and retain relevant aspects of the environment. One should know that there are many parks and cafes placed in different location and one can take a break there if it is needed.
- Among the necessary items: a bottle of water, sunscreen, and a map of the city so you have everything you need for a comfortable walk.
When walking through Berlin, you will be able to get a better understanding of the history of the city and the events that had taken place there. I like walking since it enables one to explore and get an understanding of the places visited at your own time. Well, strap your sneakers and be prepared to take a historical tour of the beautiful city of Berlin!
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