Tour operator
Berliner Unterwelten
A Berlin association that runs guided tours of bunkers, air-raid shelters, tunnels and Cold War sites beneath the city, starting near Gesundbrunnen station.
Original Berlin Walks
A Berlin walking tour company running since 1993, known for its Discover Berlin introduction and themed tours on the Third Reich, Sachsenhausen and Potsdam.
At a glance
- Type
- Walking tours
- Area
- Mitte, Berlin, Germany
- Official site
- berlinwalks.de
Good to know
- English-language tours
- Day trips to Sachsenhausen and Potsdam
- Private tours
Why we recommend it
Original Berlin Walks is one of the longest-established walking tour companies in the city, guiding visitors through Berlin since 1993. Its tours are aimed at people who want to understand the city's history rather than simply see its landmarks, and its guides combine storytelling with background on the places you pass, from Prussian palaces to the sites of Nazi rule and the Cold War border.
The best place to start is the Discover Berlin tour, which the company recommends as an introduction to the city. Lasting three and a half to four hours, it covers the historic centre on foot, including Museum Island, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie, and gives an overview of how Berlin grew, was destroyed and was divided and reunited. Once you have your bearings, themed tours go deeper. Berlin in the Third Reich explores the places connected with the Nazi regime, from the government quarter to sites of persecution and resistance.
The company also runs day trips beyond the city. The tour to the Sachsenhausen Memorial, the former concentration camp north of Berlin in Oranienburg, is a serious and moving experience that benefits greatly from a knowledgeable guide. Discover Potsdam takes you to the former royal residence city to the south-west, with its palaces, parks and history from Frederick the Great to the Potsdam Conference of 1945. Private tours for families and groups can also be arranged.
The tours suit first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, students and anyone who prefers to learn from a guide rather than a guidebook. They involve a lot of walking and standing, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as most of the time is spent outdoors. Bring water and a snack, especially on the longer tours and day trips, and allow for transport tickets on excursions outside the city centre.
Check the company's website for current tour times, prices and the meeting point for each tour, as these vary by tour and season, and book in advance in summer. Tours meet in central locations that are easy to reach by S-Bahn or U-Bahn. Taking a walking tour on your first day is a good way to plan the rest of your stay, and the guides are usually happy to suggest museums and memorials for further visits.
Original Berlin Walks FAQs
How long has Original Berlin Walks been running?
Since 1993.
Which tour should you take first?
Discover Berlin, the company's recommended introduction to the city.
How long is the Discover Berlin tour?
About three and a half to four hours.
What does Discover Berlin cover?
The historic centre, including Museum Island, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.
Are there day trips?
Yes, to the Sachsenhausen Memorial and to Potsdam.
Is there a Third Reich tour?
Yes, Berlin in the Third Reich explores places connected with the Nazi regime.
Where do tours meet?
Meeting points are central and vary by tour; check the website.
What should you bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and water.