Here is a tour guide of every corner of East Berlin! If you are a avid history buff or just curious about how Cold War worked, East Berlin provides a compelling trip back in time. In this blog post we’ll walk you through all of the major landmarks, historical sites and really cool places to visit when exploring Dublin. Let’s get started!
1. Brandenburg Gate
Of course, the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin is the first must see landmark. Today, it represents strength as a unifying symbol — but it was once emblematic of division during the Cold War. When it’s beautifully lit, make sure to grab a camera and capture some photos by day and by night.
2. Berlin Wall Memorial
Go to the Berlin Wall Memorial to understand how shocking (but necessary) the division was. This site located near Bernauer Strasse is a good place looking first hand at the history of the wall. Look through preserved segments, the Documentation Center, and a memorial chapel.
3. Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie is one of the most famous border crossing between East and West Berlin and it certainly is a good place to visit. Nearby find the museum for a more in depth look into the Cold War era and the stories of the peas who tried to escape.
4. Stasi Museum
If interested in how the East Germans’ secret police cruised the streets around them, head to the Stasi Museum. Visit the former headquarters of the Ministry for State Security and learn about its methods and the legacy it left on East German society.
5. East Side Gallery
There’s no trip to East Berlin without paying a visit to East Side Gallery. This is an open air gallery of murals tracing what is left of the Berlin Wall. It’s a mecca for street art enthusiasts, because each mural tells a different story.
6. Soviet War Memorial
Visit the Soviet War Memorial in Treptower Park which pays tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Soviet Union. The Battle of Berlin is commemorated by this grand memorial, which remembers the Soviet soldiers who died in that battle. It is awe inspiring how large and symbolic the memorial is.
7. Museum Island
For more history, go to Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the five fantastic museums of Pergamon Museum and Neues Museum. Museum Island has it all in exquisite artifacts to ancient sculptures.
8. Trabant Safari
A Trabant Safari is a great way to go. Learn about the hidden corners of the city and drive the famous Trabant car an iconic symbol of East Germany. Along the way, you will also be accompanied by an experienced guide who will tell you about Berlin’s past and present.
9. Alexanderplatz
Alexanderplatz is die durchziehende Hauptstraße in Mittlerer Berlin. Enjoy the lively environment and take a stroll to the famous TV Tower, and although there is no denying some good shopping around here. Then don’t forget to try out the local snack of currywurst from one of the street stalls.
10. GDR Museum
The GDR Museum is able to give you a taste of everyday life in the German Democratic Republic (GDR). Learn about the living conditions, tour a reconstructed Plattenbau apartment and view exhibitions that bring you up close and personal to GDR history.
Conclusion
Once dubbed ode to the new man, East Berlin is a stunning place with a long history and much to offer the culturally curious. It’s full of iconic landmarks, thought provoking museums, and even more. Ready to explore the intriguing past of East Berlin? Pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore East Berlin!
Hopefully this full tour guide will encourage you to go on an unforgettable trip into the very interesting history of East Berlin. The city’s past is alive at each location and you will find stories and experiences that make that connection with the city, in a really real way. Before you go, check out the opening hours because you will want to plan your itinerary. Enjoy your trip!