Introduction
Our introductory tour leads you to East Berlin where you can explore its ancient roots and active community life. This guide starts by showing you the main elements of this extraordinary German region. East Berlin brings quantitiies of wonders both in its storied background and its popular destinations alongside fine German food.
History of East Berlin
Following World War II, Berlin was divided into four occupation zones: Four main western nations controlled this area: the United States, Britain, France and the Soviet Union. The Soviet occupation zone formed East Germany’s main administration center when it started in 1949. During four decades East Berlin remained cut off from the balance of Berlin as it symbolized the Cold War era.
In 1989 the Berlin Wall fell to create unified Germany and break up the divided country. The modern city of East Berlin shows how its people overcame their history while displaying their past challenges.
Must-See Sights
1. Brandenburg Gate
Host to important city reunification events the Brandenburg Gate stands as both a symbol of Berlin and a monument of unity. Every East Berlin traveler needs to explore this attraction to take pictures of its elegant view.
2. Berlin Wall Memorial
This Berlin Wall Memorial stands at Bernauer Strasse to help people remember how Berlin divided its past. The memorial displays both the past of the wall through its exhibition and presents its actual preserved sections.
3. Alexanderplatz
The busy market square Alexanderplatz sits at the middle of East Berlin’s epicenter. Shoppers and diners frequent its many shops and restaurants plus they can visit the famous TV Tower. The tower lets you see Berlin in all its beauty so make sure to stop by.
4. Museum Island
Museum Island needs to be seen by people who want to learn about culture. On this UNESCO World Heritage site you will find five sophisticated museums including Pergamon Museum and Neues Museum which display their collections for art and archaeological history.
Cuisine and Food
The cuisine of East Berlin shows both its roots in history through various different food types. Here are some dishes you shouldn’t miss:
1. Currywurst
Currywurst emerged as a favorite German street food first in Berlin. People enjoy German cuisine by covering cut sausage pieces in curry sauce and serving it with fries. You can grab it anywhere as a fast delightful snack.
2. Kartoffelpuffer
Residents of East Berlin enjoy making potato pancakes as a traditional kitchen favorite. People enjoy these flaky potato cakes best when eaten with applesauce or sour cream.
3. Eisbein
Eisbein serves as the staple pork knuckle dish German restaurants across East Berlin. People enjoy eating this dish because it comes with mashed potatoes plus sauerkraut in each serving.
4. Berliner
A visit to East Berlin stays incomplete without eating a Berliner. Delicious jelly-filled doughnuts work as a delectable snack regardless of morning noon or night. Make sure to order raspberry jam as the traditional filling when you try the Berliners.
Transportation in East Berlin
People find it easy to navigate East Berlin through its transportation options. Public buses trains trams and modern underground trains make up East Berlin’s convenient urban transportation system.
The Berlin WelcomeCard gives travelers unlimited public transit passes and special discounts at top attractions while helping them discover East Berlin.
East Berlin features organized footpaths and bike routes for those who want to walk between its historic sites and view street art.
Thank you for starting your East Berlin adventure with us. Our guide should help you prepare for exploring this exciting destination. Enjoy your exploration!