Berlin: Third Reich Walking Tour & Holocaust Memorial

Summary

Walk Berlin’s dark history from Brandenburg Gate to silent memorials

You’ll walk Berlin’s streets with a local guide who brings history painfully close — from standing among the concrete slabs of the Holocaust Memorial to hearing stories at Hitler’s former bunker site. Expect raw honesty, small details you’d never notice alone, and moments that linger long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when I signed up for this Berlin Third Reich walking tour. There was a weird mix of nerves and curiosity in my stomach as we gathered by the Brandenburg Gate — you know, that feeling when you’re about to step into something heavy but real. Our guide, Anna, greeted us with this quiet energy (she wore a faded scarf and had a way of pausing before she spoke) and right away, it felt like we were in good hands. She pointed out little things I’d never noticed before — scratches on old stone, bullet marks half-hidden by traffic — and suddenly the city wasn’t just background anymore.

We moved through streets that looked almost ordinary if you didn’t know what happened there. At Haus Schwarzenberg, Anna told us about Berlin after WWI and how things spiraled so fast. There was this moment at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe — walking between those cold concrete slabs, I actually lost sight of everyone for a second. The air felt different inside, muffled somehow, like even the city noise couldn’t get in. It’s not comfortable, but maybe it shouldn’t be. Someone behind me whispered something in German; I caught “Vergangenheit” (the past) and it stuck with me all day.

Later we stood above what used to be Hitler’s bunker — now just a parking lot with a few cars and some weeds poking through cracks. Anna described the last days of the Third Reich right there, her voice low but steady. It’s strange how history can feel so close and so far at once. We hopped on public transport at one point (bring an AB ticket or you’ll have to scramble like I did), which made it feel less like a performance and more like just being in Berlin with someone who knows its scars.

The last part took us through what was once the Jewish neighborhood. Some buildings still carry faint traces if you look up — Hebrew letters half-worn away above doorways, little brass Stolpersteine underfoot. Anna told us stories about families who lived here before everything changed; she didn’t sugarcoat any of it but somehow kept hope alive too. Honestly, I’m still thinking about that walk home after the tour ended — my shoes dusty, head full of names and faces I’d never known before.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Walking tour of Third Reich sites

• Start at Brandenburg Gate
• Learn history at Haus Schwarzenberg
• Visit Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
• Explore Hitler’s underground bunker site
• Walk through former Jewish neighbourhood

Top questions

How long does the Berlin Third Reich walking tour last?

The tour usually lasts about 2 hours but may vary depending on your guide.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.

Is public transportation included in the tour?

No, you’ll need to bring your own short-trip AB ticket for public transport during the tour.

Is this walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children up to 13 years old can join for free but must be accompanied by an adult.

What sites are included on this Berlin walking tour?

You’ll visit places like Haus Schwarzenberg, Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, Führerbunker site, former Jewish neighborhood, Old Synagogue area, and more.

Do I need to book tickets for any attractions separately?

No separate tickets are needed; all stops are included as part of the guided walk.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from a local expert who leads you through key sites like Brandenburg Gate and the Holocaust Memorial; you’ll also visit Hitler’s former bunker site and explore historic neighborhoods together. You’ll need your own AB public transport ticket for part of the route.