Berlin to Sachsenhausen: Guided Memorial Tour & History Walk

Summary

Walk Sachsenhausen’s grounds from Berlin hearing stories that linger

You’ll travel from Berlin with a small group and local guide to Sachsenhausen Memorial, walking through historic sites like Guard Tower A and the ‘Pit’. Hear real stories about survivors and daily life inside the camp, pause at places of remembrance, and have space for reflection before returning—an experience that stays with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped off the S-Bahn in Oranienburg, the air colder than I’d expected for late spring. Our guide, Anna, gathered us up right away—she had this gentle way of speaking, not too heavy but you could tell she’d been here many times. The walk from the station to Sachsenhausen was quiet except for the sound of our shoes on gravel and a couple of crows overhead. It’s strange how normal the town looks until you see the gates.

I kept catching myself staring at little details—the rust on Guard Tower A, or how the wind carried this dry, earthy smell across the old parade ground. Anna stopped us by the punishment cells and told us about some of the prisoners who’d survived—one story about a man who smuggled scraps of bread to others stuck with me. I tried to imagine what it felt like in winter here, but honestly, I couldn’t. There’s a heaviness that settles over you as you walk through each section—the ‘Pit’ especially. Someone asked if people still leave flowers; Anna nodded and pointed out a wilted bouquet tucked against a wall.

The group got quieter as we moved along—nobody really knew what to say after hearing about the gas chambers. I noticed one older man wipe his eyes when Anna talked about liberation day. She answered every question without flinching, even when someone asked something awkward about numbers. It didn’t feel rehearsed; more like she was sharing things that mattered to her personally.

I’m glad we had time to just stand in silence before heading back toward Berlin. You don’t come away from this kind of day trip from Berlin to Sachsenhausen feeling lighter—but I think that’s sort of the point. Even now, I remember how cold my hands felt on that iron gate leaving, and how Anna just said quietly, “We remember so we don’t repeat.” That stuck with me more than anything else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial

• Depart Berlin for Sachsenhausen
• Tour Memorial and Museum Sachsenhausen
• Walk through former camp with guide
• Visit punishment cells and gas chambers
• See Guard Tower A and the 'Pit'
• Hear stories about survivors and camp life

Top questions

How do you get from Berlin to Sachsenhausen concentration camp?

You’ll travel by train (S-Bahn) from Berlin to Oranienburg station; it’s about 35 minutes plus a short walk to Sachsenhausen Memorial.

Is there a guide included in this Sachsenhausen tour?

Yes, a professional guide leads the tour through the memorial and museum grounds.

What does the Sachsenhausen day trip from Berlin include?

The tour includes expert guiding at Sachsenhausen Memorial; entry donation is collected separately by your guide before entering.

How long does it take to visit Sachsenhausen from Berlin?

The half-day tour typically lasts several hours including travel time between Berlin and Oranienburg.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

The site is wheelchair accessible; check with your provider for specific arrangements if needed.

Do I need cash for any fees at Sachsenhausen?

A €3 per person donation is required for entry; please bring exact change as it’s collected by your guide before entering.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance throughout by a professional local guide who shares survivor stories and history as you explore key sites at Sachsenhausen Memorial. Entry donation is handled directly with your guide before entering the camp grounds so you don’t have to worry about tickets or logistics during your visit.