Berlin, Germany is a city of contrasts. Today’s progressive and tolerant Berlin contrasts sharply with chilling reminders of a dark past that will echo far into the future. A labyrinth of confusing streets and widespread attractions make it difficult to “see Berlin” with one approach and a guidebook. Berlin is best experienced by foot, bike or bus and boat. Well organized also offer important insights into Berlin’s past and present.

A City-Circle Tour, with a taped narrative, provides an overview of Berlin. The tour makes 14 stops throughout Berlin and guests may stop off to visit and re-board a later bus. For a more in-depth look at Berlin at its worst and at its best, step back in a grim, but crucial time in world history with Berlin Walks or Insider Walking and Bike Tours. Start the history of the Teutonic Knights and Prussian Kings. The Victory Column, a symbol of supreme military arrogance, commemorates the birth of the German nation. View the final battleground of World War II at the Reichstag Parliament. The futuristic dome over parliament is a stark contrast to the time when it represented the fall of Berlin. Visit the Nazi book burning site at Humboldt University where Einstein taught and Marx was a student. Feel the horror standing before the Holocaust Memorial. Walk along the infamous Death Strip. Hear tales of Hitler’s last days and the mystery of his remains at the Führer’s Bunker. The area is now a children’s playground. Finally, pass through Checkpoint Charlie and imagine the tension when world powers faced off there during the Cold War. Share the exhiliration of the day when the Berlin Wall came down.

Explore Berlin’s romantic side from a barge river cruise with Reederei Riedel GmbH or Stern-und Kreisschiffahrt GmbH. Cruise along the Havel River and admire the modern architecture of Potsdamer Platz and historic Prussian architecture along the Spree River. A trip to Berlin is an experience of a lifetime that will linger in your heart and memory.

Written by: Lynne Christen