Description
Want to see the essential sights of Berlin over a nice 7km? If running long distances is not for you but you still like to get out for a nice short to medium run at a comfortable talking pace, then this is the tour for you! Plus we really do see so much of Berlin and its sights and history!
The contrast in Berlin’s architecture is something to behold, both old and new living side by side. Berlin grew and became a wealthy city in the 18th century and this is reflected in the baroque style buildings dotted around the historic core. The most famous of course is the Brandenburg gate which is certainly a must see! During the age of enlightenment tolerance, religious freedom, artistic expression and scientific endeavor were all promoted and encouraged. Two centres of enlightenment evolved in Berlin, Bebelplatz and Gendarmenmarkt. Both squares are amazingly beautiful and we will talk about how and why both are centers of enlightenment.
The 20th century was a profound period in Berlin’s history. Berlin’s old city experienced the horrors of war from 1939 to 1945 and division during the Cold War. Of course, we will pass these historically important sights, the most important being the Jewish memorial, Hitler’s Bunker, the home of German government – the Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall, Palace of Tears and many more. In addition to seeing the sights we will share the stories behind these sights too and how Berlin and its people are today dealing with this difficult period of history.
Getting away from Berlin’s past, we will visit the financial heart of Berlin – Potsdamer Platz. During the Cold War it was a no-man’s land between east and west but today it’s an ultra-modern district of Berlin. The jewel in the crown here is the Sony Center with its futuristic architecture which must be seen to be believed!
No tour is complete without a little bit of nature! The route taken will pass through the famous park in Berlin – Tiergarten where we will see the Soviet Memorial and learn how the park was reduced to almost zero trees after the Second World War! We will then enjoy a relaxing stretch along the River Spree. The nature is a perfect contrast and compliment to the historic city!
Our tour will begin at the most famous of landmarks, the Brandenburg Gate and we will finish here as well. After we have finished you will (hopefully) have been blown away by the sights and history that you have just experienced along with the endorphins gained from doing the best exercise possible – Running!
Tony E –
Have taken a few guided running tours across Europe. Stephen’s stands out as the best. He communicated very well beforehand; responded really effectively to our preferences-my wife and I aren’t the youngest or fastest of runners; constantly checked that we were happy with the pace and commentary content; was warm and friendly throughout; took the trouble to email lots of suggestions afterwards in response to our request for places to visit/eat; and sent lots of nice photos too, which he took on the run. We couldn’t have asked for a better running guide – Stephen’s tour was the highlight of our 4 night trip. Vielen Dank, Stephen!
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