FAQs

How long is the Battle of Berlin tour?

The tour is roughly 2.5 hours. Larger groups (such as 6 or more people) tend to go a bit slower. In these cases it may be closer to 3 hours. I have been told my tours don’t feel that long!

How far do we need to walk?

The route is around 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). However, we take frequent stops and it is rare to walk for more than 10 minutes at a time. Many stops also feature places to sit. We can also walk at a leisurely pace and Berlin is notoriously flat - so there’s no uphill struggles.

Where do we meet?

After booking, I will send you in instructions on how, where and when to meet. In short, we meet at the white Schiller statue in the center of Gendarmenmarkt. You will find it at the base of the steps to the Konzerthaus and between the German and French Cathedrals.

What language is the tour in?

The tour is in English. I try to make my English as accessible as possible for non-native English speaking guests. I do also speak German - although, to my eternal shame, not well enough to host the entire tour.

Do the tours still take place if it is raining?

So far, the weather has not stopped me yet. Rain or shine, I will still host the tour. If it is raining, I will bring extra umbrellas. Many of our stops also feature cover from rain. I advise guests worried about rain to keep an eye on the weather. AirBnb offers refunds up to 7 days in advance of the tour or within 24 hours of booking.

Is the route wheelchair friendly?

Yes, Berlin is a very flat city (one of the perks of being a former swamp), so there are no inclines and only a very few steps, which can be navigated around.

Is there food and drink on the tour route?

The tour takes place in central Berlin so there are many places to grab a snack or drink.

How large are the tour groups? Is there a group minimum?

Tour groups are currently capped at 15 participants. There is no minimum. I will run the tour whether 1 person or 10 has signed up.

The tour group is full can I still come?

It depends. If you are an individual or couple and have no availability on any other day, I can often arrange for you to join the group. In these cases it’s best to message me.

Can I only book via AirBnb?

Nope. If you don’t wish to use the AirBnb booking system for any reason, you are still free to join any tour listed on their schedule. Feel free to email me at mark@battleofberlintours.com.

How is payment handled?

If booking via AirBnb, everything is handled online through their system. Alternatively, you can pay cash on the day, or send me a bank transfer.

What if I want to cancel?

If booking via AirBnb, you are subject to their cancellation policy. You can read about it here. Simply put, refunds are provided if your booking is cancelled 7 days before the tour date or within 24 hours of booking. Refunds after the Experience date are much harder to achieve and the guest must be able to prove extenuating circumstances.

Can I bring children?

Sure. Any child under 12 can come for free. Between 12 and 16 they are charged at a discount rate of 15 EUR per person. Of course, the themes and topics we discuss may be a bit advanced for some kids, but I will try to keep them engaged too! None of my photos show anything too grisly or disturbing - unless you consider a photo of Hitler disturbing!

Of course, 2.5 hours and 4 kilometers may be tough for a young child, but I defer to the parents on these issues. The route also has few steps, so it is stroller-friendly.

Can I book private tours?

Yes, private tours of any size are available. They are priced at €35 per person.

Do I need to be a war history buff to enjoy this tour?

Not at all. I try to tailor my tour to the levels of my guests. I think I am good at providing a general overview for all and then going into more detail with those who want it. If you are extremely knowledgeable, feel free to ask as many questions as you like. Between stops there is also plenty of opportunity to geek out about T-34s or whatever else you want to talk about!

I would like to see some historical sites not on the route? Can you help with that?

Sure. If there is a place in Berlin you would like to visit that isn’t on the route I may be able to show you it. In the past, I have done this before or after the standard tour. Such sites have included the Templehof Airport, Humboldthain Flak Tower, Book Burning Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie and others. Just let me know and I can see if I can fit it in.

I want to prepare for your tour/Your tour was so great, I want to learn even more. Can you help with that?

It would be my pleasure. Head over to the ‘Books & Films"‘ section for recommendations.

I have this idea/project. Are you available for it?

Maybe? It depends on what it is, but as a historical freelancer I will consider anything (within reason!). Drop me a message!