Group tour operator for holidays to Berlin, Germany
Berlin
Considered to be one of Europe’s most important and exciting cities, Berlin has an endless amount to offer.
Built upon the ruinous scorched earth of war and the radical political and economic divisions that shaped the 20th century, Berlin is ground zero for art, architecture, food, drink and history. It is a truly modern city with roots running deep into the past.
The city has a diverse and exciting appeal due to its lack of a traditional centre. As a result pockets of attractions are dotted all over the city. Key Berlin landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, Bundestag, Berlin Cathedral and the iconic Alexanderplatz TV tower are amongst the most visited attractions in the city.
The German capital is home to some of Europe’s most beautiful palaces and gardens. Explore the decadence of the past at the remarkable former summer residence of Frederick the Great – Schloss Sanssouci in nearby Potsdam. With its bright facade and magnificent tiered gardens, this palace is sure to impress. The glorious Baroque Charlottenburg Palace, the largest in the city, also offers a glimpse into the city’s royal past.
The city’s recent divisions can be experienced physically at the East Side Gallery, Checkpoint Charlie and at more faithfully preserved segments of the Berlin wall along Bernauer Strasse. The DDR and Stasi museums meanwhile provide a fascinating and interactive insight into life in a divided Germany. The Holocaust Memorial and Museum remain solemn and poignant reminders of the horrors of the 20th century.
Whether you prefer art, history or simply city life, Berlin truly has something for everyone.
Dates
Dates throughout 2024 and 2025
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1-2
Travel to Berlin
Take the short sea ferry crossing from Dover to Calais. Continue through France and into Holland for an overnight stop. The following day, continue on to Berlin and check in to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure.
Day 3
Berlin Sightseeing
A free day to explore the city at leisure. Why not take the Hop-on/Hop-off classic sightseeing tour bus and discover the main sights such as the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, the Bundestag, Potsdamer Platz, the Reichstag and much more (ticket not included). In the afternoon, embark on a cruise on the River Spree to see the city from a different perspective. After the cruise, you will have more free time to explore, maybe visit one of the many museums on Museum Island, or for shopaholics, stroll along the famous Unter den Linden Boulevard or on the Ku’damm.
Day 4
Potsdam and Sansoucci Palace
Today we delve into Berlin’s glamorous past. Meet up with a local guide for a tour of Potsdam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where many palaces and gardens were built by Prussia’s Royal Family. The most famous is Schloss Sanssouci, the former summer residence of Frederick the Great. Featuring originally preserved 18th Century interior decoration including the Marble Hall and picture gallery together with stunning tiered gardens, this is a spectacular palace. Frederick’s tomb is located on the upper terrace of the vineyards.
Day 5
Charlottenburg Palace and Bavarian Dinner
Charlottenburg Palace – Berlin’s largest and most beautiful palace. This shining example of Baroque architecture was badly damaged during the Second World War, but restoration works have restored it to its former glory. Explore the staterooms of the New Wing and the rococo ballroom known as the Golden Gallery. The Silver Vault includes a stunning tableware of gold, silver, glass and porcelain. The palace’s gardens are an idyllic oasis, featuring an orangery, mausoleum, the Belvedere tea house and the Neuer Pavillion.
This evening, enjoy a Bavarian Oktoberfest dinner together at Berlin’s Hofbrauhaus.
Day 6-7
Return to the UK
Bid ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ to Berlin as you retrace your steps stopping in Holland overnight, before continuing on to Calais for the ferry to Dover next day.
Optional extra day
History and Memory
Visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe (also known as the Holocaust Memorial). Visually arresting, the memorial evokes the idea of a graveyard and its undulating stones create an uneasy atmosphere. Visit the poignant information centre which acts as a provocative yet sombre tribute. Continue to the DDR Museum, which immerses visitors into the everyday life of East Germany by exploring a recreation of a tower block and ‘driving’ a Trabant. The interactive exhibit allows you to explore beyond the Wall, and learn about the realities of life under socialism and the threat of the Stasi.
Suggested hotel
Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz****
This 4-star Superior hotel is in
‘s Mitte district, well-connected by public transport and just a 15-minute walk from . It features a top-floor sauna and fitness area, a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine and a bar with terrace. Each air-conditioned room has free WiFi, hot drinks and a flat-screen TV with Sky channels. Coach parking located approx. 5 minute walk from hotel.Half Twin | Single Supplement | |
2024 and 2025 dates | Price on request | Price on request |