Exploring Berlin’s Diplomatic Quarters: An Enchanting Walking Tour
Are you prepared for an interesting tour of the history of diplomacy in Berlin? This will enable a closer look at the interesting architectural and historical landmarks to be discovered in this beautiful part of the city. From the splendor of royal diplomatic missions to lush green gardens here is a prepared list to make you inculcate the real essence of the Berlin culture. Let us start off with our walk now that we are well equipped with our comfortable walking shoes.
Introduction to Berlin’s Diplomatic Quarters
As a matter of fact, the diplomatic quarters are located in the central city of Berlin and are meant to symbolise the power and authority of other nations within the city. This area encompasses many embassies, Consulates and offices of traditional and official representatives of most countries in the world hence more of diplomatic activities take place in this area.
Covering a vast area in central Berlin, comprising of beautiful buildings, trees lined boulevards and other greeneries, the diplomatic quarters give an interesting glimpse of Berlin’s diplomatic past. Indeed, exploring this area will help to have a clue about the political situation in the certain country and, by the same token, to enjoy the sightseeing of great past and the present.
Embark on the Walking Tour
In order to get a comprehensive look at Berlin’s Diplomatic Quarters, the best way to go would be through walking around. This tour will help you to focus on the most charming sights of this region. However, you can tailor the tour in accordance to your own likes and do not hurry while doing it.
Checkpoint Charlie
Start at Checkpoint Charlie – The place was famous during the Cold War and it divided east and west Berlin. This place became the symbol of the past confrontation and the division, which Berlin had once experienced.
Make time to visit; Check point Charlie Museum, the exhibition gives a detailed account of the escape mission and many displays items of this unique phase in history.
Wilhelmstrasse
Being at Wilhelmstrasse you will see beautiful offices of many foreign countries and magnificent examples of neo-classical architecture. This famous Avenue has a rich history of Germany and today, luxuries palaces and diplomatic buildings are located here.
Visit the Russian Embassy, a particularly magnificent structure with two golden sculptures and lots of fine work done on the exterior of the building. Marvel at the French Embassy and its spacious courtyard. It is also worth to focus on other significant diplomatic structures in the area.
Volkspark Tiergarten
Carry on with your walk in the direction of park knowns as Volkspark Tiergarten, which is one of the largest and the most picturesque parks in Berlin. In the middle of urban jungle this place is a beautiful and peaceful territory for leisure and discovery. So now sit back, relax and breathe fresh air as the surrounding environment is very calm.
There are numerous interesting places in the park among which worth visiting such attractions as the Victory Column and the Bellevue Palace. The Victory Column is one of the primary landmarks associated with Berlin, and the Bellevue Palace is the residence of the Germany’s president.
Potsdamer Platz
Further, it is necessary to visit Potsdamer Platz where historical structure coexists with new skyscrapers. Once, in tandem with many other regions and territories during the Cold War era, this place was rather abandoned.
Visit the Kollhoff Tower and look at other structures such as Cologne Cathedral and marvel at the shopping centers, cafes and entertainment centers available at the city.
Brandenburg Gate
End your strolling in front of the Brandenburg Gate, which is yet another symbol of the city and an essential attraction point. At one point it was used as a division between two territories and now it’s a sign of unification and serves as an entry to Unter den Linden and entry in the boulevard.
Admire the overall design and think of the historical values that the construction of this magnificent building may have had. Do not forget to leave a memorable bar where you shall have photographed this great architectural marvel.
Essential Tips for the Walking Tour
So when planning your trip to the diplomatic and embassy areas of Berlin, remember these few important guidelines:
As it is a walking tour, ensure that you wear comfortable shoes and be ready to cover a considerable distance.
Calling for a map or having a GPS navigation will be a useful thing to avoid missing significant places.
When planning the tour, it is recommended that you select tourist points of interest that are of particular appeal to you and enough time for the tour so that the tourist can get a feel of the place.
It may also be worthwhile to explore areas near the aforementioned locations to make visits to museums or other historical places.
Spare time to use as you will and eat in the numerous cafes or restaurants of Berlin to taste their food.
Do not take pictures around the embassy buildings and keep an eye out for security around the area.
Exploring the diplomatic areas of Berlin is a fascinating experience that makes it possible to discover the historical, cultural, and architectural facades of the city. Consuming more time would allow visiting even more interesting sites and places in Berlin, the top attractions of which are described below. Being a large city with numerous tourists, get to feel the culture, listen to the histories of the places you visit, and make the memories permanently etched in your spirit.
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