Battle of Berlin Private History Tour by Humboldt Tours Berlin
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness to handle walking or cycling several kilometers in urban settings.
Overview
Step into the final days of WWII with Humboldt Tours Berlin's Battle of Berlin private tour, an 8-hour deep dive into the city’s military history. Visit landmark battle sites and uncover stories that shaped modern Europe.
Battle of Berlin 1945 Private Tour: Berlin at the End of WWII
8 Hours • From €800 per Group
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 8-hour private tour of the Battle of Berlin, guided by military history experts. Explore significant sites like the Soviet Memorial and Reichstag, while uncovering the battle's chaos and human stories. Choose to walk, cycle, or travel by private vehicle for a personalized experience steeped in history.
Battle of Berlin – The city after the End of WW2
Duration:
8 Hours
Start & End-point:
Pick up from your Hotel
Inclusions:
• Private Expert Guide • Pick up and Drop off at your Hotel • Entrance or Admission Fees • Public Transport Tickets for the walking option • Bike/Helmet rental for the cycling option • Private Driver/Black Van for the driving option
Exclusions:
• Gratitude for your guide • Food & drinks
About:
After terrible years of war, during which the Nazi war machine killed at least 27 million Soviet soldiers and civilians, the Red Army finally reached the eastern bank of the Oder River on January 31, 1945.
There they gathered their strength, until, on April 16, 1945, they launched the offensive that is today known as the Battle of Berlin. The brutal conflict involved roughly 2.5 million Soviet soldiers and 800,000 NSDAP German defenders. Of the latter, around 100,000 became trapped within the city limits by April 30th.
The entire campaign featured some of the deadliest fighting in recorded military history. Soviet forces were eager to end what they knew as their “Great Patriotic War,” while the capital itself was defended by a haphazard collection of demoralized fighters. These included Wehrmacht veterans from the German armed forces, Heinrich Himmler’s fanatically loyal “Waffen-SS,” and even a few foreign nationals (including Frenchmen, Belgians, and Norwegians, among others), who found themselves resisting the overwhelming tide in SS uniforms due to their strong opposition to communism.
The battle left a trail of destruction in its wake, along with massive human cost. On our Battle of Berlin private tour, we will explore both, as well as how the battle changed the course of post-war Germany for good. Our guides are experts in military history and, as you visit sites such as the Soviet Memorial at Tiergarten, the Reichstag building, and the site of the former Führerbunker, your guide will explain the Soviet strategy, the chaos of the battle, and the surrender of the Third Reich, as well as share personal stories of civilians and soldiers during that time.
About Our Guides:
Our Berlin tour guides are more than just guides — they are true characters of the city, with deep knowledge of Berlin’s history and politics. Some of them were eyewitnesses to the Cold War, and all of them are enthusiastic ambassadors of their city. On this private tour, you will be led by an expert in military and Third Reich history, who will be happy to take the time to answer all your questions about the Battle of Berlin and WWII.
Tour Flexibility:
This tour is a private experience with your own personal expert and is perfect for those with a deep interest in military history. You can decide to walk or cycle on this tour, or we can include a private vehicle and driver, to allow you to see sights slightly further out of the centre. If you are interested in a Battle of Seelow Heights Private tour, please contact us and we can arrange it for you.
Please note:
- Please wear comfortable shoes
- Germany is still a cash country - please bring some cash
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
This tour involves walking on uneven historical terrains and cobblestone streets; sturdy footwear is essential.
Bring some cash
Germany is still largely a cash-based society, so having some euros on hand is recommended for small purchases.
Choose your mode of transport
Decide ahead whether you prefer walking, cycling, or a private vehicle to tailor your experience and comfort.
Prepare for emotional content
The tour covers heavy wartime topics reflecting loss and destruction; mental preparedness enhances the experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban foxes that roam Berlin’s greenspaces
- Various bird species such as European blackbirds and common kestrels
History
The Battle of Berlin in 1945 marked the final major offensive in Europe during WWII, ending Nazi Germany’s control and drastically reshaping the city’s future.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve Berlin’s historic sites balance urban development with respectful remembrance and minimal environmental impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Berlin
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating cobblestone streets and varied historic terrain.
Weather-appropriate outerwear
Layering is key in Berlin’s variable climate, especially during cooler seasons.
spring|fall|winter specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, particularly on warm summer days.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture memorable sites and moments during the tour.