Berlin is a city that rewards curiosity. Its mix of historic sites, modern culture, and scenic waterways makes it a perfect place for a variety of guided experiences. We love the 1-hour boat tour for a relaxed way to see the city’s landmarks from the water, and the Third Reich walking tour for a deeply informative dive into Berlin’s dark history. Whether you’re into history, art, or simply exploring the city’s scenery, Berlin offers options for every traveler, with reviews that often sing the praises of knowledgeable guides and unique settings.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 13 best tours in Berlin, covering boat trips, walking and bike tours, and even trips outside the city to Potsdam. Each offers a different way to experience Berlin’s character—whether you want to cruise the Spree, walk through the Third Reich’s remnants, or cycle along Cold War borders. Read on to find the perfect tour for your interests and schedule.
Quick Overview:
Berlin’s tour options are as diverse as the city itself. You can hop on a scenic boat ride along the Spree, such as the Boat Sightseeing Tour on an Electric Motor Yacht which combines eco-luxury with top sights, or explore its history with guided walking and bike tours. For a more sobering experience, the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp offers a powerful visit outside the city. And for art lovers, the Street Art Guided Walking Tour showcases Berlin’s colorful murals. Below are our top picks, each with unique features and practical tips.
1. Berlin: 1-Hour Boat Tour with Bilingual Live Guide
Traveling along the Spree River offers a fresh perspective on Berlin’s skyline. This boat tour is perfect for a quick, relaxing overview of major sights like Museum Island, the Reichstag, and the German Chancellery. The vessel is modern and comfortable, with full amenities including heating, which is a bonus during cooler months. The bilingual guide enhances the experience, making sure you get stories in both German and English. With 3818 reviews rating it 4.7/5, it’s clear many travelers find this hour-long cruise both informative and enjoyable. The itinerary covers historic and modern landmarks in a smooth, scenic ride, making it ideal for those who want an easy, no-hassle introduction to Berlin.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a quick, scenic introduction to Berlin’s waterfront and key sights, especially if you’re short on time or want a relaxing break during your day.
2. Berlin: Third Reich, Hitler, and WWII Walking Tour
For a deep dive into Berlin’s WWII history, this walking tour runs for about three hours and takes you to places like Hitler’s former seat of power and the Topography of Terror exhibit. With a rating of 4.9/5 from 1193 reviews, it’s praised for knowledgeable guides who weave stories with humor and insight. You’ll stand where Hitler once seized power, and visit the site of the Führer Bunker, a haunting reminder of the Nazi regime. The tour offers a moving experience, suited for those with an interest in history but also for visitors who want a meaningful, reflective walk through Berlin’s most pivotal moments.
Bottom Line: A powerful, well-reviewed experience that offers a comprehensive look at Berlin’s WWII past, recommended for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
3. Berlin: English Bus Tour to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp
If you’re seeking a sobering, respectful reflection on Nazi atrocities, this bus tour is a must. Traveling about 50 minutes from Berlin to Sachsenhausen, the tour includes visits to the crematoria, gas chamber, and infirmaries, as well as the camp’s barracks. The 4-hour trip offers a detailed history of the camp, which was a key part of the Nazi concentration system. The reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and the tour’s respectful tone. At $55, it’s a meaningful way to understand the scope of Nazi brutality, suitable for those comfortable with weighty subjects.
Bottom Line: An essential experience for history lovers and those who want to grasp the magnitude of Nazi atrocities with guided context outside the city.
4. Berlin: Seven Lakes Tour from Berlin’s Wannsee
For outdoor lovers, this boat tour takes you through the peaceful waters of Havel Lakes, exploring lakes like Pohlesee and Jungfernsee. Lasting about two hours, it’s a gentle escape into nature, where you can appreciate Berlin’s lakeside charm. The reviews mention the trip’s serenity and the rich history of the lakes, which are loved by locals and visitors alike. It’s a great option if you want a laid-back, scenic experience, especially in good weather.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, short cruise ideal for nature and history buffs looking for a quiet, scenic outing.
5. Berlin: City Street Art Guided Walking Tour
Berlin’s murals and graffiti aren’t just decoration—they’re social commentary. On this street art tour, you’ll explore East and West Berlin’s murals, learning the stories behind them. Rated 4.8/5 from 980 reviews, this tour appeals to art lovers and those interested in Berlin’s modern culture. The guide shares insights into the artists and the social messages conveyed through the murals. It’s a lively, engaging walk, perfect for anyone wanting a different perspective on Berlin’s urban landscape.
Bottom Line: An engaging, contemporary experience that reveals Berlin’s artistic soul and social commentary through street art.
6. Berlin: Boat Sightseeing Tour on Electric Motor Yacht
Looking for a luxurious experience? This electric yacht tour combines eco-friendly technology with top sights. Lasting between 75 and 90 minutes, it offers close-up views of the Reichstag, Berlin Palace, and Bellevue Palace. The yacht’s elegant interior and options to buy drinks or snacks make it feel like a VIP treat. Rated 4.8/5 from 831 reviews, travelers love the relaxed atmosphere and scenic views, especially during sunset. If you prefer comfort and style, this is a solid pick.
Bottom Line: A premium, eco-conscious way to enjoy Berlin’s main landmarks from the water, perfect for a romantic or special occasion.
7. From Berlin: Potsdam and Sanssouci Palace Tour with Entry
This half-day trip is ideal for architecture and garden lovers, taking you to Potsdam’s stunning Sanssouci Palace. The tour includes a visit to the palace and its ornate gardens, with commentary on Prussia’s imperial past. The round-trip transfer from Berlin makes it convenient, and the price ($76) offers good value considering the entry to the palace and guided sightseeing. Reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and the beauty of the gardens. It’s suited for those wanting a scenic escape outside the city.
Bottom Line: A scenic, informative trip that pairs history with breathtaking gardens, great for a relaxed afternoon outside Berlin.
8. Berlin: History of the Third Reich Guided Walking Tour
This tour offers a focused look at Berlin’s Nazi era, including the Luftwaffe headquarters and the site of Hitler’s bunker. Rated 4.7/5 from 789 reviews, guides like Dani and Marcel are praised for their detailed storytelling and engaging style. The 2-hour walk covers important landmarks, providing context to Berlin’s most difficult history. It’s a heavy but necessary experience for those interested in understanding how Berlin grappled with its past.
Bottom Line: An impactful, well-reviewed walk for history buffs wanting a guided, nuanced understanding of Berlin’s darkest chapter.
9. Berlin: City Boat Tour with Live Commentary
This city boat tour offers a one-hour ride with onboard commentary in German and English. It covers iconic sights like Museum Island, the Nikolai Quarter, and the Reichstag, all while you stay dry under the retractable roof. With 1002 reviews rating 4.6/5, travelers enjoy its relaxed pace and the opportunity to see Berlin’s key landmarks from the water. It’s suitable for a quick overview or a leisurely way to see the city’s architecture.
Bottom Line: An efficient, informative water tour that’s perfect if you want an easy, scenic overview of Berlin’s most famous sites.
10. Berlin: Wall Tour – Fates, Love Stories, and Heroes
Walking along the original Berlin Wall route, this tour shares stories of heroism, heartbreak, and escape. Rated 4.8/5 from 523 reviews, it vividly recounts the moments of defiance and hope that marked Berlin’s division and reunification. The guide’s storytelling makes history come alive and is perfect for travelers who want emotional and personal stories behind the wall.
Bottom Line: An engaging, heartfelt walk that brings to light the human side of Berlin’s Cold War divide.
11. Berlin: Guided Bike Tour of The Wall and Third Reich
For active explorers, this bike tour combines two significant eras—Nazi Germany and the Cold War. It covers sites like the remnants of The Wall, bunkers in Volkspark, and the sites of Nazi architecture. With a 5-star review and a 3-hour duration, it’s perfect for those who prefer moving through the city at a relaxed pace while seeing major historical landmarks up close. The guide’s detailed commentary enhances the experience, making history tangible.
Bottom Line: A lively, active way to get a meaningful overview of Berlin’s WWII and Cold War history, suitable for fit and curious travelers.
12. Berlin: Guided Bike Tour to Explore the Highlights
This bike tour offers a breezy, flexible way to see Berlin’s main sights like the Brandenburg Gate and Nikolaiviertel. Rated 4.8/5 from 421 reviews, it’s praised for its knowledgeable guides and safe bike paths. The three-hour ride is perfect for those who want an active, authentic experience without the hassle of navigating on their own. It also gives you a good sense of Berlin’s layout and key neighborhoods.
Bottom Line: An energetic, well-reviewed tour for those wanting a comprehensive, active overview of Berlin’s highlights.
13. Berlin: History Walking Tour with a French-Speaking Guide
This tour offers a detailed, 3-hour exploration of Berlin’s landmarks like the Holocaust Memorial, Hitler’s Bunker, and Checkpoint Charlie, with the added bonus of a French-speaking guide. Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 240 reviews, it’s ideal for French-speaking visitors or those looking for a personalized, in-depth experience. The guide’s articulate storytelling makes complex topics accessible and engaging.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for French-speaking travelers wanting a thorough, well-paced introduction to Berlin’s profound history.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Berlin, think about your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you want a quick overview, the boat tours or city boat with commentary are ideal. History buffs should consider the Third Reich walking tour or the Sachsenhausen camp. For those who prefer active exploration, the bike tours and highlight tour are excellent choices.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Also, consider combining tours—like pairing a walking or bike tour with a scenic boat trip. This way, you get a well-rounded experience of Berlin’s history, culture, and scenery.
In summary, Berlin offers an array of engaging tours suited to every curiosity and fitness level. Whether you choose a relaxing boat cruise, a reflective walk through the Third Reich’s sites, or an active bike ride across historic neighborhoods, you’ll find plenty of ways to uncover its stories. We recommend booking early, especially for popular options, and tailoring your choices to your interests—history, art, nature, or a mix. With so many options, your Berlin adventure will be full of memorable experiences.