Maxim Gorki Theater: Self-Guided Audio Tours

Take a walk along Unter den Linden, the former royal avenue which takes you through centuries of Berlin's history. Your exploration will start at the famous Brandenburg Gate, the symbol of Berlin that used to separate its West and East parts and therefore bears a great importance for the whole country. You will then see the luxurious Hotel Adlon that is popular among the German upper crust. However, the next spot on your way, the Westin hotel, can even boast of showing hospitality to the Japanese Emperor. Soon after that, you will step your foot on Gendarmentmarkt, or Policeman Square, situated right in front of the Schauspielhaus theatre that makes an atmospheric view with its Antique design. At the very same spot, you will come close to the statue of Friedrich Schiller, as you listen about his influence on the German Romanticism. On your next step, the tour leads you to Bebelpatz, a glorious square where such amazing edifices as Berlin State Opera, the Humboldt State University, and the Crown Prince's Palace, each offering a majestic view to marvel at. This square has a lot of stories to tell, including the darker times of Hitler's reign: there is a memorial dedicated to books burnt by Nazis. Finish your tour by seeing the German Historical Museum, the former Arsenal of Berlin. You will be able to enter it if you please, though even looking at it from outside is a great experience. Discover the trails of history lingering on the sights of Unter den Linden.

Stroll through East Berlin and discover a city standing as a testament to centuries of change. Tailored for history enthusiasts and curious travelers, this audio experience guides you through former East Berlin's tapestry of stories. With each step, unveil pivotal historical layers, from the 17th-century baroque splendors to the sobering remnants of World War impact, the might of the German Empire, and the stark contrasts of Communist rule, all the way to the contemporary architectural landscapes that define the city today. The journey begins at the iconic Checkpoint Charlie and weaves through the city to end at the grand Berlin Cathedral. Notable stops include the pieces of the original Berlin Wall, the striking sculpture atop Leipziger Straße, and the beautiful Gendarmenmarkt, with its significant structures and statues. As you meander through the city's alleys and avenues, each site unveils a chapter in Berlin's rich history, providing a sight that encapsulates the essence of the era it represents. This expedition promises encounters with monumental architecture, tales of resilience, and a mixed canvas of urban renewal. Moments of reflection await at the Memorial to Book Burning and the thought-provoking statues that dot the city's squares. Your path is lined with landmarks—silent witnesses to Berlin's turbulent past and symbols of its unyielding spirit. Step back in time and absorb the city's legacy, leaving with unforgettable impressions of East Berlin's historical saga.