🎄🍷Glühwein & History: Berlin's Christmas Markets
Hi, I’m Mary, I'm a professional tour guide specialising in history of ideologies and XIX/XX century Europe and political science. I have lived in Berlin for 4 years now, gaining first tour guiding experience working for the commercial market leader. I grew up in Warsaw where my Jewish/Polish roots and family’s experience pointed me towards a keen interest in European history. I studied on Warsaw University's Collegium MISH, which allows students with broad academic interests to combine classes from all faculties into individual, interdisciplinary program. I was fortunate to learn from some of the best contemporary historians, sociologists and others - this gave me very high level of understanding of modern history and strong ability to analyse its outcomes. Later, working as a journalist fixer, I was able to exchange experience with journalists from all around the world and many cultural contexts, and practice explaining complex socio-historical subjects in a approachable but thorough way. In the world experiencing so much political tension, I decided to dedicate my life to passing on as much of this knowledge as possible. Now I offer my independent tours trying to counter the current trend of maximising profit by sacrificing historical accuracy. After deregulation of the profession it became the norm to advertise problematic or even misleading narratives as representing the highest academic quality. It is easy to exploit the fact that guests, who almost never are trained historians, simply "don't know what they don't know". My goal is to combine my education, professional and family backgrounds to deliver understandable explanation of even most complex processes and phenomena that shaped Germany and the world as it is today. I hope you will join me and haven not only entertaining, but truly valuable experience on my tour.
Pickup
We're meeting at the entrance to of the Christmas Market next to the Friedrichstraße S+U Bahn station. I will have a red umbrella.
Description
Join me on a festive 2 hour walking tour exploring the heart of Berlin's Christmas magic! Throughout December, we'll delve into the vibrant atmosphere of these beloved markets, uncovering their history, traditions, and, yes, even some of their controversies.
Our journey begins at the bustling Christmas market by Friedrichstraße station, a perfect starting point to warm up and hear about the station's fascinating past. I'll introduce you to the ins and outs of German Christmas market culture and share personal recommendations for the most delicious treats and drinks.
We'll pass Gendarmenmarkt market, where we'll discuss it's controversial temporary relocation to the site of the first Nazi book burning.
Our next stop is the enchanting Christmas market at Museums Island, nestled beside the Humboldt Forum and the reconstructed Berliner Schloss. I'll share some insights into the island's rich history and architecture before giving you 30 minutes of free time to explore the market at your own pace.
Finally, we'll arrive at my absolute favorite – the sprawling Christmas market at Rotes Rathaus. This is the largest Christmas market in central Berlin, and it truly embodies the spirit of the season. We'll explore couple surrounding landmarks, including the Marienkirche and the Neptunbrunnen, and I'll share my insider tips on the best things to see, do, and eat at this incredible market.
Come join me for an unforgettable evening of Christmas cheer!