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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 16 December, 2022

With its grim border guards and ominous sign – ‘You Are Now Leaving The American Sector’ – Checkpoint Charlie put the world on edge when Allied and Soviet tanks faced off for a few nail-biting days in October 1961. It was the recognised crossing point for the infamous Berlin Wall, which symbolised more than anything else the West’s ‘Cold War’ with the Soviet Union from 1947-1991. For a small and fairly non-descript site, it has enormous historical significance that will lives long in the realms of history.

Today, a cramped but compelling museum there tells the history of the Wall and the rickety tunnels, home-made aircraft, reinforced cars and mini-subs people used to attempt escape to freedom from East Germany – efforts that more often than not ended in heartbreaking tragedy. There are some good documentary clips too.

For a couple of Euros you can pose with a mock guard at the replica border booth and get your passport stamped with a pre-1989 visa.

Price from: £12
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Take line 6 of the U-Bahn to Kochstrasse and walk 150m north along Friedrichstrasse.

Audio guides are available on site for a small fee. One-hour group and individual guided tours are also possible by prior appointment. There is also a series short films that run in the morning.

When to do it

It’s open all year round, seven days a week.

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Rocco Forte Hotel de Rome

Berlin, Germany[1 miles]

Romantic, luxury hotel set within a grand 19th-century bank building, with a contemporary twist and terrific spa. In the heart of Mitte, and close to the city’s main attractions.

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Hotel Adlon Kempinski

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Old-style luxury at Berlin’s grandest hotel, famous for its princely pampering and regal guest list.

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Casa Camper

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A quirky chic boutique hotel that blends simple luxury and hip Spanish design in a killer Mitte location. In the heart of the city’s buzz.

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Lux 11 Berlin-Mitte

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A superb apartment hotel, with 72 self-contained luxury apartments, conveniently located for Berlin best attractions, bars and shopping.

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

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