Berlin has long been a centre for LGBTIQ communities in Europe. Frederick the Great, Prussia’s legendary 18th century monarch is widely believed to have been gay; sexologist Magnus Hirscheld pioneered advocacy for homosexual and transgender rights in the early 20th century; Marlene Dieterich cross-dressed on the city’s screens in the hedonistic ‘20s; and Klaus Wowereit, mayor of the city from 2001 until 2014, was openly and proudly gay.
This 3-hour walking tour explores Berlin’s LGBTIQ scenes past and present, and, naturally, is open to all.
You will be met by your professional, local guide at either your hotel or a pre-arranged meeting point. Starting in the city centre you will visit the Memorial for the Homosexuals persecuted Under Nazism, addressing the violent repression of homosexuality in Nazi Germany and gay personailities within the Nazi Party itself. Stops will also be made to discuss two of the city’s queer icons: Prussian king Frederick the Great and sexologist Magnus Hirschfeld.
You will then head to Schöneberg, Berlin’s ‘Rainbow District’, to see where Christopher Isherwood lived during his time in the city, learn about Bowie’s Berlin of the 1970s, visit one of the city’s oldest gay and trans bars – the former Eldorado – and hear about the queer scene at the height of the hedonistic 1920s. We’ll then cross the border into Kreuzberg to discuss the burgeoning techno and club scenes that flourished when the Wall fell, and finish at the Gay Museum.
At the end of the tour your guide will accompany you back to your hotel or a prearranged drop-off point. Alternatively, if you would prefer to do some more exploring on your own, your guide can leave you armed with tips and recommendations for the rest of the day and the rest of your stay.
Please note: this tour requires the use of public transportation. These costs are not included in the price of the tour.
Sights included: Memorial to the Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism, Gay Museum, Eldorado, former residence of Christopher Isherwood and much more...