Berlin Family Tour: griffins, baguette & the Mouse King｜Germany

Do you know what a Wimmelbuch is? It’s a popular type of wordless picture book, popular in Germany. Each page shows a city or countryside scene teeming with details and lively characters.

For this tour, a Wimmelbuch-style illustration has been created especially for us. It will help the children explore Berlin’s history in a playful and imaginative way. During the walk, the young guests will search for characters and objects I mention, and afterwards, each child will receive their own printout of the drawing. On the back, they’ll find a list of names and words to help them recall the stories they’ve heard.

Where We’ll Be
We’ll explore the Gendarmenmarkt and the Bebelplatz in Berlin’s Mitte district.

What We’ll Learn
how the first refugees came to Berlin and enriched its culture and cuisine
who the ancient Greek gryphons, muses, and Pegasus were
why Berlin has two different kinds of traffic light figures (Ampelmännchen)
how the story of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King was born
what bears and swamps have to do with the origins of Berlin’s name
why people leave potatoes on the tomb of a famous Prussian king
how a 19th-century scientist and travel blogger predicted climate change — and more!

How Long It Takes
The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, though with kids, you never know for sure — group dynamics can vary!

Meet the Berlitrolls
At the beginning of the tour, I’ll show the children pictures of the Berlitrolls — three whimsical urban spirits who will help us uncover Berlin’s secrets.
At the end, each child will receive a postcard featuring these characters.

Practical Information

The tour is best suited for children aged 5–10 (though you know your child best!).
All children must be accompanied by an adult guardian.
Please dress for the weather. There are no cafés, restaurants, or shops right at the final stop, but I’ll be happy to recommend some nearby places within a 5-15-minute walk.