Berlin Food Tour: German Traditions and Immigrant Influences

Taste your way through the history of Berlin with a local expert
From US$429 privately
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Tour Details
Duration
3 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
Prenzlauer Berg
Photos & Highlights
  • Explore Berlin’s fascinating culinary scene on this itinerary designed by a local expert
  • Personalized food tours for the hungry and inquisitive traveler
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Tour Description
Let Context take you outside central Berlin to a charming and historic neighborhood, where a surprising contrast of cuisines and cultures are sure to delight. From the unmissable local specialty of currywurst and traditional German breads to delectable immigrant-influenced cuisines, Context's Berlin Food Tour will capture all of the different flavors that fuel the city's culinary scene today. 

On this three-hour gastronomic experience with a Context expert, you'll head north to the heart of Prenzlauer Berg, an area of Berlin whose streets and avenues are dotted with historic buildings and an abundance of diverse eating and drinking establishments. Your local expert will share with you the intriguing history behind some of Berliner's favorite foods and take you to their favorite local haunts to give them a try. 

Starting at a local delicatessen, nibble on a generous spread of German breads and cheeses to get the tour started off right, and continue on to learn how the origins of currywurst probably lie in the post-war occupation of the city when Berliners needed a simple way to make their low-quality rationed meat more palatable. Stop into our favorite local wine and beer shop for a tipple of your choosing and a special Context discount should you want to bring a bit of Germany home with you. Continue on and you'll head for a taste of Turkey, whose immigrant community has had an undeniable influence on local palates. A few other surprise tastings will follow, leaving you full and wondering how there could be so many different cuisines represented in such a small perimeter.

In the summer months, wrap up your time together by indulging in the local pastime of grabbing a local beer and an authentic taste of Southern Germany at a favorite local beer garden.
  • You want to check out authentic neighborhood spots and taste things you may not stumble upon on your own. 
  • You are intrigued by the culture around food traditions and how cuisines blend and change over time. 
  • You like to see how the sausage is made (well, prepared in this case)
  • You want to explore a historic neighborhood a bit outside of central Berlin
  • You aren't simply looking to eat and drink to your heart's content (though you will do plenty of that), but learn about the complex and fascinating history behind local food culture. 

German cuisine is not known to be a light affair and the tastings on this tour are no exception!
Here is a small sampling of what you may try with your expert guide. This is a private experience, so tastings will vary by guide and your personal preferences: 
  • Typical breads and cheeses from a delicatessen where it will be hard not to buy one of everything. 
  • Currywurst-we couldn’t let you travel to Berlin with us without being certain you’ve given it a try, now could we? 
  • A taste of Turkish cuisine from Berlin’s largest immigrant community
  • Some Southern German fare. What better way to understand the diversity of traditional German cuisine than by doing a direct comparison? 
  • A local beer or wine (non-alcoholic options available) from our favorite shop in the neighborhood. 
  • Other surprises, from contrasting Berlin street food standards to immigrant cuisine… tastings will depend on your preferences, the season, and your expert guide

  • The tastings on this tour are copious and easily replace a meal, but you may be hungry to try more of your expert’s recommendations post-tour! 
  • We are taking you to local establishments that are often family-run, hours and availability may vary.
  • Dietary restrictions should be shared in advance so that we may adapt the tour as necessary. This tour is flexible and can be adjusted to accommodate just about all diets (vegan currywurst exists!), we simply need to know ahead of time to help your expert guide plan your route. 

Additional Trip-Planning Resources

  • For more information on planning your travels to Berlin, take a read through our Context Stories.
  • If you are looking to learn more about Germany prior to a visit, check out our pre-trip lectures

What neighborhood does this take place in?
Our Berlin food tour takes place in the neighborhood of Prenzlauer Berg. It is easily reachable by metro or taxi. 

I am vegan/gluten-free/have other dietary restrictions. Can I take this tour?
Yes! Berlin is a great city for eating with dietary restrictions. Gluten free and vegan options are available, and we can adapt to most people’s needs. Please let us know ahead of time so your expert can plan your route accordingly. 

Is this tour appropriate for kids? 
Food is a great way to introduce kids to local history and culture. We are happy to accommodate kids on this tour.

Can I purchase things to take with me on this tour?
Yes! several of the stops on this tour are ideal for picking up snacks for later, or even wares to take home with you! If you are particularly interested in German wine and beer, you will also benefit from a discount reserved exclusively for Context customers. 
 
We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.

Is this tour wheelchair-friendly?
Berlin is a relatively wheelchair-accessible city. Many of the stops on this particular tour are outside or can be adapted to accommodate clients in wheelchairs. 
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here
Where You'll Start

Expert-led Berlin Food Tour

Embark on our Berlin Food Tour and dive deep into the city’s rich culinary landscape, a journey that transcends traditional sightseeing. This tour offers an immersive experience where you’ll savor authentic Berlin flavors while unraveling the history and culture that shape each dish. Guided by local experts, you’ll explore hidden culinary gems, from bustling local shops to quaint eateries, gaining insights into Berlin’s evolving food scene.

Our Berlin Food Tour is not just about tasting—it’s about learning. To deepen your understanding of Berlin's layered history, we recommend reading our expert's guide to Berlin’s unseen history. For a more comprehensive introduction before your visit, consider watching our Intro to Berlin lecture, which provides a scholarly perspective on the city’s past and present.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this tour promises an enriching experience that connects you to Berlin in a meaningful way. Ready to taste and learn? Book your Berlin Food Tour today and start your culinary adventure!