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Berlin Underground Tours – Secret City War Bunkers and Escape Tunnels

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Berlin underground tours are an alternative way to understand the city’s complex history, where you can view war bunkers and escape tunnels in what are now disused metro stations. 

With Berlin known for its alternative scene and unravelling of a dark past, this is a different way of seeing it. 

When researching my trip there I came across the Berlin Underworlds Association (Berliner Unterwelten) – a society for the exploration and documentation of subterranean culture. They provide expert tours of the city’s underground linked to various moments of its history, citing to “experience the history of Berlin from an unconventional perspective.” 

The Berlin Underworlds Association has been offering Berlin tunnel tours for around 15 years, so they know exactly what they are doing when it comes to the important underground structures in the city. You won’t get stuck or lost, or be breaking any laws when it comes to the exploration of abandoned areas. This has all been curated and set up exclusively. 

© Berliner Unterwelten e.V. / Holger Happel

Where Does the Berlin Underground Tour Begin?

When do the underground tours run, underground tours prices, escaping via the sewage system, escaping via the east berlin u-bahn underground stations, from underground to overground , berlin underground bunker tours, virtual tours of underground berlin, beneath berlin – understanding history , what berlin underground tours can you go on.

From war bunkers and air-raid shelters to the remains of an anti-aircraft fortress, subterranean Berlin plays host to a wealth of history. You might find it hard to choose which tour to go on, although a lot of your choice will be dependent on what tours are running on the given day.

There are currently four underground Berlin tours available:

• Tour 1: Dark Worlds
• Tour 2: From Flak Towers to Mountains of Debris
• Tour 3: Cold War Nuclear Bunkers
• Tour M: Under the Berlin Wall

I decided on Tour M, which at the time was called Breaching the Berlin Wall: Subterranean Escapes from East Berlin to West Berlin and which this article focuses on, with an overview of the main things you get to learn about and what an underground tour encompasses generally. 

Photography is not allowed, which is why I am using images granted for use by the Berliner Unterwelten. 

The majority of the tours start in or near the Gesundbrunnen station in the north of Berlin city centre and they last approximately two hours.

The main season for tours is April – October and they run from Monday – Friday between 10 AM – 4 PM and on Saturday, Sunday and National Holidays between 9 AM and 4 PM. 

You can check the website for further details and view the calendar of dates and times on the homepage . 

Surprisingly, the tours to this secret part of Berlin are relatively inexpensive.

– Tour 1, 2 and 3 are €15 

– Tour M is €18 

– The Exhibition, “Myth of Germania” is €6

Do note: The BerlinWelcomeCard is not valid for the tours but for the exhibition “Myth of Germania”.

The Berlin Wall Escape Tunnels

Many attempts were made to escape from East Berlin to the West via man-made tunnels dug deep underground, where everything from reinforcements to lighting and ventilation had to be taken into consideration.

The first tunnel was dug in December 1961 and the last one in 1985, four years before the borders were opened. Of course, some attempts had devastating consequences, when uncovered by the East German secret police (Stasi), but others were successful. The determination resulting in the same people risking their lives to dig another tunnel in a different location months later to help others.

The sewer channels were also used as escape routes, even though the Stasi had put preventative measures in place with grating systems. Initially, the grating was a square shape within the circle of the tunnel meaning there was just enough space to squeeze under – through the sewage.

The Stasi later installed oval-shaped grating and then used measures to cover the space completely. Many West Berlin students had great escape operations in place using the sewage systems to help their friends trapped in the East.

However, when escaping this way, someone had to be the ‘lid man’ with the promise of being able to go down into the hole another time. In the room underground was a manhole cover, the same as the ones you see in the city today and what would have been in use back then. The lights were turned out as if to create the atmosphere of nighttime escape and two strong guys were asked to carefully and quietly lift the heavy lid.

No problem at all, but putting it back? A disastrous mixture of the wrong balance, uneven weight and constant clanging noise. Back then, they would have been caught instantly and killed. It puts into perspective how difficult these escapes were with the Stasi on the lookout right around every corner.

With the construction of the Wall, U-Bahn lines in East Berlin were severed in their connection to the West. But as the East got poorer the two West Berlin lines (the U6 and U8) that ran through East Berlin were ‘rented out’ to the West, allowing them to pass through the East Berlin metro stations without stopping.

We were told about how people cleverly hid among the tracks and side walls ready to jump on passing trains and how the guards on the Eastern side would defect and while on duty, use this route as a means to escape.

When the Stasi lost too many men they eventually locked guards on duty in a room with a small window looking out towards the tracks. Any signs of escapees would have to be called through to a superior, by which point it was probably too late to catch them.

One of the most fascinating parts of the tour was wandering along a huge underground corridor only to emerge from a side door on the wall of the underground station, which most people probably walk past daily and don’t give a second’s thought as to what lays beneath. 

From there you are taken via the metro to my much recommended Berlin Wall viewing site, Bernauer Strasse, where more than seven escape tunnels were attempted within a short distance of just 350 meters of each other. This is also where two of the most successful Berlin Wall escape tunnels were constructed.

READ MORE: Best Place to See the Berlin Wall – the viewing locations and the questions it makes you ask. 

Rectangular panels on pavement and in the grass show the route of an escape tunnel in Berlin.

Photo exhibitions form much of the tour when underground in what is a former civil defence shelter and it brings the stories to life. You will catch a glimpse at a room that formed part of an air-raid shelter on the Berlin tunnels tour, although you will have to take the underground bunker tour (Tour 3) to delve more into that part of the history and see what relics of these hideouts are left.

Thousands were built in the city to provide safety and despite being able to see one, it’s still unknown how many more exist that have yet to be found. 

For those who don’t have the time for the tour or who want to see a reconstruction of what the bunkers that no longer exist look like, the Berlin Underworlds Association run virtual guided tours . You can learn more about the Drivers’ Bunker, the Speer Bunker, the Goebbels Bunker and the Führerbunker, supported by historical overviews, construction plans and interviews with historians and witnesses. 

The cost for the virtual tours is €9.50 and lasts approximately one hour. 

What lies beneath Berlin is well worth viewing. We take riding a metro system for granted without realising how instrumental it was for those planning escape, those seeking shelter and those harbouring secrets.

The guide was both passionate and knowledgeable about the history and expertly clued up on the facts, figures and questions presented by the city’s complex history. To condense Berlin’s history into sizable parts that you can understand is commendable. I even met locals who had said they had wanted to take this tour for the past 10 years to better understand their past. 

Not only do you get to grips with the city’s history, but you get to learn about it from a truly interesting perspective and to understand a complex time in modern history in that way is priceless. 

Many thanks to the Berlin Underworlds Association for allowing me the opportunity to attend one of their tours.

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

20 May 2014 at 4:15 pm

I just did the underground tour last week, it was pretty cool! I also recommend that you check out the abandoned brewery near Schöneweide station (which you have to sneak in), and also the Stasi museum.

Brad Bernard says

17 May 2014 at 5:46 pm

How cool is that? I’m definitely linking here for the Berlin section of my Best Travel Experiences. The tunnels are so fascinating and capture a time when life was much different.

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Berliner Unterwelten

Guided tours in the Berlin underground

The Berlin Underworlds take you on guided tours through historic bunkers, flak installations and old brewery cellars.

Take an exciting discovery tour beneath the streets of the metropolis with a visit to the Berliner Unterwelten. Learn more about the secret history of the city. Descend into bunkers as well as tunnel systems. The headquarters of the Underworlds Association is located in a former bunker in the transport hub of Gesundbrunnen. Learn all about the capital's many underground facilities in the four-floor exhibition.

Berlin's history: hidden things rediscovered

Berlin's surface is just the visible part of the city: among the large squares and streets, relics, tunnels and secret passages from Berlin's changing history slumber. Particularly impressive are the ruins of bunkers. Since 1997, the Berlin non-profit Underworlds Association has managed these fateful buildings. 1999 is the first time that visitors are taken on guided tours through the extensive bunker complex in Gesundbrunnen U-Bahnhof . The Association is formed to explore, document and preserve Berlin's underground infrastructure and make it available to the public. Throughout the year, Berliner Unterwelten gives seminars and numerous tours and exhibitions offering vivid insights into the work up close. Various guided tours focus on the civilian air raid during the Second World War. On tours through the underground, you also encounter special historic features such as East Germany escape tunnels, ammunition findings and archaeological treasures. The Berliner Unterwelten guides reveal exciting and moving insights. Also recommended is the industrial monument Fichtebunker in Berlin-Kreuzberg. It unites 130 years of city history - from the gasometer for the city street lighting to the use as a mother and child bunker, from buildings converted during the Nazi era to the camp for Senate reserves for West Berliners at the time of the Berlin Wall. The extraordinary exhibition of "Myth of Germania" examines the Nazis' plans for the intended imperial capital of Berlin.

Highlights of Berliner Unterwelten

• Bunkers at Gesundbrunnen
• Residue of in the Humboldthain flak towers
• Escape tunnel between East and West Berlin
• Historical memory storage Fichtebunker

Other local discoveries

The Labyrinth Children's Museum is located on Oslo Road, just a 15-minute walk from the Berliner Unterwelten. The interactive exhibition of interesting urban planning and architecture is aimed at children between 3 and 11 years old. The extraordinary meets industry: the Designpanoptikum on Torstraße presents oddities of international industrial design. Take a look at the iron lung, X-ray balls and exceptional dentist chairs. Experience vibrant contemporary culture at Uferstudios on the edge of the Pankow and Wedding districts. Their management focuses on contemporary dance, organising concerts, lectures and exhibitions. Berlin's art scene meet at the Institute for All Things Possible on Ackerstraße. The Institute offers artists rehearsal rooms and plenty of room for innovative projects.

Visitor information

The Berliner Unterwelten is located at Berlin Gesundbrunnen transport hub. You can reach the station on train lines S1, S2, S25, U8, and the ring line. You will find the museum's ticket and book shop next to the southern entrance of the Gesundbrunden underground station (in front of Kaufland) at Brunnenstraße 105. Guided tours are only possible.Tours of the bunkers at Gesundbrunnen typically take 90 minutes. The Berlin Underworlds Association recommends that children are 8th grade (or at least 13 years old) to take the tour, and children under 7 are not permitted. Attention : warm clothes and sturdy shoes are sometimes necessary. More detailed information is available on the home page.

The Berlin Welcome Card entitles you to a discount on admission to the exhibition "Myth of Germania".

Discover the neighbourhood

The area around Brunnenstraße and Gesundbrunnen is also a historical site – as well as a great place for a walk. Take a stroll past its galleries, and its trendy shops and bars.  

Find out more about the city’s neighbourhoods with our Going Local Berlin app.

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Brunnenstraße 105 13355   Berlin

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5 Berlin Underground Tours with Berliner Unterwelten

On the streets of Berlin history is present everywhere. Modern and old buildings stand side by side everywhere in the city. Some houses bear memorial plaques or bullet holes. On the floor here and there are stumbling blocks commemorating the victims of National Socialism. Or the former course and restricted area of the Berlin Wall, of which some remains are still visible. Such a turbulent surface can only conceal equally turbulent foundations. The Association Berliner Unterwelten (Berlin Underworlds) makes these hidden places, located in the depths of the city, accessible to the public. Put on your warm clothes and comfortable shoes and we'll take you to explore the depths of the city!

Die Berliner Unterwelten e.V.: A cultural Association

Berliner Unterwelten are a cultural association. They have been working since 1997 to protect, preserve and document the underground of the German capital. Its members are researchers, people interested in history and key figures in the history of the Berlin Underworlds.

Berliner Unterwelten offer a permanent exhibition on "Germania", Hitler's pharaonic reconstruction project of Berlin, as well as other special exhibitions. In addition, daily guided tours on various topics are organized in German (but also in other languages: English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch and Danish) Some guided tours are seasonal. To make sure that the desired tour and language is offered during your visit, please check the website of the association: https://berliner-unterwelten.de .

The different guided tours

Tour 1 - dark worlds (dunkle welten).

Berliner Unterwelten Tour 1 Bunker (© Berliner Unterwelten e.V./ Holger Happel)

This tour is an introduction to the underground worlds of Berlin. It shows an air-raid shelter, a bunker and a collection of objects from the Second World War and before, which were found during excavations by members of the association. Go back in time and travel through the history of the cellars, the breweries, the postal network, the sewage system... until the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Tour 2 - From anti-aircraft towers to mountains of rubble (Vom Flakturm zum Trümmerberg)

Berliner Unterwelten Tour 2 Flackturm (© Berliner Unterwelten e.V./ Holger Happel)

Three flak towers were built in Berlin after 1940. Massive constructions, which could accommodate up to 10,000 civilians. Only one of them, located in Humboldthain Park, partially survived at the end of the war. In the Berlin Underworlds you can visit the interior. You will also be able to see the ruins from the Second World War, which the members of the Association are still cleaning up.

This guided tour is only held from April to the end of October so as not to disturb the hibernation of the bats that have settled in the building. It is offered in English, German, Spanish, Italian and Dutch.

Tour 3 - Bunker, subway and cold war

Berliner Unterwelten Tour 3 Subway (© Berliner Unterwelten e.V./ Holger Happel)

During the Cold War, West Germany feared a nuclear war with the Eastern Bloc. So it had bomb shelters built and old bunkers converted for this purpose. This tour focuses on explaining the disasters of a nuclear attack and how to protect the civilian population from this threat. Discover two authentic nuclear bunkers and their equipment that have stood the test of time. One of them, with a capacity of 3,000 people, is still operational.

Tour F - The time capsule (Geschichtsspeicher Fichtebunker) - nur auf Englisch und Deutsch

Berliner Unterwelten Tour F Fichtebunker (© Berliner Unterwelten e.V./ Holger Happel)

Gasometer, air-raid shelter, reception centre for war refugees, prison, old people's home, homeless shelter, food store: get to know the thousand and one lives of the "Fichtebunker". Berlin's largest bunker, built at the end of the 19th century in the district of Kreuzberg, preserves more than 130 years of history within its rounded walls.

Tour M - Underground into freedom (Unterirdisch in die Freiheit - Berliner Mauer)

Berliner Unterwelten Tour M Escape tunnel (© Berliner Unterwelten e.V./ Holger Happel)

What can you do to escape a dictatorship when you live as a resident in captivity and are guarded by a border system and intensive surveillance? This tour looks back on the happy and sometimes unhappy attempts of East Germans who tried to escape to the West via the Berlin underground tunnels. Subway, pipes and dug tunnels: You will be impressed by the boldness of some refugees, by the tenacity of some people who risked their lives to face an authoritarian regime in order to be reunited with their families.

A number of other guided tours are only available in German.

Why is it workth it?

A guided tour into the Berlin underground is simply extraordinary! It is a unique opportunity to see places you wouldn't think of or that are not freely accessible. Whether you are a history fan or simply looking for thrills, you will be fascinated by the anecdotes that run through the various tours. More than just a list of explanations and figures on excerpts from history, you will relive the stories of those who tamed the underground corridors of Berlin. Immerse yourself in a vanished world in these moments. Use the back doors of the subway. Browse through realistic reconstructions or authentic rooms and places. Finally discover Berlin as you have never seen it before!

Address: Brunnenstraße 105, 13355 Berlin (Führungen 1, 2, 3 und M) S-Bahn Gesundbrunnen Price: 12 € (reduced 10 €) Tickets are available on site 15 minutes before the tour starts. Duration: approx. 90 minutes

Mélodie Julienne

As a web writer, I am passionate about cinema and literature. As soon as I arrived in Berlin, I was charmed. Between two trips, I like to walk its streets and let myself be carried away by its singularity, full of creativity. An infinite fascination that I love to share!

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7 Highlights of Berlin Underground Tours: A Subterranean Exploration Guide

Unveiling Berlin Underground Tours

Berlin Underground Tours unravel an enthralling network of wartime bunkers, escape tunnels, and engineering marvels beneath the city. This subterranean realm invites history enthusiasts to step back in time and discover Berlin’s resilience and architectural prowess.

Journey to Berlin’s Historical Depths

The underworld of Berlin offers a profound narrative of conflict, division, and innovation. From the depths where citizens sought refuge to the silent tales of escape during the Cold War, each corner of this hidden landscape narrates a unique story of the past.

World War II Bunkers: Echoes of Resilience

Delving into World War II bunkers, visitors are transported to an era of tumultuous air raids. These shelters are poignant reminders of Berlin’s fortitude amidst adversity, sheltering civilians amidst chaos and fear.

Cold War Tunnels: The Pursuit of Liberty

With Berlin divided, its underground became a conduit for freedom, hosting daring escape attempts under the shadow of the Berlin Wall. These passages resonate with tales of tenacity, symbolizing the unbreakable human spirit.

Technical Wonders Below Ground

Apart from hideouts, Berlin’s historical terrain is a testament to centuries of engineering achievements. From medieval cellars to contemporary transit systems, every layer reflects a milestone in urban development.

U-Bahn Stations: Subterranean Artistic Canvases

More than a transit network, the U-Bahn stands as a dynamic gallery, showcasing the district’s cultural vibe through its station designs, marrying functionality with creativity.

Remarkable insights into the berlin tunnel tour a comprehensive guide

Ghost Stations: Vestiges of a Bygone Era

The remnants of ghost stations, left deserted between East and West Berlin, narrate the surreal existence of a once-divided city, their silence filled with historic resonance.

Expert-Led Explorations

Knowledgeable historians steer the Berlin Underground Tours, enriching the voyage with detailed accounts, breathing life into the dormant annals of the city’s subsurface heritage.

Ensuring Safety and Accessibility

Maintaining high safety standards, guides ensure the passageways are secure, allowing a comfortable adventure into Berlin’s depths for all explorers.

Documenting the Underground Narrative

Capturing the essence of Berlin’s underbelly is a photographer’s delight, snapping shots that encapsulate the raw beauty of urban exploration, with permissions in place.

Planning Your Underground Expedition

For an efficient and enlightening journey, pre-planned tours with comprehensive information are key. Details on schedules and booking options streamline the experience.

Post-Tour Historical Engagement

After resurfacing, the historical immersion continues with various museums and memorials, supplementing the knowledge gained from the underground tours.

Tourism and Cultural Impact

Berlin Underground Tours not only offer an intimate look at the city’s past but also bolster its tourism, attracting global enthusiasts eager to delve into this covert facet.

Concluding Thoughts on Berlin’s Subterranean Legacy

The legacy of Berlin resonates within its tunnels, marking an indelible chapter in history. Visitors leave with tales of endurance and innovation, reminders of Berlin’s steadfast spirit.

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The Berliner Unterwelten e.V. has been researching and documenting the historical connections of Berlin's underground since 1997. The hidden historical sites bear witness to Berlin's eventful and often dark history and are accessible to the public through tours. The thematic focus here is on the time of the Nazi regime and the German division. The tours accompany visitors to the underground sites and provide an impressive and exciting discovery tour that brings Berlin's history to life. In Berlin's bunker sites, for example, you can learn how people tried to escape through tunnels or through the sewers at the time of division, or what the "ghost stations" were all about. In addition to the tours, the museum offers history education through exhibitions, educational seminars, specialist lectures, commemorative and information panels, performances and events.

The history exhibition of the Berliner Unterwelten e.V., a separate section of the Berlin Underworlds Museum at the Gesundbrunnen, takes a look at architecture and urban planning in Nazi-era Berlin under the title "Mythos Germania - Vision und Verbrechen" (Myth of Germania - Vision and Crime) and analyses the ideological objectives and criminal consequences. Albert Speer's plans for Berlin were not a utopia, but a concrete building project. As Hitler's chief architect and "General Building Inspector for the Reich Capital" (GBI), he designed broad axes and monumental buildings of enormous dimensions to demonstrate the Nazi system's claim to power. Berlin would no longer have served as a living space, but as a representation space for the regime. The multimedia exhibition invites visitors to independently explore the multi-layered topic.

Opening hours,

• Monday-Sunday 10:30 - 16:00

Visit only with a guided tour. Guided tour times depend on the season. For the current guided tour programme, please see the calendar on the website. Admission only with ticket purchased online. No ticket sales on site.

• 24. December 2024 closed
• 25. December 2024 closed
• 26. December 2024 closed
• 1. January 2025 closed

Brunnenstraße 105, 13355 Berlin

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+49 (30) 499 105-17

+49 (30) 499 105-19

www.berliner-unterwelten…

Admission price 16,00 €

Admission prices depending on tour

Reduced price 13,00 €

Reduction only for pupils, trainees, students, persons doing voluntary service, severely disabled persons, social welfare recipients, unemployed persons - in each case with appropriate proof

Exhibitions

Hitler's plans for berlin, myth germania - vision and crime, »kant & königsberg«, travelling exhibition.

Berlin Underworlds Museum

YouTube Channel Berliner Unterwelten e.V.

Miscellaneous

"Contemporary witnesses in conversation" - escape helper Burkhart Veigel

Escape help and fates at the berlin wall.

Lecture, talk

Admission price

Reduced price, group ticket.

https://bit.ly/3rhDIL9

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Berliner Unterwelten

Berliner Unterwelten is a museum that preserves Berlin’s underground infrastructure . Learn about World War II and the Cold War while you tour the city’s subterranean.

At the beginning of the Second World War, Hitler assured Berlin inhabitants that the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) would impede any country from bombarding the capital; however, when Nazi Germany began to lose its first conflicts , the authorities began to build bunkers in the principal cities, especially in Berlin.

During the Cold War, this underground system of tunnels and bunkers became essential for both sides and in some cases, were renovated, improved and prepared for a possible conflict between the Allies and the Soviet Union. For example, West Berlin spent millions to construct multi-use buildings like subway stations and underground car parks that would save the population from a nuclear war.

Visiting the bunkers

A knowledgeable guide will guide you through the underground tunnels to one of the 3,000 shelters that are located underneath the capital of Germany.

During the tour, you’ll learn what the bunkers were used for during the war , who used them and how many people fit inside them during the last days of the war. Your guide will also tell you fascinating and startling true stories that happened underground.

The nonprofit company offers tours in various languages, including English. You cannot book a tour in advance, so we recommend you get to the Museum a little early to make sure you get a place on the tour.

All types of tours

The Museum offers several types of tours, all of which are interesting and worthwhile. They vary depending on the day and time:

• Classic tour : Your guide will take you to a fallout shelter, designed to protect the occupiers from a nuclear explosion. Followed by a tour of a World War II air raid shelter .
• Dark Worlds : By the end of the Second World War, the air raids of the Allies had destroyed 80% of Berlin . On this tour, you’ll discover one of the bunkers that remains intact and learn how the Berliners survived thanks to cramming into the public bunkers.
• From Flak Towers to Mountains of Debris : To protect as many civilians as possible, Hitler ordered the construction of various enormous anti-aircraft fortresses. After the war was over, the towers were demolished. The tour includes a walk along three floors of one of the ruined Towers, while a guide explains how and why they were used.
• Subways and Bunkers in the Cold War : During the Cold War, West Berlin invested millions to renovate and upgrade the underground tunnels and facilities , including metro stations and parking lots.
• Under the Berlin Wall : When the Berlin Wall was built, East Germans desperately tried to escape using the various underground tunnels or by digging their own tunnels. On this tour, you’ll discover the numerous attempts by the citizens and how the authorities made these attempts practically impossible.
• Fichtebunker, the “Time Machine ” : This old gasometer, over 130 years old , was transformed into a bunker during WWII . Later, the building was used for various purposes.

The best experience in Berlin

Unless you suffer from claustrophobia or don’t like being underground, these tours will transport you to the end of World War II . All the tours will exceed your expectations.

Brunnenstraße, 105.

Ticket office: daily from 10 am to 4 pm (approximately, it depends on certain days) The guided tours take place at different times.

World in Flames Tour Adults: € 16 ( US$ 17.20) Students: € 13 ( US$ 14)

Tower of Protection to Mountain of Rubble Tour Adults: € 16 ( US$ 17.20) Students: € 13 ( US$ 14)

Bunker Tour Adults: € 16 ( US$ 17.20) Students: € 13 ( US$ 14)

Escapes under the Berlin Wall Tour: Adults: € 19 ( US$ 20.30) Students: € 15 ( US$ 16.10)

German Myth Exposition: Adults: € 6 ( US$ 6.40) Students: € 5 ( US$ 5.40)

U-Bahn: Gesundbrunnen , line U8. Train: Gesundbrunnen , lines S1, S2, S25, S41 and S42.

Nearby places

Hamburger Bahnhof in Berlin (2.5 km) Kunsthaus Tacheles (2.6 km) Bode Museum in Berlin (2.9 km) Pergamon Museum in Berlin (3 km) Alte Nationalgalerie in Berlin (3.1 km)

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Berliner Unterwelten – Berlin Bunker Tours

This post is about Berlin's underground bunkers and air raid shelters built by the Nazi government during WW2, and by the West Berlin government after the war, and how you can tour them.

We also cover tours of an escape tunnel during the time of the Cold War and the Berlin Wall.

• Tours in English
• Mythos Germania
• Third Reich + W W 2 B e r l i n Sights
• How to Find Hitler's Bunker

Like many cities, Berlin has a hidden life under the surface.

The sewage system, gas, water electricity, the subway, pneumatic tubes – and in the case of Berlin the air raid shelters and bunkers from World War II.

And visitors to Berlin can take a bunker tour to discover this hidden network of tunnels and shelters underground.  

Tours are offered by the organization "Berliner Unterwelten e.V.", an organization consisting of about 350 members of diverse professional backgrounds.

These members research and make the underground bunkers accessible to the public by giving tours in various languages, offering an exhibit as well as through publications.

Their focus is on World War II and the Berlin Wall.

Even though the Berlin Wall is far from being subterranean architecture, escape tunnels  - more than 70 – played an important role in people’s way to freedom.

Not all bunkers are accessible anymore, for example, Hitler’s bunker  has been excavated and filled in and is located underneath what is today a parking lot.

If you decide to go there, a bilingual information board helps to understand when, why, and how the bunker was built.

The board was installed by “Berliner Unterwelten  - Berlin Underworlds”.

Be sure to check out our list of Berlin walking tours .

WHERE DO THE BUNKER TOURS START FROM?

The headquarters of Berliner Unterwelten and the start of the most popular bunker tour is near the transportation hub “Gesundbrunnen” (with U-Bahn-and S-Bahn station) ( map ).

If you exit from the S-Bahn station, it'll be to your left. It's located right next to the U-Bahn station.

Just follow the signs for “Berliner Unterwelten”.

The U-Bahn (subway) station was built before the war and parts of it then transformed into an air-raid shelter.

There is the permanent exhibition “ Mythos Germania ” about Hitler’s and Albert Speer’s (Hitler’s favorite architect) plans for the urban renewal of Berlin in the Third Reich with a lot of oversized buildings.

The exhibit is open April thru November and December 26 through January 10 (closed on New Year’s Day) from 11 am to 6 pm (last entrance 5 pm) and is EUR 6.00 for adults.

BERLIN UNTERWELTEN TOURS IN ENGLISH

Berliner Unterwelten provides 4 of its tours in English. Two of these outings are 90 minutes and the last one is 120 minutes long.

Ticket prices range from €15-€18 per person, but students and trainees can get concessions if they can show proof of a student ID.

There is also a self-guided tour of an exhibit titled " Mythos Germania ", which covers the topic of the Nazi's planned rebuilding of Berlin.

Tour 1 - Dark Worlds Tour

Explore one of the few remaining bunkers from WWII.

Discover what life during wartime was like for the average citizen of Berlin.

In addition to learning about the Third Reich, you'll also have the opportunity to see some of the histories behind city subway and sewer systems.

Although this tour is available all year long, scheduled dates are subject to change.

• Ticket Prices: €16 per person | €13 for students/trainees
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Usual Availability: Wed-Mon @ 11:00 am, 13:00 (1 pm) & 15:00 (3 pm)
• Additional tours offered Apr-Oct
• Book this tour here .

Due to the nature of the content of this tour, children 7 and younger are not permitted.

Berliner Unterwelten recommends the appropriateness of this tour for 14 years and older.

Tour 2 - From Flak Towers to Mountains of Debris

Hitler ordered the construction of six anti-aircraft, or "Flak," towers to protect Berlin from enemy aircraft early in WW2.

Only three were built, and they were blown up after the war. However, the Flak tower in Gesundbrunnen's Humboldthain Park was only partially destroyed.

Visit 3 of the original 7 floors of this tower, and take a look at the incredible depth of the tower.

Learn about the ongoing process of rubble removal and its partial transformation into a bat sanctuary.

• Usual Availability: Select days @ 11:00 am, 13:00 (1 pm).
• No Tours offered Nov-Apr

Tour 3 - Bunkers, Subways, and the Cold War

Civil protection shelters were reactivated or built in West Berlin in preparation for a nuclear war.

Visit the civil defense shelter known as Blochplatz and learn about how it was used during WWII and repurposed for the Cold War.

This shelter was intended to protect citizens in case of nuclear war, and it served multiple purposes.

As you trace Berlin's sometimes disturbing history, you'll find out how people might have survived in a worst-case scenario.

Afterward, travel via the subway to the Parkstrasse U-Bahn station to see what a more modern bunker looks like.

• Ticket Prices: €15 per person | €13 for students/trainees
• Availability: Select Days @ 11:00 am, 13:00 (1 pm), 15:00 (3 pm)

Tour M - Under the Berlin Wall

After the Berlin Wall was constructed, many people made attempts to dig tunnels underneath and avoid detection.

In total, there were more than 70 different tunnels built, and this tour will take you to the site, underneath the Berlin Wall Memorial , of at least seven of them.

Find out which escape tunnels were most successful and discover tales of betrayal that you may not have heard about.

You will also see one of the tunnels from an underground exhibit space.

• Ticket Prices: €19 per person | €15 for students/trainees
• Duration: 120 minutes
• Availability: Usually Thur-Mon @ 3:30 PM

Mythos Germania - Vision and Crime

The Nazi government had a magnificent plan to build the "World Capital of Germania", plans that were ultimately dashed by WW2.

The exhibition depicts Nazi-era Berlin architecture and urban planning, as well as the Nazi regime's ideological aspirations and the twisted methods used to achieve them.

You will learn about the people and businesses who lost their homes and property as those who became enslaved in pursuit of the Nazi's plans.

• Ticket Prices: €6 per person | €3 for students/trainees
• Availability: Saturdays 11:00 am till 17:00 (5 pm)
• Book tickets for this exhibit here .

Reviews of Berliner Unterwelten

With a score of 4 ½ out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor, it's fair to say that overall ratings for this service are very good.

Customers truly appreciate the opportunity to explore historic locations tied to both WWII and the Cold War.

Guests are drawn to their tours for a variety of reasons that we will explore in further detail below.

Military History

If it wasn't already obvious, most of the visitors who enjoy these tours are very interested in military history.

Several reviewers feel that this is a wonderful opportunity to see some of the most significant buildings in Berlin.

Even if you're not well-versed in the history of this city, your tour guide will provide a plethora of information about each location.

English Tours

Guests from English-speaking countries really appreciate the translation services provided by this company.

Although they don't offer all of their tours in English, most customers are just happy that there are a few historically significant trips they can enjoy.

Several visitors recommend that you arrive early for these outings because they sell out quickly.

Excellent Tour Guides

A majority of guests who leave positive reviews are most impressed by their tour guides. Several comments indicate that they are not only friendly and helpful but also very informative.

Some visitors were surprised to find that their guide was actually very funny, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. 

Historical Simulation

On some tours, this company provides a simulation of what life was like during wartime.

Other tours simulate life in a bunker, giving their guests a taste of what life might be like during a nuclear war.

Getting the chance to see and experience what these bunkers were built for can be very enlightening, and some visitors felt that it made history come alive.

Effective Storytelling

In addition to the military history tied to the locations featured on these tours, guides will also tell stories about real people who were affected by either WWII or the Cold War.

Both events displaced a lot of families and put several people in peril; guests really appreciate the opportunity to hear their stories and discover what life was like for some of the citizens of Berlin.

Things to know before taking the bunker tours:

Please note: The tours cover difficult periods of German history and are conceived for adults.

They are recommended for youths aged 14 and older. Children under 7 are not admitted; parents’ discretion is asked for children aged 7 to 14.

As the tours are not in a museum, but in the real underworld, toilets are not provided. Make sure to use one before starting the tour.

The shopping mall Gesundbrunnen-Center right next to the train station has restrooms.

And please, wear sturdy footwear (no sandals, no flip-flops) and take a sweater – even in summer, the underworld is very chilly.

Also, a small selection of tours also runs during the winter.

Related Content:

• Third Reich Sights in Berlin
• Get 27% off with Berlin Welcome Card

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• Abandoned Places

Wander Dim Tunnels and Dark Pasts by Going Underground in Berlin

Explore new depths on these immersive tours beneath the surface..

It’s not unusual to be underground in Berlin . Sure, there’s the local subway, the U-Bahn, which makes up a network of nearly 93 miles (150 kilometers), and you’ll probably hop aboard one of its bright yellow trains at least once during your time here. But it’s one thing to head down the stairs of an U-Bahn station to patiently wait on the platform for your ride, and it’s another thing to separate from the commuting masses, enter an inconspicuous door somewhere in the station, and find yourself in a preserved World War II air raid shelter or Cold War bunker.

Breaking and entering isn’t necessary (and definitely not advised) to access these underground time capsules. All you need to do is book one of Berliner Unterwelten’s tours to be led through subterranean concrete labyrinths that easily make one think, “Yup, I could see a scary movie being filmed here.”

Depending on your tour, you might pass through a room of spartan bunk beds, where it was “first come, first serve” for Berlin citizens hiding from Allied bombings. Another tour might bring you to a kitchen with a couple heavy steel pots that were supposed to serve the thousands seeking refuge there after a possible nuclear attack amid Cold War hysteria. Or you could see what it was like to try to sneak under the Berlin Wall. No matter which you choose, here are all the murky histories lying beneath the surface in Berlin.

Trace the roots of the tunnels

“There seems to be an unbridled curiosity, fascination, and demand for the ‘underground,’” says Eva Westphal, who works in public relations for Berliner Unterwelten e.V. With their tours, you can satisfy that curiosity without adding trespasser to your resume.

Most of the tours start near the Gesundbrunnen shopping center and train station in the north of the city. Modern, loud, and busy, this area provides a stark contrast to the quiet spaces from times gone by that you’ll experience once you head down below with Berliner Unterwelten.

Berliner Unterwelten e.V. (or Berlin Underworlds Association) was founded in 1997 by eleven people enthusiastic about the “underworld.” The non-profit is dedicated to researching, documenting, and preserving historic sites in the Berlin underground—as well as making them accessible to the public.

“Our facilities—such as air raid shelters, civil defense facilities, and former industrial buildings—and the tours guided there demonstrate vividly an important part of German and European history as well as Berlin's urban history, which we should not and must not forget,” Westphal says.

Having grown to around 100 employees and more than 500 members, Berliner Unterwelten currently offers 11 tours across 10 facilities. The tours last around 1.5 – 2 hours long and are offered in six different languages. Here’s what you’ll experience on two of those tours.

Explore Dark Worlds

Tour 1: Dark Worlds focuses on bombing raids during World War II. To get started, the group gathers around the U8 Gesundbrunnen station entrance next to the Berliner Unterwelten ticket shop. Once checked in, everyone heads down the subway stairs, but before reaching the platform, each person files through an unmarked door that’s painted a light sage green. It’s the kind of unassuming door you’d overlook completely if not for the guide ushering people through.

Stepping over the threshold, you’re immediately thrust into the past. A gray hallway emerges with the original paint on the walls that includes the words “air raid shelter” in German and old directions to men and women’s toilets. Another sign eerily warns that you should close the doors after you hear the bomb explode and put your gas masks on before opening the doors again.

As our group moves along and hears the periodic, low rumblings of trains, we encounter rooms that showcase how things really were here during World War II. In one, we get to see how the glow-in-the dark paint on the walls—meant to help direct people if the lights go out—still works. In another, we see how the space was ventilated using air from the subway. One of the rooms features triple bunk beds where you can imagine civilians crowding as the war raged on above them.

Other spaces we pass through are outfitted with curated exhibits that give additional context but weren’t necessarily from the shelter itself. We see a room with bombing prep supplies, including a grim board game that was meant to teach children what to do in an air raid. Another displays old firebombs and other munitions. Towards the end of the tour we see exhibits of soldiers’ belongings, including an 80-year-old condom, as well as a massive card catalog case with records of forced laborers.

Whether or not you consider yourself a history buff, the underground tour makes for a fascinating, immersive way to understand the realities of the war.

Dive into Bunkers, Subways, and the Cold War

The Berliner Unterwelten’s Tour 3: Bunkers, Subways, and the Cold War takes you to different parts of the city. Focusing on air-raid shelters repurposed during the threat of nuclear war, this excursion is a two-fer, offering tours of two very different shelters.

The tour starts in a small, white building across the street from a bank. This atomic fallout shelter is small and austere, designed to hold 1,318 people for up to 48 hours. Inside is a still-functioning air pump and a neighboring room filled with volcanic sand meant to filter out radioactivity from the air.

The second part of the tour is down the street, about a 10-minute walk above ground to the Pankstrasse U-Bahn station. Descending once more, another seemingly insignificant door awaits below. You’ll likely encounter more than a few stares from people in the subway station passing by as you walk through. Hey, who wouldn’t be suspicious seeing a big group heading into an otherwise locked door underground?

After walking through a heavy, vault-like door not unlike the hatch in Lost , you can see that this “multi-purpose facility” is far larger than the first shelter, and it’s said to hold 3,339 people for at least two weeks. There's an infirmary (which is pretty much as creepy looking as you’d think), a sick bay with some baby beds, and an emergency generator. The distinct shade of light green painted on some of the walls and ceilings was intentional, specifically chosen because the color is supposed to make people feel relaxed—you be the judge.

In another part of the shelter, you can see toilets, a kitchen (albeit seemingly small for its intended number of residents), and many four-level bunk beds. There’s also a good amount of shock-proof machinery, ventilation systems, and reserve water tanks. All in all, it seems like state-of-the-art luxury compared to the fallout shelter we came from.

There are a few other tours you can choose from, mostly focusing on WWII, the Cold War, and sneaking under the Berlin Wall. Whichever you choose, as you meander this history-rich underworld, one thing is for sure: You’ll never look at those random doors in the Berlin subway the same way again.

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Exploring the Hidden Depths: Berliner Unterwelten

by Original Berlin Tours | Mar 7, 2024 | Pub Crawl

If you find yourself in Berlin, Germany, the city’s rich history will undoubtedly captivate you. From iconic landmarks to vibrant street art, Berlin offers a plethora of attractions that showcase its tumultuous past and vibrant present. One often overlooked aspect of the city’s history lies beneath its surface – the Berliner Unterwelten, or Berlin Underworlds.

Unearthing the Past

The Berliner Unterwelten is a fascinating network of underground bunkers, tunnels, and air-raid shelters that played a crucial role during World War II and the Cold War. These underground structures were constructed to protect the civilian population during air raids, but they also provided refuge, transportation, and even secret meeting places for resistance movements.

During the war, the Berliner Unterwelten served as a shelter for thousands of people seeking safety from bombings. Exploring these dark and labyrinthine passageways today offers a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the harrowing experiences of Berliners during a tumultuous chapter in history.

Discover the Guided Tours

To fully appreciate the magnitude and historical significance of the Berliner Unterwelten, guided tours are highly recommended. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide in-depth commentary, making the experience both educational and enthralling.

One popular tour is the “Dark Worlds” tour, which takes you through a labyrinth of tunnels and showcases the original infrastructure and equipment used during the war. The tour provides a glimpse into the daily lives of Berlin’s residents while offering historical anecdotes and stories.

For those interested in the Cold War era, the “Underground Berlin” tour is a must. It explores the subterranean sites used by both East and West Germany during the division of Berlin. Visitors can see former listening stations, escape tunnels, and remnants of the Berlin Wall.

Preserving History

One of the remarkable aspects of the Berliner Unterwelten is the dedication to preserving and documenting its historical significance. The organization behind the tours, Berliner Unterwelten e.V., is a non-profit association committed to preserving the underground structures and educating the public about their importance.

Throughout the years, volunteers have worked tirelessly to restore and maintain the underground sites, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the atmosphere of the past. The association also conducts extensive research, ensuring the accuracy of historical information provided during the tours.

Supporting the Berliner Unterwelten by taking part in the guided tours not only grants you access to remarkable sites but also aids in the preservation and continuation of their work.

Planning Your Visit

Prior planning can enhance your experience when visiting the Berliner Unterwelten. Keep in mind the following tips:

Booking in Advance

Due to the popularity of the tours, it is advisable to book your tickets well in advance. This ensures that you secure a spot on the tour of your choice, especially during peak tourist seasons. Tickets can be purchased online or from the visitor center located near the Gesundbrunnen U-Bahn station.

Dress Appropriately

Exploring the Berliner Unterwelten involves navigating through narrow corridors, ascending and descending stairs, and experiencing variable temperatures. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as certain areas underground may be chilly.

Allow Sufficient Time

Each tour lasts approximately 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the chosen route. It is advisable to allocate sufficient time for the tour and plan accordingly, taking into account any travel arrangements you may have afterward.

The Berliner Unterwelten provides a captivating glimpse into the hidden depths of Berlin’s history. Exploring these underground structures will transport you back in time, offering a profound understanding of the struggles and perseverance of Berliners throughout the war and Cold War eras. With informative guided tours and a commitment to historical preservation, the Berliner Unterwelten invites visitors to delve into the stories that lie beneath the surface.

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Berlin Tunnels Tour – Explore the Hidden Depths

by Original Berlin Tours | Mar 7, 2024 | Cold War Tour Berlin

When it comes to exploring the fascinating history and hidden secrets of Berlin, a visit to the city’s tunnels is an absolute must. From World War II shelters to Cold War escape routes, these underground passageways offer a unique glimpse into the city’s past. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour, providing valuable information and tips for beginners interested in experiencing the Berlin tunnels.

1. Understanding the Importance of Berlin Tunnels

Historically, Berlin has been a city of constant change, turbulence, and conflict. Over the years, tunnels were constructed for various purposes, including sheltering civilians during bombings and providing clandestine escape routes.

2. Types of Berlin Tunnels

There are several types of tunnels you can explore in Berlin. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options:

2.1 World War II Bunkers

During World War II, Berlin’s residents sought shelter and protection in underground bunkers. These bunkers were designed to withstand bombings, and many of them are still intact today. Exploring these bunkers allows you to step back in time and experience the fear and tension felt during the war.

2.2 Cold War Escape Routes

When Berlin was divided by the infamous Berlin Wall, tunnels were dug beneath it to help East Berliners escape to the freedom of the West. These escape routes provide a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by those living in a divided city.

2.3 Spree River Tunnels

The Spree River flows through Berlin, and it has been the subject of various tunnel constructions. Some tunnels were used for transportation and connecting different parts of the city, while others served as secret hideouts.

3. Popular Berlin Tunnels to Visit

Now that you have a better understanding of the types of tunnels in Berlin, let’s explore some popular options:

3.1 Berliner Unterwelten

Berliner Unterwelten is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing Berlin’s underground history. They offer several fascinating tours, including the Dark Worlds Tour and the Cold War Nuclear Bunker Tour. These tours provide detailed insights into the city’s past and are led by knowledgeable guides.

3.2 Flakturm Humboldthain

Flakturm Humboldthain is a massive World War II anti-aircraft tower located in Humboldthain Park. Inside the tower, you can explore the historic Flakturm tunnels. The site also offers stunning views of the city from the top of the tower.

3.3 The Berlin Wall Tunnel Tour

As mentioned earlier, tunnels were used as escape routes during the Cold War. The Berlin Wall Tunnel Tour allows you to walk in the footsteps of those who risked their lives to make the treacherous journey to freedom. This tour provides a poignant and powerful experience.

4. Tips for Exploring Berlin Tunnels

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in underground environments.
• Dress in layers, as temperatures in the tunnels can vary.
• Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot, as tours can be popular.
• Listen attentively to your tour guide, as they will share fascinating stories and historical facts.
• Respect the rules and regulations of the tour, as some tunnels may have specific restrictions.
• Take photographs, but remember to be mindful of other participants and any restrictions on flash or tripod usage.
• Engage with the experience, ask questions, and immerse yourself in the history unfolding before you.

Exploring the tunnels of Berlin is an unforgettable experience that allows you to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s complex history. Whether you choose to dive into the dark world of World War II bunkers or retrace the steps of Cold War escapees, these tunnels hold stories and secrets waiting to be discovered. Book your tour today and prepare for an adventure underground!

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FEATURED EXPERIENCE NO. 05

Visit the site of adolf hitler's führerbunker, the nazi leader's subterranean sanctuary and final command centre.

Did you know...

The apartment buildings surrounding the site of the Führerbunker now were built in the 1980s by the East German government, as luxury apartment houses for important members of East German society.

The Führerbunker

• Gertrud-Kolmar-Strasse, 10117 Berlin
• S-bahn Brandenburger Tor

Some useful links related to the Brandenburg Gate:

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Walk Through The Brandenburg Gate

Explore The State Musems On Museum Island

Visit The Berlin TV Tower – The Fernsehturm

Cross The Cold War Border At Checkpoint Charlie

Visit The Site Of Adolf Hitler’s Führerbunker

Visit The Reichstag Cupola At Night

Explore The Forum Fridericianum

Journey Into The Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe

Step Inside The Neue Wache

Explore The Former Jewish Quarter – Spandauer Vorstadt

Visit The Remains Of The Berlin Wall

Walk Across The Bridge Of Spies

Explore The Topography Of Terror

Enter The Palace Of Tears – The Tränenpalast

Step Inside The Berlin Olympic Stadium

Explore Erich Mielke’s Office At The Stasi Museum

Walk Along Karl Marx Allee

Visit The Oldest Church In Berlin – The Nikolaikirche

Visit The Grave Of Frederick The Great

Walk Through The Ruins Of Anhalter Bahnhof

Stand On The Platz Des Volksaufstandes

Visit The German Resistance Museum

Visit The Soviet War Memorial In The Tiergarten

See The Georg Elser Memorial On Wilhelmstrasse

Step Inside The Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtnis Kirche

Visit The Gleis 17 Memorial

Visit The Schloss Charlottenburg Mausoleum

Explore The Interbau – IBA 57

Visit Cecilienhof – Site Of The Potsdam Conference

Ride The Fastest Elevator In Europe

Visit The Soviet War Memorial In Treptower Park

Visit The Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial

Visit The Ravensbrück Concentration Camp Memorial

Visit Karlshorst – The Site Of The German Surrender

Visit The Socialists Cemetery – Zentralfriedhof Friedrichsfelde

Visit The Soviet War Memorial In Pankow

Visit the Seelow Heights Memorial

Visit The Commonwealth War Cemetery

Cross The Bösebrücke At Night

Explore The Allied Museum In Dahlem

Visit The Brandenburg T4 Euthanasia Memorial

Visit The Jewish Cemetery In Weissensee

Explore The Volkspark Friedrichshain Flak Tower

• Tour 1 – Dark Worlds
• Tour 1 - Dark Worlds
• Tour 2 - From Flak Towers to Mountains of Debris
• Tour 3 - Bunkers, Subways and the Cold War
• Tour D - Tunnel and Bunker Dresdener Straße
• Tour F - The Fichtebunker Time Capsule
• Tour M - Under the Berlin Wall
• Important notes (about all tours)
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• Special Exhibition
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• Oswald Berliner Brewery
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• The Beginings
• From “Germania” to the Downfall
• The Cold War in the Underground
• Reunification and Tunnel Opening
• Online-Shop
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• Berliner Unterwelten

The Association

The berlin underworlds museum.

The Berlin Underworlds Association would like to give the public an insight into the underground of our city. To do this, in March 1998, we were able to rent "Bunker B" in Gesundbrunnen subway station from the Berlin transport company (BVG). Due to the authentic state of preservation, which is unique in Berlin, we were able to obtain monument protection for this historic complex as early as autumn 1999. Since then, more than 10,000 hours of work have been carried out on a voluntary basis by active members of the Association, and we continue to refurbish and renovate the building. The Association finances all of this itself. In line with our objectives, we have set up the "Berlin Underworlds Museum" in these rooms, which extend over four underground floors. Under this name, we could participate in the "Long Night of the Museums" for the first time in spring 2005. Our exhibition, which is constantly being expanded and optimised, provides information about the history and development of Berlin from an underground perspective. The main focus is on "civil air defence during the Second World War", bombing attacks and their repercussions, modern discoveries in the earth, and ammunition recovery. Other themed rooms deal with the removal of rubble in the post-war period or the story of the discovery of a "forced labourer card index", which was recovered by Association members in 2000 from a forgotten bunker and examined in detail. This discovery enabled numerous former forced labourers to claim compensation.  Another section of the museum deals with the topics of "pneumatic post", "breweries", the "GN-Bahn" (Gesundbrunnen-Neukölln subway line) and "modern archaeology", supplemented by impressive exhibits and colour photographs of the underground locations. We also have an extensive museum archive and depot rooms with numerous exhibits, a collection that we are constantly expanding, and which has, in the past, also been made available to some of our city's local museums for temporary exhibitions or various film productions. The AG Museum supports the activities of the Association in such a way that historical technology or furnishings are recovered and restored if necessary. The "Berlin Underworlds Museum" is not a museum in the traditional sense, through which visitors walk independently and view exhibits. It can only be viewed as part of Tour 1 - Dark Worlds , on one of our public tours or as a pre-booked group tour. A brochure about this tour is available in various languages in our ticket and bookshop and also in our online shop. If you, dear visitor to this page or our museum, still have equipment (air raid shelter bunk beds, etc.) or historical photographs (of Gesundbrunnen, Humboldthain, the subway or tunnels, etc.) and you no longer need them, please get in touch with us via our contact form . We look forward to every piece that we can use to complement our exhibition and preserve for future generations.

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