TRIP Checkpoint Charlie is a former border crossing between what was West Berlin and East Berlin. Since the end of the Cold War, and the reunification of Germany, Checkpoint Charlie has become a popular tourist attraction.
TAP Although not the only border crossing between West and East Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie is by far the most famous. Checkpoint Charlie witnessed a number of important events during its long history; daring escapes, prisoner swaps and the infamous 1961 showdown between U.S. and Soviet tanks all took place at this location. Checkpoint Charlie was also a popular setting for a number of Cold War era films and novels, forever cementing its place within the popular culture of the time.
On 9th November 1989 Checkpoint Charlie witnessed another historic event – the fall of the Berlin Wall. As thousands of East Germans crossed over to join their fellow countrymen in the West, Checkpoint Charlie’s role would gradually change from border crossing to tourist attraction. Although the current checkpoint booth, and surrounding signage, is a recreation of the originals, the area is still a popular photo op when visiting Berlin. Visitors can also have their picture taken with authentically dressed U.S. and Soviet ‘border guards’ or have their passport stamped with a number of souvenir stamps.
GO Visiting Checkpoint Charlie is free and is open 24/7. Checkpoint Charlie is easily accessible via the Berlin U-Bahn underground railway (Kochstraße station). Head over to Berlin’s official website for timetables, route maps and other useful information.
