Bowie Berlin Tour

David bowie in berlin special tour - the original - combined hansa studio & multi media bus tour.

An exciting and exclusive multimedia tour through Bowie’s and Iggy’s Berlin.

In late summer 1976 David Bowie & Iggy Pop started their work at legendary Hansa Studios in Berlin Kreuzberg district - directly at the Berlin Wall in the so called no man’s land. Inspired by the divided city and Berlin’s history, the special location of the studios, effervescent nightlife in former West-Berlin - it all made Bowie produce some of his best work. Berliners and Berlin lovers like Romy Haag, Bertolt Brecht, Christopher Isherwood or David’s & Iggy's sound engineer at Hansa Studios, Eduard Meyer and many others have been a part in Bowie’s fascination for the city. In 2013 David dedicates his comeback song “Where are we now” to his personal memories regarding this important period in his life & career.

The Bowie Berlin Tour follows the tracks of Bowie’s and Iggy’s Berlin. For this multimedia bus tour we have extra interviews taken with friends and companions talking about special moments, personal memories and not least also about not insignificant drug problems both artists had back then.

We start the tour with a visit inside available parts of Hansa Studios with lots of Bowie & Iggy info, anecdotes & images of their work in this legendary studio complex. You will feel the atmosphere in the “big hall by the wall” and other areas which you can only see with our tours.

During the multimedia bus tour subsequently we follow their tracks in the city – not only Bowie’s presumed favourite places and of course his old apartment in Schöneberg district we check, but also film sets and legendary Berlin live concert locations we cover and combine the stations with the interviews in our tour bus.

Of course the city changed a lot over the years but with the Bowie Berlin Tour you will get an idea what was fascinating and inspiring in West- and also East-Berlin for them - as Bowie & Iggy discovered both parts of the city.

Registration

Please note that these special tours are only possible by request and availability as we can’t step into Hansa Studios every day because of recent productions or events there - they have always priority of course. But there is no other way to see Hansa Studios, just with our tours. Please also check our HANSA STUDIO TOUR if you wish to see Hansa Studios only.

Please send your booking request for the BOWIE BERLIN TOUR (combined Hansa Studio & multimedia Bus Tour) through our menu item TICKET . Also leave us your Berlin travel dates via comment to find a possible/ alternative tour date if the listed dates will not fit for you - we try to make it happen.

Groups Individuals

Bowie Berlin Tour at a glance

Questions about a tour.

If you have any question left regarding a music tour, please send us an email or call our office. Office Telephone +49 172 42 42 037

Bowie Berlin Walk

An exciting musical walk through David Bowie’s Berlin - from Hansa Studios to his old neighbourhood in Schöneberg district.

Hansa Studio Tour

Exclusive visits inside Germany’s most famous recording studios – legendary HANSA STUDIOS

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East Berlin: City of Shadows » Berlin » In Search of Jewish Berlin

David Bowie & the End of the World

3-Hour Tour

Discover West Berlin’s Cold War Decadence

Gain Insight into Bowie’s Creative Peak

Two tourists stand either side of a picture of David Bowie.

When David Bowie moved to Berlin in 1976, he found an island of Cold War angst, “Cut off from its world, art, and culture, dying with no hope of retribution.” This Bowie in Berlin tour takes you back to the decadent city that inspired Bowie’s classic Berlin trilogy albums: Low , Heroes, and Lodger . Bowie’s Berlin was a kaleidoscope of creativity and a break from the public eye that he had grown tired of in Los Angeles, while also undergoing various legal battles with his management. 

Starting at West Berlin’s Cold War opulent heart, Zoo Station, we follow Bowie’s trail including the flat he shared with Iggy Pop in Schöneberg, a neighborhood once known for its acceptance of outsiders and minorities. Then we’ll pass by the clubs the duo partied in. Despite seeking stability from his own party habits, Bowie was inspired by Berlin’s underground electronic music scene. Discover how this all contributed to what many consider to be Bowie’s creative peak at the legendary Hansa recording studios overlooking the Berlin Wall. 

Sites Include:

Bahnhof Zoo

Former Dschungel Club

KaDeWe, Potsdamer Platz

Hansa Studios, Berlin Wall

Bowie’s former home

Neues Ufer Café

Topographie des Terrors (Topography of Terrors)

Tour Details

Private tours – $360 USD (1-10 persons) *your guide all to yourself

Small groups – $95 USD per person *still intimate with 8 persons or less

Departure time

Private tours daily at 10 AM and 2 PM

Small groups

  • Monday 2 PM
  • Wednesday 5 PM
  • Friday 2 PM
  • Saturday 5 PM

Meeting point

Private tours include a pick-up at your central hotel or flat

Small groups: Ständige Vertretung, a memorabilia-filled cafe. Schiffbauerdamm 8, 10117 Berlin

Availability

Private tours: 1-10 persons Groups of over 10 should contact us at [email protected] in order to get a special rate for their party.

Small groups: 2-8 persons

Participation requirements

As this is a walking tour, please contact us if you have any mobility issues or concerns

Not included

Metro fare: You will need to use public transport a few times since the distances between some key sites are too far to walk. If you do not have a multi-day visitor’s transit pass to Berlin already, we suggest that you purchase the day metro pass. If you cannot purchase it in advance, your guide will help you purchase it at the first metro station on the tour.

What to bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Cash or credit card for the metro fare

About your guide

Read about  our Berlin guides

Cancellation policy

For cancellations 48 hours prior to your scheduled tour, Insight Cities offers a full refund. We cannot refund cancellations within 48 hours of a scheduled tour as we need to pay our guide.

Candles at a David Bowie Memorial.

See Our FAQs for More Information

See what our guests are saying.

A fascinating tour with an entertaining and charismatic guide. Not the normal paradigm. A trip to KaDaWe, the u-Bahn a hint of Cold War, the Wall and the highlight David’s apartment at the end. Must do tour. Thank you!

The Bowie tour was a exploration of the city and cultural influences that inspired Bowie’s works. A must for any Bowie fan who wants to know more about the rich intertwining history of Berlin and Bowie.

Paradise824305

Darrell, our guide was great. Throughout the tour, you can really experience Bowie’s life in this amazing city. We had a great time!

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David Bowie In Berlin - 3-hour Private Tour - With Reviews & Ratings

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David Bowie In Berlin - 3-hour Private Tour

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Tour Information

Key Details

  • Mobile Voucher Accepted
  • Hotel pickup Available
  • Duration: 3 Hrs
  • Language: English
  • Departure Time : 10am and 2pm
  • Return Details : Berlin, Germany
  • Cancellation Policy : This activity is non-refundable Tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.

Discover the Berlin that inspired legendary musician David Bowie's " Berlin Trilogy" during this private, 3-hour tour led by a professional historian. Starting at the legendary club Zoo Station, follow Bowie's trail to the flat he shared with Iggy Pop. Stroll by the Hansa studios where where Low and Heroes were recorded, and learn about howthedystopian angst of Cold War-era Berlin influenced Bowie'screativity.

  • Historian guide
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Transportation to/from attractions: You will need to use public transport a few times, since the distances between some key sites would be too far to walk. If you will not have a few days visitor's transit pass to Berlin already, we suggest that you purchase the day metro pass. If you cannot purchase it in advance, your guide will help you purchase it at the first metro station on the tour
  • Berlin Transit One Way Tarif AB Ticket 2.8 Euro, Senior Discount 1,70 EUR Berlin Transit Day Ticket for one Person 7 Euro, Senior Discount 4,70 EUR

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Your guides are expert local historians and enthusiastic hosts who love helping visitor explore Berlin.

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Traveler Reviews

Great tour. One-half of the tour is about Bowie directly. The other half is about social and artistic influences while in Berlin. Imagine walking down the street in Berlin with Lee blasting ‘I’m afraid of Americans.’ Fun times.

Our guide has shown us several historical places, as if we we're walking David Bowie's steps. He told us so many stories about Bowie's life and Berlin's history. It was very interesting and appealed to our imagination very much. Also his sense of humour made the tour fantastic. It was very nice to cross the city by metro, tram and buss. In 3,5 hours we visited the places where Bowie lived, spended his time with friends as Iggy Pop and recorded his album Heroes. Lots of street names we recognized from his songs.

Lee was a fabulous guide. The tour went by in a flash. He was erudite and knowledgable about Berlin and gave us a good introduction into the history, politics, society and culture of Berlin/Germany at the time that Bowie lived there. We then headed off to visit various key sites in West and East Berlin and discovered a lot about Bowie, his homes, his bars and his music - not only about where he wrote/recorded his songs but also about many of the places referred to in his lyrics as well. Lee enhanced the tour as we went along with film and photos on his ipad and even with songs and riffs played from the sound system in his backpack to illustrate points that he made as we went along. He told us about German bands' influences on Bowie's oeuvre and how this influence was then picked up from Bowie's work by other UK/Irish bands. We learned so much in a short space of time and could have spent many more hours with Lee, such was his knowledge of Bowie in Berlin. Lee is truly on another level. Fabulous guy, great tour, thank you Lee.

The best part perhaps was to have the fitting music while moving through Berlin! Lee is a fantastic guide! Lots of knowledge of Bowie, Berlin history and loudspeakers in his backpack!

Lee Evans, the guide, was excellent. The tour was well structured and his knowledge, experience and sense of humour made the tour perfect. He sets context well so you build up a picture of Berlin in the cold war years. Couldn't recommend this tour enough and a really enjoyable 3 hours ending in a great pub on Lee's recommendation.

Dan was a superb tour guide - not only knowledgeable about David Bowie but also about other aspects of Berlin’s history. I am a fan of the author Christopher Isherwood and Dan went out of his way to show me the apartment where Isherwood lived in the 1930s which was very much appreciated. I can wholeheartedly recommend this tour for Bowie fans - I guarantee you will learn something you didn’t know and Dan is super friendly.

Amazing experience. Our guide Lee showed not just places where Bowie had lived or had ate, but places which had influenced to Bowie's trilogy from Berlin . Definitely recommend this tour. Big thank you to our guide - Lee Evans.

Great tour with Lee, hugely informative and a great was to see the city from a different perspective. Lee was extremely knowledgeable and gave us insights into what drove Bowie to Berlin and the influences on him and his music.

Loved the anecdotes about Bowie’s time in Berlin and the musical interludes really add something different to the tour. Our guide Ronen was very knowledgeable about a little known part of Bowie’s life and career. Great afternoon

I recommend this walking tour. Dan was knowledgeable good storyteller and nice guide. The trip gave me more insight into both Bowie's life and work and Berlin's history.

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David Bowie Walking Tour - Berlin Music Tours

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A fantastic tour of the Hansa Studios Berlin, the place where David Bowie, Depeche Mode and many... read more

david bowie walking tour berlin

One of the historical places of music. The visit was really interesting and the guide Thilo was... read more

david bowie walking tour berlin

David Bowie Walking Tour

A great tour - fab guide - Phillip was a real storyteller - engaging, interesting and knowledgeable - a very lovely chap. Organisation was really good - all by email and text even for first timers in Berlin who speak absoluteley NO German. Our only problem was not knowing what Martin Groupius Bau was (park? bar? building? group of buildings? statue? meeting point????) - It is of course an exhibition hall but it was interesting discussing it :) This tour is a real eye opener with regard to what David Bowies influences were for the Berlin albums - Phillip's political, historical and musical knowledge was brilliant. Thank You

We took a tour of Hansa Studios guided by Thilo. Thilo had an amazing knowledge for the history of the studio but expressed himself in an informal way which took the 'standard' tour vibe away so made it very entertaining. A must for music fans!

Had the great pleasure of participating in the Bowie Walking Tour and the Hansa Studios Tour this week. Even if you only have a passing interest in Bowie or Iggy, the walking tour will give you a great insight into the feel of the city in the 70s, and how this might have played on the fragile state of both artists to help shape their Berlin era musical output. Our guide, Philipp, regaled us with many fascinating and entertaining stories of Mr Jones & Mr Osterberg as we traced their footsteps around their various Berlin haunts, and also included some moving stories about what Bowie and his music mean to the people of Berlin as they moved from separation into reunification. The Studio tour was just as interesting, with Thilo giving us an excellecnt appreciation of how the Meistersaal had originally been selected by Tony Visconti then set up to capture the Low and Heroes recordings, as well as works by other artists such as Depeche Mode & U2; I will now listen to recordings created in this studio with a completely different "ear". I would thoroughly recommend both tours to any music fan visiting Berlin.

I took the Hansa Studios tour and it was fantastic. The tour guide, Thilo, has amazing passion for the subject, deep technical knowledge and a great sense of humor. If you're a fan of David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Depeche Mode, U2 or REM, you'll hear all kinds of interesting stories about what took place in the recording space. Even if you're not a fan of any of the legendary bands that have recorded here, you'll still enjoy the beautiful spaces and the stories. Highly recommended!!

A fantastic walk - Phillipp was such a great guide and we will definitely comeback for another tour next time in Berlin.

The Hansa Studio / Bowie Walking Tours absolutely made our trip to recent Berlin special. To stand in the same space as David Bowie, David Sylvian, Depeche Mode, Nick Cave, U2, Japan and a whole list of other seminal rock acts and hear Thilo and Philipp's passionate insights was beyond magical. The Meistersaal's atmosphere and reverb has to be experienced and to hear a selection of key tracks off the SSL desk in the studio control room really sends shivers down your back. If you're going to Berlin and have any interest in music, you should definitely do this tour.

david bowie walking tour berlin

Odyssey Magazine

David Bowie in Berlin – Small Group 3-Hour Tour

Berlin saw a 20% increase in tourism following the release of David Bowie’s ‘Heroes’ album, marking a significant cultural impact.

As participants embark on the David Bowie in Berlin – Small Group 3-Hour Tour, they will uncover hidden gems of Bowie’s life intertwined with the city’s history.

From the iconic music studio where Bowie recorded to the streets he strolled, this tour offers an intimate insight into the artist’s transformative journey.

Discover the untold stories and inspirations behind Bowie’s Berlin era, creating a mosaic of music and history eagerly awaiting exploration .

David Bowie in Berlin - Small Group 3-Hour Tour - Key Points

  • Explore Bowie’s Berlin connection with a small group tour.
  • Immerse in Bowie’s 70s Berlin life and art.
  • Visit iconic locations like Hansa Studios and Zoo Station .
  • Gain insights into Bowie’s influence and Berlin’s historical backdrop.

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Tour Details

David Bowie in Berlin - Small Group 3-Hour Tour - Tour Details

Explore the intricacies of the David Bowie in Berlin Tour by delving into the detailed tour itinerary and logistics. This 3-hour small group tour holds significant historical significance as it focuses on Bowie’s time in Cold War-era Berlin during the 1970s.

Participants will have the chance to visit iconic sites like Hansa Studios, Zoo Station , and Potsdamer Platz , delving into Bowie’s life and art in the 70s. The tour provides insights into Bowie’s motivation for choosing Berlin and offers a unique perspective on the city during that period.

Tour Inclusions

David Bowie in Berlin - Small Group 3-Hour Tour - Tour Inclusions

Included in the David Bowie in Berlin Tour are various elements that enhance the participants’ experience and provide a deeper understanding of Bowie’s time in Cold War-era Berlin.

The tour offers food and drinks to keep participants energized throughout the 3-hour exploration . Plus, transportation options include using public transport to conveniently move between attractions related to Bowie’s life in Berlin.

Participants are recommended to purchase a day metro pass, and the tour guide can assist in acquiring the pass if needed. By offering sustenance and facilitating transportation, the tour ensures that participants can focus on seeing the history and culture of Berlin during David Bowie’s influential period in the 1970s.

Meeting and Logistics

Moving from the details of the tour inclusions, participants of the David Bowie in Berlin Tour will find the meeting and logistics to be seamlessly organized for their convenience and enjoyment. The tour provides various tour guide options such as historians, professors , doctoral students , journalists , or published authors.

Transportation to and from attractions is arranged using public transport, with a recommendation to purchase a day metro pass for ease of travel. The meeting point is Schiffbauerdamm 8, 10117 Berlin, Germany , in front of Ständige Vertretung. Participants can choose between morning or afternoon tours and will meet the guide at the Berliner Ensemble theater near Friedrichstraße station.

Tour Experience

David Bowie in Berlin - Small Group 3-Hour Tour - Tour Experience

Enjoy the vibrant world of David Bowie in 70s Berlin with a guided tour that delves into the iconic musician’s life and artistic influences.

This experience not only explores Bowie’s influence but also uncovers the historical and cultural aspects of Berlin during the mid-1970s.

As you journey through the city, you’ll visit significant sites associated with Bowie, such as the famous Hansa Studios, Zoo Station, and Potsdamer Platz .

The tour provides insights into Bowie’s motivations for choosing Berlin as his creative hub, offering a different perspective on the city during the Cold War era.

You’ll pass by remnants of the Berlin Wall and buildings scarred with bullet holes, creating a vivid picture of Berlin’s tumultuous history intertwined with Bowie’s artistic legacy.

Additional Information

David Bowie in Berlin - Small Group 3-Hour Tour - Additional Information

Discover important logistical details and key policies for the David Bowie in Berlin Tour to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the iconic musician’s connection to the vibrant city of Berlin in the 1970s.

  • Confirmation received at booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions
  • Maximum of 8 travelers on the tour

Enjoy Bowie’s legacy and the Cold War history of Berlin while exploring significant locations tied to his time in the city. Ensure you’re prepared for the tour by understanding the cancellation policy, group size limitations , and important accessibility information.

Get ready to explore the unique blend of music, art, and history that this tour offers.

David Bowie in Berlin - Small Group 3-Hour Tour - Directions

Visitors embarking on the David Bowie in Berlin Tour should head to the designated meeting point at Schiffbauerdamm 8 in Berlin, Germany . From there, the tour guide will lead the exploration of iconic landmarks associated with Bowie, offering historical context and cultural significance .

Participants will navigate through the city, passing by remnants of the Berlin Wall, bullet hole-studded buildings , and significant locations like Hansa Studios, Zoo Station, and Potsdamer Platz. The tour delves into Bowie’s life and art during the 70s in Berlin, shedding light on his motivations for choosing the city.

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Common questions

David Bowie in Berlin - Small Group 3-Hour Tour - Common questions

What Is the Significance of Berlin in David Bowie’s Career and Personal Life?

Berlin played a pivotal role in David Bowie’s life and career. The city’s unique blend of creativity and influence during the Cold War era fueled Bowie’s artistry and inspired some of his most iconic works.

Are There Any Exclusive Insights or Stories About David Bowie Shared During the Tour?

During the tour, participants gain exclusive insights into David Bowie’s time in Berlin. Stories shared by knowledgeable guides illuminate Bowie’s motivations and the impact of 70s Berlin on his music and artistry.

Can Participants Expect to See Any Memorabilia or Artifacts Related to David Bowie During the Tour?

Participants can expect to see artifacts related to David Bowie during the tour. These items offer a glimpse into Bowie’s influence and Berlin connections, providing a tangible link to the iconic musician’s time in the city.

How Does the Tour Guide Tailor the Experience for Fans Versus Those Who May Not Be Familiar With David Bowie’s Music?

The tour guide employs various strategies to cater to both fans and non-fans of David Bowie. Through engaging narratives, music samples , and historical context , they tailor the experience to provide insights into Bowie’s impact on Berlin, ensuring a captivating journey for all participants.

Are There Any Local Cafes or Shops Along the Tour Route That Participants Can Explore on Their Own After the Tour Ends?

Along the tour route, participants can discover local cafes and shops to explore independently post-tour. These hidden gems offer a chance to immerse in Berlin’s culture further, adding a personal touch to the experience.

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David Bowie in Berlin - Small Group 3-Hour Tour - Last Words

Enjoy the vibrant world of David Bowie in Berlin with this captivating 3-hour tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, explore historic sites and unravel the cultural backdrop of Cold War-era Berlin.

From iconic locations like Hansa Studios to remnants of the Berlin Wall, this tour offers a unique perspective on Bowie’s time in the city. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the music, art, and history that shaped Bowie’s legacy in Berlin.

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David Bowie's Berlin Guided Tour

A walking tour to the places Bowie cherished during his time in Berlin

This walking tour will take you to places that David Bowie frequented during his time in West Berlin. In the company of your guide, you'll learn how the Cold War zeitgeist of the late 1970s influenced the 'Berlin Trilogy' albums.

You'll see the clubs where Bowie and Iggy Pop partied during their time in Berlin and stop at the apartment the two friends shared in the Schöneberg district. You'll pass by the Hansa Studios where the singer created his famous song 'Heroes'. His favorite café, Neues Ufer, is also on the itinerary.

Along the way, you'll stop at the Bahnhof Zoo station, the KaDeWe shopping temple, a stretch of the Berlin Wall and the Topography of Terror Documentation Center, giving you a better understanding of German history.

  • Chance to see David Bowie and Iggy Pop's former apartment
  • The studio where songs like 'Low' and 'Heroes' were recorded
  • Multiple destinations where Bowie used to hang out
  • Insights into the influence of the Cold War on Bowie's albums

What's included

  • Guide services

What's Not Included

  • Public transport tickets

Languages spoken by guide

Additional information.

Please note that the tour price does not include public transport tickets, which are required. Tickets will have to be purchased separately. If you don't have a ticket already, the one-day ticket is recommended. Your guide may assist you in purchasing it during the tour.

Please note that discounted or reduced-price tickets are not available for this tour. Participants of all age groups should purchase the regular ticket.

Bring your ticket with you to the attraction.

Be aware that operators may cancel for unforeseen reasons.

You must be 18 years or older to book.

Operated by Insight Cities

User ratings

Frequently asked questions, how do i book a ticket.

Select a date and time.

Choose the number of tickets.

Click through to the next page and enter your personal details.

After entering your personal details, select your payment method and enter your payment details.

Once you’ve entered your payment details successfully, you'll be redirected to your ticket page where you can check the status and details of your reservations.

You'll receive a confirmation email once the reservation is confirmed with the attraction operator. This could take some time based on the supplier.

You can view your tickets in your confirmation email or the Booking and Trips section of your account.

When do I pay?

Booking.com collects payment on behalf of the attraction operator when you book your ticket.

How do digital tickets work?

Each digital ticket contains a unique code. This is usually a QR or numerical code, but could be something else and can be found on your ticket or the PDF sent to you.

If your digital ticket contains a barcode or QR code, show it to the staff at the attraction's entrance or ticket collection point for them to scan.

For those with numerical codes, show your ticket to staff for verification.

Can I cancel or modify my tickets?

You’ll need to check the policy on the specific ticket you book. Last-minute bookings might not have free cancellation available.

When will I get my free cancellation refund?

After you cancel, we'll issue a full refund immediately. Depending on your bank or payment provider, it can take 3–10 days to be refunded to your original payment method.

Tickets and prices

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  • A Guide To David Bowies...

A Guide To David Bowie’s Berlin

© Photobra

To his fans, it is no secret that Berlin played an important role in David Bowie’s career. Recalled fondly as ‘the Berlin years’, Bowie spent 1976-1979 living in the city. The ways that this place inspired his work and impacted him personally are nothing short of magical. The spirit of Bowie is also felt in Berlin, a city that evolved and changed through the last several decades at least as much as the singer himself. Here are Bowie’s favorite haunts, many of which can still be visited today.

Why he came.

Before we delve into the specifics, a bit of background on Bowie’s coming to Berlin is due. At this point in his career, the singer was heavily immersed in the drug and party scene in his former home of Los Angeles. After a series of controversial public appearances where he was barely coherent, Bowie realized that he needed to separate himself from the rock and roll lifestyle he was living. Infatuated with the Komische music emerging in Germany at the time, Bowie ultimately moved to Berlin where he lived with his good friend, Iggy Pop. The best part about his initial arrival in the city was that he was barely known there.

Where he lived

Hauptstrasse 155

Where he recorded

One of the reasons ‘the Berlin years’ live on in notoriety is because of Bowie’s ability to clean up his act and acquire the inspiration for the ‘Berlin Trilogy’ of albums, which include Low , Heroes , and Lodger . While only Heroes was recorded in its entirety during Bowie’s time in the city, each album is undeniably influenced by his experiences here. Hansa was the studio where Bowie worked and recorded in Berlin. In addition to creating his own solo stuff, he also collaborated with Brian Eno and helped Iggy transition into his solo career after leaving his band, The Stooges.

Hansa was famously situated right next to the Berlin Wall, which gave the recordings an ubiquitous feeling of tension, as they were under constant surveillance from the guards on the other side of the wall. It was this climate that spawned the famous lyrics, ‘I can remember, standing by the wall. The guns shot above our heads, and we kissed as though nothing could fall’ in the song Heroes . Here, Bowie was inspired when he witnessed the private embrace of his producer Tony Visconti and co-vocalist Antonia Maass beneath the watchful eyes of the guards.

Hansa Studio

Where he hung out

Bowie truly relished in his incognito presence around the city. He and Iggy frequented a myriad of different bars, museums, and art galleries during their time here. They were particularly well known for their visits to the Brücke Museum , where some believe Bowie gained visual inspiration through the amazing artwork and exhibitions displayed there.

While he shook much of his party lifestyle during his Berlin years, he was known to enjoy a few of West Berlin’s night clubs and haunts, including the Anderes Ufer, a gay-friendly bar that has since been renamed Neues Ufer . He was also known to enjoy evenings at the club SO36 in Kreuzberg. Both of these spots are still in operation today.

SO36

While it is now converted into the Ellington Hotel , Dschungel on Nürnberger Strasse in Charlottenburg was another common hangout for Bowie, so a stroll down this street would likely mean quite literally walking in his footsteps. Another famous story about Bowie’s anonymous gallivanting through the city came when he performed some Sinatra on the stage in Dschungel and the unruly crowd asked him to stop, having no idea who he was.

For eating, Bowie and Iggy were seen from time to time at the ritzy Paris Bar on Kantstrasse, which is still in operation today. After all, these two men weren’t exactly broke.

Performance in front of the Reichstag

While Bowie wasn’t known to simply hang out around the Reichstag during the years he lived there, his famous and politically impactful 1987 performance in Berlin was held here. The stage was situated right at the edge of the Western side of the Wall, and thousands from the East gathered on the other side to listen, something that the German Democratic Republic considered to be an act of political insubordination as Western music was forbidden. This deeply moved Bowie, particularly when he performed Heroes , a song whose lyrics are about a couple’s love transcending the wall’s barrier. This event spurred riots in the East on the following night and had a major role in changing public perception about the divide between East and West Berlin on an international scale.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C7FlnBt1q4

Just when people thought that the Berlin years were far behind him, Bowie released his popular single in 2013 titled Where Are We Now , which is laced with references to the city as he considers the ways it has changed, as a symbolic platform for reflecting on the passage of time. Bowie’s years in Berlin are still deeply felt in the city, as each influenced the other in tremendous ways. When he passed away, the German Foreign Office tweeted, ‘Good-bye, David Bowie. You are now among Heroes. Thank you for helping to bring down the wall.’

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  4. David Bowie at the Berlin Wall: the incredible story of a concert and

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COMMENTS

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  2. Berlin Musictours

    Tour Info. David Bowie and Berlin is a long and intense relationship. Discovering the city in the early 1970's Bowie finally started to work in the city back in 1976 at legendary Hansa Studios together with his mate Iggy Pop. Long time after leaving Berlin in 1978 both artists stay connected with the city.

  3. Berlin Musictours

    An exciting and exclusive multimedia tour through Bowie's and Iggy's Berlin. In late summer 1976 David Bowie & Iggy Pop started their work at legendary Hansa Studios in Berlin Kreuzberg district - directly at the Berlin Wall in the so called no man's land. Inspired by the divided city and Berlin's history, the special location of the ...

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    When David Bowie moved to Berlin in 1976, he found an island of Cold War angst. This 3-hour tour takes you back to the decadent 1970s in the city that inspired Bowie's classic Berlin albums Low, Heroes, and Lodger. Starting at the decadent heart of Cold War West Berlin, at Zoo Station, you'll follow the artist's trail to the flat he ...

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    Berlin City Walking Tour of Scheunenviertel and Hackesche Höfe in Berlin Mitte. 3. City Tours. from . £213.03. per group ... leaving the safe confines of the Hollywood Hills to live amongst the immigrant rich populations of inner city Berlin. David Bowie often rode his bike in 1977 to Hansa Studios while working on Low and hit-inspired tunes ...

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    Overview. Discover the Berlin that inspired legendary musician David Bowie's "Berlin Trilogy" during this private, 3-hour tour led by a professional historian. Starting at the legendary club Zoo Station, follow Bowie's trail to the flat he shared with Iggy Pop. Stroll by the Hansa studios where where Low and Heroes were recorded, and learn about howthedystopian angst of Cold War-era Berlin ...

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    Bowie at 30,40,50 and 60! Dan Borden from Insight Cities (out of Seattle, WA) gave us a spectacular time-capsule of a whirlwind tour that culminated in the diverse neighborhood that became home to the starman from Brixton. The tour ended at the apartment that David Bowie made home of as a Berliner in 1977.

  12. 2024 David Bowie in Berlin

    Bowie at 30,40,50 and 60! Dan Borden from Insight Cities (out of Seattle, WA) gave us a spectacular time-capsule of a whirlwind tour that culminated in the diverse neighborhood that became home to the starman from Brixton. The tour ended at the apartment that David Bowie made home of as a Berliner in 1977.

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    David Bowie in Berlin - 3-hour Private tour price starts from $360.00. Discover and book David Bowie in Berlin - 3-hour Private tour on Tripadvisor ... Modern Berlin Private Walking Tour: Diverse, Vibrant and Exciting German Capital. 5. Historical Tours. from . $166.75. per adult (price varies by group size)

  14. Berlin: David Bowie's Berlin Life Tour with Soundtrack

    Full description. Discover Berlin in the 70s and 80s through the eyes of David Bowie and one of his longest-standing companions, the legendary musician Lou Reed, on a self-guided tour with your smartphone. See the places where David lived, loved, partied, shopped or just hung out, where he wrote and recorded songs and gave concerts.

  15. David Bowie Walking Tour

    The Hansa Studio / Bowie Walking Tours absolutely made our trip to recent Berlin special. To stand in the same space as David Bowie, David Sylvian, Depeche Mode, Nick Cave, U2, Japan and a whole list of other seminal rock acts and hear Thilo and Philipp's passionate insights was beyond magical.

  16. Berlin: David Bowie's Berlin Life Tour with Soundtrack

    Full description. Discover Berlin in the 70s and 80s through the eyes of David Bowie and one of his longest-standing companions, the legendary musician Lou Reed, on a self-guided tour with your smartphone. See the places where David lived, loved, partied, shopped or just hung out, where he wrote and recorded songs and gave concerts.

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    Tour Details. Explore the intricacies of the David Bowie in Berlin Tour by delving into the detailed tour itinerary and logistics. This 3-hour small group tour holds significant historical significance as it focuses on Bowie's time in Cold War-era Berlin during the 1970s.. Participants will have the chance to visit iconic sites like Hansa Studios, Zoo Station, and Potsdamer Platz, delving ...

  18. David Bowie's Berlin Guided Tour Berlin

    This walking tour will take you to places that David Bowie frequented during his time in West Berlin. In the company of your guide, you'll learn how the Cold War zeitgeist of the late 1970s influenced the 'Berlin Trilogy' albums. You'll see the clubs where Bowie and Iggy Pop partied during their time in Berlin and stop at the apartment the two ...

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    Travel back to 1970s Berlin — a time when the city was split in two and West Berlin was "cut off from its world, art and culture, dying with no hope of retribution" — on this 3-hour tour. Together with a specialist guide, you'll navigate the city on foot and by public transport, in search of the Berlin that inspired David Bowie's seminal Berlin Trilogy. See Hansa Studios, where ...

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    Discover the Berlin that inspired David Bowie's heralded 'Berlin Trilogy' on this private, 3-hour tour. Travel back to the late 1970s: a time when the Cold War was on, the Berlin Wall was up and Bowie and Iggy Pop shared an apartment building in West Berlin. Together with a historian guide and your private group, you'll see Hansa Studios, where 'Low' and 'Heroes' were recorded ...

  21. A Guide To David Bowie's Berlin

    To his fans, it is no secret that Berlin played an important role in David Bowie's career. Recalled fondly as 'the Berlin years', Bowie spent 1976-1979 living in the city. The ways that this place inspired his work and impacted him personally are nothing short of magical. The spirit of Bowie is also felt in Berlin, a city that evolved and ...

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    The private tour of David Bowie's West-Berlin lasts approximately 3 hours. This immersive experience takes you through the iconic musician's time in Berlin, exploring the places where he lived, worked, and found inspiration. The tour is available in English as well as two other languages, ensuring that visitors from all over the world can fully enjoy and understand the experience.

  23. Bowie in Berlin

    Bowie's place in Schoeneberg. Hauptstrasse 155 is where you need to go. There's a commemorative plaque there now, saying he lived there from 1976 to 1978 and wrote the three albums which will go down in history as the Berlin Trilogy. And just next door to their Schoeneberg pad is Neues Ufer (then known as Anderes Ufer), a legendary gay bar ...