Pferdedroschke Michaela Ritter

At a leisurely pace through the capital

A horse-drawn carriage is the slowest way to see Berlin, and that’s precisely its charm. Michaela Ritter drives her guests from Brandenburg Gate or Potsdamer Platz through the city center in a classic carriage with space for up to six people. A city tour lasts about two hours and passes through areas such as the Nikolaiviertel, to Checkpoint Charlie, and into the government district, with explanations available in English upon request. The coachwoman describes herself as the first and youngest coachwoman of the new carriage culture in Berlin-Mitte and was trained by one of Berlin’s established coachmen. Carriages and animals are subject to strict controls: the horses undergo annual veterinary examinations, the carriages are technically inspected annually, and a Class B driver’s license is required for commercial rides. The company is based in Neuhönow near Altlandsberg but comes to Berlin’s city center for the tours. Photo stops are possible at any time along the way, as the horse dictates the pace anyway.

From Champagne Gallop to Wedding Carriage

In addition to the standard tour, Michaela Ritter offers a variety of special options. For the Champagne tour, a chilled bottle is ready while the carriage rolls for two hours from Brandenburg Gate, through the Nikolaiviertel and Checkpoint Charlie, and back to the government district. The Brunch tour takes place in a Kremser, an open wagon with longitudinal benches; blankets and mulled wine are provided in cold weather, and after dark, night tours through the illuminated center are possible. Wedding couples can be driven at any time of year, and those traveling with children can book an excursion into the surrounding countryside instead of the city center. Prices range from 65 to 195 Euros, depending on the tour and duration, and reservations must always be made in advance. The horses’ keeping is noteworthy: they live year-round in a herd on pastureland, with shelters they can voluntarily retreat to – a stable with fixed boxes is not part of their accommodation.