My name’s Jim and I came to Berlin in 2005 when I'd won a full-academic scholarship from the University of Minnesota to complete my double-major in History and German at Berlin’s Freie Universität. After graduating, I quickly realized that I’d developed a soaring enthusiasm for the city, so I decided to stay and make the German capital my home. I then put my college degrees to work by doing intensive historical research, having conversations with Berliners, and then putting it all into an easy-to-follow, entertaining narrative that thousands of visitors to Berlin have been enjoying since 2007. 

For almost 20 years now, I’ve worked with several local companies and various tour agencies from around the world, leading all kinds of private tours for groups large and small. Since 2008, I’ve been a local guide for the Rick Steves’ Europe group tours that visit Berlin, and I’ve been personally trained by Rick himself after I began leading his group tours through Germany and Austria in 2022.

I’m a founding member of the Berlin Guides Association and I’ve served on its Board of Directors in several capacities since its beginning. I hope my extensive knowledge in German history and enthusiasm for Berlin (as well as Potsdam) will make your visit a great experience. Feel free to simply send an email to jimm@ricksteves.com or fill out the contact below to get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you!