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6 breathtaking viewpoints in Berlin
Berlin is famous for many things, but one thing it has in abundance is incredible buildings. Ever wondered which of the many famous buildings in Berlin offers the best views? You’ve come to the right place.
Read on to find out our top picks to get top views of Germany’s buzzing capital.
1. Berlin TV Tower, the flagship of the GDR
Let’s start strong with one of the most famous buildings in Berlin. Berlin TV Tower (Fernsehturm in German) offers arguably the best views in town.
At 368 metres tall, this behemoth is Germany’s tallest building. And the third tallest in the European Union!
Watching TV will be the furthest thing from your mind as you zoom up in the high-speed lift to the 203-metre-high observation deck in mere seconds.
And once you reach the top, the views are magnificent. From Brandenburg Gate to the Berlin Wall and the Reichstag to the River Spree, you’ll see the whole of the German capital.
The TV Tower is not just a building. It‘s a piece of history. The superstructure was built in 1969, when the GDR (East Germany) was not internationally recognised as a country. It was the GDR’s flashy flagship, a poster child for East German prowess.
This architectural marvel was built to wow. And wow it did, with its cutting-edge design, revolving restaurant and observation deck. All of which you can still visit today!
- The TV Tower’s opening hours are: March – October 09:00 – 23:00, and November – February 10:00 – 23:00
- Buy a ticket to go up the TV Tower, or get a handy combination ticket with our hop-on hop-off bus in Berlin!
2. The Reichstag dome, Norman Foster's masterpiece
Another of the most famous buildings in Berlin is the historic Reichstag. And what a history it’s got!
The resilient Reichstag has been through it all. It survived a devastating fire in 1933, which was the catalyst for Hitler’s dictatorship. The building then came under fire during World War II. And it was eventually rebuilt with a brand-new shimmering, glimmering glass dome.
The Reichstag dome’s innovative design is a symbol of Berlin moving away from its Nazi past and towards a more peaceful, democratic future.
You can climb up its famous spiral staircase to see Berlin’s top sights from the dome.
- It’s open every day, with extended opening hours from 08.00 to midnight (last admission at 21.45). Because Berlin looks fabulous at any time of day!
- Unbelievably, you can visit the roof terrace and dome of the Reichstag Building for FREE! You just need to register in advance.
3. Grunewald Tower, nature's secret hideaway
Fancy a little break from the concrete jungle? Head to Grunewald Tower, a turret that looks and sounds as if it’s straight out of a Brothers Grimm fairytale.
In the middle of a lush forest, the views from this Gothic brick beauty stretch as far as the eye can see.
It’s not one of the most famous buildings in Berlin, but that adds to its romantic charm.
Climbing the 204 steps is well worth tomorrow’s calf pain. From the 32-metre-high viewing platform, you’ll be rewarded with views of lovely lakes, leafy woodland and, of course, Berlin in the distance.
- Grunewald Tower is open every day from 11:00 – 18:00.
- Tickets are €4 and can be purchased onsite.
4. Panoramapunkt, take a ride in Europe's fastest lift
If a ride on Europe’s fastest elevator isn’t on your bucket list, then you need to re-visit that list. Say hello to Panoramapunkt’s rocket-lift – forget snail-paced elevators; we’re talking warp-speed!
Hold on tight and prepare for lift off as you’re zipped up a whopping 100 metres in less time than it takes to tie your shoelaces.
Your reward? One of the best views of Berlin’s iconic sights. From the TV Tower to the Reichstag and Berliner Dom to Brandenburg Gate, you’ll get to see Berlin, lock, stock and barrel!
The observation deck, 100 metres above Potsdamer Platz, is equipped with telescopes to zoom in on Berlin’s best bits and bobs as well as interactive displays to keep all ages entertained.
- Get your tickets to Panoramapunkt here.
- Open daily from 10:00 to 20:00 —perfect for both early birds and night owls.
5. degewo Skywalk, a balcony overlooking Alexanderplatz
Ever wanted to see the world from the clouds? Then head to degewo Skywalk, one of the best lookout points in Berlin.
Those of you with a fear of heights will probably want to give this one a miss. First, you’re guided up a free-floating staircase suspended 70 metres in the air. Then, you step out onto the 21st-floor glass platform.
As you hover above Alexanderplatz, you’ll get to admire sweeping views of Berlin as well as the terrifyingly transparent sight of the ground beneath your feet. Scary stuff!
Top tip: leave those stilettos in the hotel! Wear your sturdiest, grippiest shoes for the tour.
- Open on Tuesdays 10.00 – 12.00, Thursdays 14.00 – 16.00 and Saturdays: 10.00 – 12.00.
- You can’t climb up to the platform alone – you go on an hour-long guided tour. And the good news is that it’s free! Book tickets at the degewo customer centre.
6. Berlin Cathedral, a church with heavenly views
Last but not least, Berlin Cathedral is here to bless you with heavenly views.
Get your stair-climbing shoes ready, because you’ve got 270 steps to conquer! At 98 metres tall, it’s not one of the tallest buildings in Berlin.
But what awaits you at the top is nothing short of divine. Take in the angelic sight of Berlin’s skyline and the serene Spree River.
- Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 – 17:00, Sunday 12:00 – 17:00
- Tickets cost €10 for an adult and are available on their website.
Elevate your experience at these top Berlin viewpoints
At The Explorer, we love nothing more than a good view from the top of a famous building. While you’re checking out all the unmissable places to visit in Berlin, make sure you leave space in your itinerary to admire Berlin’s skyline from at least one of these excellent edifices. Happy exploring!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Berlin is no stranger to incredible rooftop bars with spectacular views. Here are a few popular ones you might want to check out:
- Klunkerkranich: Located on top of a shopping centre, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city along with a vibrant atmosphere and live music.
- Monkey Bar: Situated on the rooftop of the super trendy 25hours Hotel, Monkey Bar has stunning views of the Berlin Zoo and the cityscape while serving up cocktails.
- House of Weekend: This rooftop club/bar features breathtaking views of Berlin’s skyline, making it the perfect spot to dance, sip cocktails and enjoy the city lights.
- Solar Sky Lounge: Nestled on top of the Hotel Indigo, this stylish rooftop bar provides a fantastic view of the Alexanderplatz area, especially during sunset.
Yes, there are wheelchair-accessible viewpoints in Berlin that offer amazing views. Here are a couple of recommendations:
- The Reichstag dome: The Reichstag building features a wheelchair-accessible ramp and an elevator that takes visitors to the iconic glass dome. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Berlin’s cityscape.
- Panoramapunkt: Located at Potsdamer Platz, Panoramapunkt has wheelchair-friendly access to the observation deck with panoramic views of the city and its landmarks.
Please note that it’s always a good idea to check with each location in advance to ensure that their facilities meet your accessibility needs.
Yes, you can usually visit Berlin’s viewpoints during public holidays. However, it’s important to note that opening hours might be different compared to regular days. Some viewpoints may have reduced hours or even be closed on certain public holidays. It’s best to check the official website or contact the specific viewpoint you wish to visit to confirm their operating hours on public holidays.