reichstag tour in english

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Registering to visit the dome of the Reichstag Building

The dome and roof terrace of the Reichstag Building are a popular tourist magnet. (German Bundestag/Neuhauser)

Current information on visiting the German Bundestag Prior registration is required in order to visit the German Bundestag. An online booking request form can be found at online registration . Up-to-date entry requirements for the day of your visit can be found in German at current information

The roof terrace and dome of the Reichstag Building can be visited by members of the public, and offer spectacular views of the parliamentary and government district and Berlin’s sights.

Admission is free; advance registration required .

• Every quarter of an hour
• Last admission: 21.45 hrs

The rooftop terrace and the dome are closed all day on 24 December and from 16.00 hrs onwards on 31 December (last admittance 14.30 hrs). The dome will be closed to visitors from 15. to 19. April 2024    8. to19. July 2024 22. to 26. July 2024 21. to 25. October 2024 and from 28. October to 1. November 2024   to allow cleaning and maintenance work to be carried out. The roof terrace can still be visited when the dome is closed.

For information about additional closures of the dome, please contact the Visitors' Service by telephone on +49 30/227-32083 during the following hours: Monday 9.00 to 15.00 hrs, Tuesday to Thursday 9.00 to 16.00 hrs, Friday 9.00 to 13.30 hrs.

Audioguide to the dome of the Reichstag Building

In the course of 20 minutes, your personal guide to the dome will share with you all the most important facts about the Reichstag Building and its surroundings, the German Bundestag, the work of Parliament, and the sights you can see during your 230-metre-long ascent and descent.The easy-to-use audioguides, which you can obtain on the roof terrace, are available in twelve languages: English, French, Chinese, Dutch, Italien, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Ukrainian and German.  Special audioguides (in German) will also be available for children, for people with disabilities and in easy language.

The audioguide is not available when the dome is closed.

Registration

Requests can only be submitted together with a complete list of participants (naming all members of your group). Without an accurate and complete list of participants, the Visitors’ Service cannot process your request. The following information is required for each person: surname, first name and date of birth.

Online registration

We regret that it is not possible to register by telephone.

Information for visitors who have not booked in advance

If you would like to visit the dome but have not booked in advance, you can register to do so at the service centre run by the Visitors’ Service near the Reichstag Building, next to the Berlin Pavilion on the south side of Scheidemannstraße. If any free places are still available, you will be issued a booking confirmation entitling you to visit the dome; please note that this must be issued a minimum of two hours before the time of your visit. 

Important: To book your visit to the dome, you will need to provide the following information at the service centre: your last name, first name and date of birth. When registering in person at the service centre, you must also show official photo identification (e.g. passport, national ID card, driver’s licence, student or school pupil ID). Please ensure you bring the original , as copies of identification documents are not accepted .

The booking confirmation is issued to you personally and is non-transferable. You will be asked for proof of identity both upon registration and at the main entrance for visitors.

The service centre is open during the winter month (November 1 to March 31) from 8.00 to 18.00 hrs and in the summer months (April 1 to 31 October) from 8.00 to 20.00 hrs.

Attention: On weekends, the service centre is only open from 10.00 to 18.00 hrs. In addition, please note that the service centre closes at 14.00 hrs on Tuesdays during session weeks . 

The rooftop restaurant

The rooftop restaurant east of the dome is open daily from 9.00 to 17.00 hrs and from 19.00 hrs to midnight. Visitors who have already reserved a table can reach the rooftop restaurant via the entrance below and to the right of the West Portal (West C). Tables can be reserved by calling +49 (0)30 226-29933 or sending an email to: [email protected] .

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Reichstag in Berlin

Parliament and mirror of German history

The Reichstag bears silent witness to the turbulent history of Berlin and is one of the city’s most significant historical buildings.

Berlin is the city where German history is written. Where is the best place to experience it? Come and explore the Reichstag !

Reservations and tickets – how to visit the Reichstag

There are several options to visit the Reichstag:

• join a guided tour
• listen to a plenary session (in German of course)
• climb up to the dome and the roof

Online registration at the Bundestag (German parliament)

A quick look around or a detailed tour - both is possible but only with an advanced booking. For this, simply use the online form and you can find further information at bundestag.de .

Our tip : There are a lot of visitors to the Reichstag on weekends. If possible, it´s better to choose a time midweek.

Other tickets for tours in the Reichstag and government district

Enjoy a boat ride past the government district

Take photos of the Reichstag and the government district from the water on a boat trip through Berlin.

Ticket for boat trips

City tours and guided tours with Reichstag

Explore the government district and learn more about Berlin´s history and the architecture of the Reichstag building during a city tour.

Popular tickets among our visitors can be found at visitBerlin.de

• Insider Tour Insider Walk
• Individual city tours

Hop On / Hop Off - Bus tours with a stop at the Reichstag

Explore Berlin´s sights during the bus tour and get off directly at the Reichstag. Book your tickets directly at visitBerlin.de and avoid long queues in Berlin.

Tickets for bus tours

A short history of the Reichstag

The Reichstag is an internationally recognisable symbol of democracy and the current home of the German parliament . Every year, thousands of guests visit the Reichstag - and with good reason: It is not often that you can enjoy such an amazing panorama while, just beneath your feet, the political decisions of tomorrow are being made. Both as an architectural wonder and a historical testimony, the Reichstag has an important role to play in Berlin.

The original building is designed by Paul Wallot and modelled after the Memorial Hall in Philadelphia. Decorative motifs, sculptures and mosaics are contributed by the artist Otto Lessing. The Reichstag is completed in 1894 although it doesn’t acquire its iconic dedication to “the German People” until 1916 when the words Dem Deutschen Volke are inscribed on its façade. At the time Kaiser Wilhelm II regards the building as “the pinnacle of bad taste”. The Reichstag serves as the home of the German parliament until 1933 when the building is badly damaged in a fire. This event marks the end of the Weimar Republic and provides a convenient pretext for Hitler to suppress dissent. Under Nazi dictatorship, the building falls into neglect and is severely damaged during the Second World War. In 1945 it becomes one of the primary targets for the Red Army due to its perceived propaganda value.

After the war, West Germany’s parliament is relocated to Bonn, and the building remains a virtual ruin until 1961 when a partial renovation is undertaken in the shadow of the newly erected Wall. Completed in 1964 this controversial restoration sees the building’s interior and exterior stripped of the majority of its statuary. However, the city makes efforts to retain the traces of its more recent history such as the bullet ridden façade and the graffiti left by the occupying Soviet soldiers. Throughout the cold war period and until the German reunification in 1989 the Reichstag is the site of a permanent exhibition, “Questions about German History” but otherwise sees only occasional ceremonial use. In 1990 the Reichstag is the site of the official reunification ceremony. After another year of intense debate, it is decided that it will once again be the home of the German national parliament . In 1995, just prior to the commencement of Norman Foster’s restoration of the building, artist Christo and his wife Jeanne-Claude wrap the Reichstag in fabric. Foster’s careful restoration and redesign of the building is completed in 1999, and the new German government convenes at the Reichstag for the first time on April the 19th.

There is a certain irony in the fact that the building’s glass cupola is not featured in Foster’s original plans for the renovation of the Reichstag. The dome sits directly above the debating chamber. A mirrored cone at its centre directs light into the Reichstag, increasing the building’s energy efficiency and affording visitors a view of the parliamentary proceedings below. The dome itself can be visited by prior registration and is reached by two large steel ramps that curve up towards it in the form of a double helix.

Five fascinating facts about the Reichstag

Image gallery

The Reichstag with flapping flags

The Reichstag in winter

Dome in the Reichstag

Frontview of the Reichstag

The Reichstag in Berlin in summer

• Cyrillic graffiti left by Soviet soldiers, after their siege of the Reichstag in 1945, has been carefully preserved and can be still seen by visitors today.
• A true example of eco-architecture, the Reichstag is highly self sufficient in its production of energy. The shape of the dome allows the building to make use of natural lighting and ventilation which makes the building a unique symbol of sustainability.
• The Reichstag is an important art venue. It has a considerable art collection and shows changing exhibitions as well as permanently installed artworks.
• The roof of the Reichstag is home to the Käfer Dachgarten Restaurant where guests with a prior reservation can enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. Free panoramic view included!
• Besides its eventful history, Berlin is known to be a casual and friendly city. See for yourself on the grass in front of the Reichstag. This is a perfect place for picnics and a popular spot for sunbathing and relaxing.

What to see nearby when you visit the Reichstag

There are a number of important Berlin landmarks situated in the immediate vicinity of the Reichstag. The main railway station, the Bundeskanzleramt and the Brandenburger Tor are all located a short walk away from the parliament building. You can also find a number of memorials nearby. These include the astounding Holocaust-Memorial by Peter Eisenman that consists of 2,711 concrete slabs arranged in a grid in which you can suddenly feel very disoriented and small. Another nearby memorial consisting of a circular pool commemorates the Sinti and Roma victims of National Socialism, whilst a concrete cube containing a video memorialises the homosexuals persecuted under Nazism.

How to get to the Reichstag using public transport

The Reichstag is easily accessible by public transport as it is situated just a short distance from Berlin’s main rail station, the Hauptbahnhof . The number 100 bus, which provides an unrivalled sightseeing opportunity along its route between the Zoo Station in the West and Alexanderplatz in the East, also stops at the Reichstag, as does the M41. The nearest U-Bahn station to the Reichstag is the Bundestag. It is the middle station of only three stations on what is surely Berlin’s shortest U-Bahn line which runs between the Hauptbahnhof and Brandenburger Tor.

The dome and roof terrace are open from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. in the winter months (1 November to 31 March) and from 8.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. in the summer months (1 April to 31 October).  

The dome and roof terrace are closed all day on 24 December and from 4 p.m. on 31 December (last admission at 2.30 p.m.). The dome can be visited from

15 to 19 April 2024 08 to 19 July 2024 22 to 26 July 2024 21 to 25 October 2024 and from 28 October to 1 November 2024

cannot be visited due to cleaning and maintenance work. The roof terrace will remain accessible during these dome closures.

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Platz der Republik 1 11011   Berlin

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English or German Guided Tour of the Reichstag Building

• Instant confirmation
• Mobile ticket

Learn the eventful history of Berlin as you walk the corridors of its parliament on this absorbing guided tour of the government district, the Reichstag building, and the fascinating glass dome.

Embark on a guided tour of the parliament and the government district of Berlin as you learn about the city’s political and historical background.

Visit the Reichstag building and learn about its complicated location on the Berlin Wall from an English or German-speaking guide.

Head up to the central dome of the Reichstag and understand how its transformed into a modern landmark.

Pass by some of the most famous city attractions in the vicinity including Berlin Palace, Memorial Church, and more with the available ticket option.

Fun Fact: The building became the focus of the art world in June 1995 when it was wrapped in 100,000 square meters of silver fabric by the environmental sculptors Christo and Jeanne-Claude.

2.5-hour guided tour of Reichstag

Expert English or German-speaking guide

Access to the Reichstag building and dome

360° views from the Cupola

Visit of the Plenary Hall (optional)

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Ratings & Reviews

Your Experience

Visit berlin's political heart.

Begin at Pariser Platz and make your way to the Parliament and Government District. The Reichstag is a globally recognized symbol of democracy and the current seat of the German parliament. Admission here is free of charge but the 2.5-hour guided tour is what takes your experience to a different level. Take a behind-the-scenes look at politics and discover interesting facts about Berlin's government district, which is located directly on the former Berlin Wall.

Cross the historical border

This English or German-guided tour of Berlin's parliament and government district will introduce you to some of Germany's political history. Learn more about famous buildings like the Hotel Adlon and the Brandenburg Gate, and see the sights from a different angle. At Brandenburg Gate, cross the historical sector border and learn about the Reichstag building and its complicated location on the Berlin Wall.

Discover the Reichstag dome

Climb the Reichstag's glass dome to learn more about the Bundestag's tasks and responsibilities. Discover the intriguing history of the Reichstag and how Lord Foster transformed it into a modern landmark. Enjoy the city's skyline, and get a bird's-eye view of Berlin on this tour.

Know Before You Go

Important information.

The visit of the leadership of the Reichstag requires confirmation by the German Bundestag.

The guided tour is conducted in German and English.

Please note: Admission to the building is free of charge and you are paying just for a guided tour of the government quarter and the Reichstag with this ticket.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

Meeting Point

• Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions.

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Berlin Reichstag Tickets & Tours

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.

English or German Guided Tour of the Reichstag Building

• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Get acquainted with Germany’s political history on this English or German-guided tour of the parliament and the government district of Berlin.
• View iconic buildings such as the Hotel Adlon or Brandenburg Gate from a different perspective.
• Get a chance to climb up to the cupola that offers spectacular views of the cityscape.
• Visit more than 10 attractions located in the vicinity of the Parliament House such as Berlin Palace, Memorial Church, and Postdamer Square with the available ticket option.
• 2.5-hour guided tour of Reichstag
• Expert English or German-speaking guide
• Access to the Reichstag building and dome
• 360° views from the Cupola
• Visit of the Plenary Hall (optional)
• Tip: Consider visiting Checkpoint Charlie, one of the most famous border crossings between East and West Berlin during the Cold War.
• The visit of the leadership of the Reichstag requires confirmation by the German Bundestag.
• The tour operator does the registration for the customer for this product, the customer does not need to do it themself

Berlin WelcomeCard with Potsdam: Public Transport (Zones AB) & Discounts

• Planning a trip to Berlin? The Berlin WelcomeCard offers 25-50% off at 180+ spots in Berlin. Think scrumptious restaurants, city tours, and more!
• Skip the wallet-crushing individual tickets at places like the Berlin TV Tower, GDR Museum, and Madame Tussauds.
• Zip around the city hassle-free on bus tours and public transport in the Berlin AB zones (Berlin's urban area).
• Pick a WelcomeCard that suits your journey: from 2 to 6 days. Plus, crank up the fun with a ticket upgrade with an immersive multilingual audio guide.
• Don't forget to carry a printed copy of your ticket, delivered straight to your mailbox along with a city guide and map in English and German languages.
• Variants: 48/72-hours or 4/5/6-days
• Access to 180+ attractions
• Public transport in Berlin AB zones
• Audio guide in German, English, French, Italian & Spanish (optional)
• Museums: 1968 Museum, Berlin Magic Museum, Bröhan-Museum & more
• Attractions: Schönhausen Palace, Berlin Cathedral, Madame Tussauds & more
• Cruises: Berlin Cityschiffsfahrten, Reederei Bruno Winkler, Solarwaterworld & more
• Discounts at Aapka, Steakhouse Las Malvinas, Gezer Spa
• Get complete details here
• Children between the ages 6 and 14 can travel free on an adult’s ticket (3 per ticket).
• Note that the AB fare zone covers Berlin’s urban area.
• Please note that you cannot extend the Berlin WelcomeCard AB fare zone by adding a single connection ticket for the C fare zone (covering Potsdam and Airport Berlin Brandenburg)
• After you receive your digital tickets, print the ticket in A4 format and carry it with you as it is validated only in printed form.
• To access discounts on attractions and other services, you must show your ticket to each discount partner before availing of the discount.
• The public transport tickets can be validated before your first journey anywhere in the city. Spot the validation machines with ease in the airport, city railway platforms, buses and trams.
• The 48-hour and 72-hour tickets are valid for exactly 48 hours or 72 hours, from the moment of validation. For instance, if you’ve picked the 48-hour card, and use it for public transport at 8:30am, then it is valid till 8:29am for the following day.
• The 4, 5 & 6-day cards are valid depending on the calendar days you pick. If you’ve opted for a 4-day card and you validate the ticket at any time on Wednesday, the Berlin WelcomeCard and public transport ticket is then valid until midnight on Saturday.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

2.5-Hour Guided Tour of the Reichstag Building & Government District

• Immerse yourself in Germany's political history at the government district in Berlin with a guided tour of the Reichstag available in English and German.
• Discover iconic buildings like the Hotel Adlon, where personalities like Albert Einstein, Charlie Chaplin, Michael Jackson, and Barack Obama have stayed.
• Visit the historical sector border at Brandenburg Gate lined by Greek Doric columns, and learn about Reichstag's complex placement near the Berlin Wall.
• Take advantage of the opportunity to ascend to the glass dome, where breathtaking views of the cityscape await you.
• 2.5-hour guided tour of the government district
• Guided tour of the Reichstag and dome
• Tip: In Reichstag take note of the "Kuppel des Reichstags" by Olafur Eliasson, an installation that enhances the interior of the dome with mirrors and reflective surfaces.
• The tour operator does the registration for the guests, the guests don't need to do it themselves.

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From Empire to Republic | Exploring the history of the Reichstag building

The Reichstag building, located in the heart of Berlin, stands as a powerful symbol of the country’s political past. The building has witnessed pivotal moments, from the proclamation of the Weimar Republic to its destruction during World War II. After German reunification in 1990, a glass dome was added to its structure, which was designed by architect Norman Foster. This transparent dome offers panoramic views of Berlin and symbolizes the unity of the German people. Today, the Reichstag is home to the German Bundestag, the federal parliament.

Why go on Reichstag tours?

• Historical significance: The Reichstag was originally built to house the Imperial Diet of the German Empire, later succeeded by the Reichstag of the Weimar Republic. The building has witnessed several key moments in the country’s history.  
• Meaningful symbol: The Reichstag is a symbol of German democracy. After the reunification of Germany in 1990, the building underwent extensive renovations, and the iconic glass dome was added. 
• Architectural marvel: The Reichstag's architecture is a blend of historical and modern elements. The addition of the glass dome, designed by architect Norman Foster, offers panoramic views of Berlin. 
• Houses the Bundestag: The Reichstag is home to the German Bundestag, the federal parliament. You can observe parliamentary sessions and committee meetings and foster an understanding of Germany's political system and democratic processes.
• Cultural hub: The Reichstag building is situated in a vibrant area, with landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and Tiergarten Park nearby.

Which Reichstag ticket is best for you?

If you are on a budget

Go for: guided tours Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes Guide: expert English or German-speaking tour guide

• Book this guided tour of the Reichstag building to learn about Germany’s political history.  
• Visit more than 10 attractions such as the Berlin Palace, Memorial Church, and Potsdamer Church with these guided tours on an affordable budget. 

Recommended tours:

• English or German guided tour of the Reichstag building
• 2.5-hour guided tour of the Reichstag building & government district  

If you are short on time

• If you do not have much time, you can choose Reichstag guided tours to understand Germany’s political history. You can choose between an English and a German tour guide. 
• You can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Reichstag dome and visit other iconic attractions like Hotel Adlon and Brandenburg Gate. 

If you are a history buff

• Choose Reichstag guided tours to get a comprehensive overview of Germany’s political landscape and enjoy panoramic views from its dome. 
• Visit the historical sector border at Brandenburg Gate lined with Doric columns and learn about Reichstag’s complex political placement near the Berlin Wall on this tour. 

If you are planning an extended stay

Go for: guided tours Duration: flexible Guide: expert English or German-speaking tour guide

• If you are planning to tour Berlin for a couple of days, it is best to choose the Berlin Welcome Card as you can enjoy 25% to 50% at 180+ spots in the city. 
• You can choose between 2 to 6 days of card validity, enjoy free public transport in Berlin’s urban AB zones, and get multilingual audio guides with a ticket upgrade. 
• Berlin Welcome Card with Potsdam: Public transport (zones AB) & discounts

Sights covered on Reichstag tours

Holocaust Memorial

The Holocaust Memorial also called the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, is a memorial in Berlin dedicated to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. It displays the names of almost 3 million Jewish Holocaust victims in an adjoining underground "Place of Information," received from the Israeli museum Yad Vashem.

Brandenburg Gate

Inspired by the Propylaea on the Acropolis of Athens, the Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin's most well-known historical sites. King Frederick Wilhelm II had this massive Neoclassical gate built in 1788. It used to stand as a representation of a divided country, but now it represents peace and harmony.

Museum Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Spree Island or Museum Island, is located in a 400-meter-long canal nestled between the River Spree and the Kupfergraben. It houses many of the city's oldest like the Old Museum (Altes Museum), which was constructed in 1830 to store the Crown Jewels and artefacts.

Berlin Palace

The Berlin Palace, formally the Royal Palace on Museum Island in Berlin's Mitte district was the House of Hohenzollern's primary residence from 1443 until 1918. One of Berlin's largest structures with a dome that stands 60 metres tall, it is regarded as a significant illustration of Prussian Baroque architecture.

Gendarmenmarkt

This lovely plaza from the 17th century is the site of various annual public events, such as classical concerts held in the summertime or the famous Christmas market during winter. Three historic landmark structures, the Konzerthaus, the French Cathedral, and the German Cathedral, dominate the Gendarmenmarkt, one of Berlin's major squares.

Unter der Linden

The most well-known boulevard in Berlin, Unter den Linden, is another favoured tourist destination in Reichstag.  It is named after the linden or lime trees that flank the grassed pedestrian mall on the median and the two wide carriageways.  The avenue connects many tourist attractions, landmarks, and waterways in Berlin, making it a perfect spot for visitors to hang out.

Memorial Church

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, one of Berlin's most intriguing sites, is actually a combination of two churches: the sleek new church built in 1961 and the ruins of the ancient church next to it, including the bulk of its 63-meter-high tower. The original was destroyed in 1943, but its remnants were integrated into the rebuilt complex, to preserve the ancient history that they stand for.

Checkpoint Charlie Museum

The Checkpoint Charlie Museum lies on the Friedrichstraße, a famous shopping street in Berlin. This checkpoint once served as a crossing point between East and West Berlin. It houses a wide variety of exhibits and artefacts tracing the history of human rights, along with ones that focus specifically on the history of Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall.

Plan your visit to Reichstag in Berlin

• Daily: 8 AM to 12 AM (admission every quarter of an hour).
• Last admission: 9:45 PM.
• Closed on: Rooftop terrace and dome closed on : 24 December and 31 December(4 PM onwards) Dome closed on: 20 to 24 March 2023, 24 to 28 July 2023, 11 to 15 September 2023, and 23 to 27 October 2023 for maintenance work.
• Note: The rooftop terrace can still be visited when the dome is closed for maintenance purposes.

Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany. Find on Maps.

• By bus: Routes 100 & 120. Nearest stop: Reichstag/Bundestag.
• By S-Bahn: S1. Nearest stop: Bundestag.
• By subway: U2, U5. Nearest station: Bundestag.
• By train: RE4. Nearest station: Bundestag.
• By car: The distance between Reichstag and Berlin Brandenburg Airport is 28km. Nearest parking: Dein Stellplatz - Parkplatz Flughafen Berlin.

• The minimum age for participating in any of the services for groups is 15 years old. This does not apply to visits to the roof terrace and dome, lectures for school groups, tours for families or children’s days.
• People who have reserved a table in the rooftop restaurant, as well as people with disabilities, elderly or frail visitors, and parents with prams, are allowed access to the museum via the entrance below and to the right of the West Portal (West C).
• Luggage of any size is not allowed in the Reichstag building for security reasons. There is no on-site storage available.
• The museum has security measures in place, including x-ray examinations of bags and coats and metal detectors at the entrance.

• The Reichstag building can be accessed by wheelchair users through ramps as well as the "disabled entrance."
• Wheelchairs are available for loan if needed.
• The induction loop system assists visitors who are hearing impaired by amplifying sound, so they can better hear debates and lectures in the visitors’ galleries.
• There is assistance available for people with visual impairment and blindness, in the form of Braille labels and audio floor notifications in the lifts.

• Restrooms: Reichstag has restroom facilities on its premises.
• Information center: The building has a visitor and information center for any kind of queries.
• Cloakroom: Reichstag doesn't provide a cloakroom or other storage facilities.
• Miscellaneous: The building also has a café, a seminar room, waiting rooms, a plenary chamber, a communication forum, and a video screening room.

• Berlin TV Tower : The Berlin TV Tower is a remarkable piece of architecture located in the heart of Berlin, Germany. Standing 368 meters tall, it is one of the tallest structures in Europe and serves as an iconic symbol of the city.
• DDR Museum : The DDR Museum Berlin is a unique and immersive experience. Located in the heart of Berlin, it is an interactive journey through East German history and culture.
• Madame Tussauds : Located in the heart of Berlin, Madame Tussauds is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Since its establishment in 1988, this wax museum has been a must-see in the city where you can get up close with life-like replicas of celebrities, historical figures and sports personalities.

• Keep some buffer time and arrive at least 15 to 20 minutes at the designated meeting point to prevent any delays.
• The Reichstag Tours may involve a fair amount of walking, so wearing comfortable shoes is recommended.
• Carry your passports or national IDs along with you.
• Please do some research before booking your Reichstag Tours tickets as most tours are in German. If you do not speak the language, you will be better served with a multilingual tour.
• Learn a few of the basic phrases in German to make your trip easier.
• Reserve a table before your tour if you want to eat at the Käfer Dachgarten Restaurant on the roof of the Reichstag building.
• Book your Reichstag tour tickets in advance to get the best deals.

Frequently asked questions about Reichstag Berlin tickets

It is best to purchase Reichstag tickets online to save time and money. Online ticket bookings are convenient and you can avoid waiting in long lines.

Yes, you can purchase Reichstag tickets online. We recommend booking these tickets online to save time and money and get guaranteed access to the attraction no matter the crowd on the day of your visit.

The Reichstag tickets start from €14. It is best to book these tickets online in advance for the best deals and discounts.

Reichstag tickets do not provide audio guides at present. However, the tours are expertly guided by local guides, most of whom speak German and other languages like English.

Yes, you can get a discount on Reichstag tickets if you book them online.

Some of the sights that are covered on Reichstag tours are the Bundestag and glass dome, Gendarmenmarkt dome towers, Brandenburg Gate, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, Potsdamer Platz with the Sony Center and Bahntower, and Holocaust Memorial.

The Reichstag tours are wheelchair accessible.

Yes, photography is allowed during Reichstag tours .

Guide to the Reichstag Building Free Tour in Berlin

This post contains links which earn me a small commission at no cost to you.

Ali Garland, Berlin expert & long term resident What to Do

Berlin’s Reichstag Building is where the German parliament meets, and you can actually take a free tour in the unique glass dome on top. The Reichstag Building free tour is one of the most popular things to do in Berlin, which means it books up in advance. It’s quite an interesting place to visit, so I highly recommend it.

In this article, I’ll explain how to book the free Reichstag tour , what to expect on the tour, info about the history of the building, and more. Plus I’ll tell you how to visit the Reichstag even if you don’t have a reservation.

What you'll find here

Berlin Sightseeing Tours near the Reichstag Building

Aside from the free tour in the Reichstag Building, you might be interested in some other tours nearby. Sightseeing tours can be a great way to see a lot of things in a short amount of time. The information guides provide can really make exploring a city more enjoyable.

• Discover Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour : Informative walking tour that includes Victory Column, Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, Holocaust Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie, the Topography of Terror, and more
• Berlin Highlights Small-Group Bike Tour : Explore Berlin on two wheels, including Victory Column, Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag Building, Holocaust Memorial, Berlin Wall Memorial, East Side Gallery, and more
• Berlin City Highlights Walking Tour : This walking tour also includes lots of Berlin attractions such as Brandenburg Gate, Tiergarten, Victory Column, Government district, Museum Island, and more

Where to stay in Berlin

Berlin has lots of great neighborhoods for you to stay in and explore. If you’re visiting Berlin for the first time, it might be best for you stay somewhere central.

Many of the attractions are in Mitte or easily connected to Mitte by Berlin’s public transport , so you should stay somewhere in that region. Here are a few hotels we recommend.

BUDGET: Circus Hostel Popular hostel with a bar/brewery downstairs

MIDRANGE: Circus Hotel Centrally located near restaurants & transport

UPSCALE: Westin Grand Centrally located, can chisel off your own piece of the Berlin Wall

UPSCALE: Westin Grand Luxury hotel where you can chisel off your own piece of the Berlin Wall

APARTMENT: Adina Apartment Hotel Kitchenette; near grocery stores, shopping, Museum Island

For a more detailed look at the different neighborhoods and our hotel recommendations, check out our guide to where to stay in Berlin .

Or read my full review of the 25Hours Hotel in Charlottenburg with fantastic views of the Zoo and Tiergarten.

History and Facts about the Reichstag Building

The Reichstag Building opened in 1894 and was the seat of the German government until 1933 when a fire greatly damaged the building. Rather than repair the building, it was neglected, and this is seen as the end of the Weimar Republic and the strengthening of the Nazi dictatorship. The building suffered further damage during World War II .

During the Cold War , when Berlin was divided into East and West, the Reichstag Building sat in the West just steps from the Berlin Wall . The seat of the German government was moved to Bonn, and though the building was somewhat repaired, it was seldom used.

After reunification, the building was redesigned and restored. It opened in 1999, and the German Parliament returned here once again.

How to make a reservation for the free Reichstag Building tour

The process of making a reservation for the free Reichstag tour is pretty simple but does involve several steps and several emails. And since it’s one of the most popular free things to do in Berlin , it can often be booked up weeks ahead of time. Let’s take a look at how to do it.

Select the tour option you want

You can sometimes book a 90 minute tour with a guide that also includes visiting the dome with an audio guide. However, this option is only available on certain days, and only when parliament is not in session, so it’s not an option all that often.

The easier and more popular option is the 20 minute dome visit with an audio guide.

Got to the Reichstag website here to register . Read through for dates they’re closed and any other important info before clicking the online registration link.

Before you even get to the point where you select your date, you have to agree to various terms and conditions and put in a captcha. Then you will have to choose a date and time, and it will allow you to give up to three different choices for time slots.

At this point, you fill in your name and email address, and then submit.

They will email you a confirmation email, so if you don’t see it within a few minutes, check your spam folder.

Note: You’re not finished yet! Getting that email is not the end.

In the confirmation email is a link. Click this link to fill in your visitor information. You have 24 hours to do this from the moment you receive the email, so do it immediately.

At this point they ask for your birthday, so be sure you’re putting it in European format. That is day.month.year, so if your birthday is May 3, 1979, you will need to enter 03.05.1979.

Then you’ll get another automated confirmation email with a PDF. This is still only confirming that they have received your request, it’s not confirmation of your appointment for the tour. But there’s nothing else for you to do at this point.

I got my actual confirmation shortly afterwards. But make sure you look at the details closely. I’ve taken this tour a few times, and the most recent time, the booking process went a little wonky.

I selected a date that was available on their calendar, and when I finally received my booking confirmation, it said the dome was closed for cleaning that entire week. Since I selected the dome only option, I don’t really understand why it even let me try to book a day during that time frame. But this is a government that still relies heavily on fax machines, so anything goes.

I still went, and the rooftop terrace was open, so I was still able to walk around outside of the glass dome and get pictures. The audio guide is not available when the dome is closed, so I’m not sure it’s worth doing in this case.

I think it was just bad timing on my part. On the initial info page for registering, the week I booked was not listed as closed. But a few days later, it was listed. I didn’t see any way of rescheduling, so I could’ve just started over and booked another date.

How to do the free Reichstag tour without advanced booking

Maybe you didn’t hear about the Reichstag free tour in time to get a booking, but that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. There is still a possibility of getting a last minute reservation once you arrive in Berlin. And there are tours that could work for you.

Tours to get into the Reichstag Building

I found several tours you can book that take you into the Reichstag Building. They do the full tour, when possible, and they’re pretty cheap. This tour looks like it has the best chance of offering you information in English, although it still sounds like there’s a presentation portion in German. But you will always get the audio guide of the glass dome in English, or one of several other languages if you prefer.

Last minute booking

Across the street from the security entrance, there is a little hut for same day tickets. Go over here as early as possible because you have to register at least two hours ahead of time.

There’s a sign in the window showing how many time slots are available for that day and the next few days. So in theory, you might be able to grab a time slot a day or two ahead of time.

You will need to bring your passport to this registration spot in order to get your name on the list. This goes for everyone in your group.

The location isn’t really labeled on Google maps, but look for this restaurant and gift shop building . It’s immediately next door.

How to get to the Reichstag Building

The address for the Reichstag building is: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin.

For the free tour, you will need to go to the security control entrance, located on the southern side of the building. The address for this is Scheidemannstraße 5, 10557 Berlin .

The closest Ubahn station is Bundestag on the U5, but it’s also very close to the S&U Brandenburger Tor station. Or if you’re coming by bus 100, get out at the Reichstag/Bundestag bus stop.

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Have questions about planning your trip to Berlin?

Join the Facebook group here to chat with Ali (she runs this site) and other people who have been to Berlin for tips.

FAQs and important info for the day of your Reichstag tour

Here are some frequently asked questions and things you should know before your visit to the Berlin Reichstag Building.

What to wear on your visit

Since you’ll be walking during the audio guide tour of the Reichstag Building, and it’s likely only one stop on a big day of sightseeing, you’ll be on your feet a lot. Wear comfortable shoes, and dress for the weather at the time of year you’re visiting Berlin . Don’t forget, the terrace is outdoors.

>>Read: What to Wear & What to Pack for Berlin, Germany: Your Ultimate Berlin Packing List

What do you need to bring to the tour?

When you arrive for your free Reichstag tour, make sure everyone in your group has government issued ID. For most people, this means you should being your passport.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time because they will need to check your ID and check you off their list. You have to go through security, kind of like at the airport.

Can you bring bags on the Reichstag tour?

Small bags, like a purse or small backpack, are allowed. I even saw people with big shopping bags. But large luggage is not allowed. If you have large bags or luggage with you, it’s about a 15 minute walk to Berlin Hbf where you can find luggage lockers.

Are dogs allowed on the tour?

No, dogs are not allowed, except for official service dogs.

Is the Reichstag Building accessible?

Yes, if you are a wheelchair user, you can still take the free audio guide tour of the Reichstag Building.

When is the best time to visit the Reichstag Building?

Any time is a good time to do the free audio guide in the dome. But there are some nice views of Berlin from the terrace, so if you are able to plan your visit a little before sunset, you’ll get some pretty pictures.

Things to do near the Reichstag Building in Berlin

With so many other things to do near the Reichstag Building, you’re spoiled for options. And besides the things I’ve listed below, you’ll have easy access to public transport, so you can get to another part of the city for sightseeing.

Tiergarten is a huge inner-city park, one of the largest in Berlin. Originally a hunting ground dating back to 1527, this vast green space has become one of the most loved public parks in Berlin over the years.

Throughout the park there are statues, memorials, ponds, tree-lined thoroughfares, and lawns. When the weather’s warm in Berlin, it’s here that people flock for strolling, picnicking, and generally hanging out, making it a great spot to people-watch.

Tiergarten is located just south of the Reichstag Building. Check out my full guide to visiting Tiergarten Park in Berlin .

Brandenburg Gate

Brandenburg Gate , or Brandenburger Tor in German, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Germany , and it’s just a few minutes walking from the Reichstag Building. It was one of the old city gates marking the edge of Berlin, though today it’s very much in the center of the city.

When the Berlin Wall stood, Brandenburg Gate was on the East but only barely. The Wall was built around it, making it inaccessible by residents of either side.

This is a great place for pictures, and one of Berlin’s most famous landmarks .

Victory Column

Berlin’s Victory Column , or Siegessäule in German, is one of the more recognizable monuments in the city. It sits at a roundabout in the middle of Tiergarten Park, and it was initially built as a monument to Prussia’s victory in the Franco-German war.

The column stands at 67 meters (about 220 feet) high and has an observation deck you can reach by paying a small entrance fee. After climbing the 285 stairs, the tower provides excellent views of the surrounding park and the city of Berlin.

This is one of the many wonderful inexpensive things you can do in Berlin , and it’s one of my favorite spots for views, if you can handle all those stairs.

Holocaust Memorial

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe , often referred to as the Holocaust Memorial, honors the large number of Jewish people who died at the hands of the Nazis. It’s one of the most important World War II sites in Berlin , and it’s not far from the Reichstag Building.

The memorial consists of 2,711 concrete blocks of varying heights, and the ground they sit on is an uneven slope similar to a wave. The information center showcases letters, diaries, photographs, and biographies of the victims to help personalize the experience.

Entrance is free. Photography is allowed (no flash inside) but please be respectful.

Do not sit on or climb on the cement slabs or take selfies. This is a place to reflect and remember those who were murdered.

Book a tour for your trip to Berlin

• Third Reich Berlin Walking Tour – Hitler and WWII
• Berlin TV Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Discover Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour

Berlin Travel Resources

I want you to have the best trip to Berlin, and hopefully this guide to the free Reichstag Building tour in Berlin is helpful. But there are lots more tips on the site!

• 101 Best Things to do in Berlin
• 23 Impressive Castles in Berlin (And Nearby)
• 27 Best World War II & Cold War Sights in Berlin
• 29 Fun Day Trips From Berlin
• 75 Things to Know Before Visiting Berlin: Essential Berlin Travel Tips
• What to Wear & What to Pack for Berlin, Germany: Your Ultimate Berlin Packing List
• How to Get Around in Berlin: An Easy Guide to Berlin Public Transportation

Check out my favorite travel planning sites and resources

These are the sites I like for travel planning, plus items I like to travel with.

Planning Booking.com : Find a Berlin hotel here.

Rick Steves and Lonely Planet : My favorite guidebook resources.

Tours, Activities, Tickets Viator : Great site for finding tours and other activities.

GetYourGuide : Another good option for tours and activities.

Transport Welcome Pickups : No stress option for airport pickups.

Discover Cars : Find a rental car for Germany road trips.

Deutsche Bahn and FlixBus : Best options for getting around Germany.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for German & EU.

Collapsible water bottle , plug adapter , and stuff bag : Small things that will make your trip a little easier.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for Germany & EU.

Book a local photographer Flytographer : Hire an amazing local photographer anywhere in the world. Use code BERLINTRAVEL to get $25 off your first photo shoot.

Related Posts

What to do in Berlin on Monday: 25+ Museums & More

What to do in Berlin on Sunday: 15+ Ideas

Best Berlin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

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Reichstag Tickets and Guided Tours

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World War II and Third Reich walking tour

Visit the historic sites in Berlin related to the darkest chapter of German history and learn all about the rise to power and end of the Nazi regime.

Berlín y El Nacionalsocialismo: Berlín bajo el Nazismo

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Berlin Reichstag tour in English with visit inside the building

Tour of the Reichstag with an English guide and see the most visited parliament building in the world. Learn its history, enjoy views of the parliament building and its glass dome.

Berlin compact 75-minute Trabi safari

Book your Berlin compact 75-minute Trabi safari and step off the beaten track to discover Berlin's most important attractions.

Berlin highlights 3-hour guided walking tour

Visit all the main sites in Berlin and get to learn many interesting facts about the historic backgrounds on an unforgettable, insightful and intriguing tour.

Berlin Third Reich a self-guided audio walking tour

Learn about the events that led to the rise of the Third Reich, visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and admire the German house of Parliament.

Berlin 24-hour-hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour

See all the famous sights in Berlin from the comfort of a hop-on hop-off bus. Step on and off the bus at 21 stops to explore the city.

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Hop-on hop-off bus with 1-hour Spree cruise

Discover Berlin's highlights on a hop-on hop-off bus and take a 1-hour cruise on the Spree River to see the city from a different angle.

Kickstart private and personalized walking tour of Berlin

Receive a warm welcome in Berlin with a local guide during a 100% personalized private kickstart walking tour.

Hop-on hop-off tourist bus with 2 routes for 24 or 48 hours in Berlin

Discover Berlin for 24 or 48 hours with a panoramic bus tour. Get on and off the bus as much as you like to explore the city.

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Berlin XXL 2-hour Trabi safari

Book your Berlin XXL 2-hour Trabi Safari and cruise around Berlin to discover its main attractions.

Big Bus tour of Berlin

Discover Berlin from the comfort of the Big Bus. Explore the city across several stops, and enjoy views of the city's most famous landmarks.

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Reserve your Berlin WelcomeCard comfortably in advance and get priority access and discounts to the main tourist attractions in Berlin.

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The inside story

The Reichstag building on Platz der Republik in Berlin has been the seat of the Federal Republic of Germany (Bundestag) since 1999. With its iconic dome and roof terrace, it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world to learn about German history and politics, as well as to get a panoramic view of Berlin's sights .

Built between 1884 and 1894, the building was designed by the architect Paul Wallot in the neo-renaissance style and served as the seat of government of the German Empire and the Weimar Republic.

The historic building was badly damaged by a fire in 1933 during the Second World War, under circumstances not completely known. Its restoration began in the 1960s and after reunification it was redesigned with the aim of serving as a permanent parliament building. It finally became the seat of the German Bundestag in 1999.

The glass dome on the roof of the building has a diameter of almost 40 metres and a height of 23.5 metres. Visitors can walk on spiral ramps up to the viewing platform inside the dome. From here there is a spectacular view of the whole city, especially of the Spree and the Brandenburg Gate, Potsdamer Platz, the TV Tower and the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.

In good weather, the meadow in front of the Reichstag building is also a popular place to take a break from sightseeing, soak up the sun or have a picnic.

The Reichstag can be easily reached by public transport (regional train, S-Bahn, U-Bahn and bus).

How to get there

TheBetterVacation.com

Everything about tourist attractions

Reichstag – tickets, prices, German tours, Reichstag Dome visit

Reichstag Building is where the German Parliament sits in Berlin. 

The building is a symbol of German democracy, political history, and resilience.

Every year around 3 million tourists head inside the world-famous Reichstag to discover its architecture, history, and significance.

In this article, we share everything you must know before buying your Reichstag tickets.

Top Reichstag Tickets

# Plenary Chamber, Dome & Government District Tour # Reichstag, Plenary Chamber, Cupola & Government Tour # Apéro at Käfer in the Reichstag Dome

Table of contents

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Reichstag’s withstood the emblematic journey from the seat of imperial power to a symbol of democracy in Germany’s complex history.

Beside its historical importance, the site is a prominent architectural landmark today.

There are two ways to explore Reichstag in Berlin.

Some tourists take in Berlin’s panoramic views from Reichstag’s glass dome or take a seat and watch Bundestag in action.

Others go for the upgraded experience where besides the Parliament building’s dome, they also spend time in Reichstag’s rooftop restaurant called Käfer.

If you don’t want to go up the Reichstag’s Dome, you can book the Government District, Chancellery, and Reichstag Tour where you explore the German Parliament form outside.

Käfer at Bundestag is the world’s only public restaurant in a parliament building.

Reichstag tickets

There are two types of Reichstag building tickets you can book. 

Whichever experience you opt for, it is better to purchase your Reichstag Building tickets in advance because they help you get the time slot you prefer and also skip the lines.

During a guided tour of the Reichstag, a local expert will take you through Berlin’s parliament district and visit the chamber and the building’s dome.

It is an ideal way to learn more about history, architecture, and politics in the heart of political Berlin.

Most Reichstag guided tours cost around €15 and after they get over, you can hang around at the Dome for as long as you want. 

If you prefer an English tour, opt for the Plenary Chamber, Dome & Government District Tour .

If you prefer a German tour, you have two options – the Reichstag, Plenary Chamber, Cupola & Government Tour and the Government Quarter Tour and Reichstag Dome Visit

Käfer is the only rooftop restaurant in the world attached to a Parliament building and open to the public.

This unique proposition makes these Dome and restaurant tickets the most memorable way to explore the Reichstag.

Besides access to the glass dome on the German Parliament and its open terrace, these Reichstag restaurant tickets also reserve a table for you at Käfer.

Depending on when you want to visit Reichstag Dome, you can opt from the following experiences –

# Apéro at Käfer in the Reichstag Dome # Rooftop Breakfast at Käfer + Reichstag Dome # Lunch at the Käfer Rooftop Restaurant # Rooftop Dinner at the Käfer Restaurant

This is a highly popular tour. 

The Private tour of Reichstag Dome starts with you skipping the lines and heading to the Express Security Check counter. 

After the 90-minute private tour by a local guide, you can hang around Reichstag for as long as you want. 

The private guide speaks your preferred language, which you can indicate upon booking.

Tour price: €245

If you love history, we highly recommend this Discover Berlin Walking Tour in English .

The Berlin Welcome Card, available as 48-hours, 72-hours, 4-day, 5-day, or 6-day option, offers a cost-effective means to explore Berlin. 

Besides Reichstag, the Berlin Welcome Card also gets you free entry into the Berlin TV Tower, Pergamonmuseum, Madame Tussauds Berlin, Sea Life Berlin, the DDR Museum, etc. 

If you decide to use your Welcome Card and check out the German Parliament, you will need to register your visit here .

This discount card also gets you free transport within Berlin. 

If you don’t have much time, check out this Reichstag with Plenary Chamber & Dome visit tour that lasts only two hours.

Reichstag tours in German

Guided tours of Reichstag Building in the German language are very much in demand. 

This is primarily because lots of tourists come from countries like Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, etc., where German is one of the official languages.

We list below the best Reichstag tours in German –

This is a two-hour, small-group walking tour that starts from Brandenburg Gate, touches upon the Berlin Wall, and passes through the Reichstag building. 

You also get to see Soviet War Memorial, Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, Hermann Göring’s Ministry of Aviation building, Checkpoint Charlie, etc. 

Adult ticket (26 to 65 years): 19 Euros Seniors ticket (66+ years): 17 Euros Youth ticket (less than 25 years): 17 Euros

If you are a bigger group or a large family, check out a very similar yet cheaper walking tour of the German Parliament area and a visit to Reichstag . It costs only 15 Euros per person. 

Reichstag is located near the Berlin Central Station.

Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany

It is best to take public transport to get to the Reichstag.

The same tickets are valid for trips on buses, S-Bahn, trams, U-Bahn (Underground), etc. 

By Train (S-Bahn)

You can board trains S1, S2, S25 or S26 and get down at Berlin Brandenburger Tor station . 

Reichstag is around 650 meters (half a mile) from the station, and you can walk the distance in ten minutes. 

By subway (U-Bahn)

Three Subway lines stop near Reichstag in Berlin – U55, U2, and U6.

On U55 line, you can either get down at U Bundestag or Berlin Brandenburger Tor .

U Bundestag is 200 meters from the German Parliament, while Brandenburger Tor Station is 650 meters (half a mile) away.

Locals feel the Underground is not the best way to get to Reichstag Parliament.

We highly recommend bus Number 100 to get to Bundestag.

245 is the other bus that can get you closer to the Parliament House.

Note: Berlin Welcome Card can be used to travel in the city’s buses free of cost. It also gets you free entry to numerous Berlin attractions, including the TV Tower. 

Reichstag Building’s Dome and the roof terrace is open from 8 am to midnight. 

The last admission is at 9.45 pm. 

Reichstag Parliament closes down for cleaning and maintenance work on the following dates – 

• 16 to 20 March
• 6 to 10 July 
• 13 to 17 July
• 21 to 25 September
• 19 to 23 October

The rooftop terrace and the Reichstag dome remains closed on 24 December. 

On 31 December, Reichstag closes early at 4 pm. 

The best time to visit Reichstag is on good weather weekday so that you can avoid the crowd and also enjoy Berlin’s stunning views. 

Some tourists believe twilight is the best time to be at the Reichstag building because one gets to see the sunset over the city of Berlin and enjoy an illuminated glass dome.

Most tourists need 75 minutes or so to explore Reichstag Berlin and its Dome. 

This factors in the security check, time spent picking up the audio guides, walking up the sloping ramp to go up on the glass dome, and the time on the open terrace.

On weekends and holidays, you may need an additional half-hour to navigate the crowd. 

The German Bundestag imposes tight security measures, because of which the full names and birthdates of all guests are required at least 24 hours in advance. 

These details are submitted to the police and security, and a clearance is obtained. 

That’s why if you plan to visit the Reichstag in Germany, it is better to book one of the tours or tickets in advance. 

When you book a tour in advance, the travel agent registers your visit with Reichstag Building’s officials and gets the necessary permissions. 

If you haven’t booked a tour in advance, you must share your full names and date of birth and register yourself at the venue.

Registrations can be done at Service Center run by Visitors’ Service near the Reichstag Building, next to the Berlin Pavilion on the south side of Scheidemannstraße. 

If free slots are available for the day, your Reichstag Berlin visit will be confirmed and you can stand in the queue at the entrance.

Else, you won’t be able to go up the Dome on that day but can try for the next day’s visit.

This registration must be done at least two hours before the time of your visit. 

That is, if you want to visit Reichstag at 4 pm, you must register at the visitor center at least by 2 pm.

This allows the officials to run necessary security checks before your visit.

Future visits

If you prefer, you can register to visit the Parliament Building’s glass Dome in the following two days. 

At the Service Center, you can’t book a visit for more than two days in advance.

Service Center timings

From April to October, Reichstag’s Service Centre is open from 8 am to 8 pm, and from November to March, it is open from 8 am to 6 pm. 

Reichstag’s roof is home to the Käfer Dachgarten Restaurant, where visitors can combine breakfast, lunch, or dinner with stunning views of Berlin.

Or you can also try out the restaurant’s Appero offerings, and unwind over a cocktail (or two) and a few snacks. 

Reichstag in Berlin is the only parliamentary building in the World with a restaurant open to the public.

Want to know what to expect at the Reichstag restaurant? Check out their menus – Appero Menu , Breakfast Menu , Lunch Menu and Dinner Menu .

Reichstag restaurant’s timings

The rooftop restaurant on Reichstag opens in two shifts. 

The first session is from 9 am to 5 pm, and after a two-hour break, it opens again at 7 pm and closes at midnight. 

You can’t just walk into this restaurant – you must reserve a table in advance.

Visitors who have a confirmed reservation can get to the Kafer restaurant via the entrance below and to the right of the West Portal (West C). 

Guests can book either a breakfast, lunch or dinner at the restaurant.

If you prefer to know more about the German Parliament building and its workings you can try out the Reichstag’s audio guide.

As soon as you exit the elevator on top of the building, you can pick up your set in one of these 11 languages: German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Turkish, Dutch, and Chinese. 

The 20-minutes long audio guide shares information about the Reichstag Building and its surroundings, the Bundestag, the working of the Parliament, etc.

The audio guide lasts the 230-meter-long walk on a sloping ramp, all visitors take while exploring the Reichstag’s Dome.

It is a beautiful and leisurely walk, and you won’t be bored because you will be looking outward at the views of Berlin. 

Customized audioguides are also available for children and people with disabilities.

The audio guide can’t be rented when the Reichstag’s Dome is closed.

The Reichstag dome, also known as the Bundestag dome, is a glass dome atop the Reichstag building.

The massive glass dome symbolizes Germany’s reunification, and its unique design has made it a prominent landmark of the German capital. 

Designed by architect Norman Foster , the Reichstag dome 

Reichstag Dome offers a fascinating 360-degree view of Berlin, and when visitors look below, they can see the debating chamber of the Bundestag, the German Parliament.

This relative position of the people and the debating chamber symbolizes that the people are above the German government.

Visitors reach the top of the Reichstag Glass Dome by climbing two steel, spiraling 230-meter-long sloping ramps.

A mirrored cone in the center of the Dome directs sunlight into the Bundestag Bundestag building. 

Architect Foster introduced the cone to send light into the building and reduce its carbon emissions.

Reichstag dome at night

There are two kinds of visitors who end up exploring Reichstag dome after dark.

Tourists who have already seen the city’s daytime skyline from Berlin TV Tower’s observatory or Panoramapunkt’s observation deck and now want to experience its nighttime lights.

And then there are the visitors who didn’t book in advance and thus got only the nighttime slots.

Either way, Reichstag Dome is all lit up at night and also offers fantastic views of Berlin. 

Even though the Dome is open till midnight, the last entry is at 10 pm. 

The Plenary Chamber of the Parliament is where all elected members who have the right to attend meetings gather for debates. 

When the German Parliament is not sitting, visitors can attend sessions in the visitors’ gallery of the Plenary Chamber.

Plenary Chamber lecture timings

During the peak season of April to October, Plenary Chamber lectures start at 9 am and go on till 6 pm. 

During the lean season of November to March, Plenary Chamber lectures end early – by 5 pm on weekdays and 4 pm on weekends.

During these 45-minute lectures you learn about how the German Parliament works and know about the Reichstag building’s history and architecture. 

These sessions are in fluent German, and no translations are provided. 

After the lecture, all visitors can go up to the Reichstag’s Dome. 

This is a limited experience, and you must book in advance.

We recommend two German tours which include a Reichstag visit with Plenary Chamber & Cupola – the three hours tour and the two hours tour .

Besides the Plenary Chamber lectures, there is one more way to learn about the German Parliament’s working. 

The German Bundestag’s exhibition on parliamentary history in the Deutscher Dom traces the origins and history of the German parliamentary system.

Over five floors of exhibits, you get to learn about how its politicians run Germany. 

The exhibition opens at 10 am and closes at 7 pm. 

Location: Deutscher Dom, Gendarmenmarkt 1, 10117 Berlin. Get Directions

Sources # Wikipedia.org # Britannica.com # Bundestag.de The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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Barkha Tiwari

She is a holidaymaker comfortable with vacations on sandy beaches or breaks where she is skiing in the snow. She mixes up her holidays with the right amount of activity and lazing around and believes that both are needed in the right amount to experience the world’s cultures and destinations. Favorite Cities: Prague, Budapest, Munich, Florence

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Guided Walking Tour around the Reichstag (government district)

• Free visit of chamber and dome
• Private transportation
• Entry/Admission - Paul-Löbe-Haus
• Entry/Admission - Bundeskanzleramt der Bundesregierung
• Entry/Admission - Berlin
• Entry/Admission - Reichstag Building
• Entry/Admission - Marie-Elisabeth-Lueders-Haus
• Entry/Admission - Jakob-Kaiser Haus
• Paul-Löbe-Allee & Konrad-Adenauer-Straße, 10557 Berlin-Mitte, Germany The meeting point for your guided tour is Paul-Löbe-Allee corner Konrad-Adenauer-Straße (Bundestag (U5) exit D in front of the elevator). Der Treffpunkt ist Paul-Löbe-Allee Ecke Konrad-Adenauer-Straße (Neben dem U-Bahnausgang Bundestag (U5) Ausgang D vor dem Fahrstuhl) 10557 Berlin
• Platz der Republik, Platz d. Republik, 10557 Berlin, Germany The end is in front of the Reichstagsbuilding
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• You'll start at Paul-Löbe-Allee & Konrad-Adenauer-Straße Paul-Löbe-Allee & Konrad-Adenauer-Straße, 10557 Berlin-Mitte, Germany The meeting point for your guided tour is Paul-Löbe-Allee corner Konrad-Adenauer-Straße (Bundestag (U5) exit D in front of the elevator). Der Treffpunkt ist Paul-Löbe-Allee Ecke Konrad-Adenauer-Straße (Neben dem U-Bahnausgang Bundestag (U5) Ausgang D vor dem Fahrstuhl) 10557 Berlin See address & details
• 1 Paul-Lobe-Haus Stop: 10 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 2 Bundeskanzleramt der Bundesregierung Stop: 10 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 3 White Crosses Stop: 10 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 4 Marschallbrücke Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 5 Verwaltung des Deutschen Bundestages Stop: 10 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 6 Reichstag Building Stop: 15 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 7 Marie-Elisabeth-Lueders-Haus Stop: 5 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 8 Jakob-Kaiser Haus Stop: 15 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll end at Platz der Republik Platz d. Republik, 10557 Berlin, Germany The end is in front of the Reichstagsbuilding See address & details

More to explore in Berlin

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Guided Walking Tour around the Reichstag (government district) provided by Berlin Kompakt

10 Things To Do In Berlin: Complete Guide To Germany's Vibrant Capital City

B erlin is the capital of Germany and the country’s largest metropolis. Over the years, Berlin has evolved from a divided city to a truly cosmopolitan destination offering a variety of art, delicious cuisine, captivating history and lively nightlife.

Simply put—there are so many things to do when visiting Berlin . Tourists will relish museums, galleries, parks, and partying into the wee hours of the morning. And they'll also enjoy Berlin's many historic landmarks. Brandenburg Gate, possibly the most famous landmark in Berlin, is an 18th-century neo-classical monument with a storied past. The East Gallery is the longest open-air gallery in the world on the largest section of the still-standing Berlin Wall. And the Reichstag Building is a historic symbol of Germany's past, present, and future and has impressive views from its dome.

Planning a trip to Berlin? Here is our ultimate guide and list of things to do in Berlin, Germany.

Top Things to Do in Berlin

There are so many things to see when visiting Berlin —some are modern, and some are reminders of Berlin’s tumultuous past. To make the most of any trip to Berlin, combine the two.

Charlottenburg Palace

This Baroque palace was the summer home for the royal family during the 17th century. Tourists can spend the afternoon touring the lavish abode from top to bottom. Inside, expect to find the living quarters of Frederick I and Sophie Charlotte, the New Wing where Frederik the Great lived, the chapel, the royal gardens, an ornate tea house, and even the family mausoleum.

Feel free to roam the walls independently or take advantage of the audio guide to learn all about this gorgeous palace and its captivating history.

• Address: Spandauer Damm 10-22. 14059 Berlin
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM

Visit The Brandenburg Gate

Perhaps the most famous landmark in Berlin, it’s a good idea to learn about the history and symbolism of the Brandenburg Gate before visiting. The neoclassical monument sits in the popular Pariser Platzone and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Berlin.

Built for King Wilhelm II in 1788, the Brandenburg Gate was the backdrop to many of the city's historical events, including Napoleonic invasions and Nazi parades. While it symbolizes a tumultuous past, it’s also now a symbol of European peace and unity.

• Address: Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin

Topography Of Terror

The Topography of Terror is the site of the Gestapo and the SS Police's former headquarters during World War II. Tourists can walk the grounds, visit the documentation center, and learn more about the cruelties performed by German officers at this very location.

Visiting the Topography of Terror is an eye-opener. For an even more in-depth experience, join the free English-speaking tours on Sundays at 3:30 PM.

• Address: Niederkirchnerstraße 8, 10963 Berlin
• Hours: 10 AM to 8 PM

Related: 10 Things You Can Do In Berlin On A Sunday

East Side Gallery

The former Berlin Wall is now the longest open-air gallery in the world. At 1.3 kilometers long, the gallery sits on the banks of the Spree River and is the most extended section of the Berlin Wall still standing. A great place to start exploring is the Wall Museum.

It’s located next to the Oberbaumbrücke in an old warehouse building. Over 100 artists from around the world have contributed to this Berlin landmark. The East Side Gallery is a must-see attraction for any tourist visiting Berlin.

• Address: Mühlenstraße 3-100, 10243 Berlin

Tiergarten Park

Walk, run, or cycle through Berlin’s most popular park. With 519 acres, the park hosts many fun things to do, including biergartens, the Victory Column (constructed in 1873), which tourists can climb for amazing city views, and there's even a zoo, which is home to almost 20,000 animals, including polar bears, hippos, and pandas.

Go To Potsdamer Platz

This bustling plaza is where tourists will find Deutsche Kinemathek (a German movie and TV museum), the Boulevard de Stars, the largest stage in Berlin (the Theater am Potsdamer Platz), a LEGOLAND Discovery Center, shops, a casino, and a movie theater. Needless to say, there are so many things to do in Potsdamer Platz!

• Address: Potsdamer Platz, 10785 Berlin

Berlin Cathedral

A significant attraction in Berlin, this cathedral is also the burial place of the Hohenzollerns. Also known as the Berliner Dom, the cathedral, with its magnificent dome, is elaborate and ornamental and definitely worth seeing.

The history of the Berlin Cathedral started in the 15th century, but the building has changed significantly over the years. Today, it’s an excellent place to explore Berlin’s history and appreciate the intricate details of the beautiful building. Explore independently or opt for a guided tour.

• Address: Am Lustgarten, 10178 Berlin
• Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM
• Cost: $11 per person

The Reichstag Building

A symbol of Germany’s past, present, and future, the Reichstag Building was originally constructed between 1884 and 1894 and currently symbolizes Germany's path from dark to light. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the glass dome (or use an elevator). The top offers stunning views across the city.

• Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin

Explore The Remnants Of The Berlin Wall

In the center of the city, the memorial stretches a little over a mile. What once separated the city in two, this space offers a visitor center where visitors can learn more about the history of the Berlin Wall.

Alongside remnants of the wall, visitors will see the Chapel of Reconciliations, which serves as a symbol of the lives that were lost. Admission to the memorial is free, but visitors can join a guided tour for an added cost.

Visit Museum Island

Museum Island is the name given to a group of five museums, the Baroque-style Berliner Dom cathedral and beautiful gardens all grouped together on a small island in the River Spree. The five museums are the Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery), the Altes Museum (Old Museum), the Neues Museum (New Museum), the Bode-Museum, and the very popular Pergamonmuseum.

All present a different aspect of art and history in Germany—and all are worth visiting. But even tourists who don’t pay to go inside will still enjoy the architecture and the landscape.

Best Time to Visit Berlin

• Best time to visit Berlin: May through September. The great weather makes exploring the city more enjoyable.
• Cheapest months to visit Berlin: January, February, March, and November.

Temperatures in spring are pleasant, ranging from the high 50s to the high-70s. The city’s parks and gardens grow colorfully with cherry blossoms, tulips, daffodils, and other beautiful flowers.

• Spring Festivals in Berlin : Fashion Week, MaerzMusik, and ITB, which is the world’s largest travel convention, occur in spring.

There is so much to do in Berlin during the summer months. Tourists can swim in the lakes in and near Berlin, lounge on the rooftops, and explore the city streets. Summers in Berlin offer lots of sunshine (temperatures average in the 70s), and fun street festivals.

Fall is another colorful season in Berlin. While the trees change colors, the temperatures drop. But because the fall weather in Berlin is usually quite dry, this is still a great time to explore the city.

• Fall Festivals in Dubrovnik: Berlin Art Week and the Festival of Lights occur in the fall.

There are so many festive things to do in Germany during the winter months. And despite its cold weather (often -15 degrees), winter is a wonderful time to visit Berlin. With holiday lights, Christmas markets, concerts, and the traditional Nutcracker ballet, there are so many fun wintry things to do!

Best Ways To Get Around Berlin

Berlin is a very walkable city, and public transportation in Berlin is easy and efficient. With so many options, exploring the city is a piece of cake!

Berlin is one of Germany’s most walkable cities. And exploring on foot is a great way to explore Germany’s capital city.

The U-Bahn is a convenient subway system with ten lines and 173 stations, and trains usually depart every 5 minutes. Purchase tickets from machines on subway platforms or from counters in the larger stations. Trams and Metrotrams extend the U-Bahn network in the eastern section of Berlin.

The S-Bahn is a suburban train system mostly running above the ground in the city center. It’s comprised of 15 lines and almost 170 stations.

The MetroBuses serve the city’s main attractions in the urban center. Tourists can recognize these MetroBuses by the letter ‘M.’ M11 to M85 run 24 hours a day and seven days a week in ten-minute intervals. N Buses operate at night and are marked with the letter ‘N.’

Tourists don’t need a car in Berlin unless they plan on leaving Berlin to explore other parts of Germany. That being said, taxis are widely available, as is Uber.

Where To Eat In Berlin

What food is Berlin famous for? Currywurst, Spätzle, Schnitzel, and Bratwurst.

Father Carpenter

Father Carpenter in the city center is tucked away in a cute courtyard and is a great place to eat outdoors in the warm weather months!

• Address: Münzstr. 21, 10178 Berlin
• Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM; Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM; Sunday, 12 PM to 5 PM
• Recommended: French toast and a filter coffee

Related: Don't Skip These 10 Restaurants When Visiting Berlin

This family business cooks its own curry sauce several times a day. The fries are freshly cut, and the sausages come from the Brandenburg butcher. Curry 61 is a must-visit spot in Berlin.

• Address: Oranienburger Str. 6, 10178 Berlin
• Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, 11 AM to 11 PM; Friday & Saturday, 11 AM to Midnight; Sunday, 11 AM to 10 PM
• Recommended: The Currywurst!

Hackethalls

Serving traditional German food, Hackethalls also brews its own beer and is a great place to go for the classics!

• Address: Pflugstrasse 11, 10115 Berlin
• Hours: 6:30 PM to Midnight; Closed on Saturday & Sunday
• Recommended: Schnitzel, Potato dumplings, and of course—the beer

Nightlife in Berlin is pretty amazing, and it doesn’t get much better than Berghain . This after-dark venue is one of the most popular clubs in the world.

• Address: Am Wriezener Bahnhof, 10243 Berlin

Related: The 10 Best Clubs To Visit In Berlin For An Epic Party

Where To Stay In Berlin

Germany’s capital city offers so many fantastic accommodations. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly abodes, Berlin has the perfect spot for every traveler. And Berlin also has many unique hostels .

Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

The elegant 5-star Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is in an excellent location, just steps from Brandenburg Gate. The home of timeless luxury, this hotel in the heart of Berlin is truly a treat!

• Address: Unter Den Linden 77, 10117 Berlin
• Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi, coffee shop, spa and wellness center, restaurant, and room service

Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz

The Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz is right on Potsdamer Platz, within walking distance of the Brandbenburg Gate. This is a modern hotel offering great value for money.

• Address: Gabriele Tergit Promenade 19, 10963 Berlin
• Amenities: fitness center, free Wi-Fi, coffee shop, flat-screen TV, bar/lounge, tea/coffee maker

The Circus Hotel

The 3-star trendy hotel in the heart of the city is a great budget-friendly option for travelers looking to save money while still maintaining a prime location. The Circus Hotel has a rooftop terrace, a relaxed atmosphere, and bicycle rentals on-site.

• Address: Rosenthaler Straße 1, 10119 Berlin
• Amenities: Bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, room service, tea/coffee maker, flat-screen TV

Related: Berlin Was Once Home To A Maze Of Over 1,000 Bunkers, And Many Are Open To The Public Today

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Berlin

There is so much to do and so many things to see in Berlin. A big hearty breakfast is necessary to fuel up for a busy day. Try Father Carpenter in the city center and order French toast and a large coffee. Such a sweet way to kick off the day!

With so many attractions, it’s impossible to see them all. Start with the most famous landmark in Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate. Next, prioritize based on interest. For art lovers, head to Museum Island for an afternoon of museum hopping; five museums are here. Or check out the East Side Gallery for something really unique. For history buffs, explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall, Charlottenburg Palace, the Berlin Cathedral, or the Reichstag Building.

Before dinner, stroll through Tiergarten Park. Enjoy a traditional German dinner at Hackethalls. And for partygoers, stretch this perfect day in Berlin into the next morning at Berghain, the most popular nightclub in the world.

Q: What is Berlin famous for?

The largest city it Germany, Berlin is famous for its music venues, techno clubs, and art scene . And Berlin's also famous for its exceptional landmarks, its very storied history, and its mix of historic and modern architecture.

It's a top tourist destination for a reason—Berlin is beautiful and offers so many things to do and see.

Q: Is Berlin a cheap city?

Berlin is one of the more affordable cities in Western Europe. There are so many things to see in Berlin , and many of them, tourists can visit for free.

Like any city, there are luxury options and budget-friendly options. Tourists can create their own itineraries to match their desired budgets.

Q: What should first-time visitors to Berlin do?

The Brandenburg Gate and the East Side Gallery are two must-see attractions for first-time visitors to Berlin. Try the delicious cuisine and the local beer, and check out all the historic landmarks, like the Berlin Cathedral, the Reichstag Building, and Museum Island.

Berlin is a great destination for first-time visitors!

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The World’s 9 Most Iconic Buildings: Then and Now

By Katherine McLaughlin

Iconic buildings are often so for one main reason: They’ve stood the test of time. Throughout decades—sometimes even centuries—these structures have remained symbols of their respective cities, if not countries. Whether part of everyday life for locals or attractions for tourists to visit, these notable structure serve as beacons of discovery and offer in-depth looks at the history and culture of the communities in which they’re located. But just because they’ve existed for years doesn’t mean they haven’t evolved, both physically and culturally, in that same time. Below, AD surveys nine iconic buildings, looking back on their history and showcasing their current state.

Flatiron Building (New York City, USA)

The Flatiron Building in 1952

The Flatiron Building today

One of New York City’s most iconic buildings, the Flatiron building has stood in Manhattan since 1902. The unique triangle building was designed by Daniel Burnham and was crafted to fit into a three-sided plot at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway. The city has since added a plaza in front of the building that offers public seating, food kiosks, and seasonal decorations and plantings.

Eiffel Tower (Paris, France)

The Eiffel Tower under construction in 1888

The Eiffel Tower today

The Eiffel Tower has gone through a number of transformation since its 1888 inception. Some of the notable milestones in Paris’s iconic landmark include when lighting engineers rigged it to serve as—essentially—a large billboard throughout the 1920s and ’30s and when the addition of a radio antenna increased its height by almost a hundred feet.

Sagrada Familia (Barcelona, Spain)

The Sagrada Familia in 1935

The Sagrada Familia today

Antoni Gaudí ’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia is still being built. Construction started in 1882 and is expected to be completed in 2026 . Gaudí knew the massive church wouldn’t be completed in his lifetime, so he left detailed instructions and plans for those who would carry on the work after his passing. The left image shows the basilica in 1935, about 10 years after Gaudí passed. Last year, the organization that oversees the completion of the structure shared that the four main towers —which represent the four gospels—were finally completed, though more work is yet to be done.

Sydney Opera House (Australia)

The Sydney Opera House in 1966

The Sydney Opera House today

Compared to the Sagrada Familia, the construction of the Sydney Opera House flew by. However, spanning 14 years, it still took a fair amount of time. Disagreements regarding the project’s budget were among the primary reasons for this, which ultimately lead to the original architect, Jørn Utzon, resigning before the venue’s completion. Today it is among the most recognizable landmarks in the world and welcomes an estimated 11 million visitors yearly.

Taj Mahal (Agra, India)

A historic view of the Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal today.

The Taj Mahal is nearly 400 years old and the preeminent example of Islamic architecture. Located in Agra, the onion dome is often considered the most impressive feature of the striking mausoleum. One of the most notable changes in the building over the years has been its color. When constructed, the building was a pearly white, but it has since evolved to various shades of yellow.

Empire State Building (New York City, New York)

The Empire State building under construction in 1930

The Empire State Building today

When the Empire State Building opened in 1931, it was nicknamed the Empty State Building because so much of the office space was unused. When finished, it was tallest building in the world, but the United States was slipping into the Great Depression, and corporate tenants were not in large supply. Though plenty of work was put in to attract business, the building wasn’t profitable until after the Second World War. Today, it’s still one of the most recognizable parts of the New York City skyline , and its observation deck is one of the best places to take in the massive metropolis.

Reichstag Building (Berlin, Germany)

The Reichstag Building in 1945

The Reichstag Building today

Built between 1884 and 1894, the Reichstag Building was originally used as the seat of parliament in the German Empire and the Weimar Republic. During World War II, the renaissance building was heavily destroyed. However, it has been meticulously restored since, and it now looks much like it once did when it was first constructed.

Washington Monument (Washington, DC, USA)

Historic image of the Washington Monument

The Washington Monument today

“Built in the shape of an Egyptian obelisk, evoking the timelessness of ancient civilizations, the Washington Monument embodies the awe, respect, and gratitude the nation felt for its most essential founding father,” explains the National Park Service . Located in Washington, DC, it is still the tallest structure in the city and situated on the National Mall between the US Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial.

Tower of London

The Tower of London in 1894

The Tower of London today

William the Conqueror built the White Tower—the oldest part of the Tower of London—in 1066 to demonstrate Norman power and assert his dominance. Designed both for protection and control, the iconic building overlooks the Thames River. “The Tower represents, more than any other structure, the far-reaching significance of the mid-11th-century Norman Conquest of England, for the impact it had on fostering closer ties with Europe, on English language and culture, and in creating one of the most powerful monarchies in Europe,” explains the UNESCO . The structure houses the Crown Jewels and welcomes millions of visitors each year. People still live at the tower too, including the Yeomen Warders and their families, the Resident Governor, and soldiers.

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