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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    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

Spree with a view 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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Reichstag Tour Berlin, Germany

The building of the Reichstag is a mirror of German’s history and the most visited parliament in the world.

Take one of the best tours in Berlin. Reichstag is the seat of the German parliament and one of Berlin’s most historic landmarks. While visiting the Reichstag you are able to walk through the plenary hall, where German’s history has been written and is still written today. By walking across the deck over the helical path of the glass dome you can enjoy a beautiful panorama view of Berlin. Worth of thinking about the Reichstag tour  while you are considering the best things to do and places to visit in Berlin.

We recommend to stay for lunch or dinner in the Reichstag’s glass dome restaurant Käfer.

What you will see during the Reichstag Tour

• Reichstags building
• Seat of German parliament
• Plenary hall
• Panorama view over Berlin

Duration: min. 3 hours

Admissions according to the programme are included. Advance registration required. 

You can add this tour to your favorites here:

Berlin Tours

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• KaDeWe Tour
• TV Tower Tour
• 3d Reich Tour
• Cold War Tour
• Jewish Berlin Tour
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• Bike Tour – Street Art Berlin
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• One way airport transfer Berlin BER
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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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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.

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Reichstag Dome Tickets & Tours – Everything you Should Know

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Are you planning to visit the Reichstag building in Berlin ? Visitors can visit its dome and rooftop terrace, which offer amazing views of the parliamentary and Berlin’s sights. On this post, you will learn how to get Reichstag tickets , how to skip the line and beat the queue, how to book a guided tour, how to plan your visit, and some useful tips.

How much do Reichstag Dome tickets cost?

How to book reichstag tickets, how do you skip the line, are reichstag guided tours worth it, what will you see, what are the reichstag dome opening hours, what is the best time to visit the reichstag dome how can you avoid the crowd, travel tips.

The Reichstag Dome is an important part of Germany’s political history, and a must-see place to visit during any trip to Berlin. Learn more about this important and iconic part of Germany’s history, and experience fantastic views from the dome, across the city, as well as a unique insight into the German parliament below you.

Click on the following link if you wish to book Reichstag tickets right now.

Admission is free to visit the Reichstag Dome in Berlin, however to get tickets, you will need to register in advance.

There are three options to get Reichstag tickets: either book online advanced tickets , get same-day tickets at the office desk, or book a guided tour including a ticket .

Advanced Reichstag tickets

Fortunately, Reichstag tickets are free of charge however advance registration is required. You may register on the official website . You will need to fill up a form providing each visitor’s last name, first name and date of birth. You will receive your booking confirmation by email once you are registered.

Same day Reichstag tickets

If you have not booked in advance and wish to visit the Reichstag Dome on the same day, you can register to do so at the Service Centre near the Reichstag Building on the south side of Scheidemannstraße. Tickets are issued a minimum of 2 hours and a maximum of 2 days before the time of your visit.

There are no guarantee that any free places will be available at the time of your visit. This is why we strongly recommend you to book your tickets in advance.

If tickets are sold out, you may consider booking a guided tour.

Reichstag guided tour

Various guided tours are available when the Parliament is not sitting, ranging from €14 up to over €200 for a private tour with lunch included. There are several travel websites offering such guided tours. We highly recommend you to compare all the deals available so you can book the one that fit best your travel needs.

• Compare Reichstag Dome guided tours

Wondering why many visitors book Reichstag Dome tickets in advance even though the admission is free of charge?

The Reichstag is one of Berlin’ busiest sites and the waiting line can be incredibly long. If you wish to beat the queue, you must book online advanced tickets on the official website or a guided tour through a travel agency such as Getyourguide or Viator.

• Reichstag Dome guided tours

A guided tour of the Reichstag Dome is one of the most rewarding and fascinating ways to see this iconic part of Berlin, as it will allow you to learn much more about it, with a an expert to show you around. There are lots of advantages to choosing a guided tour, such as:

Learn more about the city’s history : Berlin has an important and diverse history, spanning through the major events of the 20 th century which have left their mark behind on the city, including the Second World War, and the Cold War. Having a historical expert guide you through the city’s important landmarks with a guided tour give you a chance to learn the stories behind the facts, and make a deeper connection with its past.

Avoid the crowds and lines : With many tourists visiting the city, waiting times to get into the Reichstag Dome and other attractions around Berlin can often involve lengthy waiting times, but booking a guided tour can take the waiting out of it. Instead, as your guide will already have your tickets, you can simply meet at the relevant point and go straight into the entrance.

Have a more personal experience : Private guided tours can be much more intimate and unique, and give you a more memorable encounter with Berlin. Instead of travelling with a crowd, you can enjoy exploring with a smaller group.

There are a lot of guided tours available. Compare and pick your prefered one and enjoy the visit.

The Reichstag Dome is part of the Reichstag building, an important historic building in Berlin, that was first constructed in 1894, housing the country’s parliament. After suffering serious damage from bombing in the Second World War, the German parliament decided to have the Reichstag rebuilt, with further restorations over the years. In the 1990s, the prize-winning architect, Sir Norman Foster, was commissioned to transform the building with the construction of the Reichstag Dome, a bold and striking contemporary glass addition to the classical 19 th century building.

The Reichstag Dome is designed to demonstrate the union of the modern world and Germany’s history, and pays tribute to a unified German parliament, after the fall of East Germany and the end of the Cold War. Made of steel and glass, the Dome is an impressive, high tech creation that allows incredible 360-degree views over Berlin from its roof terraces, with a spiral ramp winding up to the highest levels. Open from morning to midnight, you can take in breath-taking views during the day time, as well as the striking sight of the city lit up after dark.

As well as providing great views, the Reichstag Dome also has a unique feature, with an inverted cone of mirrors at its centre, which reflects light from above, into the chambers of parliament below. Visitors can both look out across the city, as well as take a look down into the building beneath the dome. With the debating chamber for the German parliament placed right below the dome, visitors can view the country’s parliament in action.

With a rooftop restaurant located next to the Reichstag Dome, visitors can take in the impressive views from above and enjoy a drink, snack or meal.

The Reichstag Dome is open to visitors between 8 am to midnight, and admissions are allowed every 15 minutes. The last admission of the day is at 9:45 pm.

The Reichstag Dome is closed to visitors on 24 December all day, and from 4 pm onwards on 31 December. Throughout the year, the dome is closed for some days to allow cleaning and maintenance work to be carried out. To find out when the dome may be closed for this, please check the official website. When the dome is closed, the roof terrace may still be open to visitors.

To visit the Reichstag Dome, you have to have an advance booking, either by booking on the day at the service centre, or ahead of your visit, by booking online. This means that the number of visitors inside is quite well managed and not too crowded. For great views over the city, it’s worth visiting during the day time, but for a more theatrical experience, a nighttime visit can be much more dramatic.

It is essential to register for tickets when visiting the Reichstag Dome in Berlin, either by booking in advance online before the day of your planned visit, or on-site at the visitors’ service centre. If you haven’t booked ahead and would like to visit on the day, you’ll need to go to the service centre to find out if free places for that day are available – these will be issued a minimum of two hours ahead of your visit. The service centre can also book tickets for up to two days ahead.

When registering to visit the dome at the service centre, you will need to provide official photo identification, such as a student card, driver’s license or passport – please make sure that you bring an original, as copies will not be accepted. Bookings cannot be transferred to other people, and you will be asked for proof of identity at the main entrance before going in.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Reichstag

The Reichstag in Berlin stands as a symbol of Germany's socio-political heritage. Built in 1894, the building has weathered the test of time and history, including the devastation of World War II and the Battle of Berlin. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in the parliamentary history of Berlin as they stroll through the halls of the Reichstag. If that's not enough, you can also dive into the famous contemporary art within the building and the delicious German cuisine served at the rooftop restaurant.

Read on to find out all you need to know before planning your visit to the Reichstag building and why it should be on top of your list of things to do in Berlin.

Reichstag Berlin | Visitor Information At A Glance

• What are the Reichstag Berlin's opening hours? The Reichstag is open from 8 AM to midnight, 7 days a week with the exception of 24 December. The last admission is at 10 PM.
• Where is the Reichstag Berlin located? The Reichstag Berlin is located in the heart of Berlin at Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany. Get Directions .
• How many visitors does the Reichstag Berlin see per year? The Reichstag building welcomes over 3 millions visitors yearly.

What are the Reichstag’s Opening Hours?

Reichstag Building & Dome

Opening Hours: 8 AM to 12 AM

Last admission: 10 PM

Closed: 24 December (All Day), 31 December (4 PM onwards with last admission at 2:30 PM) and for maintenance from 24 to 28 July 2023, 11 to 15 September 2023 and from 23 to 27 October 2023.

Restaurant Käfer

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM

Best Time to Visit the Reichstag Building

Weekday vs. Weekends: While the Reichstag is open daily, if you’re looking for a serene experience with lesser hustle and bustle, weekdays are your best bet. This allows you to avoid the crowd and stroll through the hallways or take in the view of the city undisturbed and at your own pace. 

Best Time in the Year: YIf you’re planning a visit to Berlin, ensure you do so based on your preferences. While peak season, that is from April to October, promises pleasant weather, it’s also the busiest time of the year. Expect high footfall during the season. Conversely, during the months of November to March, the weather is on the colder side but footfall is fairly less, giving you more room to explore.

Best Time of the Day: Slot your visit to the Reichstag building depending on your preference. If you’re looking for clear views of the city, daytime is the best option. If you’re looking to capture picturesque shots, sunset hours or twilight provide the best views. However, if you’re looking for a smaller crowd, visiting near opening or closing hours would be your best option.

Where is the Reichstag Building Located?

Address : Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany

Find on Maps

Located in central Berlin, the Reichstag building is in proximity to several landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Tiergarten park. Additionally, its central location makes it easily accessible via a variety of transportation.

Closest landmark : Brandenburg Gate (500 m)

Getting to the Reichstag in Berlin

By Public Transportation

By Bus: Board bus number 100 and board off at Reichstag/Bundestag. The Reichstag building is just a 3 min walk away.

By Train: Board the S1and S26 and get off at Brandenburger Tor station which is barely a 7 min walk away.

By Metro: Hop on either U2 (Red Line), U5 (Brown Line), or the U6 (Purple Line) and alight at U Bundestag which is a 7 min walk from the Reichstag building.

Nearest Parking : Parkhaus Luisenstraße APCOA

The Parkhaus Luisenstraße APCOA is a car park situated a simple 10 minute walk from the Reichstag building. It’s an ideal park for tourists in Berlin.

How to Skip the Line at the Reichstag in Berlin?

• Book your Tickets in Advance : A sure-shot way to guarantee a hassle-free entry into the Reichstag Berlin is by booking your tickets online and in advance.
• Opt for a Guided Tour : Guided tours not only allow you direct and seamless entry into the Reichstag but also allows you to learn all about the site under the wing of a local guide.
• Go Early : The Reichstag building opens as early as 8 AM. The earlier you go, the less crowd you’re likely to encounter while entering the destination.

Book Tickets to Reichstag

Know before you go.

• Information desks: Multiple information desks are located throughout the Reichstag building, where friendly staff are available to assist visitors with any queries or concerns.
• Cloakroom: There are no cloakroom or storage facilities within the Reichstag. Large luggage is not permitted within the location as well as coats, bags and other items are subject to an X-ray check.
• Phone Chargers : There are no dedicated phone charging stations in the building, but visitors are welcome to charge their phones at any of the available electrical outlets.
• Restrooms: There are restrooms at the rooftop level, including facilities for people with disabilities.
• Lost & Found: If you misplace an item during your visit to Reichstag, you can report it to the Lost & Found team at the Help Desk.

• Carry your passport during your visit to the Reichstag
• Luggage and large bags are prohibited within the premises. There are no cloakrooms so prepare accordingly.
• Bags, coats and other items are subjected to X-ray examination upon arrival.
• Pets aren’t permitted within the premises. However, in the case of service animals, it’s prudent to check with the Bundestag authorities.
• You must follow the instructions of the Bundestag staff at all times.
• Weapons and hazardous items are prohibited inside the attraction.

• People with disabilities can enter the Reichstag Building via the entrance below and to the right of the West Portal (West C).
• Wheelchairs on loan are available at the venue. The exhibitions are also accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• People with hearing impairment can be assisted via induction loops during plenary debates in the visitor’s galleries.
• If you’re a group of 10 or more individuals with hearing impairment, sign language interpreters can be provided for your tour. However, application for the same must be done in advance.
• For individuals with visual impairments, braille labels and audio notifications are present in elevators. Additionally, a tactile guide to the Reichstag Building, plenary chamber and Reichstag dome, as well as the parliamentary and government district is available.

• Käfer: Enjoy a scrumptious German meal at this rooftop restaurant while also taking in a wonderful view of the city skyline. The restaurant runs from 9 AM to 5 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM.

• The Brandenburg Gate : Located right beside the Bundestag, the Brandenburg Gate is one of the most iconic neoclassical structures dating back to the 18th century.
• Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe: This site is a powerful tribute to the victims of the Holocaust consisting of 2,711 concrete slabs of varying heights arranged in a grid-like pattern. Visitors are called to walk through the monument to reflect and remember those who lost their lives.
• Museum Island : A cultural complex located in the heart of Berlin, it consists of 5 world-renowned museums including Altes Museum (Old Museum), Neues Museum (New Museum), Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery), Bode Museum, Pergamon Museum
• Berliner Dom: Also known as Berlin Cathedral, it is a stunning 19th-century church located on Museum Island in Berlin. You can climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city, or explore the ornate interior and its impressive pipe organ.
• Berlin Wall Memorial : Situated in Bernauer Strasse, this preserved section of the Berlin Wall and its accompanying documentation center tells the story of the division of Berlin and the impact it had on the city and its residents.
• Tiergarten : A sprawling parkland located in the heart of Berlin, Tiergarten is home to many notable attractions, including the Berlin Zoo, Victory Column, and Bellevue Palace. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

• Book your visit in advance: It's best to book your visit to Reichstag in advance to secure your spot and avoid long wait times.
• Bring valid documentation: You'll need to bring a valid passport with you to enter the building.
• Dress appropriately: Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, as you may be walking outside to access the rooftop terrace.
• Arrive early: Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled entry time to allow time for security checks.
• Take a guided tour: Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the Reichstag.
• Don't forget your camera: The rooftop terrace offers incredible views of the city, so don't forget to bring your camera.
• Visit at sunset: Sunset is a popular time to visit Reichstag, as you can see the city transition from day to night.
• Bring water: You may get thirsty during your visit, so consider bringing water with you.
• Check out the Reichstag dome: Make sure to visit the impressive glass dome, which offers 360-degree views of the city.
• Explore nearby attractions: There are many other attractions in the area, including Museum Island and the Brandenburg Gate, so plan to spend some time exploring the surrounding area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Reichstag

A. The Reichstag is open daily from 8 AM to 12 AM with the last admission at 10 PM.

A. The best time to visit the Reichstag Berlin is early in the morning or late at night to avoid the crowds.

A. No, visitors must enter during their booked time slot.

A. A typical visit to the Reichstag building takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours.

A. Yes, group visits to the Reichstag Berlin are allowed, but it is recommended to book in advance.

A. The Reichstag building is located at Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany.

A. The best way to get to the Reichstag Berlin is by public transport, with several train and bus stops nearby.

A. Yes, prams are allowed in the Reichstag Berlin.

A. Yes, photography is allowed inside the Reichstag in Berlin.

A. No, there is no cloakroom available at the Reichstag Berlin.

A. No, visitors are not allowed to bring large bags or suitcases into the Reichstag Berlin.

A. Yes, visitors can see everything at the Reichstag Berlin in one visit.