Experience Berlin from above in the TV Tower Observation Deck

Built under the German Democratic Republic (GDR), the emblematic television tower has become a symbol of the entire city. At 368 metres high, the Berlin Television Tower is the most visible building in the city. But the tower on Alexanderplatz is not only a must-see attraction, it's also the tallest building open to the public in Europe. In just 40 seconds, the express lift from the Television Tower transports visitors to the observation platform overlooking the city. From its vantage point, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the whole city! The fantastic panorama of the cityscape includes many famous landmarks, from the Parliament building (the Reichstag) to the Olympic Stadium and the abandoned Tempelhof airport.

The TV Tower

- © canadastock / Shutterstock

The tower’s history

The Berlin Television Tower was officially inaugurated on 3 October 1969 - shortly before East Germany celebrated its 20th anniversary. For Walter Ulbricht, then head of state of East Germany, the Television Tower, built in just four years, was an emblem of the superiority of the communist system - unequivocal proof that the GDR was building a bright future. The tower was designed by Hermann Henselmann and the group of architects around Fritz Diete, Günter Franke and Werner Neumann from the state-owned company Industries Projektierung (Ipro) Berlin. For a time, the general manager of the entire project was Gerhard Kosel, then President of the GDR's Deutsche Bauakademie in Berlin.

The days of East Germany are long gone, and yet, the Television Tower still attracts large crowds - it's one of the major attractions in 21st century Germany. After the reunification of Germany, the Television Tower took on a whole new meaning. No longer just a symbol of East Germany, the tower quickly became an integral part of Berlin's new cityscape and a symbol of the city - both nationally and internationally.

In 1979, still under East Germany, the Television Tower was already classified as a heritage building. Today, it welcomes over a million visitors from 86 countries every year. The observation point, over 200 metres high, offers a spectacular view of this dynamic city, where history, modernity and innovation merge. The Panorama Bar and Sphere revolving restaurant within the Tower are also ideal places to relax with a drink and enjoy the breathtaking views.

The TV Tower

- © Serbi / Shutterstock

The panoramic restaurant and bar

Sphere restaurant

If the sky is clear, it's definitely a good time to visit the Television Tower. For this popular tourist attraction, it is highly recommended that visitors arrive early to avoid queues for the lift, especially on a sunny day. But whether you're a morning person or not, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go - and to buy skip-the-line tickets. 

Our recommendation is to book tickets online - and choose the time that suits your schedule best;

The restaurant offers a wide choice of international cuisine, as well as a varied children's menuIf you want to enjoy the spectacular city views while eating, the Sphere restaurant is the place for you. 

Sphere bar

Drinking a cocktail while enjoying the vast panorama of Berlin is precisely what Sphere Bar offers. Drinks at Berlin's top bar, where perfectly crafted cocktails, premium wines, and lively ambiance create an unforgettable experience. The bar offers an unmatched vantage point over the entire city from its 203-metre perch in the renowned TV Tower. The city shifts into a shining sea of lights as the sun goes down, providing an idyllic setting for your evening. A drink at Sphere Bar is more than just a simple beverage—it's a ticket to Berlin's spectacular nightlife. To avoid waiting in a long queue, it’s best to make a reservation here.

Practical information about your visit

Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz Berlin

Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz

Ideally located in the centre of Berlin, Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz features a bar and free Wi-Fi access. Only 400 metres from Alexanderplatz, the TV Tower is easily accessible by foot.
From
£117 /night
Book!

Opening hours:

Observation Deck: open from 11am to 10pm

Restaurant Sphere: open from 11am - 10pm\ The tower is closed on two days every year for maintenance work.

Price:

For the observation deck: €‎24,5 for adults (ages 14 and up), €‎14,5 for children (4 to 14 years old) and free admission for children under 4 years old. To make a reservation, click here.

How to get to the TV Tower?

By car: 

  • If you prefer driving, you can rent a car or use a taxi service to get to the TV Tower. But, keep in mind that traffic and parking might be challenging. 

By bus: 

  • Berlin has an extensive public transportation network, including buses! You can take a bus to go directly from your accommodation to the TV Tower. 

By subway: 

  • The subway (U-Bahn) in Berlin can take you to the TV Tower. Stop at the Alexanderplatz subway station. 

Some things to keep in mind for your visit

  • While planning your visit, make a reservation in advance and come at the right time. 
  • Make sure to bring a charged camera or phone to take beautiful pictures of Berlin from above.

Useful Links

by Faustine PEREZ
Need a hand? take a look at our guide
Berlin
Berlin
Latest news
Geneva
Visit the Victoria Hall
Marseille
Dive into the past at the Cosquer cave reconstruction
Lille
The Grand'Place
Bruges
An iodine-filled getaway in Knokke, a coastal town 30 minutes from Bruges
Lyon
A leap back in time in Lyon's Croix-Rousse district
Read more articles
Best cities