Berlin TV Tower

The Berlin TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm) is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the German capital. Rising above Alexanderplatz in the very center of the city, it attracts more than a million visitors every year. From its observation deck and revolving restaurant, located over 200 meters above the ground, you can enjoy the best panoramic views of Berlin. Together with the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, the tower has become a true symbol of the city.

History and Facts

The tower was completed in 1969, during the era of the GDR, on the territory of East Berlin. At the time, it was meant to demonstrate the technological power and prestige of socialist Germany in the face of Cold War competition. At 365 meters (368 meters since a new antenna was fitted in 1997), it was then the second tallest TV tower in the world after Moscow’s Ostankino Tower, and it is still the tallest structure in Germany (for comparison, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is about 330 meters).

Berliners nicknamed it “Telespargel” (TV asparagus). When the sun shines on the steel ball, a bright cross of light appears on it, which East Berliners jokingly called “the Pope’s revenge”.

• Location: Panoramastrasse 1A, near Alexanderplatz.
• Nearby attractions: Neptune Fountain, the Red Town Hall, Museum Island, and Berlin Cathedral.
• Transport: Alexanderplatz station (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, trams).

Observation Deck and Restaurant

Visitors cannot climb to the very top of the tower. Instead, they access the spherical structure, 32 meters in diameter, located more than 200 meters above the ground.

• Observation deck: 203 m high, with 60 windows offering a closed 360° panorama.
• Restaurant Sphere: 207 m high, rotating once every hour so diners enjoy a constantly changing view of Berlin.

Only about 320 people can be inside the ball at once. Two high-speed elevators (capacity: 12 people each) transport guests to the deck in just 40 seconds at a speed of 6 m/s. A staircase of 986 steps also leads up, but it is not open to tourists.

From the deck, you can spot many famous landmarks: Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, Reichstag, Potsdamer Platz, and the Spree River.

Opening Hours

• March – October: 9:00 – 00:00
• November – February: 10:00 – 00:00
• Last ascent: 23:30
• Restaurant last entry: 23:00

The tower is open almost every day of the year. Ticket prices are dynamic, so booking online in advance is usually cheaper.

Ticket Prices (2026)

• Adults (15+): from about €24.50 online
• Children aged 4–14: from about €14.50
• Children under 4: Free