The Panoramapunkt is one of Berlin’s most underrated viewing platforms. Located on the top floors of the Kollhoff Tower in the center of Potsdamer Platz, it offers a stunning, open-air view of the city skyline. Unlike the TV Tower, here you stand outside in the wind, feeling the pulse of the city from 100 meters up.
What to expect at Panoramapunkt
The experience begins with a thrill: you will ride the fastest elevator in Europe, which shoots you up to the 24th floor in just 20 seconds.
- The View: Once at the top, you step onto an open-air observation deck. Because you are in the center of the city (rather than high above it like at the TV Tower), you get a detailed view of landmarks. You can clearly see the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag dome, and the winding path of the former Berlin Wall from a unique “bird’s eye” perspective.
- Open-Air Experience: Unlike the glass-enclosed TV Tower, this deck is open to the elements (though safety glass protects you from falling). This makes it excellent for photography as there are fewer reflections.
- “Berliner Blicke” Exhibition: On the 24th floor, there is an open-air exhibition detailing the turbulent history of Potsdamer Platz, showing its evolution from a busy 1920s traffic hub to a desolate wasteland during the Cold War, and finally its modern rebirth.
- Panoracafé: On the 25th floor, there is a glass-walled café styled with 1930s decor. You can enjoy coffee and cake while looking out over West Berlin and the sunset.
Where to buy tickets
- Online (Recommended): The most convenient way is to book tickets via the official Panoramapunkt website or major tourism platforms. This allows you to check availability and sometimes skip the line at the cashier.
- On-Site: There is a ticket counter in the lobby of the Kollhoff Tower. Lines here are generally much shorter than at the TV Tower, making this a great spontaneous destination.
- Berlin WelcomeCard: If you have the Berlin WelcomeCard, you can get a significant discount (usually 25% to 35%) on the standard ticket price. You present your card at the counter to claim this.
Tickets for Panoramapunkt
- Standard Adult: Approximately €11.50 – €16.00 (depending on the booking platform and ticket type).
- Reduced Admission: Approximately €9.00. This generally applies to students, seniors, and people with disabilities.
- Children (Under 6): Free admission.
- Family Tickets: Special family rates are often available, typically covering 2 adults and up to 4 children.
- VIP / Skip-the-Line: Some third-party providers sell “VIP” tickets for a higher price (approx. €20.00) that allow you to skip the elevator queue, though lines are rarely long enough to necessitate this.
How to reach Panoramapunkt
The tower is located at Potsdamer Platz 1, 10785 Berlin. The entrance is on the side of the brick building (Kollhoff Tower), facing the main street.
- By S-Bahn (Train): Take lines S1, S2, or S25 to Potsdamer Platz. The tower is right outside the station exit.
- By U-Bahn (Subway): Take the U2 line to Potsdamer Platz.
- By Bus: The M41, M48, M85, and 200 buses all stop at Potsdamer Platz or Varian-Fry-Straße.
- Landmark: Look for the tall, red-brick building with the stepped-back design. It is located directly next to the DB Tower (glass building) and the Sony Center.
Panoramapunkt Berlin’s timings
- Summer (approx. April – October): Daily 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
- Winter (approx. November – March): Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Last Ascent: The last elevator ride up is strictly 30 minutes before closing (e.g., 6:30 PM in summer).
- Café Hours: The Panoracafé usually opens at 11:00 AM and closes shortly before the viewing platform shuts down.
How long does Panoramapunkt take
- Average Visit: 45 to 60 minutes. This gives you enough time to ride the elevator, walk the full 360-degree loop, take photos, and look at the history exhibition.
- With Coffee: If you plan to sit in the café for a drink, plan for 90 minutes.
- Quick Stop: Because the lines are short and the elevator is fast, you can squeeze this visit into 30 minutes if you are in a rush.
Best time to visit Panoramapunkt
- Sunset: This is widely considered the best sunset spot in Berlin. Because you are facing West on the open terrace, you can watch the sun dip below the horizon with the city silhouettes in the foreground.
- Golden Hour: The red brick of the tower glows beautifully in the late afternoon light.
- Avoid: Windy, rainy days can be unpleasant since the main deck is outdoors.
FAQs about Berlin’s Panoramapunkt
1. Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the platform is fully wheelchair accessible. The high-speed elevators take you to the 24th floor, and there is a ramp/lift to access the café level.
2. Can I bring a dog?
Yes, unlike the TV Tower, dogs are allowed at Panoramapunkt! Small dogs can be carried, and larger dogs must be on a leash and muzzled.
3. Is there a dress code for the café?
No, the Panoracafé is casual. You can enter in normal sightseeing clothes.
4. Can I take photos?
Yes, photography is permitted. It is one of the few high points in Berlin where you are not shooting through glass (on the main deck), so it is excellent for night photography—though tripods may be restricted if it is crowded.
5. Is it safe for children?
Yes, the platform is secured with high glass walls and metal railings, making it perfectly safe for children. The elevator ride is smooth but very fast, which kids usually love.
