The Berlin TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm) is Germany’s tallest structure and the city’s most visible landmark. Standing at 368 meters, it offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the capital. Located in Alexanderplatz, it was built by the GDR in the 1960s as a symbol of socialist power, but today it serves as a unified symbol of Berlin.
What to expect
- The Experience: You will take a high-speed elevator that travels 6 meters per second, whisking you up to the observation deck at 203 meters in just 40 seconds.
- The View: On a clear day, visibility can reach up to 40–80 kilometers. You can spot the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, the winding Spree River, and the unique layout of the city.
- Security: Be prepared for strict security checks similar to an airport. You will pass through metal detectors, and large bags are not allowed.
- Crowds: As one of Berlin’s most popular attractions, it is almost always busy. The observation deck can feel crowded, especially near the windows during sunset.
Where to buy tickets
- Online (Highly Recommended): The best way to visit is to book a “Fast View” or “Time Slot” ticket on the official TV Tower website or major ticket platforms. This guarantees your entry time and lets you skip the long ticket-buying queue (though you still wait for security).
- On-Site: You can buy tickets at the entrance machines or counters. However, during peak season, tickets for the immediate time slots are often sold out, and you may be given a slot for hours later.
- Berlin WelcomeCard: If you have the standard Berlin WelcomeCard, you can get a 25% discount, but you usually need to buy the discounted ticket at the desk or select the specific “WelcomeCard” option online.
Berlin TV Tower tickets
Ticket prices fluctuate slightly based on the season and time of day (dynamic pricing), but general categories include:
- Fast View Ticket: Approximately €24.50 – €28.00. This is the standard online ticket that lets you skip the cashier line.
- Student / Youth (4-14 years): Approximately €14.50 – €18.00.
- Children (Under 4): Free admission.
- Restaurant Ticket: This ticket (approx. €10.00 – €25.00 reservation fee + admission) guarantees you a table at the “Sphere” restaurant. Note: The food cost is separate and is not included in the ticket price.
- VR Experience Ticket: A newer option that includes a Virtual Reality headset experience explaining Berlin’s history.
Combo Tickets
- TV Tower + Hop-on Hop-off Bus: A popular combination that allows you to tour the city and get fast-track entry to the tower.
- Berlin WelcomeCard All Inclusive: Unlike the standard card, the “All Inclusive” version grants free entry to the TV Tower. You must still book a time slot to ensure entry.
Berlin TV Tower’s opening hours
The tower is open 363 days a year (closing only for maintenance on selected dates).
- March to October: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- November to February: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Last Ascent: Usually 30-45 minutes before closing time.
- Restaurant Kitchen: The kitchen typically closes around 9:30 PM or 10:00 PM.
How long does Berlin Tower take?
- Observation Deck Only: Most visitors spend about 45 to 60 minutes walking around the deck, taking photos, and having a drink at the bar.
- With Restaurant Reservation: If you are dining, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours. The restaurant rotates a full 360 degrees once every hour (or every 30 mins depending on setting), so a 1-hour lunch allows you to see the entire city.
Best time to visit Berlin Tower
- Sunset: This is the most magical (and most expensive/crowded) time. You get to see the city by day, watch the sunset, and see the city lights come on.
- Early Morning: The first slot of the day (9:00 AM or 10:00 AM) is the quietest. You will have more space at the windows and clearer air for photos.
- Late Night: Visiting after 9:00 PM is often calm and offers a beautiful view of the illuminated city.
Berlin TV Tower observation deck
Located at 203 meters, the observation deck is the main area for visitors.
- Bar 203: There is a bar on this level serving champagne, beer, and coffee. Prices are high, but the view justifies it.
- Information Panels: Panels around the deck help you identify major landmarks below, such as the Olympic Stadium and Tempelhof Field.
- Crowding: There is no “time limit” once you are up there (unless you have a restaurant table), so people often linger at the best window spots.
Restaurant in Berlin TV Tower
The revolving restaurant, Sphere, is located one floor above the observation deck at 207 meters.
- Rotation: The entire seating area slowly rotates, giving you a constantly changing view while you eat.
- Menu: The food is “international with a Berlin touch.” It is upscale, so expect to pay premium prices (e.g., €25+ for a main course).
- Reservation: You must book a specific “Restaurant Ticket” in advance. You generally cannot just walk up to the restaurant from the observation deck without a prior booking.
- Window Seats: You can specifically book a “Window Table” ticket for a higher price to guarantee a front-row seat.
Which entrance to take?
The entrance is located in the pavilion structure at the base of the tower.
- Location: Opposite the Alexanderplatz S-Bahn station and the Gontardstraße tram stops.
- Signage: Look for the entrance marked “Fast View” or “Pre-booked Tickets” if you bought online, which is usually separate from the “Tickets” line for walk-ins.
Waiting time at TV Tower Berlin
- With Online Ticket: You will still wait for the security check and the elevator. This typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.
- Without Ticket: In summer or on weekends, you might wait 30 to 60 minutes just to buy a ticket, and then find out the next available entry slot is 3 hours later.
- Elevator Wait: Because there are only two elevators, there is often a short bottleneck getting up and down.
TV Tower free with Berlin Welcome Card
- Standard Berlin WelcomeCard: No, it is not free. You get a discount (approx. 25%).
- Berlin WelcomeCard “All Inclusive”: Yes, entry is free with this specific version of the card.
- Berlin Pass / Go City: Often includes free entry (check specific pass details).
FAQs about Fernsehturm Berlin
1. Is the tower wheelchair accessible?
Strictly No. Due to fire safety regulations, wheelchair users and people who cannot descend the 986 stairs independently in an emergency are not permitted to enter. This is strictly enforced.
2. Can I bring a backpack?
Large backpacks, suitcases, and trolleys are not allowed. There is a cloakroom in the entrance hall where you can leave bags, but space can be limited. Small handbags are fine.
3. Are pets allowed?
No, dogs and other pets are not allowed. Assistance dogs are generally the only exception, but you should check with the tower management beforehand due to the safety evacuation rules.
4. Is there a dress code for the restaurant?
There is no strict formal dress code; “smart casual” is appropriate. Tourists in casual wear are common during the day, but people tend to dress up slightly more for dinner.
5. Can I bring my own food?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed on the observation deck or in the restaurant. Security will confiscate food items.
