Berlin TV Tower | Highlights & Visitor Information

About

Quick information

ADDRESS

Panoramastraße 1A, 10178 Berlin, Germany

RECOMMENDED DURATION

2 hours

Timings

9am–11pm

VISITORS PER YEAR

1200000

TICKETS

From € 26.50

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Plan your visit

Did you know?

Secret bugging device: During the Cold War, the West German intelligence agency discovered that the German Democratic Republic had hidden a listening device in the Tower's sphere. This allowed them to eavesdrop on conversations in nearby government buildings and even the US Embassy. The device was operational for several years until its discovery in the 1990s.

Easter egg lighting: The TV Tower has a quirky tradition during Easter. Every year, the tower's sphere is transformed into a giant Easter egg with special lighting arrangements. This festive touch adds a playful and unexpected element to the iconic structure, delighting locals and tourists.

Original design modification: The original design of the TV Tower included a cross at the top. However, the communist government decided to remove the cross during construction, as it was considered a religious symbol. The decision sparked controversy and was seen as a political statement in the officially atheist German Democratic Republic.

More insights

A brief history of the Berlin TV Tower

The Berlin TV Tower – or “Fernsehturm Berlin”, as it is locally known – has a rich history rooted in Cold War-era Germany. Constructed between 1965 and 1969 in what was then East Berlin, it was intended to symbolize the strength and technological prowess of the German Democratic Republic (GDR). It was strategically positioned near Alexanderplatz, making it a visible symbol of East German power.

The sphere at the top of the tower serves both functional and symbolic purposes, housing observation platforms and a rotating restaurant. Since 1969, the tower has functioned as a broadcasting facility for television and radio signals, and continues to do so today.

Since the reunification of Germany in 1990, the Berlin TV Tower has transformed into a unifying emblem for the entire city. Today, it is not only an architectural marvel but also a popular tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of Berlin and its surroundings from its observation deck.

Who built the Berlin TV Tower?

The Berlin Tower was designed and constructed by a team of architects led by Hermann Henselmann. Fritz Leonhardt was responsible for the engineering aspects of the construction, which was commissioned by the government of East Germany. The completion of the Berlin TV Tower was a major architectural and engineering achievement as new and innovative construction techniques were deployed to install the huge antenna that sits atop the tower.

Frequently asked questions about the Berlin TV Tower

What is the Berlin TV Tower?

The Berlin TV Tower is the city’s television and radio broadcasting facility. At 368 meters, it is also the tallest structure in Germany, and a symbol of the reunification between East and West Germany. Constructed in the 1960s, it offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck and a unique revolving restaurant experience.

Where is the Berlin TV Tower located?

The Berlin TV Tower is located in the central Mitte district of Berlin in the Alexanderplatz area, on Panoramastraße 1A, 10178 Berlin, Germany.

How do I book tickets to visit the Berlin TV Tower?

You can get purchase your Berlin TV Tower tickets online. You can choose between fast-access tickets to the observation deck and tickets that include a reservation at the restaurant, and also advantage of attractive discounts.

When did the Berlin TV Tower open?

The Berlin TV Tower was first opened to the public in 1969.

What’s inside the Berlin TV Tower?

The Berlin TV Tower has a observation deck, a revolving restaurant and a bar, a gift shop, and immersive virtual reality experiences inside.

Why is the Berlin TV Tower important?

The Berlin TV Tower has become a representation of the unification of Berlin and of Germany. Its functional purpose as a broadcasting facility, its historical role, as well as its significance as a popular tourist attraction have made it one of Berlin’s most important landmarks.

Is it worth visiting Berlin TV Tower?

Absolutely! Dining at Berlin’s highest restaurant with the cityscape spread below is a unique experience. And the spectacular views from the Berlin TV Tower observation deck are not to be missed.