The Reichstag Dome is a glass cupola crowning the Reichstag Building, home of Germany's federal parliament (Bundestag). Designed by Norman Foster, it opened in 1999 alongside the rebuilt parliament as a symbol of a reunified Germany. Visitors spiral up its double-helix ramps for a 360-degree panorama of Berlin while looking down through a central mirrored cone into the debating chamber below — an architectural statement about the transparency of democracy. As of 2026, entry is free but requires advance online registration, and slots fill quickly in high season.
Walking up the twin spiral (double-helix) ramps to the top for a 360-degree view over the Brandenburg Gate, Tiergarten, and the government quarter
The central mirrored cone of 360 mirrors that funnels daylight down into the plenary chamber — an energy-saving design symbolizing democratic transparency
Looking straight down through the dome's opening into the actual Bundestag debating chamber
The free audio guide that auto-plays and narrates the landmarks outside as you ascend
The rooftop terrace and the Käfer rooftop restaurant, plus the building's layered history from its 1894 completion through the 1933 fire to reunification
Good to know
RulesAdmission is free but advance online registration at visite.bundestag.de is mandatory. Booking opens roughly three months ahead and popular midday slots in June–August sell out in the first week — reserve as soon as your dates are set.
RulesYou must bring the exact original ID (passport) whose name and date of birth match your reservation. Copies are not accepted and mismatched details mean no entry.
SafetyExpect airport-style security screening before entry; large bags and luggage are not allowed. Arrive with time to spare before your booked slot.
CautionDome entry is always free. Ignore anyone near the Brandenburg Gate selling 'official tickets' or pushing petitions/donations, and never pay a third party for access.
SeasonThe glass dome gets hot in summer sun and the open terrace is windy and cold in winter — bring water, sun protection, or warm layers. In 2026 the dome is closed for cleaning and maintenance on 15–19 June, 29 June–3 July, 14–18 September, 28 September–2 October, and 19–30 October, so check the dates.
MannersThis is a working parliament building, so stay quiet and respectful. Photography is allowed, but be considerate of other visitors and staff.
Practical info
Reach it via U-Bahn line U5 'Bundestag' or S-Bahn 'Brandenburger Tor' (about a 7-minute walk), or bus 100. It is open daily 8:00–24:00 (last admission around 21:45) and free, but requires advance registration at visite.bundestag.de. Without a booking you can try the nearby visitor service centre up to two hours before, subject to availability — always verify current hours, maintenance closures, and rules before you go.
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