Reichstag
Germany's parliament building with Foster's glass dome and rooftop views.
Ideal: Ideal for politics, history, architecture, and city-view enthusiasts.
Opened in 1894; the February 1933 fire was used by the Nazis to justify emergency powers. Cyrillic graffiti carved by Soviet soldiers who seized the building in 1945 was not erased during restoration and is preserved in the corridors today. Norman Foster's glass dome added in 1999 has a central cone with 360 mirrors that reflect daylight into the chamber below, and visitors walk directly above the MPs — a deliberate design choice expressing the idea that the people stand above politics. Dome entry is free but requires advance registration.
Why go?
- To see Germany's parliament building and its modern glass dome
- Because it offers an impressive viewpoint over Berlin from above
- Because it fits easily on the same route as the Brandenburg Gate and government district
Travel tip
Dome visits may require advance booking; don't leave it to the last minute.
