Guide to Visiting Reichstag Building

Author: Janice Vazquez | Last updated: January 2025

A German flag flies above and in front of the gray building — *Reichstag Building Entrance in Berlin Germany*

The Reichstag Building, a historic government landmark in Berlin, serves as the seat of the German Bundestag. Once scarred by the infamous 1933 fire and standing as a symbol of Germany’s tumultuous past, it has been transformed with a stunning Glass Dome designed by Sir Norman Foster. This Glass Dome not only represents transparency in government but also offers visitors an unforgettable experience: ascending spiraling ramps to enjoy panoramic views of the city and glimpses into the parliamentary chamber below.

To ensure you get the most out of your visit, planning ahead is essential. This travel guide provides key insights into the types of tours offered, tickets to access the Glass Dome, and hours of operation.

How to visit the Reichstag Building

people looking into the glass dome — *Glass Dome*

The Reichstag Building offers guided tours and access to its Glass Dome and Rooftop Terrace daily, except during the parliamentary sessions and on public holidays such as Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Day of National Mourning, December 23 – 26 (Christmas) and December 31 (New Year’s Eve).

Guided Tours are available in German, Danish, English, French, Italian, Norwegian, Russian or Spanish.
Visitors to the Glass Dome receive an audio guide, offered in multiple languages including English, French, Chinese, Dutch, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Ukrainian and German. Special audio guides are also available in German for children and individuals with disabilities.

Type	Description	Duration	Times Offered
Guided Tours and access to the Glass Dome and Rooftop Terrace	Learn about the building’s architecture, historical significance, and functions. At the Glass Dome, you’ll also be able to take in the sights as you ascend and descend the 230-meter-long walkway.	90 minutes	9:00am, 10:30am, 12.00pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 5:00pm, 6:30pm, 8:00pm (deviations possible on weekends)
Access to the Glass Dome and Rooftop Terrace	Learn about the building’s architecture, its surroundings, and the work of Parliament. At the Glass Dome, you’ll also be able to take in the sights as you ascend and descend the 230-meter-long walkway.	20 minutes (but you can stay as long as you want)	8:00am – 9:45pm (deviations possible on weekends and on days when the German Bundestag is not in session)*

Time Needed: 1.5 hours

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LmCgtj2RsQFGc9Ls6

*Note: The dome will be closed for cleaning and maintenance from 31 March to 4 April 2025, from 21 to 25 July 2025, from 28 July to 1 August 2025, from 15 to 19 September 2025 and from 13 to 17 October 2025. The roof terrace can still be visited when the dome is closed.

How to buy a ticket to visit the Reichstag Building?

All tickets are free of charge. You must reserve a ticket in advance by registering through the official booking website. If you’re interested in a guided tour, you can only book in advance for up to 3 months.

A lady in sunglasses and a yellow dress in front of the glass dome — *Janice in front of the Glass Dome*

If you’re unable to reserve tickets online, you may visit the Visitors Service near the Reichstag Building (located next to the Berlin Pavilion on the south side of Scheidemannstraße) on the day of your visit.
However, keep in mind that entry may not be guaranteed if the dome reaches maximum capacity, so booking in advance is recommended to ensure access. When registering in person, you must show a valid official photo ID (identity card or passport).

Additional Information: Security Checkpoint

To enter the Reichstag Building, you’ll need to pass through a security checkpoint. There are two separate lines: one for Guided Tours and another for Glass Dome visits only. At the checkpoint, you’ll be required to show a valid photo ID, such as an identity card or passport. Your bags will then be screened using a metal detector by a security officer.

Tip: I highly recommend arriving 15 minutes early before your tour begins to ensure you make it on time.

Enjoy Your Time in Berlin

Berlin offers an exciting mix of history, culture, and museums. I hope that you’ll find these tips to be useful when visiting the Reichstag Building. Don’t hesitate to drop a comment to let us know what you think.

Read our relevant posts to learn more about additional attractions to visit in Berlin.