The Best Views of Berlin: 15 Stunning Spots to Soak in the City from Above

Berlin isn’t just about history and hipster cafés — it’s also full of spectacular viewpoints offering sweeping panoramas across the city. From iconic towers and historic domes to secret rooftops and natural hills, here are the best places to get a bird’s eye view of the German capital.

1. Berlin TV Tower (Fernsehturm)

Located at Alexanderplatz, the Fernsehturm is Berlin’s tallest structure at 368 meters. Built in the 1960s by the GDR, the observation deck at 203 meters offers 360° views across the city, with a revolving restaurant just above. On clear days, visibility can stretch up to 40 km.

2. Park Inn Hotel Panoramaterrasse

Also at Alexanderplatz, the Park Inn Hotel rooftop offers a great alternative to the Fernsehturm. At 120 meters, it provides skyline views with the tower itself in the foreground — ideal for photos, especially at sunset. It’s less expensive and rarely crowded.

3. Berliner Dom Dome Climb

On Museum Island, the Berlin Cathedral allows visitors to climb 270 steps for panoramic views over the Spree and the surrounding historic quarter. The circular walkway around the dome reveals impressive details up close and a beautiful urban backdrop.

4. Reichstag Dome

The glass dome atop Germany’s Parliament building is an architectural landmark. Visitors walk a spiral ramp inside the dome with sweeping views of central Berlin. Entry is free but requires prior online registration for security purposes.

5. Victory Column (Siegessäule)

Rising from the middle of Tiergarten park, this golden-winged column offers expansive views from its 67-meter-high platform. After climbing the 285 steps, visitors are rewarded with vistas down the Straße des 17. Juni and toward Brandenburg Gate.

6. Monkey Bar (25hours Hotel)

Situated near Breitscheidplatz, this rooftop bar overlooks the Berlin Zoo and Tiergarten. Guests can enjoy drinks with views that occasionally include actual monkeys in the zoo below. It’s a popular hangout, especially in the evenings.

7. Funkturm (Radio Tower)

This 1920s broadcasting tower near Messe Berlin stands 147 meters tall and offers vintage charm. Though open only during select times, it delivers striking views over western Berlin and is a favorite among architecture enthusiasts.

8. Teufelsberg (Devil’s Mountain)

Located in Grunewald Forest, this man-made hill is built from WWII rubble and topped with an abandoned Cold War listening station. The area offers sweeping forest views and a gritty, graffiti-covered atmosphere. It’s higher than the TV Tower in elevation.

9. Klunkerkranich

Atop a shopping mall in Neukölln, this rooftop garden is known for its relaxed, artsy vibe. Locals gather here for drinks, music, and sunsets over southern Berlin rooftops. Entry is usually free before late afternoon.

10. Französischer Dom

The French Cathedral on Gendarmenmarkt has a tower visitors can climb for classic views of the square and the neighboring Konzerthaus. The climb is moderate, and the vantage point is particularly photogenic.

11. Upper West Hotel Rooftop (Bar am Steinplatz or Sky Lobby)

Near the Zoo, this lesser-known rooftop offers chic surroundings and calm ambiance. It’s part of the Upper West Hotel and ideal for relaxed drinks with panoramic views across western Berlin.

12. Zionskirche Tower

Hidden in Mitte, this church opens its tower on Sundays to visitors. A small donation grants access to a narrow climb and a unique perspective over northern Berlin. The church has historic ties to resistance pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

13. HighFlyer Hot Air Balloon

Close to Checkpoint Charlie, this tethered helium balloon takes visitors 150 meters above the city for a brief but unforgettable ride. With no barriers, it’s a favorite for photographers and thrill-seekers. Flights depend on weather conditions.

14. Panoramapunkt (Potsdamer Platz)

Inside the Kollhoff Tower, Panoramapunkt offers fast access to its observation deck via Europe’s fastest elevator. From here, you can spot former Berlin Wall paths, the Tiergarten, and beyond. There’s also a small café for refreshments.

15. Skywalk Marzahn

In the far east of Berlin, this elevated steel walkway atop a high-rise reveals a lesser-seen perspective of the city. It’s freely accessible during daylight hours and can be combined with a visit to the nearby Gärten der Welt.

Bonus: Nikolaikirche in Potsdam

Just a short train ride from Berlin, the dome of Potsdam’s Nikolaikirche offers stunning views over the old town, Havel River, and nearby palaces. It’s a perfect extension for those looking to explore beyond the Berlin city limits.

Final Tips for View Seekers:

• Visit early or late in the day for fewer crowds and better lighting.

• Some viewpoints have limited access or are weather-dependent, so it’s worth checking before your visit.

• Be prepared for stair climbs in many places, and bring cash or card, as payment methods vary.

  
  

Whether you're after panoramic cityscapes, architectural history, or a sunset drink with a view, Berlin has it all — from gritty towers to glam rooftops. Which view will you climb first?