The Reichstag

The Reichstag is the seat of the German parliament, a grand nineteenth-century building scarred by fire, war and division and reborn after reunification, when the architect Norman Foster crowned it with a soaring glass dome. Visitors can climb a spiral ramp inside the dome for sweeping views over Berlin and down into the debating chamber, a symbol of open, democratic government.

What you actually see

• The glass dome - the spiral ramp up the modern dome for city views.
• The view over Berlin - the panorama from the roof terrace.
• The historic facade - the grand old building and its layered history.
• The chamber below - the view down into the parliament's debating hall.

When to go

Year-round; the dome is a fully accessible climb, good in any weather and lit at night. You must register free in advance, so book online ahead of your visit as walk-up is not possible.

Honest expectations

You must register free in advance with your name, as security is strict and there is no walk-up entry; book online ahead. The dome can close for parliamentary reasons. It is the dome and view that draw visitors rather than the interior generally.

Nearby

The Brandenburg Gate and the government quarter are alongside; the Holocaust Memorial is a short walk.