Germany’s political heart beats in Berlin, where the iconic Reichstag building stands tall. This guided tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the inner workings of the German government. Visitors can explore the historic plenary chamber, ascend the building’s famous glass dome, and gain insights from knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a political enthusiast or simply curious about Germany’s democratic processes, this immersive experience promises to captivate and enlighten.

Contents show

Key Points

Comprehensive 2.5-hour guided tour exploring the political heart of Berlin, including the Reichstag building, plenary chamber, and glass dome.
Visits to the Federal Chancellery and Berlin Wall Memorial provide additional historical context.
Informative lecture in the plenary chamber and access to the panoramic roof terrace offer unique perspectives on the government district.
Advance registration and security checks with valid ID are required to participate in the tour.
Tour content is provided in German only, so good language skills are recommended for non-German speakers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Berlin government tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s political heart, spanning the Reichstag building, plenary chamber, and iconic glass dome.

This 2.5-hour experience provides a unique glimpse into Germany’s democratic processes. The tour takes guests on a guided walk along the River Spree, visiting key landmarks like the Federal Chancellery and Berlin Wall Memorial.

Inside the Reichstag, visitors can attend an informative lecture in the plenary chamber and access the panoramic roof terrace for sweeping views of Berlin.

Advance registration is required, and a passport or ID card is needed for security checks.

Looking for more options in Berlin? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Highlights and Features

Though the guided walk along the River Spree is a highlight, visitors can also expect to gain insight into the history and architecture of the Reichstag building.

The guided walk along the River Spree offers insight into the history and architecture of the Reichstag building.

The tour includes:

An informative lecture in the plenary chamber.
Access to the panoramic roof terrace and glass dome for views of Berlin.
Completion of formalities for visiting the German Bundestag.
An engaging guide who makes efforts to assist non-German speakers.

Visitors will come away with a deeper understanding of the Reichstag’s significance and the workings of the German government.

Visitor Information

The meeting point for the Berlin government tour is at the ARD studio, located at Wilhelmstraße 67 A, on the corner of Reichstagufer, near Marschallbrücke.

Visitors will need to bring a valid passport or ID card for security checks, as these are required to complete the formalities for visiting the German Bundestag.

Oversize luggage isn’t allowed on the tour.

The tour is conducted in German only, so participants should have good German language skills to fully engage with the informative content provided by the guide.

Registration and Security

How do visitors register and go through security for the Berlin government tour?

All visitors must provide detailed personal data for registration at the Reichstag building, including:

Full names
Dates of birth
Specify 1-2 alternative dates if the first choice is unavailable
Failure to provide the required information results in no registration for the visit

Security is tight, as visitors must pass through checks with their passport or ID card.

Large luggage items aren’t allowed.

This thorough registration and security process ensures the safety and oversight required for accessing the German government district.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Reichstag Building

What awaits visitors as they explore the Reichstag building? After passing security, they’ll be guided through the historic structure, learning about its architecture and significance.

The highlight is the plenary chamber, where the German parliament convenes. Here, an informative lecture provides insights into the legislative process.

An informative lecture offers insights into the legislative process within the Reichstag’s plenary chamber, the heart of German parliamentary proceedings.

Visitors can then ascend to the building’s iconic glass dome, offering panoramic views of Berlin. The tour culminates on the roof terrace, allowing guests to appreciate the Reichstag’s prominent position in the city’s government district.

With engaging guides and access to restricted areas, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into Germany’s political heart.

There's plenty more to explore in Berlin

Inside the Plenary Chamber

Stepping inside the plenary chamber, visitors are immediately struck by the grandeur and significance of this space. Here, the elected members of the German Bundestag convene to debate and decide the nation’s policies.

The chamber features:

Tiered seating in a semicircular arrangement, allowing for direct interaction and dialogue.
A central podium where the Speaker presides and leads proceedings.
Simultaneous translation booths, enabling members to follow discussions in their preferred language.
State-of-the-art audio-visual systems for live broadcasting and recording of parliamentary sessions.

The atmosphere is one of solemn deliberation, where the future of Germany is shaped.

Panoramic Views From the Dome

After touring the plenary chamber, visitors ascend to the dome atop the Reichstag building, where they’re treated to panoramic vistas of Berlin.

The dome’s glass structure offers 360-degree views, allowing visitors to gaze out over the city’s iconic landmarks. From the observation deck, they can spot the Federal Chancellery, the River Spree, and the historic Berlin Wall Memorial.

The informative audioguide provides context, enriching the experience. The dome’s unique architecture and elevated position create a captivating finale to the government district tour, leaving visitors with a newfound appreciation for Germany’s political center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Photographs can be taken during the tour, but visitors should follow any specific instructions from the guide. Some areas may have restrictions on photography for security reasons.

What Language Options Are Available for Non-German Speakers?

The tour is conducted in German only, so good German language skills are required for participation. Non-German speakers may struggle to fully engage with the informative content and interactive aspects of the tour.

Are Lockers Available for Storing Luggage and Belongings?

The tour does not provide lockers for storing luggage and belongings. Visitors are advised not to bring oversized luggage, as it’s not allowed inside the Reichstag building during the tour.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks Inside the Reichstag Building?

No, food and drinks are not allowed inside the Reichstag building. Visitors must leave all food, drinks, and oversize luggage outside before entering the premises for security reasons. Only small personal items are permitted.

Are There Any Discounts or Reduced Prices for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounted prices for students and seniors. Students can get a reduced price of around $13, while seniors receive a discount of approximately $15. The discounts are clearly stated on the tour’s website.

The Sum Up

The "Berlin: Reichstag, Plenary Chamber, Cupola & Government Tour" offers an immersive experience in the heart of German politics. Visitors explore the historic Reichstag building, gain insights into the legislative process, and enjoy panoramic views from the iconic glass dome. This 2.5-hour guided tour provides a unique opportunity to engage with the significance of Berlin’s government district.