Berlin Victory Column (Siegessäule)

As one of Berlin’s most famous landmarks—alongside the Brandenburg Gate, the TV Tower, and the Reichstag Building—the Victory Column is often featured as a stop on half- or full-day Berlin sightseeing tours. You can explore the city on a walking tour, or cover ground more quickly with a bike or Segway tour. Another option is a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which gives you the flexibility to spend as much time as you want at the column.

• If you want to climb the column to get to the viewing platform, there are 285 steps, and a narrow staircase—its recommended that you have a moderate fitness level.
• There’s no lift at the column, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Be sure to go for a bathroom break before visiting, as there are no toilets inside.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended if you’re planning to climb to the top.

The Victory Column is situated at an intersection and traffic circle at the heart of the Tiergarten Park. If you’re traveling by public transport, there are multiple stations within walking distance; get off at Tiergarten or Bellevue stations if you’re traveling on the S-Bahn, or Hansaplatz on the U-Bahn. If you’re traveling by bus, you can get Bus #100 to Grosser Stern.

If you’re planning to head up to the observation deck, arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds. Another great option to see the city at its most beautiful is to visit in the late afternoon, in time for sunset. As the column overlooks the Tiergarten, fall is a great season to visit to admire the beautiful foliage.

After checking off the main focal point of the Victory Column, there’s still plenty to explore in the 520-acre (210-hectare) park of the Tiergarten. Head to the Berlin Zoo in the southwest corner of the park to see pandas, lions, zebras, and elephants; visit the on-site beer gardens; or simply stroll and take in the views of the lakes, tree-lined walkways, and open green spaces.