Victory Column Berlin
Ascend Berlin's iconic Victory Column for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Prussian history. A must-visit for affordable city vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Victory Column Berlin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Berlin's iconic Victory Column for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Prussian history. A must-visit for affordable city vistas.
"Better value and experience than the TV Tower for amazing Berlin views!"
💰 Affordable Views
Climbing the Victory Column is significantly cheaper than the TV Tower and offers a fantastic experience. :moneybag:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Be ready for a climb! There are many stairs to reach the top viewing platform. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gilded Goddess of Victory
Top of the column
Ascend to the observation deck for breathtaking 360-degree views of Berlin and the Tiergarten park.
Historical Significance
Base of the column
Admire the column's impressive architecture and learn about its history commemorating Prussian victories.
Tiergarten Panorama
Observation deck
Enjoy unparalleled vistas of the vast Tiergarten park, stretching towards iconic landmarks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Epic Views
Climb for a Classic Berlin Snapshot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Affordable Views
Climbing the Victory Column is significantly cheaper than the TV Tower and offers a fantastic experience. :moneybag:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Be ready for a climb! There are many stairs to reach the top viewing platform. :athletic_shoe:
View from Victoria column
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The views from the top are incredible for capturing panoramic shots of Berlin. :camerawithflash:
📍 Location: Großer Stern
Find the Victory Column in the heart of the Großer Stern roundabout in Tiergarten park. :world_map:
Big disclaimer❗️❗️❗️I’m gonna deinfluence one famous landmark for another. This is just my opinion you can fully disagree with it ♥️
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Affordable Views
Climbing the Victory Column is significantly cheaper than the TV Tower and offers a fantastic experience. :moneybag:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Be ready for a climb! There are many stairs to reach the top viewing platform. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The views from the top are incredible for capturing panoramic shots of Berlin. :camerawithflash:
📍 Location: Großer Stern
Find the Victory Column in the heart of the Großer Stern roundabout in Tiergarten park. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Victory Column for its stunning panoramic views of Berlin and its affordability, often recommending it as a superior value compared to the TV Tower. The historical significance and impressive architecture are also frequently highlighted. However, some find the climb strenuous, and accessibility can be an issue for those with mobility challenges.
"We originally spotted this from the bus and looked up on Google maps and stopped here on way back from another location.
This is a magnificent column in the middle of a great roundabout.
If you're getting the bus here, look for "tunnel" / subway that takes you to the base and there is a small fee of 4 euros (cash only) if you want entry.
Inside is a display of the history of column (which was apparently moved here from another location!) and then a set of winding stairs (250+ steps) to the top.
At the top the space is very narrow but you get panoramic views across the city and being in the middle of a roundabout, all the roads that lead off it.
The steps are very narrow and it's the same steps up and down, so take your time.
Recommended if you are in this area and like panoramic views."
Ganesh Swaminathan
"The column costs €4.50 to climb to the top of. It's cash only. The staircase is something like 285 steps, but there are regular landings and small benches on the way up.
There are also some informational exhibits on the ground floor.
The column is in the middle of a large roundabout. Use the access tunnels to get to it."
H
"No waiting, no booking needed and worth every Euro.
Beautiful art work, views, and overall architect.
My self and my pregnant wife walked the stairs, don't worry there are seats to take breaks should you need it. You've get two highs for views at full 360 degrees. On the ground your find some history before you get walking up the stairs.
Very clean, safe, well maintained and overall a must see in the city!"
Ray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Victory Column (Siegessäule) is located in the center of the Großer Stern roundabout in Tiergarten. You can reach it by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Walking from nearby U-Bahn or S-Bahn stations is also an option, though it involves a pleasant stroll through Tiergarten.
Parking directly at the Großer Stern can be challenging due to its busy nature. It's often recommended to park in designated areas within Tiergarten or use public transport to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore Tiergarten and reach the Victory Column. There are dedicated bike paths, and it offers a scenic approach to the monument.
Many visitors enjoy walking through the beautiful Tiergarten park to reach the Victory Column, making the journey part of the experience.
Unfortunately, due to the historical nature of the monument and the numerous stairs, the Victory Column is not easily accessible for wheelchairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Victory Column's viewing platform is very affordable, typically around €4-€5. This makes it a budget-friendly option for enjoying city views.
The Victory Column's opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Generally, advance booking for the Victory Column is not required, especially outside peak tourist seasons. You can usually purchase tickets on-site.
While specific discounts might not always be advertised, the low general admission price makes it accessible for most travelers. Check for potential group rates if applicable.
Your ticket grants you access to climb the stairs to the observation deck, offering panoramic views of Berlin and the surrounding Tiergarten.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation deck offers stunning 360-degree views, perfect for wide-angle shots of the city, Tiergarten, and distant landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate.
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged from the viewing platform. Capture the sprawling cityscape and the intricate details of the monument itself.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Evenings offer a magical view of the city lights.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional or commercial photography might require special permits, so it's wise to inquire if you have specific needs.
For panoramic shots, use a wide-angle lens. For details on the monument, a standard lens will suffice. Consider a tripod for low-light evening shots, but be mindful of space on the platform.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The Victory Column (Siegessäule) was erected between 1864 and 1873 to commemorate Prussia's victories in the Danish, Austro-Prussian, and Franco-Prussian Wars. It's topped by a gilded statue of Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory.
The Victory Column was designed by architect Heinrich Strack, with the iconic gilded statue of Victoria created by sculptor Friedrich Drake.
The cannons adorning the base of the Victory Column are trophies captured during the wars it commemorates, symbolizing Prussian military might.
No, the Victory Column was originally located in front of the Reichstag building and was moved to its current prominent position in the Großer Stern in 1938-39 by the Nazis.
The golden statue atop the column is Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory, often referred to as 'Goldelse' (Golden Elsie) by Berliners. She holds a laurel wreath and a Prussian eagle standard.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the visit part of a larger outing in Tiergarten. The surrounding park offers plenty of space for kids to run around, and you can point out the column from different vantage points within the park. It's a memorable experience that combines history, a bit of a physical challenge, and stunning cityscapes.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride through Tiergarten, which is free to explore. You can pack a picnic to enjoy in the park before or after your climb, further saving on food costs. This makes the Victory Column a central point for an affordable and enriching Berlin experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the details of the column itself, from the intricate carvings at its base to the majestic gilded statue of Victoria at the summit. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive shots and a telephoto lens to zoom in on distant architectural details. Evening visits offer a chance to photograph Berlin's glittering skyline.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Golden Goddess: Victoria's Story
Visitors can get up close to this golden marvel by ascending the column. The journey to the top involves climbing a considerable number of stairs, a testament to the monument's grandeur and the physical effort required to reach its summit. The experience of standing near the base of Victoria, or looking up at her from the surrounding park, offers a powerful connection to Berlin's complex history.
A View Worth the Climb: Panoramic Perspectives
Travelers often rave about this view, with many suggesting it's a more authentic and cost-effective alternative to the TV Tower. The perspective from the Victory Column allows you to truly appreciate the scale of Tiergarten and how it integrates with the urban landscape. It’s a prime spot for photography, especially during the golden hour or at night when the city lights twinkle below.
From War Memorial to Iconic Landmark
Its prominent location in the heart of Berlin has also seen it play a role in significant historical events. Notably, it was moved to its current position in the Großer Stern by the Nazi regime in 1938-39 as part of Albert Speer's grand urban planning vision for Germania. Despite its association with past regimes, the Victory Column has endured as a beloved and recognizable landmark, offering a unique historical perspective to visitors exploring Berlin.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit