Funkturm

100 Years of the Radio Tower

On 3 September 2026, the Berlin Radio Tower will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Since its opening in 1926, this striking steel structure has defined the skyline of City West – and has long been one of Berlin’s most distinctive landmarks.

Just in time for its centenary, the steel giant has been given a fresh modernisation: the glass lift will once again take you up to the viewing platform, from where you can enjoy sweeping views across Berlin. And, of course, there will be celebrations: under the slogan ‘What the Funk’, the IFA is marking the anniversary of its famous landmark.

Another highlight is coming up in the autumn: from 9 to 18 October 2026, the Radio Tower will become a light installation visible from afar as part of the Festival of Lights. In this way, Berlin’s landmark will continue to shine brightly over City West in its anniversary year.

The history of the Radio Tower’s construction

Construction of the transmission tower took a full two years. The steel lattice structure is reminiscent of what is arguably France’s most famous landmark, as architect Heinrich Straumer’s plans were inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris. In 1926, the transmission mast – then known as the ‘Lange Lulatsch’ – was officially opened for the 3rd German Radio Exhibition. The world’s first television picture was broadcast from here in the same year. The next milestone followed in 1929 with the first radio broadcast.

In 1930, one of the most famous physicists stood at the foot of the steel structure and delivered the opening speech at the 7th German Radio Exhibition. It was the genius Albert Einstein, who was determined not to miss the opportunity to visit the radio tower. The significance of radio at that time – something that is almost unimaginable today.

Destruction and restoration

In the years that followed, the trade fair industry grew in importance. To this day, the capital’s largest exhibition grounds are situated around the Radio Tower. In 1935, a fire in the exhibition halls blazed fiercely and destroyed parts of the tower. Yet even wartime shells failed to bring the Radio Tower to its knees – even though at times it stood on just three main struts.

The 600-tonne giant was repaired and restored after the war. Every twelve years, it is now given a fresh coat of metallic camouflage paint, adding a further nine kilos to its weight each time. In slightly stronger winds, the top of the tower can sway by a good 40 centimetres. But don’t worry: it has never broken off as a result.

The view from the radio tower

Today, the ‘Lange Lulatsch’ serves as a transmission mast for the regional police and mobile phone networks. But it also offers tourists a vantage point from which to take in the view over the city. You can climb the 150-metre-high radio tower up to the viewing platform at 126 metres. From there, you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic view over City West.

After just 287 steps, you’ll reach the restaurant platform, where you can take a break. Refuel here for the remaining 360-step climb up to the viewing platform. Anyone feeling a little worn out after a marathon of sightseeing in Berlin can also take the glass lift up to the top.

Gastronomic experiences

I wonder what a Wiener schnitzel or mango prawns taste like at a height of 55 metres? Why not sample your way through the menu at the Funkturm restaurant? Gourmet dishes that change monthly are sure to delight your culinary palate. The Art Nouveau ambience lets you dine as if you were back in the Roaring Twenties.

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