In a method and a device for steering a vehicle towards an object, an optimization of such steering leads to a close and accurate approach. In a method for controlling a vehicle having a drive unit and a braking device during a parking operation leading up to an object, the vehicle is brought to a parking speed up to a first distance of the vehicle from the object, the parking speed maximally corresponding to the drive speed that is achievable using the idling speed, the speed is maintained, and after the first distance has been reached, the braking device decelerates to standstill up to a second distance to the object, which corresponds to the stopping distance. Furthermore, a device is adapted for implementing the method.