Overview
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) serves as the sole international gateway for the German capital, featuring a modern midfield terminal design.
Berlin Hauptbahnhof is a vertical station and the primary rail hub for the city, connecting most international and domestic high-speed lines.
Official Resources
Berlin Ostbahnhof is the primary gateway for trains heading East to Poland (Warsaw/Krakow). It is the most convenient hub if you are staying in the Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg neighborhoods.
Official Resources
Berlin Südkreuz is the key interchange for high-speed trains heading South to Munich, Leipzig, or Prague. It is often faster to board here than at the central station if you are staying in the southern districts.
Official Resources
Transfer Options
The following transport options are available from/to Berlin Brandenburg Airport:
The following transport options are available from/to Berlin Hauptbahnhof:
The following transport options are available from/to Berlin Ostbahnhof:
The following transport options are available:
Luggage Storage
Service Center (BER Airport)
Located on Level U1 (mezzanine above train platforms). Open 09:00–19:00.
Lockers (Berlin Hbf)
Automated lockers are on the 1st and 2nd upper floors near the parking garage.
Lockers (Berlin Ostbahnhof)
The automated luggage lockers are located in the East Tunnel on the ground floor. If the station lockers are full, Bounce Luggage Storage is a nearby alternative.
Lockers (Berlin Südkreuz)
The luggage lockers are located in the entrance hall on the ground floor (Level E0). If the station lockers are full, Bounce Luggage Storage is a nearby alternative.
Locker Coins
Many older station lockers still require €1 or €2 coins. While newer machines take cards, keep a few coins handy. If you prefer a human attendant, look for the staffed “Gepäckcenter” on the first floor of the station.
Visitor Cards & Transit Passes
For unlimited public transport and discounts at 180+ attractions, choose a visitor pass. You can purchase these at Berlin Tourist Info centers (located in BER Terminal 1, Level E0) or at any DB/VBB ticket machine.
For unlimited public transport and discounts at 180+ attractions, choose a visitor pass. You can purchase these at Berlin Tourist Info centers (located in the Hauptbahnhof lobby) or at any DB/VBB ticket machine.
For unlimited public transport and discounts at 180+ attractions, choose a visitor pass. You can purchase these at any DB/VBB ticket machine.
For unlimited public transport and discounts at 180+ attractions, choose a visitor pass. You can purchase these at any DB/VBB ticket machine.
- Berlin WelcomeCard: Best for sightseeing. Prices start at €26.00 (48h, Zone AB).
- Berlin CityTourCard: A budget-friendly alternative. Prices start at €22.50 (48h, Zone AB).
- Standard Tickets: A 24-Hour Ticket is €9.90 (AB) or €11.40 (ABC).
- 7-Day Ticket: The most cost-effective option for longer stays, costing €41.50 (Zone AB).
ABC Zone
For transfer from/to the airport, you must buy the ABC Zone card (€33.00 for 48h) or an ABC single ticket (€4.40) to be valid for the journey from the airport to the city.
Note: A single AB ticket (within the city) is €3.50.
The Validation Rule
Berlin does not support “tap-on/tap-off” with credit cards. You must have a valid ticket or app QR code. In Germany, a paper ticket is invalid unless stamped. Before boarding, you MUST insert your ticket into the small yellow or red boxes on the platform to get a timestamp. Failure to do so results in a €60 fine. App-based tickets are “pre-validated” and do not need a stamp.
Use BVG Fahrinfo as your official source for buying all mobile tickets and viewing real-time local disruptions, while relying on Citymapper for a superior navigation interface that includes “best carriage” guidance and precise station exit instructions.
NOTE: Tickets bought in the BVG Fahrinfo app are active (validated) immediately. Do not buy them until you see your train or bus approaching.
Public Transit
Train & S-Bahn
The Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains (RE8, RB23) are the fastest, getting from the airport to Berlin Hauptbahnhof in 30–35 minutes. The S-Bahn (S9/S45) takes about 50 minutes but offers more local stops. Buy tickets at the red DB or yellow VBB machines in the “Arrivals” hall or the station on Level U2.
Bus
Express buses X7 and X71 connect the airport to the U7 Metro line (Rudow station) in 10 minutes. This is ideal for southern districts like Neukölln. Bus stops are outside Terminal 1 on Level E0.
S-Bahn & U-Bahn
The S-Bahn (city trains) and U-Bahn (subway line U5) connect Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Friedrichstraße or Alexanderplatz in 5–10 minutes. On arrival, use the platforms on the upper level for S-Bahn or the deepest level for the U5.
- Short Trip (Kurzstrecke): If traveling fewer than 3 stops (S/U-Bahn) or 6 stops (Bus/Tram), a reduced fare of €2.40 applies.
Bus & Tram
The main bus and tram stops are at Europaplatz (North exit). The 100 and 200 bus lines are famous “tourist routes” that pass major sights for the price of a standard ticket. Trams (M5, M8, M10) also depart from here toward eastern districts.
S-Bahn
The S-Bahn (S3/S5/S7/S9) runs every few minutes from Ostbahnhof to Alexanderplatz/Hauptbahnhof. The platforms are directly accessible from the main station hall.
Bus
Several bus lines stop directly outside Ostbahnhof. Check the BVG app for the best connection to your destination.
S-Bahn
Key interchange for S-Bahn Ring (S41/S42) and North-South lines (S2/S25). On arrival, the S-Bahn platforms are easily accessible from the main hall.
Bus
Metro-bus M46 serves the area directly outside Südkreuz station.
Bus Entry & Luggage
Always enter buses through the front door and show your ticket (or QR code) to the driver. Exit through the rear doors only. Standard city buses have limited luggage space; if you have multiple large bags at the airport, the train is a much more comfortable option.
Official Taxi
Identification and Rates
Official Berlin taxis are Cream/Beige with a yellow roof sign. All use meters; there are no flat rates from the airport.
The fare from BER is €60–€80.
From the station, the base fare is €4.30 plus €2.10–€2.80 per km.
From Ostbahnhof, the base fare is €4.30 plus €2.10–€2.80 per km.
the base fare is €4.30 plus €2.10–€2.80 per km.
Taxi Stands
Located in front of Terminal 1 (Level E0) and Terminal 2.
Ranks are at Europaplatz (North) and Washingtonplatz (South).
The taxi rank is located at the main entrance on Straße der Pariser Kommune.
Taxi stands are located on both sides of the station.
Payment & Short Trips
By law, all taxis must accept credit cards, though some drivers may claim the machine is “broken.” Confirm “Card payment?” before boarding. At the station, if your hotel is under 2km away, you can hail a taxi on the street for a €6.00 “Kurzstrecke” (Short Trip) rate, but this is not valid at official station taxi ranks.
Rideshare
Pickup point (Berlin Airport)
Uber, Bolt, and Freenow: Follow signs for 'Ride App Pick Up' in the parking area (Level E0), a 3–5 minute walk from the exit. They cannot pick up at the curb.
Pickup (Berlin Hbf)
Uber, Bolt, and Freenow: Drivers typically pick up at the South Entrance (Washingtonplatz) or the North Entrance (Europaplatz). Confirm your exit in the app; they cannot wait at the taxi-only ranks.
Pickup (Berlin Ostbahnhof)
Uber, Bolt, and Freenow: Exit the station via the South Entrance (Stralauer Platz). Drivers pick up in the short-term parking lot (P1 - Am Ostbahnhof) directly outside the station doors.
Pickup (Berlin Südkreuz)
Uber, Bolt, and Freenow: Exit via Entrance West (Lotte-Laserstein-Straße). Drivers pick up at the 'Kiss & Ride' / Short-term parking lot (P2) located immediately outside the glass doors.
Verify the Plate
Unlike taxis, rideshare cars are standard passenger vehicles. Always check the license plate in your app against the car before entering, especially at the busy pickup zones.
- Freenow is the local favorite and allows you to summon official taxis as well as private rides, providing better availability during peak hours or rain.
ATMs and Currency
Avoid 'Euronet' Machines
Avoid the bright blue and yellow Euronet ATMs found in corridors. They charge excessive transaction fees and offer poor exchange rates. Always choose “Decline Conversion” on any ATM to let your home bank handle the rate.
Accessibility & Safety
Accessibility
Berlin Airport is fully accessible, and offers a free Mobility Service (pre-book 48h in advance). Note that Terminal 1 is very long; walking distances can exceed 1,000 yards.
All levels of Berlin Hbf are connected by glass elevators. The Mobility Service on the first floor provides boarding assistance. It is highly recommended to book assistance at least 24–48 hours in advance.
Berlin Ostbahnhof is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available to all platforms. The Mobility Service provides boarding assistance daily (06:00–22:30). It is highly recommended to book assistance at least 24–48 hours in advance.
Berlin Südkreuz is fully accessible via elevators to all levels. The Mobility Service provides boarding assistance daily (06:00–22:30). It is highly recommended to book assistance at least 24–48 hours in advance.
Elevator Tip
At Hauptbahnhof, elevators at the far ends of the platforms are often less crowded than the central ones.
Safety
Berlin is generally safe, but be vigilant in crowded transit hubs.
Common Scams
- The “Official” Taxi: Ignore anyone inside the terminal/station asking “Taxi?”. These are unlicensed drivers.
- The “Change” Scam: At the stations, be wary of anyone asking for help “changing a coin” for a locker or ticket machine; this is often a distraction for pickpocketing. Politely say “No” and keep walking.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
If you lose an item, contact the specific service provider for the area where it was lost.
- Airport Terminals: The Lost Property Office is located in Terminal 1, Level U1.
- Items on Plane: Contact your airline’s baggage handling agent in the arrivals hall.
- At the Station: Visit the DB Information desk on the ground floor or report online via the DB Lost & Found Service portal.
First Aid & Pharmacies
- Metropolitan Pharmacy has two locations in Terminal 1, Level E1 (Check-in and Airside Marketplace).
- In the event of a medical emergency, use the general European emergency number 112.
- First Aid Stations: Airport staff at any Information Counter can provide immediate assistance and coordinate with the on-site medical service..
- Pharmacy: Apotheke on Level 1 (near Europaplatz exit).
- Pharmacy: Apotheke is located in the main shopping arcade on the Ground Floor.
- Pharmacy: Apotheke is located on the Ground Floor, near the entrance from Hildegard-Knef-Platz.
- For immediate first aid, locate the Deutsche Bahn (DB) information desks, security staff, or the station mission (Bahnhofsmission) for assistance. In case of a medical emergency, call 112 immediately for an ambulance.
Overview
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) serves as the sole international gateway for the German capital, featuring a modern midfield terminal design.
Berlin Hauptbahnhof is a vertical station and the primary rail hub for the city, connecting most international and domestic high-speed lines.
Official Resources
Berlin Ostbahnhof is the primary gateway for trains heading East to Poland (Warsaw/Krakow). It is the most convenient hub if you are staying in the Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg neighborhoods.
Official Resources
Berlin Südkreuz is the key interchange for high-speed trains heading South to Munich, Leipzig, or Prague. It is often faster to board here than at the central station if you are staying in the southern districts.
Official Resources
Transfer Options
The following transport options are available from/to Berlin Brandenburg Airport:
The following transport options are available from/to Berlin Hauptbahnhof:
The following transport options are available from/to Berlin Ostbahnhof:
The following transport options are available:
Luggage Storage
Service Center (BER Airport)
Located on Level U1 (mezzanine above train platforms). Open 09:00–19:00.
Lockers (Berlin Hbf)
Automated lockers are on the 1st and 2nd upper floors near the parking garage.
Lockers (Berlin Ostbahnhof)
The automated luggage lockers are located in the East Tunnel on the ground floor. If the station lockers are full, Bounce Luggage Storage is a nearby alternative.
Lockers (Berlin Südkreuz)
The luggage lockers are located in the entrance hall on the ground floor (Level E0). If the station lockers are full, Bounce Luggage Storage is a nearby alternative.
Locker Coins
Many older station lockers still require €1 or €2 coins. While newer machines take cards, keep a few coins handy. If you prefer a human attendant, look for the staffed “Gepäckcenter” on the first floor of the station.
Visitor Cards & Transit Passes
For unlimited public transport and discounts at 180+ attractions, choose a visitor pass. You can purchase these at Berlin Tourist Info centers (located in BER Terminal 1, Level E0) or at any DB/VBB ticket machine.
For unlimited public transport and discounts at 180+ attractions, choose a visitor pass. You can purchase these at Berlin Tourist Info centers (located in the Hauptbahnhof lobby) or at any DB/VBB ticket machine.
For unlimited public transport and discounts at 180+ attractions, choose a visitor pass. You can purchase these at any DB/VBB ticket machine.
For unlimited public transport and discounts at 180+ attractions, choose a visitor pass. You can purchase these at any DB/VBB ticket machine.
- Berlin WelcomeCard: Best for sightseeing. Prices start at €26.00 (48h, Zone AB).
- Berlin CityTourCard: A budget-friendly alternative. Prices start at €22.50 (48h, Zone AB).
- Standard Tickets: A 24-Hour Ticket is €9.90 (AB) or €11.40 (ABC).
- 7-Day Ticket: The most cost-effective option for longer stays, costing €41.50 (Zone AB).
ABC Zone
For transfer from/to the airport, you must buy the ABC Zone card (€33.00 for 48h) or an ABC single ticket (€4.40) to be valid for the journey from the airport to the city.
Note: A single AB ticket (within the city) is €3.50.
The Validation Rule
Berlin does not support “tap-on/tap-off” with credit cards. You must have a valid ticket or app QR code. In Germany, a paper ticket is invalid unless stamped. Before boarding, you MUST insert your ticket into the small yellow or red boxes on the platform to get a timestamp. Failure to do so results in a €60 fine. App-based tickets are “pre-validated” and do not need a stamp.
Use BVG Fahrinfo as your official source for buying all mobile tickets and viewing real-time local disruptions, while relying on Citymapper for a superior navigation interface that includes “best carriage” guidance and precise station exit instructions.
NOTE: Tickets bought in the BVG Fahrinfo app are active (validated) immediately. Do not buy them until you see your train or bus approaching.
Public Transit
Train & S-Bahn
The Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains (RE8, RB23) are the fastest, getting from the airport to Berlin Hauptbahnhof in 30–35 minutes. The S-Bahn (S9/S45) takes about 50 minutes but offers more local stops. Buy tickets at the red DB or yellow VBB machines in the “Arrivals” hall or the station on Level U2.
Bus
Express buses X7 and X71 connect the airport to the U7 Metro line (Rudow station) in 10 minutes. This is ideal for southern districts like Neukölln. Bus stops are outside Terminal 1 on Level E0.
S-Bahn & U-Bahn
The S-Bahn (city trains) and U-Bahn (subway line U5) connect Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Friedrichstraße or Alexanderplatz in 5–10 minutes. On arrival, use the platforms on the upper level for S-Bahn or the deepest level for the U5.
- Short Trip (Kurzstrecke): If traveling fewer than 3 stops (S/U-Bahn) or 6 stops (Bus/Tram), a reduced fare of €2.40 applies.
Bus & Tram
The main bus and tram stops are at Europaplatz (North exit). The 100 and 200 bus lines are famous “tourist routes” that pass major sights for the price of a standard ticket. Trams (M5, M8, M10) also depart from here toward eastern districts.
S-Bahn
The S-Bahn (S3/S5/S7/S9) runs every few minutes from Ostbahnhof to Alexanderplatz/Hauptbahnhof. The platforms are directly accessible from the main station hall.
Bus
Several bus lines stop directly outside Ostbahnhof. Check the BVG app for the best connection to your destination.
S-Bahn
Key interchange for S-Bahn Ring (S41/S42) and North-South lines (S2/S25). On arrival, the S-Bahn platforms are easily accessible from the main hall.
Bus
Metro-bus M46 serves the area directly outside Südkreuz station.
Bus Entry & Luggage
Always enter buses through the front door and show your ticket (or QR code) to the driver. Exit through the rear doors only. Standard city buses have limited luggage space; if you have multiple large bags at the airport, the train is a much more comfortable option.
Arrival & Check-In
Arrival Time
For international flights to the US or Asia, arrive 3 hours early. For European flights, 2 hours is sufficient.
Terminal 1 is the primary hub. Terminal 2 is used mainly by budget carriers like Ryanair. Note that T1 and T2 are connected via a walkway; however, you must check in at the specific terminal assigned to your airline.
Arrival Time
For ICE (High-speed) trains, arrive 20–30 minutes early. Unlike an airport, there is no check-in or mandatory luggage screening before boarding; you walk directly onto the platform.
Security Controls
Security & Screening
BER has modernized security. Terminals 1 and 2 now feature CT scanners in several lanes, meaning you may not need to remove liquids or electronics.
BER Runway Service
You can book a free 15-minute security time slot through the BER Runway service on the airport’s website. This allows you to bypass the main queue at no cost—a perfect way to avoid standing in long lines.
Passport Control
If you are flying to a non-Schengen destination (e.g., USA, UK, or Asia), you must pass through passport control after security. Automated EasyPass gates are available for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens with biometric passports.
Security & Screening
There is no security checkpoint for domestic or Schengen-area trains (such as those heading to Paris or Warsaw). You simply find your platform and board.
Wagenreihung (Coach Sequence)
Look for the “Wagenreihung” digital displays or paper posters on the platform. They show exactly where your specific coach (e.g., Coach 21) will stop relative to sections A, B, C, or D on the platform. This prevents a frantic sprint with heavy luggage once the train arrives.
VAT Refunds
Location
Customs validation desks are located in Terminal 1, Level E2 (in the Gallery area) and Level E1 (after security).
Process
- Visit the Customs (Zoll) desk BEFORE you check your luggage to get your forms stamped.
- Present the stamped forms at the Global Blue or Planet counters nearby to receive your refund.
Goods Inspection
Customs officers will often ask to see the physical items (unused and with tags). Ensure these items are at the top of your suitcase or in your carry-on so you don’t have to unpack your entire bag on the floor in public view.
VAT refunds for non-EU residents in Berlin are primarily processed at BER Airport customs, not directly inside Berlin Hauptbahnhof.
VAT refunds for non-EU residents in Berlin are primarily processed at BER Airport customs.
Accessibility & Safety
Accessibility
Berlin Airport is fully accessible, and offers a free Mobility Service (pre-book 48h in advance). Note that Terminal 1 is very long; walking distances can exceed 1,000 yards.
All levels of Berlin Hbf are connected by glass elevators. The Mobility Service on the first floor provides boarding assistance. It is highly recommended to book assistance at least 24–48 hours in advance.
Berlin Ostbahnhof is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available to all platforms. The Mobility Service provides boarding assistance daily (06:00–22:30). It is highly recommended to book assistance at least 24–48 hours in advance.
Berlin Südkreuz is fully accessible via elevators to all levels. The Mobility Service provides boarding assistance daily (06:00–22:30). It is highly recommended to book assistance at least 24–48 hours in advance.
Elevator Tip
At Hauptbahnhof, elevators at the far ends of the platforms are often less crowded than the central ones.
Safety
Berlin is generally safe, but be vigilant in crowded transit hubs.
Common Scams
- The “Official” Taxi: Ignore anyone inside the terminal/station asking “Taxi?”. These are unlicensed drivers.
- The “Change” Scam: At the stations, be wary of anyone asking for help “changing a coin” for a locker or ticket machine; this is often a distraction for pickpocketing. Politely say “No” and keep walking.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
If you lose an item, contact the specific service provider for the area where it was lost.
- Airport Terminals: The Lost Property Office is located in Terminal 1, Level U1.
- Items on Plane: Contact your airline’s baggage handling agent in the arrivals hall.
- At the Station: Visit the DB Information desk on the ground floor or report online via the DB Lost & Found Service portal.
First Aid & Pharmacies
- Metropolitan Pharmacy has two locations in Terminal 1, Level E1 (Check-in and Airside Marketplace).
- In the event of a medical emergency, use the general European emergency number 112.
- First Aid Stations: Airport staff at any Information Counter can provide immediate assistance and coordinate with the on-site medical service..
- Pharmacy: Apotheke on Level 1 (near Europaplatz exit).
- Pharmacy: Apotheke is located in the main shopping arcade on the Ground Floor.
- Pharmacy: Apotheke is located on the Ground Floor, near the entrance from Hildegard-Knef-Platz.
- For immediate first aid, locate the Deutsche Bahn (DB) information desks, security staff, or the station mission (Bahnhofsmission) for assistance. In case of a medical emergency, call 112 immediately for an ambulance.