How to get from Berlin Airport to the city center?

Tiempo de lectura: 4 minutos

If you’ve just landed at Berlin Airport and are wondering how to get from Berlin Airport to the city center, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I will reveal all the available options so you can choose the one that best fits your needs, budget, and time. Will the train be the fastest option? Or maybe a taxi will take you more comfortably to your destination? Keep reading, and by the end of the article, you’ll have a clear decision.

Quick Introduction to Berlin Airport

Berlin has one main airport: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). Opened in 2020, it is located about 25 kilometers south of the city center, making it a strategic point for travelers arriving or departing from the German capital.

Now, with several transportation options available, the choice may depend on various factors: your time, budget, and comfort. Below, I detail all the alternatives.

Transportation Options from Berlin Airport to the City Center

1. S-Bahn Train and Airport Express: The Most Popular Option

The train is undoubtedly one of the fastest and most affordable ways to reach the center of Berlin. From the airport’s train station, you have two main options: the S-Bahn (S9 and S45 lines) and the Airport Express (FEX).

S-Bahn (S9 and S45)

The S-Bahn is Berlin’s suburban train, and from the airport, you can take the S9 line, which will take you directly to the city center, passing key stations such as Alexanderplatz and Hauptbahnhof (Berlin’s main station).

• Duration: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
• Price: A single ticket costs around €3.80 (AB fare).
• Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes.

Airport Express (FEX)

The Airport Express is a faster train that connects the airport with Berlin’s main station in less time than the S-Bahn.

• Duration: 20-25 minutes.
• Price: Same as the S-Bahn, €3.80.
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes.

If you’re looking for a quick option and don’t mind a short walk from the station, this is an excellent alternative.

2. Buses: Economical and Available 24/7

The airport is also well connected to Berlin via different bus lines. The main advantage is that they operate 24 hours a day, which is ideal if you’re arriving on a late-night flight.

Bus 109 and X9

These buses are common options if your destination is Zoologischer Garten station, which is near many hotels and tourist areas.

• Duration: 45-55 minutes.
• Price: €3.80.
• Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes.

Night Bus N7

If you’re arriving on a late-night or early-morning flight, the night bus N7 is a reliable option.

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
• Price: €3.80.
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes.

Recommended Bus Ticket

I recommend purchasing your bus ticket on the following page:

3. Taxi: The Most Comfortable Option

If you prefer not to complicate things and go directly to your hotel’s door, then a taxi is what you need. Taxis are available right outside the airport.

• Duration: 30-40 minutes (depending on traffic).
• Price: Approximately €45-50.
• Tip: Make sure the taximeter is turned on at the start of the ride.

While it is the most expensive option, it is also the most convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a group.

4. Shared Transport Services (Uber, Bolt)

Services like Uber and Bolt also operate in Berlin and are an alternative to taxis. You can easily book them via their mobile apps.

• Duration: Similar to a taxi (30-40 minutes).
• Price: A little cheaper than a taxi, around €35-45.

5. Car Rental

If you plan to explore beyond the city center or have several days in the city, renting a car can be a good option. Several car rental companies, such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar, are available at the airport.

• Duration: 30 minutes to the city center (depending on traffic).
• Price: Varies by car type, but rates can start from €25 per day, plus fuel costs.
• Tip: Remember that Berlin’s city center has low-emission zones, so make sure your car has the proper sticker.

Options Comparison

Option	Duration	Price	Frequency
S-Bahn (S9)	30-40 minutes	€3.80	Every 10-20 minutes
Airport Express (FEX)	20-25 minutes	€3.80	Every 30 minutes
Buses	45-55 minutes	€3.80	Every 10-15 minutes
Taxi	30-40 minutes	€45-50	Always available
Uber/Bolt	30-40 minutes	€35-45	On demand
Car Rental	30 minutes	€25+/day	Depending on availability

Which Option is Best for You?

Choosing the best option will depend on your personal needs and preferences. Here are some common scenarios:

• If you’re traveling on a tight budget, the S-Bahn or Airport Express are your best options. They are affordable, fast, and very reliable.
• If you prefer comfort, a taxi or Uber will take you straight to your destination, but at a higher cost.
• If you’re arriving late at night, night buses or services like Uber offer an effective solution.

Things to do in Berlin

If you’re interested in exploring Berlin in-depth, I recommend reading our travel article on the city: Things todo in Berlin

Other Recommendations for Your Trip

Here are some additional recommendations for your trip to Berlin:

1. Best eSIM for travel

2. Best Accommodation for your trip

3. Best Travel Insurance

4. Flight cancellation?

Additional Tips on How to Get from Berlin Airport to the City Center

• Buy your ticket before boarding: Be sure to purchase your train or bus ticket at the automatic machines located at the airport.
• Avoid peak hours: If possible, try to avoid trains and buses between 7:00 and 9:00 AM, and between 4:00 and 6:00 PM, as they can be crowded.
• Plan ahead: It’s always a good idea to have a clear idea of your route before you arrive in Berlin, especially if you don’t speak German.