Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is well-connected to the city center and has a variety of transportation options. These include buses, trains, local taxis, and private transfers. The most convenient and straightforward options are taking a Berlin Airport taxi or a private Berlin Airport transfer, as they offer door-to-door services. Your journey will range from 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

A reliable network of trains and buses is also available, with more than eight public transport options that will take you directly into the city center. All train services cost the same and take roughly 30 to 40 minutes, although not all trains depart from each terminal. Buses, while less popular, provide an express service with a 40-minute journey in light traffic and are the cheapest option overall.

6 ways to get from BER Airport to Berlin

PRICE FOR
OPTION
PRICE
TIME
AVAILABLE
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer
€61 40min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Taxi
€65 40min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Express Train
€8.80 30min 03:05–23:21
Convenience
Read more
S-Bahn Train
€8.80 40min 03:02–23:58
Convenience
Read more
Regional Train
€8.80 30min 04:36–23:00
Convenience
Read more
Express Bus
€7 40min 24/7
Convenience
Read more
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How to get from Berlin Airport to city center by taxi

Opting for a Brandenburg Airport taxi for your transfer to the city center is the most convenient way to travel, getting you to your hotel’s doorstep in under 40 minutes. When you exit the airport, watch out for the row of cream and beige-colored cars with illuminated yellow/black roof signs.

Taxis are available throughout the day at the designated ranks, but it’s worth noting that you may need to wait 5 -15 minutes for an available driver, so pre-booking a Berlin Airport taxi with a trusted company like Welcome Pickups from Brandenburg Airport to the center of Berlin is the easiest and most comfortable option.

Taxi cost from Berlin Airport to the city center

Taxis at Berlin Brandenburg Airport calculate fares using a taximeter, based on the distance traveled. When taking a local taxi from Berlin Airport to the city center the cost should be between €60 and €75, depending on the final destination. If you’re traveling with a group of more than 5 people or lots of luggage, an additional charge of €6 will apply. Furthermore, a €1.50 surcharge will be added to all rides from the airport. 

Where can I get a taxi from?

There are two taxi stands located outside Terminal 1 on Level EO, at both the north and south end of the terminal. There isn’t a taxi rank outside Terminal 2, so you’ll need to make your way to Terminal 1; the walk takes just a few minutes along a well-signposted footpath.

Convenience

Opting for a taxi to the city center offers a safer, more comfortable alternative to public transport. Traveling in a private vehicle also comes with more personal space than a bus or train. However, it’s important to note that you could wait a while for an available taxi, due to the high footfall at the airport. Crowded roads in the city center can also cause traffic, which could delay your journey.

Useful Tips

It’s customary to tip 10-20% in Berlin, particularly to hotel staff, tour guides and taxi drivers, as it’s considered a token of your appreciation.
Taxis can be booked in advance online to many popular locations for a flat-rate fee.
Booking in advance will also allow you to skip the queues for a taxi at the airport.
Most Berlin Airport taxis should accept credit cards or cash as a payment method.
If you require a baby seat or a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, speak to one of the on-site APCOA staff members who can be found by the taxi stand or pre-book online.
Drivers are required to take passengers anywhere in the state of Berlin and to other destinations as far as Erkner and Potsdam.

How to get from Berlin Airport to the city center on the Express train?

Traveling by train from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the city is the fastest way to travel and there are multiple options to choose from. Trains in Berlin are run by Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany’s official railway company. Included under DB is the red double-decker Airport Express (FEX) train that regularly departs Berlin Airport, making stops at Ostkreuz, Gesundbrunnen, and Berlin Hauptbahnhof, reaching the city center in around 30 minutes.

How much is the Express train from Berlin Airport to the city center?

Since Berlin Airport is located in Zone C, you will need to purchase an ABC ticket so that it covers all zones. An ABC ticket costs €4.40 for a one-way adult traveler and can be purchased from the DB ticket vending machines in the Arrival Halls and on the platform or from the dedicated ticket counter.

Cost
€4.40
Trip Duration
30 Min.
There is a 30-minute wait between FEX services.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The FEX runs between 03:05 and 23:21.

Where does the Express train depart from?

Whether you arrive at Terminal 1 or 2, you will need to make your way to the underground station on Level U2 of Terminal 1. The train station is well signposted and is a 2-6 minute walk, depending on which terminal you arrive at.

*If you are arriving at Terminal 5, it is best to use the S-Bahn train. Otherwise, it is a 10-minute drive/shuttle bus between Terminal 5 and 1.

Convenience

The FEX train provides the most direct and quickest transport option into the city center, however, keep in mind that this does not include walking and wait time. Also, note that there is nowhere to store luggage on board which can make for a somewhat crowded and uncomfortable journey. There is also no WiFi so be sure to have your onward journey planned out in advance.

Useful Tips

Since the train travels above ground, it makes for quite a scenic journey into the city center.
Tickets can be purchased using cash or card, or if you have access to WiFi, you can download the BVG app.
Make sure you validate your ticket before boarding.
All FEX trains are wheelchair-accessible with dedicated wheelchair areas at the front and rear of each train.
Day passes are available for use on all public transport networks for €11.40.

How to get from Berlin Airport to the city center on the S-Bahn Train

The Stadtschnellbahn Bahn (S-Bahn) trains are rapid city trains and while they have a longer journey time of 40 minutes from Berlin Airport to the city center, they run more frequently than the FEX so you still might reach your destination just as quickly.

There are two S-Bahn options from Berlin Airport, the S-9 and the S-45. The S-9 makes 16 stops before passing through Berlin’s main train station, Hauptbahnhof, while the S-45 is more convenient for those staying on the south side of the city since it terminates at Südkreuz via Schönefeld and Schöneweide.

How much does the train cost?

Tickets can be purchased from ticket vending machines or the ticket counter at the airport station. Similar to other trains within the DB network, a one-way adult ticket for the ABC zone will cost €4.40.

Cost
€4.40
Trip Duration
40 Min.
The wait time between services is between 10 and 20 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The S9 is available between 03:02 and 23:58. The S-45 runs between 05:00 and 00:00.

Where do I take S-Bahn from?

Unlike other trains from Berlin Airport, the S-Bahn service departs from all three airport terminals. From the main terminal building, Terminal 1, trains depart from the Underground Level 1. This is just a few minutes walk from Terminals 1 and 2 and can be found by following the train signs.

From Terminal 5, exit the building and follow the signs to ‘Bahn’ or ‘Train’ to the station next to the terminal which is just a few minutes walk away under a covered walkway.

Convenience

While the S-Bahn trains aren’t the fastest or most comfortable option, they run more frequently across longer hours and from all terminals, making them more accessible to passengers. They also cover more stops and greater coverage which is perfect for those staying on the outside of the city center.

That being said, Berlin train stations can be very overwhelming so if you need to make a transfer to another train or bus, a private transfer will provide a much more direct and stress-free experience, especially for first-time visitors.

Timetables

S-9 and S-45

Brandenburg Airport - City Center

Useful Tips

The S-9 departs from all terminals and operates 24 hours making it the most reliable public transport option, albeit the longest.
Tickets can also be purchased online or via the the BVG app.
If you're plane is arriving to Terminal 5, the S-Bahn will be your fastest public transport option since it is the only train service that departs from this terminal.
There is a dedicated luggage storage space on the S-Bahn trains near the space where each carriage connects.
Trains are known to run late or be cancelled due to track work so it is a good idea to have a backup transport option such as a taxi or private transfer.

How to get from Berlin Airport to the city center by train (Regional)

Other than the FEX train, the regional trains RB14 and RE7 are the quickest, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. However, these regional trains only run twice an hour. Nevertheless, the trains stop at major stations including Ostkreuz, Alexanderplatz, as well as Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Zoologischer Garten.

How much does the train from Brandenburg Airport to city center cost?

As Brandenburg Airport is located in the outermost zone of Berlin (Zone C), make sure you purchase a valid ticket for Zone ABC. With that being said, taking the train from Berlin Airport to the city center will cost €4.40.

*You can buy tickets at machines or booths at the airport station or online in advance.

Cost
€4.40
Trip Duration
30 Min.
RE7 and RB14 trains run every 30 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for money

The RE7 operates between 04:36 and 22:36 and the RB14 from 05:00 to 23:00.

Where can I get the train from?

The train station is located at Terminal 1 and just a few minutes walk from the Arrivals Hall; simply follow the signs. Once you reach the station, head to the S-Bahn platform to catch the Regional RB14/RE7. For travelers landing at Berlin Airport Terminal 2, the station is accessible through an enclosed walkway and takes around 5 minutes to get to.

Convenience

As a result of Berlin’s efficient railway system, traveling by train is a great option. While a private taxi would be safer and more comfortable, there’s no possibility of traffic delays when using the train and with a journey time of 30 minutes, the regional trains RB14/RE7 are particularly convenient.

Timetables

Berlin Airport to the City Center

BVG Online Journey Planner

Useful Tips

There are first and business class carriages available on regional trains so be sure to check that you are seated in the correct area before departing.
Luggage storage/racks are available on board.
Toilets, tables, WiFi and USB charging portals are available on some services.
Children under the age of 6 travel for free, and children aged between 6 and 14 pay a reduced fair price of €3.20.
A day ticket is a great option if you want to explore Berlin, as you’ll be able to make as many trips as you like for €11.40 (or €7 for children aged 6 to 14).
Trains can get busy during rush hour and pickpockets take this opportunity to strike, so keep an eye on your personal belongings.

How to get from Berlin Airport to the city by bus

As Berlin’s main airport, Brandenburg Airport (BER) has a network of buses running day and night to the city center. However, the train is considered to be the better option and bus services are usually just used during rail strikes. Nevertheless, there are two express bus services that run between the airport and Rudow Station, the X7 and the X71.

The X7 (T1-2 – T5 – U Rudow) is the fastest option and provides a connection to Rudow U-Bahn metro station in around 15 minutes. From Rudow Station, you can take the Metro Line 7 (U-Bahn) and head to U-Bahnhof Möckernbrücke (city center) in only 25 minutes which means the total journey takes 40 minutes, not including wait times. The bus runs every 5-10 minutes.

You can also follow the same route to the city on the X71 (T1-2 – T5 – U Rudow − Johannisthaler Chaussee – U Alt-Mariendorf). The service departs every 20 minutes. For travelers who are arriving at night, the N7 bus takes around 30 minutes to reach Rudow U-Bahn or Adlershof S-Bahn.

How much is a bus from Brandenburg Airport to the city center?

Taking the bus from Berlin Airport to the city center is a great budget-friendly choice. A single ticket valid for 2 hours costs just €3.50, and you’ll pay as low as €2.40 for a short trip ticket, valid for a certain amount of stops.

You can purchase your bus ticket online, or from the machines inside the airport or the main terminal ticket office.

Cost
€3.50
Trip Duration
40 Min.
The Express X7 and X71 run approximately every 10 to 30 minutes. The N7 runs every 30 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Express X7 and X71 are available between 04:27 and 23:46. The N7 runs between 00:28 and 02:38, except on Saturdays and Sundays (00:28 - 06:45).

Where can I get the bus from?

You’ll find all bus stops on Level 0 outside of the Arrival Hall in Terminal 1, directly in front of the terminal building.

Convenience

With frequent stops and shared seating, taking a bus from Brandenburg Airport to the center of Berlin is not the most comfortable choice. While the cost may be cheaper than a taxi, the trip won’t be as safe or reliable. There are also faster railway options for the same price as a bus ticket.

Timetables

BVG Online Journey Planner

X7

X71

N7

Useful Tips

Along with the machines inside the airport and the ticket office, you can also buy your bus ticket when you get on the bus. You’ll need cash to do this and unlike pre-paid tickets, you won’t need to validate it when you get on.
The N7 night bus allows passengers to travel via bus to the center 24 hours a day.
In addition to single tickets, you can also purchase a day ticket or a 7-day ticket, depending on how long you plan to stay.

How to get from Berlin Airport to the city center by private transfer

A pre-booked private Berlin Airport transfer from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the city is by far the most convenient way to travel. Not only will it add a touch of luxury to your trip, but you won’t have to stand in line waiting for the next available taxi. Private transfers, like those booked with Welcome Pickups, provide a stress-free door-to-door transfer so all you need to do is turn up and go. 

When you book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups, you’ll enjoy:

  • A meet and greet service on arrival
  • Modern and comfortable private vehicles
  • Trained English-speaking drivers 
  • Flight monitoring
  • Guaranteed fixed fares
  • 24/7 customer support 

 

Additionally, Welcome’s drivers are local to the city and can let you in on some of their favorite travel gems in Berlin, plus they’ll give you a mini tour of the city on the way to your hotel to help you get your bearings. Lastly, you can chat with the support team about additional perks such as in-city transfers and personalized travel arrangements to help get the most out of your stay.

How much does a private transfer from Berlin Airport to the city cost?

When you book a private transfer from Berlin Airport, you won’t need to worry about fluctuating taxi prices. Instead, you’ll be offered a fixed price ahead of your arrival, inclusive of all charges, that won’t change if your flight is delayed or if you get stuck in traffic. 

Moreover, your ride can be booked and paid for before you travel, so on arrival, you’ll be able to slip straight into holiday mode. Booking is super easy and can be done in under a minute via our app or website. Simply enter your personal details, the date and time of travel and your flight number, and you’ll receive a fixed quote.  

For a private transfer from Berlin Airport to the city center or your hotel, the cost is €61 for a comfortable 3-seater sedan. If your group is a little larger, our 7-seater minivans provide lots of space, costing €95 for the 40-minute ride downtown.

Cost
€61
Trip Duration
40 Min.
You will be met with your private transfer on arrival.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Private transfers can be taken at any time of day, every day of the year.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

After landing and collecting your luggage, you’ll be met in the Arrivals Hall by your friendly English-speaking driver. No need to wait in line for a taxi, your driver will be waiting with a sign with your name on it, ready to help you with your luggage as they show you to your pre-selected private vehicle.

Convenience

While public transport and local taxis cater to different needs and budgets, a Berlin Airport private transfer is the most convenient and flexible transport option. Private transfers can be tailored to suit your schedule, and when you book with a company like Welcome Pickups, you’ll be offered a guaranteed on-time pickup, which is perfect for business travelers. For families and bigger groups, a more spacious vehicle can be arranged ahead of time so that everyone – and their belongings – can travel together, rather than having to split the group up.

Useful Tips

We suggest requesting a pick-up time 30 minutes after the flight's scheduled landing time to allow enough time to clear passport control and collect any luggage.
Your driver will monitor your flight to ensure they are there on time to meet you, even if the flight is delayed.
A day before you travel, you'll be emailed your driver's name and photo to help you recognise them at the airport.
You can request extra services such as a baby seat or a modified vehicle during the booking process.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to get from Berlin Airport to the city center?

When traveling from Berlin Airport to the city center, you have six transport options; taxi, private transfer, bus, or a choice of trains. Taking a Berlin Airport taxi or private transfer is the most convenient choice, getting you to your hotel’s doorstep in under 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can choose from a selection of bus or train services taking you to the city center from €3.50. However, traveling via public transport can be a hassle with luggage in tow, and during busy periods.

How far is Berlin Brandenburg Airport from the city center?

How much is a taxi from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the city center?

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