How to get to Berlin

Berlin is the vibrant capital and cultural hub of Germany, attracting tourists with its historical monuments and modern architecture. When planning a trip to this metropolis, travellers often seek information on the most convenient route to reach Berlin. The city boasts excellent transport accessibility, so you can arrive here in various ways: by plane, high-speed train, bus, or car.

The main hub for those arriving in Berlin by air is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). This modern aviation hub, opened to replace the old airfields, now serves all commercial flights in the region, connecting the capital of Germany with numerous cities across Europe and the world.

The airport is located to the southeast of the city centre. Thanks to a well-developed transport network, travellers can easily get from the terminals to any point in the metropolis. Passengers have access to high-speed Airport Express trains, S-Bahn urban trains, as well as bus routes, ensuring a quick and comfortable transfer.

Travelling by train to Berlin is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to reach the capital of Germany. The region's railway network is distinguished by high density and punctuality, allowing tourists to easily reach the metropolis from anywhere in Europe while enjoying a high level of service and views from the window.

An extensive system of tracks connects the city with numerous settlements, ensuring convenient logistics for travellers. Routes often pass through important regional hubs, such as nearby Strausberg or Szczecin in Poland, from where you can continue your journey to the centre of the German capital on suburban trains or regional expresses.

Bus services remain one of the most budget-friendly and popular ways to get to Berlin. The capital possesses a developed network of long-distance routes connecting it both with other regions of the country and with major European centres. Most international and intercity flights arrive at the Central Omnibus Station (ZOB am Funkturm), located in the western part of the city, from where it is easy to continue your journey by metro or urban train.

Direct trips from major neighbouring cities are particularly popular with tourists. For example, a trip from Dresden or Hamburg usually takes between 2 to 3.5 hours, making this option an excellent alternative to the train. The international route from Prague is also in high demand: comfortable liners deliver travellers to the German capital in an average of 4–5 hours, allowing you to enjoy the views and save on tickets.

Travelling by car to Berlin is an excellent opportunity to appreciate the famous quality of roads in Germany. The capital is a powerful transport hub led to by high-speed motorways from all directions. From the west, the A2 autobahn approaches the city, from the south the A9, and from the north the A24. All these highways merge into the A10 ring road (Berliner Ring), which allows drivers to choose the most convenient exit to the desired district of the metropolis.

When planning a trip, it is important to consider that the central part of the city (the area inside the S-Bahn urban train ring) is an environmental zone (Umweltzone). To enter this area, a green environmental sticker (Umweltplakette) must be displayed on the car's windscreen. The absence of a sticker is considered a violation and is punishable by a fine, so travellers are recommended to purchase it in advance at petrol stations or service centres.

The parking situation in the centre is quite difficult: spaces are often scarce, and the cost of street parking can be high. A reasonable alternative for tourists is the Park & Ride system. By leaving your car at one of the intercept parking lots near metro or train stations on the outskirts, you can reach the main attractions quickly and without traffic jams using public transport.

Preparing for your trip to Berlin will help you avoid minor inconveniences and focus on your experiences. We have compiled a list of useful recommendations for you that will make your stay in the capital of Germany as comfortable as possible.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather in the city is changeable, so the principle of layering clothes is your best friend in any season. Be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes: distances here are large, and you will have to walk a lot, often on historical cobblestones.
2. Transport: Public transport (BVG) works perfectly, combining the metro (U-Bahn), urban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. It is more profitable to buy a day pass or a Berlin WelcomeCard. Important: be sure to validate (stamp) your ticket before starting your journey in the special machines on the platform or inside the bus to avoid high fines.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro. Despite its status as a modern capital, cash is still very popular here ("Cash is King"). In many small cafes, bakeries, and kiosks, cards may not be accepted, so always carry banknotes and coins with you.
4. Health and Safety: The city is generally safe, but in crowded tourist places (for example, at Alexanderplatz), you should carefully watch your personal belongings. Pharmacies are easily recognized by a large red letter "A"; for emergencies, use the single number 112.
5. Communication: Although the official language is German, Berlin is a very international city. Almost everywhere — in hotels, museums, and restaurants — staff speak fluent English, so the language barrier here is minimal.
6. Local Etiquette: Observe the rules and respect personal space. On Sundays, most shops and supermarkets are closed (Ruhetag); only outlets at train stations and petrol stations operate, so plan your shopping in advance.
7. What to Avoid: The main rule for pedestrians is never to walk on bicycle lanes. Cyclists here are full-fledged participants in traffic, they ride fast, and stepping onto their lane is considered a rude violation and can lead to a collision.
8. Extra Tip: Do not throw empty plastic bottles and aluminium cans into ordinary bins. The country has a deposit system called Pfand: by returning the container to a special machine in any supermarket, you will get back 25 cents for each bottle.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to feel confident and free in the city. May your journey go smoothly and be remembered only for pleasant moments and bright discoveries.