Find the best way to get from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to the city center. We compare Airport Express Train, S-Bahn, Bus & Subway, Taxi, Welcome Pickups, Uber and Car Sharing in terms of travel time, cost and comfort – including recommendations for different travel situations.
Berlin Airport (BER) → City Center
- 💸 Cheapest connection: Airport Express Train, S-Bahn or Bus & Subway (5.00 €)
- ⏱️ Fastest connection: Airport Express Train (~25–30 min to the city center)
Which connection is right for you?
- I want to travel as cheaply as possible: Airport Express Train, S-Bahn or Bus & Subway
- I want to get to the city center fast: Airport Express Train
- I arrive at night: Train, Taxi, Welcome Pickups or Uber
- I want to go directly to my hotel: Taxi, Welcome Pickups or Uber
All transport options from Berlin Airport to the city center
| Transport | Travel time | Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Express Train | ~25–30 min ⏱️ | 5.00 € 💸 | Fast & cheap |
| S-Bahn | ~45–55 min | 5.00 € 💸 | Local stops |
| Bus & Subway | ~55–65 min | 5.00 € 💸 | Local stops |
| Taxi | ~40–50 min | ~55–70 € | Comfortable, spontaneous |
| Welcome Pickups |
~40–50 min | ~60–80 € | Maximum comfort |
| Uber | ~40–50 min | ~45–70 € | Flexible rides |
| Car Sharing | ~40–50 min | Variable | App users |
The cheapest connection from Berlin Airport to the city
The cheapest options are public transport connections with a Berlin ABC zone-ticket. The Airport Express Train, S-Bahn and Bus & Subway all use the same fare zone ticket from BER Airport to central Berlin.
The fastest connection from Berlin Airport to the center
The Airport Express Train is usually the fastest way to reach central Berlin from BER Airport. It connects the airport railway station directly with major city stops such as Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Potsdamer Platz and Südkreuz.
Transport from Berlin Airport at night
Berlin Brandenburg Airport operates around the clock and remains well connected to the city during late evening and night hours. The S-Bahn and selected regional train services (including the Airport Express Train FEX) continue to run overnight, although frequencies are lower than during the day.
For most late arrivals, public transport is still a practical option. If you prefer a direct door-to-door transfer without waiting, Taxi, Welcome Pickups or Uber are usually the most comfortable alternatives.
ALL TRANSFER OPTIONS IN DETAIL
Airport Express Train from Berlin Airport to the city center
Time: ~25–30 min ⏱️ | Cost: 5.00 € per person 💸
The Airport Express Train is usually the best connection from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the city center. It is fast, inexpensive and connects BER Airport directly with central Berlin.
- The railway station is located directly below Terminal 1/2.
- Besides the Airport Express Train (FEX), regional trains RE8 and RB23 also connect BER with central Berlin.
- Best choice for most travelers heading to Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Potsdamer Platz or Südkreuz.
S-Bahn from Berlin Airport
Time: ~45–55 min | Cost: 5.00 € per person 💸
The S-Bahn is a cheap and reliable public transport option from BER Airport, especially if your destination is located along the S-Bahn route.
- S-Bahn lines S9 and S45 serve BER Airport.
- The S-Bahn is usually slower than the Airport Express Train.
- Good for local stops and travelers who prefer direct public transport connections.
Bus & Subway from Berlin Airport
Time: ~55–65 min | Cost: 5.00 € per person 💸
The express buses X7 and X71 connect BER Airport with subway stations such as Rudow, where you can continue by U-Bahn into Berlin.
- Useful if your destination is located along the U7 route.
- Usually less convenient than the Airport Express Train for first-time visitors.
- A practical backup option if train connections do not suit your route.
Taxi from Berlin Airport to the city
Time: ~40–50 min | Cost: ~55–70 € per ride
Taxis take you directly from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to hotels, apartments and business addresses throughout Berlin.
- Official taxis are available in front of Terminal 1.
- Ideal for groups, families and travelers with larger luggage.
- During high passenger volumes, there may be waiting times at the taxi rank.
Welcome Pickups from Berlin Airport
Time: ~40–50 min | Cost: ~60–80 € per ride
A comfortable private airport transfer picks you up directly at the arrival hall at BER and takes you to your hotel or apartment without waiting.
- Bookable in advance with a direct ride to your accommodation.
- Especially comfortable for families, business travelers and late arrivals.
- The transfer is offered by Welcome Pickups – English-speaking driver, flight monitoring and 24/7 customer support.
Uber from Berlin Airport
Time: ~40–50 min (+pickup) | Cost: ~45–70 € per ride
Uber is a flexible alternative to taxis and takes you directly from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to your accommodation, although prices can vary depending on demand and traffic.
- Interesting for anyone who prefers app-based transport services.
- Pickup location depends on the Uber app instructions.
Car Sharing from Berlin Airport
Time: ~40–50 min | Cost: depending on provider and selected car
Car sharing can be a flexible and more sustainable option if you already use a car-sharing app and feel comfortable driving in the city.
- Car-sharing vehicles are located at parking space P4, a few minutes from the terminals.
- Availability and prices depend on the selected provider, vehicle type and booking time.
Which connection is the best now?
For most travelers, the Airport Express Train is the best combination of price, speed and reliability. It is inexpensive, fast and connects BER Airport directly with central Berlin.
If you want to go directly to your accommodation or travel with lots of luggage, Taxi or Welcome Pickups is the most relaxed option.
If you already use a car-sharing app, Car Sharing can also be an interesting and flexible option from BER Airport.
Have a nice stay in Berlin! 🇩🇪✈️
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