Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to Berlin Central Station (Hauptbahnhof or Hbf) for most travelers is by direct train â either the Airport Express (FEX) or a Regional (RE/RB) train. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, costs a standard â¬3.50 for an ABC zone ticket, and requires no changes. Itâs fast, affordable, and efficient. For those with heavy luggage, very late arrivals, or groups of 3-4, a pre-booked private transfer or taxi might be worth the extra cost for door-to-door convenience.
By Train: The Best Way from BER to Berlin Central Station
The train network is the backbone of airport transfers in Berlin. The station (Flughafen BER - Terminal 1-2) is located directly beneath the airport terminals. Three main train types serve the route to Berlin Hbf, each with slight differences.
| Train Type | Line/Name | Travel Time to Hbf | Frequency | Key Features & Stops |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Express (FEX) | FEX | ~30 min | Every 30 min | Fastest direct option. Only 3 stops: Ostkreuz, Gesundbrunnen, then Berlin Hbf. Minimal luggage space. |
| Regional Train (RE/RB) | RE7, RB14 | ~30-33 min | Every 30 min | Direct and comfortable. More spacious than FEX. Also stops at Ostbahnhof and Alexanderplatz before Hbf. |
| S-Bahn (Suburban Train) | S9, S45 | ~40-50 min | Every 20 min | Cheapest train, more stops. S9 goes via Ostkreuz and Hauptbahnhof. S45 requires a change at Südkreuz to reach Hbf. |
Source: Berlin Transport Company (BVG) & Deutsche Bahn (DB) timetables.
Step-by-Step Guide: Taking the Train from BER
- Follow Signs: After baggage claim, follow the green "Train" or "S-Bahn" signs.
- Buy a Ticket: Purchase an ABC zone single ticket (Einzelfahrausweis ABC) from the red BVG or yellow DB machines, the BVG app, or the service counter. Cost: â¬3.50.
- Validate: If you have a paper ticket, stamp it in the small red or yellow boxes on the platform before boarding.
- Board the Correct Train: Check the platform displays for the next FEX, RE7/RB14, or S9 train direction "Berlin Hbf" or "Berlin Hauptbahnhof".
- Alight at Berlin Hbf: The train will announce the stop. Follow signs for your final exit or connecting transport.
Luggage & Accessibility
Regional trains (RE/RB) offer the most luggage space. The FEX can be crowded with limited space. All trains and the airport station have elevators and are wheelchair accessible. For detailed accessibility info, consult the DB Barrier-Free Travel Service.
By Bus & Local Public Transport
While not the most direct route to Hbf, buses are a crucial part of Berlin's integrated network and can be useful for specific destinations or as a budget component.
Direct Express Buses (to City Center)
- TXL Express Bus: Historically important, but officially discontinued in 2021 following the opening of BER. Some private shuttle services may use similar branding; verify their legitimacy.
- BER1 & BER2 Airport Lines: Operated by Berlin Linien Bus, these coaches connect BER to key locations like Alexanderplatz (BER1) and Zoologischer Garten (BER2). You would need to transfer to S-Bahn or U-Bahn to reach Hbf. Not necessarily faster or cheaper than the train for Hbf as a final destination.
Local Buses + U-Bahn (The Budget Combo)
This is the cheapest method, ideal for adventurous travelers heading to southeastern districts or on a tight budget.
- Take Bus X7 or X71 from outside Terminals 1, 2, or 5 to the endpoint "U Rudow". (Journey: ~15 mins).
- At U Rudow, take the U-Bahn U7 (direction: Rathaus Spandau).
- Ride for about 30 minutes and change at Hauptbahnhof station (direct connection to the train station).
Cost: Same â¬3.50 ABC ticket, valid for the entire 2-hour journey including the bus and U-Bahn change. Total Time: 50-70 minutes.
Note: Buses have limited luggage space and are subject to traffic delays.
By Taxi, Private Transfer & Shuttle
For maximum convenience, especially with lots of luggage, families, or after a long flight, a direct car service is the best choice, albeit at a premium price.
Taxis
- Availability: Official taxi ranks are located directly outside Arrivals of all terminals.
- Fare to Berlin Hbf: â¬45 - â¬65. The meter starts at ~â¬4.00. Price depends on traffic, time (surcharges may apply at night or on Sundays), and the exact drop-off point at the large Hbf complex.
- Travel Time: 20 to 40 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic on the A113 motorway.
- Payment: Cash (Euros) and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers & Shuttles
Booking in advance offers fixed pricing, no queue, and a meet-and-greet service.
| Service Type | Approx. Price (to Hbf) | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Car (Sedan) | â¬50 - â¬75 | Door-to-door, fixed price, driver meets you with a sign. | Most expensive option per person. | Families, business travelers, those with heavy luggage. |
| Shared Shuttle Van | â¬20 - â¬35 per person | Cheaper than private car, door-to-door. | You may wait for other passengers; multiple drop-offs lengthen trip. | Solo travelers or couples willing to share to save. |
Recommendation: Compare prices on reputable platforms like KiwiTaxi or Welcome Pickups.
When is a Taxi/Transfer Worth It?
- Arriving between 1:00 AM and 4:00 AM on a weeknight (limited night transport).
- Traveling in a group of 3 or 4 (can be cost-comparable to train tickets).
- If you have mobility issues or excessive luggage.
- If your accommodation is very close to Hbf and the train doesn't save much final walking.
Tickets, Travel Passes & Cost Comparison
Which Ticket Do I Need?
Berlin is divided into fare zones A, B, and C. BER Airport is in Zone C, Berlin Hbf is in Zone A. Therefore, you need a ticket valid for all three zones: ABC.
- Single Ticket (Einzelfahrausweis ABC): â¬3.50. Valid for one journey in one direction for up to 2 hours.
- Day Ticket (Tageskarte ABC): â¬10.00. Unlimited travel on all public transport until 3:00 AM the next day.
- Berlin WelcomeCard (ABC): Starts at â¬23 for 48 hours. Includes unlimited transport and discounts up to 50% at 200+ attractions. Excellent value if you plan to sightsee. Official Website.
- Deutsche Bahn (DB) Tickets: You can buy a point-to-point long-distance ticket from "Flughafen BER" to "Berlin Hbf" on DB trains, but this is usually more expensive (â¬10-â¬20) than the standard BVG ABC ticket for the same regional trains.
Complete Cost & Time Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Travel Time | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regional Train (RE/FEX) | â¬3.50 (ABC Ticket) | 30 min | Best Overall (Speed + Value) | Direct, frequent, no traffic. |
| S-Bahn (S9) | â¬3.50 (ABC Ticket) | 40-50 min | Budget travelers, no rush | More stops, runs all night on weekends. |
| Bus X7 + U-Bahn U7 | â¬3.50 (ABC Ticket) | 50-70 min | The Cheapest Option | Subject to traffic, less luggage space. |
| Shared Shuttle | â¬20 - â¬35 pp | 40-60 min | Solo/Couples wanting door-to-door | Price varies, may involve waiting. |
| Taxi | â¬45 - â¬65 total | 20-40 min | Groups (3-4), late night, heavy luggage | Metered, price depends on traffic. |
| Private Transfer | â¬50 - â¬75 total | 20-40 min | Families, convenience seekers | Fixed price, pre-booked, meet & greet. |
| Rental Car | â¬40 - â¬80/day + fuel + parking | 20-40 min | Road trips starting from Berlin | Avoid for city stays. Parking at Hbf >â¬30/day. |
Traveler Tips & Insider Experience
Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Download the Apps: Before you land, download the BVG FahrInfo Plus or DB Navigator app. They provide real-time schedules, disruption alerts, and you can buy and validate mobile tickets instantly.
- Validate Paper Tickets: The #1 mistake tourists make is forgetting to stamp their paper ticket. An unvalidated ticket is invalid, and you risk a â¬60 fine.
- Navigating Berlin Hbf: It's Europe's largest multi-level station. Allow 5-10 minutes to find your exit/connecting train. Follow the color-coded signs: â S-Bahn (Green), â U-Bahn (Blue), â Regional/Long-Distance Trains (Red).
- Money & SIM Cards: Withdraw Euros from ATMs (Geldautomat) in the arrivals hall. Consider buying a local SIM (e.g., from Aldi Talk, Lycamobile) at shops like "Rossmann" or "Rewe" in the airport for cheap data to use transport apps.
Handling Luggage
- Train Luggage Areas: Use the multi-purpose areas at the ends of train carriages. Keep an eye on your bags.
- Excess Luggage Solution: If you have too much to carry into the city, consider using a luggage storage service. Companies like LuggageHero have partner locations near Hbf, or use lockers at the airport (Terminal 1) or Hbf itself (prices vary by size).
Seasonal & Time-Specific Advice
- Peak Hours (Weekdays 7-9 AM, 4-6 PM): Trains and roads are busiest. Allow extra time. Taxis are more expensive due to slower traffic.
- Weekends & Public Holidays: Public transport may run on a reduced schedule (S-Bahn especially). The S-Bahn runs all night on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Winter (Dec-Feb): While rare, snow can cause slight delays. Trains are still the most reliable option in bad weather.
- Major Events (e.g., Berlin Marathon, Christmas Markets): Expect crowded trains and much higher taxi/transfer demand. Book private transfers well in advance.
FAQs: Berlin Airport (BER) to Central Station
What is the fastest way to get from BER Airport to Berlin Central Station?
The fastest direct public transport option is the Airport Express (FEX) or Regional (RE) train, taking about 30 minutes. A taxi or private transfer can be faster (20-40 mins) but is significantly more expensive.
What is the cheapest way to travel from BER to Berlin Hbf?
The cheapest option is the local public bus (line X7 or X71 to Rudow, then U-Bahn), costing a standard â¬3.50 Berlin ABC ticket. The S-Bahn S9/S45 is also very affordable at the same fare.
Is there a direct train from BER to Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Central Station)?
Yes. Both the Airport Express (FEX) and the Regional Express (RE7 or RB14) offer direct connections from BER Terminals 1-2 to Berlin Hbf without any changes.
How much is a taxi from BER to Berlin Central Station?
A taxi fare typically ranges from â¬45 to â¬65, depending on traffic, time of day, and exact destination within the station complex. A fixed pre-booked private transfer often costs a similar amount.
Can I use the Berlin WelcomeCard for transport from the airport?
Yes. The Berlin WelcomeCard for zones ABC is valid on all S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, trams, and regional trains (like FEX and RE) from BER Airport to the city center, including Berlin Hbf.
I arrive late at night at BER. What are my transport options?
The S-Bahn S9 and S45 run all night on weekends (Fri/Sat night and before public holidays). On weeknights, there is a night bus network (N7, N60). Taxis are available 24/7.
Where do I buy train/bus tickets at BER Airport?
Tickets are available at BVG/DB ticket machines in the station under Terminal 1, at the BVG service point, or via the BVG or DB Navigator smartphone apps. Validate paper tickets before boarding.
Is the journey from BER to Hbf difficult with large luggage?
Trains (FEX, RE, S-Bahn) have dedicated luggage areas. Buses have less space. During peak hours, trains can be crowded. For significant luggage, a taxi or transfer is more convenient.