How to Get from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to the City Center [2026]
Berlin Airport Transfer Map
This visual guide compares the main transport options from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to the city center.
It shows the principal rail routes, bus and road-transfer choices, typical journey times and the areas each option serves best.
Click the map to open the full-size illustration in a new tab.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the main international airport serving the German capital.
Located about 25–30 km south of central Berlin, it offers several fast and reliable transport options to Alexanderplatz, Mitte, Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, Charlottenburg and Prenzlauer Berg.
The airport is directly connected to Berlin by FEX Airport Express, S-Bahn S9 and S45,
regional trains, buses, taxis and private transfers.
The railway station is located directly under Terminal 1, which makes train travel straightforward for first-time visitors.
Quick answer
- Fastest to Berlin Hauptbahnhof: FEX Airport Express, around 30 minutes
- Best for most tourists: S-Bahn S9 to Alexanderplatz and East Berlin
- Best for South Berlin: S-Bahn S45 to Neukölln, Hermannstraße and Südkreuz
- Most comfortable: taxi or private transfer
- Usually least practical for central Berlin: bus
Who This Guide Is For
- First-time visitors arriving at Berlin Brandenburg Airport
- Travelers comparing FEX, S-Bahn, regional trains, buses and taxis
- Visitors choosing a route based on their hotel district
- Families and groups traveling with luggage
- Budget travelers who need the correct ABC ticket
How We Evaluated Berlin Airport Transfers
Options were compared using journey time, typical price, directness, luggage convenience, frequency,
ticket complexity and usefulness for the main tourist areas of Berlin.
Quick Comparison: Best Ways to Get from Berlin Airport to City Center
The table below compares the principal routes from BER, including the typical fare, journey time and destination each option serves most conveniently.
| Transport option | Price | Typical time | Best for | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEX Airport Express | €4.40 (ABC) | ≈ 30 min | Berlin Hauptbahnhof and central Mitte | ⭐ Fastest to the main station |
| S-Bahn S9 | €4.40 (ABC) | ≈ 30–35 min | Alexanderplatz, Friedrichshain and East Berlin | ⭐ Best for most tourists |
| S-Bahn S45 | €4.40 (ABC) | ≈ 35–45 min | Neukölln, Hermannstraße and Südkreuz | ⭐ Best for South Berlin |
| Regional trains | €4.40 (ABC) | ≈ 25–35 min | Fast alternative when the stops match your destination | ⭐ Strong alternative to FEX |
| Bus | €4.40 | ≈ 45–70 min | Specific local destinations | Usually less practical |
| Taxi | €50–€70 | ≈ 35–60 min | Door-to-door travel and luggage | ⭐ Best convenience |
| Private transfer | €60–€90+ | ≈ 35–60 min | Families, groups and premium comfort | ⭐ Most stress-free |
Prices and journey times may vary depending on traffic, service changes and final destination.
Quick tip:
- Best overall for many visitors: S-Bahn S9
- Fastest to Hauptbahnhof: FEX Airport Express
- Most comfortable: taxi or private transfer
Overview: How to Get from BER to Berlin City Center
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is modern and easy to navigate.
The airport railway station is directly under Terminal 1, so travelers can reach the platforms quickly after collecting their luggage.
FEX, S-Bahn and regional trains all use this station.
Understanding Berlin’s ABC Zones
Berlin public transport is divided into Zones A, B and C:
- Zone A: central Berlin inside the S-Bahn Ring
- Zone B: outer Berlin within the city limits
- Zone C: surrounding region, including BER Airport
To travel between BER and central Berlin, you need an ABC ticket.
If you already hold an AB pass, a Zone C extension ticket may be sufficient.
Need help choosing the correct fare?
👉 Compare Berlin transport tickets, zones and travel passes.
Where and How to Buy Tickets
- DB ticket machines
- BVG ticket machines
- BVG app
- DB Navigator app
Paper tickets must be validated before boarding.
Digital tickets bought through the apps are already time-stamped.
Using Berlin public transport for the first time?
👉 Learn how to use the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams and buses in Berlin.
How to Read Train Signs at BER
- FEX: Airport Express toward Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- S9: toward Ostkreuz, Warschauer Straße, Alexanderplatz and beyond
- S45: toward Neukölln, Hermannstraße and Südkreuz
- RE / RB: regional trains serving different central stations
Check both the line number and the final destination shown on the platform screens before boarding.
FEX Airport Express: Fastest to Berlin Hauptbahnhof
The FEX Airport Express is the fastest and most direct route from BER to Berlin Hauptbahnhof.
It is designed for airport passengers and offers wide doors, luggage space and comfortable seating.
| Price | Duration | Frequency | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| €4.40 (ABC) | About 30 min | Every 15–20 min during the day | Hauptbahnhof, Mitte, Tiergarten and Moabit |
Why Choose FEX?
- Fastest route to Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- Comfortable for luggage
- Useful for central Mitte and onward connections
- Predictable journey time without road traffic
Tips for Using FEX
- Check the platform in DB Navigator or on station screens.
- Arrive a few minutes early during busy periods.
- Keep luggage close or use the luggage racks.
Main mistake to avoid: An AB ticket is not enough. You need an ABC ticket or an appropriate Zone C extension.
S-Bahn S9: Best for Alexanderplatz and East Berlin
The S9 is often the most practical choice for tourists staying in East Berlin.
It serves Ostkreuz, Warschauer Straße, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße and other central transport hubs.
| Price | Duration | Main stops | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| €4.40 (ABC) | About 30–35 min to Alexanderplatz | Ostkreuz, Warschauer Straße, Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz | Friedrichshain, Prenzlauer Berg and East Berlin |
Why Choose S9 Over FEX?
Choose S9 when it stops closer to your hotel.
For Alexanderplatz, Warschauer Straße or Ostkreuz, it can eliminate an extra transfer from Hauptbahnhof.
Best simple rule: If your accommodation is near Alexanderplatz or in Friedrichshain, take S9 unless a journey planner shows a clearly faster alternative.
S-Bahn S45: Best for South Berlin
S45 is useful for southern districts such as Neukölln, Hermannstraße and Südkreuz.
It is less relevant for most central tourist areas, but can be the most direct line when your hotel is in South Berlin.
| Price | Duration | Main stops | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| €4.40 (ABC) | About 35–45 min | Adlershof, Neukölln, Hermannstraße, Südkreuz | Neukölln, Tempelhof and South Berlin |
When S45 Makes Sense
Choose S45 when your final destination is near Neukölln, Hermannstraße or Südkreuz.
It does not serve Alexanderplatz or Hauptbahnhof directly.
Regional Trains: Fast Alternatives to FEX
Regional trains such as RE and RB services can be as fast as FEX and may stop closer to your destination.
They are comfortable, spacious and included with the same ABC ticket.
Best Use Case
Take a regional train when it is departing soon and its route serves the station closest to your hotel.
Check the current timetable and stops in DB Navigator.
| Price | Typical time | Comfort | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| €4.40 (ABC) | About 25–35 min | High, with luggage space | Less frequent and route-dependent |
Bus from Berlin Airport to the City
Buses connect BER with several districts and nearby transport hubs.
For most tourists heading to central Berlin, however, trains are faster, easier and less affected by traffic.
When the Bus Makes Sense
- Your accommodation is close to a specific bus route.
- You arrive when train frequency is reduced.
- You are traveling to a local destination not served conveniently by rail.
Recommendation: For Alexanderplatz, Mitte or Hauptbahnhof, choose FEX, S9 or a regional train rather than a bus.
Taxi and Private Transfers from BER
Taxi and private transfers provide the easiest door-to-door journey.
They are particularly useful for families, travelers with heavy luggage, late arrivals and destinations requiring awkward rail connections.
| Option | Typical price | Typical time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official taxi | €50–€70 | About 35–60 min | Convenient door-to-door travel |
| Private transfer | €60–€90+ | About 35–60 min | Pre-booked comfort and meet-and-greet service |
Best For
- Families with children
- Travelers with several suitcases
- Late-night and early-morning arrivals
- Groups sharing the cost
Group tip: For three or four passengers, compare the total taxi price with the cost and convenience of several ABC tickets.
Best Option Depending on Your Hotel Location
| Area | Best option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Mitte / Hauptbahnhof | FEX | Direct to the main station and central Mitte |
| Alexanderplatz / Prenzlauer Berg | S9 | Direct to Alexanderplatz with easy onward connections |
| Friedrichshain / East Side Gallery | S9 | Direct access to Ostkreuz and Warschauer Straße |
| Kreuzberg / Neukölln | S45 or S9 plus connection | Depends on the exact district and nearest station |
| Charlottenburg / West Berlin | FEX or regional train plus onward connection | Useful central interchange before heading west |
Cheapest Way to Get from BER to Berlin City Center
Public transport with an ABC ticket is the cheapest option.
FEX, S9, S45, regional trains, U-Bahn, trams and buses can all be used under the integrated fare system.
- Single ABC ticket: €4.40
- If you already have an AB pass: consider a Zone C extension
- For several journeys: compare a day pass or multi-day product
Fastest Way to Get from BER to Berlin City Center
- Berlin Hauptbahnhof: FEX, about 30 minutes
- Alexanderplatz: S9, about 30–35 minutes
- Neukölln / Südkreuz: S45, about 35–45 minutes
Regional trains may also be very fast when their stops match your destination.
Train travel is generally more predictable than road transport during busy traffic periods.
Best Option for Tourists
For many first-time visitors, S9 is the best all-round option because it serves Alexanderplatz and several popular eastern districts directly.
FEX is better when you need Hauptbahnhof or central Mitte.
Our recommendation:
- Budget and simplicity: S9 or FEX with an ABC ticket
- Fastest to Hauptbahnhof: FEX
- Alexanderplatz and Friedrichshain: S9
- Maximum comfort: taxi or private transfer
Tips to Save Money on Berlin Airport Transfers
Use Public Transport
FEX, S-Bahn and regional trains offer excellent value compared with taxis and private transfers.
Consider Day Passes
If you will use public transport repeatedly after arrival, compare an ABC day pass with individual tickets.
Use the BVG or DB Navigator App
Apps help you compare departures, buy tickets and avoid unnecessary waiting.
Choose the Line Closest to Your Hotel
A direct S9 journey can be better than taking FEX and making an unnecessary transfer.
Arriving Late at Night?
Late-night rail and bus options may run less frequently.
Check the current timetable before traveling.
For maximum simplicity after midnight, taxi or private transfer is often the easiest option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling from BER
Buying an AB Ticket
BER is in Zone C, so central-Berlin journeys require ABC validity.
Not Validating a Paper Ticket
Paper tickets must be stamped before boarding unless already validated by the machine.
Taking the Wrong Direction
Check the line and final destination shown on the departure board.
Choosing FEX Automatically
S9 or S45 may be more direct depending on your hotel district.
Underestimating Large Stations
Hauptbahnhof and Ostkreuz can involve long walks between platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Berlin Airport Transfers
How much is the train from BER to Berlin city center?
A standard ABC ticket costs €4.40 in the source page and covers FEX, S-Bahn, regional trains and onward local transport within its validity.
Do I need an ABC ticket from BER?
Yes. Berlin Brandenburg Airport is in Zone C, while central Berlin is in Zones A and B.
Which train is fastest from BER?
FEX is generally fastest to Berlin Hauptbahnhof, while a regional train may be equally fast depending on the route.
Is S9 better than FEX?
S9 is often better for Alexanderplatz, Friedrichshain and East Berlin. FEX is better for Hauptbahnhof and central Mitte.
Where does S45 go?
S45 serves southern areas including Neukölln, Hermannstraße and Südkreuz.
Can I use the same ticket on FEX and the U-Bahn?
Yes. The integrated ABC ticket covers eligible regional rail and Berlin public transport within its validity rules.
Do I need to validate my ticket?
Paper tickets generally need validation before boarding. App tickets are already time-stamped.
Can I buy a ticket on the train?
No. Buy the ticket before boarding from a machine or through an official app.
Where is the train station at BER?
The main rail station is located directly under Terminal 1.
How long does it take from BER to central Berlin?
Train journeys usually take around 25–40 minutes depending on the line and destination.
Is the S-Bahn safe with luggage?
Yes. Remain aware of your belongings, especially on crowded trains and at large interchange stations.
What is the best route to Alexanderplatz?
S9 is usually the most direct public transport option.
What is the best route to Hauptbahnhof?
FEX Airport Express is normally the clearest direct choice.
What is the best route to Neukölln?
S45 is often the most useful route for southern Berlin, depending on your exact address.
Are regional trains included in the ABC ticket?
Yes, eligible regional trains within the Berlin fare area can be used with the correct ABC ticket.
Are taxis reliable from BER?
Official taxis are available outside Terminal 1 and provide regulated metered service.
How much is a taxi from BER?
The source page gives a typical range of €50–€70 to central Berlin, depending on traffic and destination.
What is best for a late-night arrival?
Check current train and bus schedules. Taxi or private transfer is often easiest when frequencies are reduced.
What is best with heavy luggage?
FEX and regional trains offer useful luggage space, while taxi or private transfer provides the easiest door-to-door journey.
What is the best overall option?
S9 is often best for tourists staying around Alexanderplatz or East Berlin, while FEX is best for Hauptbahnhof.
More Berlin Transport Guides
Continue Planning Your Trip
These guides explain Berlin tickets, zones, validation and local transport:
Editorial transparency
This guide is independently written and regularly reviewed.
Airport routes, fares, schedules and operating conditions may change.
Whenever possible, travelers should verify current details with official airport and transport operators before departure.
Conclusion
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is well connected to the city center by FEX, S-Bahn and regional trains.
The best line depends mainly on your hotel location.
Choose FEX for Hauptbahnhof, S9 for Alexanderplatz and East Berlin, and S45 for southern districts.
Taxi or private transfer is best when luggage, children or arrival time make door-to-door travel more valuable.
Once you reach Berlin, continue with our
Berlin Transport Tickets guide
and
Berlin public transport beginner’s guide.
Final recommendation: Check the nearest station to your hotel before choosing between FEX, S9, S45 and regional trains.