Introduction
It can be fun to travel to Berlin which is not only the capital city of Germany, but also has a lot to offer to tourist. However, when making arrangements for your trip one of the issues that may pop up is, “he distance between Berlin Brandenburg Airport and the city centre.” In this guide, we shall discuss several means of transport and aid you in arriving at the best mode of transport in getting to the city center from the airports in Berlin.
Understanding Berlin Brandenburg Airport
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the main and largest international airport station located in Berlin city. It is in Schönefeld, around 11 statutory miles or 18 kilometres from the downtown area of the city. The airport was officially opened in October 2020, replacing the previous airports: Tegel and Schönefeld.
Transportation Options
1. Public Transportation
The practical and cheapest means of getting into the city centre of Berlin from Berlin Brandenburg Airport is through the use of public transport . The two main options available are:
a. Train
Berlin Brandenburg airport feature a railway station known as Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg and which provides rail links to the various destinations within Berlin and the immediate surroundings. Regional trains RE7 and RB14 run from the airport to the Central Station and other places of interest such as Alexanderplatz, in Berlin. Most of the journey may take about 30 minutes or more depending with the area that is being reached.
It is extremely important to have a ticket before taking a seat in any train. Tickets can also be purchased at ticketing machines located at the station or via a number of transport applications. In addition to being required to produce ticket at the guard’s request, it is recommended that one validates ticket before boarding the train and then carry the ticket with you for the rest of the journey.
b. Bus
Buses are also easy to catch from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to get to the city’s heart. A multiple number of bus lines have routes to and from the airport; these are the express bus X7 and bus 171.
The X7 bus itself directly connects to the Rudow underground station (U-Bahnhof) part of U7 line. Rudow station is perfectly situated because from here one can get to most of the city sights and if necessary switch to another metro line.
2. Taxi
There is an easier and more comfortable way – to order a taxi from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the downtown. There are many taxi services that are available at the foyer of the terminal building. It normally lasts half an hour up to 40 minutes depending on the traffic congestion on the way. When it comes to hiring transport, it is better to pick up licensed taxi which color is white with the ‘Taxi’ inscription on the car roof.
However, as be expected with a taxi service, the fares in Berlin are based on the meter but there is an extra charge for baggage as well as late-night trickling. Remember to check the estimate fee with the driver before you get to him for the ride.
3. Ride-Sharing Services
Uber and Lyft are also available in Berlin as means transport through ride-sharing services. Using the mobile applications, you can order a car and be picked from the airport conveniently. The time required and the cost could be differed depending on the demand and traffic conditions.
Taking a ride using the ride-sharing services can be comfortable, especially if you are many or have large luggage. Nevertheless, there are particular zones within the city that main strict, limited zones for ride-sharing services, and therefore, before addressing this method, one should read some particularities.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
a. Plan Ahead
When planning for your travel, it is advisable, if you have the time to do some research and find out the kind of transport that is available for use from the airport to the city center. They include the time of arrival, time that you have at your disposal, the type of car and the location of your hotel. Stating it like this, dreaming big is useful when preparing because it gives one proper direction on how to go about things like the means of transport among others.
b. Check the Schedules
If you decide to use train or bus as means of transportation then you have to know the schedules of the train or bus in advance. The operating frequency and hours will thus help you time your commute well so that there is little or no waiting time involved.
c. Purchase a Travel Pass
If you have intentions to frequently travel around the Berlin using buses and trams it would be wise to buy a travel pass. For public transport, there are possibilities to take the Berlin welcome card which gives bearer free access to the zone selected and different types of discounts for the main attractions or a free Berlin tour. Before deciding whether to get a travel pass, check what trips and transportation you might want to take.
d. Be Prepared for Currency
This is advisable in order to change for some local currency (Euros) in the event that you need to pay for transport as soon as you arrive. Although most places in Berlin offer patrons the ability to pay with their credit cards, some of the shops or ticket machines located in small shops or stations might still work only cash basis.
Conclusion
All in all, Berlin Brandenburg Airport is located at a distance of 18 kilometers from Berlin city centre that is 11 miles. No matter what type of trip you decide to take, be it with a subway, a cab or an Uber, there are some choices to make to guarantee a smooth ride. Take a moment to think about your schedule and preferences and Berlin’s colorful center is just a few stops away from you.
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