First-time travelers should note that besides the buses and taxis other means of transportation in Berlin are complex. But fear not! Here in this guide, we will show you how to move in and out Berlin and other useful tips so that you do not feel disappointed.
1. Public Transportation
If you are on a tight budget or you simply do not wish to drive while in Berlin then public transportation is your best bet. Here are the main options:
Trains
The Berlin S-Bahn and U-Bahn networks consist of approximately 181 and 146 kilometers of track respectively and serve all parts of the city. Subways are regular means of transport and are used by people who wish to make transfers quickly. It will be helpful to pick up a map at any station in order to familiarize oneself with the lines.
Buses and Trams
Though Berlin have trains as the primary means of most of its public transport there are buses and trams which complete the rail by gaining access to areas that have no rail head. Buses and trams form a broad network, so you can easily change the bus or tram depending on the timetable.
Tickets and Fares
In Berlin, it’s mandatory to have a valid ticket while using public transport to avert being penalized. A pass can be bought from ticketing machines at train and tram stations or from the conductor or driver directly in a bus. Remember to check your ticket when getting into the train or the tram.
Pro tip: Take a day pass or Welcome Card that allows travelling within the specific zones and travellers receive discounts on many attractions in Berlin.
2. Bicycles
Bike friendly cities- Berlin: Berlin is one of the cities with friendly cycling infrastructure in the world with bike lanes and cycling paths. Besides, cycling is not only an effective means of getting around the city, but it also means seeing its sights at their own pace. There is a number of bike rental shops in this city; therefore, you can easily rent a bicycle for the day or for quite a few days.
Pro tip: Every once in a while, remember that there are traffic rules, and it is also acceptable to gesturally indicate the direction of a turn. And always make sure to lock the bike where ever you leave it as long as you are not using it.
3. Walking
Walking is a wonderful method of understanding different districts of Berlin. While walking by, you can absorb everything: history, architecture, and accidentally discover some amazing place. For larger distances, other means of transport may be used but walking around within the neighborhoods is advised.
Pro tip: Do wear comfortable shoes at all times and do carry a bottle of water all the time… and especially if there is summer around the corner.
4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
In case you prefer an easier and door to door solution, taxis and Uber are easily found in Berlin. A taxi can be flagged on this area or at the taxi rank or you can order one via an application.
Pro tip: Note that while using a taxi may be convenient it may be relatively costly than taking a bus or even cycling. Let’s if in case you do choose to travel by a taxi, make certain that the driver is putting to use the taxi meter or better still, carry cash with you so that you may get a fair charge for the taxi service you hired.
5. Sightseeing Buses
When you are in Berlin for the first time or you have limited time at your disposal and are interested in seeing the key tourist venders, a few sightseeing bus tours are indeed quite useful. These buses are popular, entertaining and can be boarded at any stop with a scheduled audio guide in many languages.
Pro tip: Accessibility to the places to be visited can be through a combination ticket which should include bus access as well as most of the tourist attractions.
Conclusion
If like most people you are intending to move around Berlin, it does not have to be a complicated affair. There are various means of transport that are available and get access to all the destinations within the city: public transport, bicycle, on foot, taxi and sightseeing buses.
Be sure to think of the routes beforehand, check when the ticket is valid and keep an eye opened. Enjoy exploring Berlin!
Table of Contents