Berlin
Trains
Regional and international train services connect Berlin to other major cities and countries from key train stations.
Sections
Overview of Berlinโs Train System
Berlinโs train network is part of the cityโs public transportation system, managed by the BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) and S-Bahn Berlin GmbH. It consists of two main types of trains:
- S-Bahn (Stadtschnellbahn): Suburban trains that connect the city center with outer districts and nearby regions. They are identified by their green and white logo and operate mostly above ground.
- U-Bahn (Untergrundbahn): Underground metro trains that primarily serve the inner city. They are identified by their yellow trains and blue "U" logo.
Both systems are integrated, meaning you can use the same ticket for both S-Bahn and U-Bahn, as well as buses, trams, and regional trains (within Berlinโs zones).
Train Zones
Berlin is divided into three fare zones:
- Zone A: Covers the city center, including the S-Bahn Ring (a circular line around central Berlin).
- Zone B: Covers the area outside the S-Bahn Ring up to the city limits.
- Zone C: Includes the surrounding areas, such as Potsdam and Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER).
Most visitors will need tickets for Zones A and B, but if youโre traveling to the airport or Potsdam, youโll need a ticket that includes Zone C.
Ticket Options
Berlinโs ticketing system is straightforward, with several options depending on your travel needs:
Single Tickets
- AB Zone: โฌ3.20
- BC Zone: โฌ3.50
- ABC Zone: โฌ4.00
- Valid for 2 hours in one direction (no round trips).
Short-Trip Ticket (Kurzstrecke)
- โฌ2.20
- Valid for up to 3 stops on the S-Bahn or U-Bahn, or 6 stops on buses/trams.
Day Tickets (Tageskarte)
- AB Zone: โฌ9.50
- ABC Zone: โฌ10.70
- Unlimited travel until 3:00 AM the following day.
7-Day Ticket
- AB Zone: โฌ36.00
- ABC Zone: โฌ43.00
- Ideal for longer stays.
Berlin WelcomeCard
- A tourist-friendly option that includes unlimited travel and discounts at attractions.
- Prices start at โฌ24.00 for 48 hours (AB Zone).
Group Tickets
- Day tickets for small groups (up to 5 people) are available for โฌ29.00 (AB Zone).
Children and Discounts
- Children under 6 travel free.
- Reduced fares are available for children aged 6โ14.
How to Purchase Tickets
- Ticket Machines: Found at all S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations. Machines accept cash (coins and small bills) and cards.
- BVG App: Download the BVG app to purchase digital tickets. Itโs convenient and available in English.
- Ticket Counters: Located at major stations like Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Central Station).
- Retail Outlets: Some kiosks and shops sell tickets.
- Onboard: Tickets can be purchased on buses and trams, but not on trains.
Important: Always validate your ticket before boarding. Validation machines (small yellow or red boxes) are located on platforms. Insert your ticket to stamp it with the date and time. Failure to validate can result in a fine of โฌ60 if checked by an inspector.
How the System Works
- Schedules: Trains run frequently, typically every 5โ10 minutes during peak hours and every 10โ20 minutes during off-peak hours. Service starts around 4:30 AM and runs until 1:00 AM. On weekends, the S-Bahn and U-Bahn operate 24 hours.
- Platforms: Check the electronic displays for train destinations and departure times. S-Bahn and U-Bahn platforms are clearly marked.
- Transfers: Transferring between lines is seamless. Follow signs for your desired line or direction.
- Accessibility: Most stations are equipped with elevators or ramps for wheelchair users and strollers.
Local Tips and Considerations
- Punctuality: Trains are generally on time. Arrive a few minutes early to avoid missing your train.
- Etiquette:
- Stand on the right side of escalators to allow others to pass on the left.
- Give up priority seats for elderly, disabled, or pregnant passengers.
- Keep noise levels low, especially during peak hours.
- Safety: Berlinโs train system is safe, but be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like Alexanderplatz or Hauptbahnhof.
- Bicycles: You can bring bicycles on trains, but youโll need a separate bicycle ticket (โฌ2.50).
- Apps: Use the BVG app or Google Maps for real-time navigation and train schedules.
- Night Travel: On weeknights, when the U-Bahn and S-Bahn stop running, night buses (N-Bahn) cover major routes.
Cultural Insights
- Berliners value efficiency and directness. If youโre unsure about something, donโt hesitate to ask for help, but keep your questions concise.
- The train system is a microcosm of Berlinโs diversity. Youโll encounter people from all walks of life, so embrace the cityโs multicultural vibe.
- Berlinโs public transport operates on an honor system, meaning there are no turnstiles. However, ticket inspectors conduct random checks, so always have a valid ticket.
Sample Itinerary Using the Train System
Letโs say youโre staying near Alexanderplatz and want to visit the Brandenburg Gate, Potsdamer Platz, and the East Side Gallery in one day:
- Take the S-Bahn (S5, S7, or S9) from Alexanderplatz to Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate).
- Walk or take the S-Bahn (S1, S2, or S25) to Potsdamer Platz.
- From Potsdamer Platz, take the S-Bahn (S5, S7, or S75) to Warschauer Straรe for the East Side Gallery.
A Day Ticket (AB Zone) would cover all these trips.
By following this guide, youโll be well-prepared to navigate Berlinโs train system like a local. Enjoy your time in this vibrant city!