Berlin is a sprawling, cosmopolitan city with excellent roads and public transport networks. Expats will find that they can get just about anywhere relatively quickly and efficiently, although they should be prepared to get caught in traffic and crowds at peak times.
Most Berlin residents do not find it necessary to own a car. Traffic can be terrible during peak times and parking is expensive and extremely difficult to find. Even those who own a vehicle oftenchoose to use public transport to commute to and from work.
All modes of public transport in Berlin are interconnected and use a common ticket, with prices varying according to how many zones the rider travels through. There are a number of ticket options for tourists and commuters, all of which are reasonably priced.
Commuters can buy tickets from vending machines at U and S-Bahn stations, and then validate the tickets once they board a bus or train.
The bus system is extensive, and making use ofbuses is a good way to travel to any part in the city that is not close to an S-Bahn or U-Bahn station.
Expats can use the same tickets bought at S-Bahn or U-Bahn stations on the trains as long as they are valid within the zone they are travelling in. Simply validate the ticket at the machine inside the doors of the bus (or train).
U-Bahn (underground trains)
The U-Bahn is Berlin’s underground metro system, which functions with characteristic German precision. Commuters can get detailed maps and tickets at all U-Bahn stations (marked by a big blue “U” symbol).
The frequency of U-Bahn services depends on the time of day and the line. Expats are advised to consult a schedule when planning their journey.
S-Bahn (suburban trains)
The S-Bahn is the quickest way to get to an entirely different area of the city. Lines run in a mostly east-to-west direction in the city centre, and there is another line that circles the whole city. Expats can find maps on the S-Bahn websiteor at stations.
Trams
The tram system is the third largest in the worldand offersa fun and novel way to get around the city. Tram maps can be found in S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations, and passengers can buy tickets on the tram.
Taxis in Berlin
Taxis are plentiful in Berlin and they are cheaper than in many other large European capitals. Most drivers speak English and are generally helpful.
Expats can either flag one down in the street or find a taxistand (taxi rank). While taxis are easy to find in Berlin's city centre, if travelling to or from the suburbs it is best to pre-book a vehicle ahead of time.
Travelling by taxi can be useful late at night, and it becomes a cost-effective method of transport if a single vehicle is shared by a group of people travelling in the same direction.
Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Free Now are also a super convenient way to get around. Expats can simply download the app, link their credit card and start riding.
Cycling in Berlin
There are over 620 miles (1,000km) of bike paths, dedicated bike lanes and combination foot/cyclepaths across Berlin, and many locals find that getting around Berlin by bicycle is a cheap, healthy and feasible way to travel.
Berlin is largely flat and cycling is a pleasant experience, as most drivers are aware of the large numbers of cyclists on the roads and are therefore cautious and courteous.
Expats who wish to cycle in Berlin will have a range of bike-hiring options to choose from. Alternatively, it is also possible to buy a second-hand bicycle quite cheaply.
Walking in Berlin
Often the best way to explore the centre of Berlin is on foot, and walking is sometimes the simplest way to travel short distances in the city.
While there are plenty of pavements available for pedestrians, newcomers should be careful not to mistake them for the red-brick cycling paths, which are for cyclists only.
Jaywalking is illegal and most pedestrians in Berlin stick to the rules.
Driving in Berlin
As in any large, bustling city, driving in Berlin can be more trouble than it is worth at peak times or through busy areas where parking is scarce. That said, the road networks have been expanded and streamlined in recent yearsand driving is for the most part a straightforward experience.
Drivers in Berlin tend to obey traffic laws and give way to pedestrians and cyclists, although in peak times the sheer number of cars and traffic light intersections in the city will inevitably cause congestion. That said, expats should be prepared for the Germans’ famous love of speed on motorways.
Expats moving into inner-city areas or areas with metered parking on the streets can apply for a resident's permit to be exempt from the fees.
All expats can drive in Germany for six months after relocating. Thereafter, it depends on a person's nationality: EU licences are valid in Germany, while American, Canadian and South African expats will need to exchange their licence for a German one. Expats from other countries will need to apply for a licence from scratch and take both writtenand practical tests.
FAQs
The bus system is extensive, and making use of buses is a good way to travel to any part in the city that is not close to an S-Bahn or U-Bahn station. Expats can use the same tickets bought at S-Bahn or U-Bahn stations on the trains as long as they are valid within the zone they are travelling in.
What is the best way for tourists to get around Berlin? ›
Public Transportation
Berlin has an extensive S-Bahn (urban rail) and U-Bahn (subway) network that connects all corners of the city. Trains are frequent and reliable, making them an excellent choice for getting around quickly. Don't forget to grab a map at any station to familiarize yourself with the routes.
How do the people of Berlin get around? ›
Getting around the city
Berlin's extensive public-transport network is made up of DB's regional and S-Bahn trains, together with the city's BVG network of underground U-Bahn trains, trams, and buses.
Is public transport in Berlin easy? ›
Berlin has an extensive and well-developed network of public transport that includes underground and light-rail trains as well as buses and trams. Whether you're looking to explore the city center or the outer districts, you can get there easily, comfortably and safely by using public transportation.
How do tourists get around in Germany? ›
It's relatively inexpensive to travel with long-distance buses. In cities, you can choose from city buses, streetcars, subway trains or trams. Many places also offer rental bikes or e-scooters that you can book via various apps. You can also choose to book taxis in large cities with apps.
Do people use Uber in Berlin? ›
In Berlin, Uber provides five ride options: UberX, UberXL, Premium, Green and Taxi. With UberX, UberXL, Premium and Green, you can arrange a trip with an Uber driver-partner. With Taxi, you can arrange a trip with a regular taxi driver, with pricing at the official taxi rates.
How do I get from Berlin airport to the city? ›
The Express Train FEX, the RE7, and the RB14 will get you from Berlin airport to Berlin Hbf train station in 30 minutes. The S-Bahn S9 and S45 lines, which leave every 20 minutes, also stop at Terminal 5 on their way downtown.
Is Berlin a walkable city? ›
In conclusion, Berlin is indeed a remarkably walkable city. Its well-connected public transportation system, impressive infrastructure, and numerous points of interest within walking distance make it an ideal destination for exploring on foot.
Can you drink tap water in Berlin? ›
Germany has some of the best quality drinking water in the world, so it is completely safe to drink from a faucet. Berlin's tap water is sourced from groundwater that is naturally purified and further treated through Berlin's water treatment facilities [1].
What is the difference between the U-Bahn and the S-Bahn? ›
The U-Bahn, commonly understood to stand for Untergrundbahn ('underground railway'), are conventional rapid transit systems that run mostly underground, while the S-Bahn or Stadtschnellbahn ('city rapid railway') are commuter rail services, that may run underground in the city center and have metro-like characteristics ...
On buses, fares are paid to the bus driver, on trams at the ticket machines inside the trains. In larger stations, the S-Bahn and the BVG also provide ticket counters. Tickets can also be purchased via the free BVG app.
Is it easy to get around Berlin without speaking German? ›
As Berlin is becoming a very touristic place, it is not difficult to find people who speak English well, so you don't need to be fluent or to use sign language. But knowing basics words of politeness and conversation is always helpful and will most of the time be rewarded by a friendly attitude and smile.
Why would you board the S-Bahn? ›
Mobility and flexible services for passengers of the capital and surrounding region. In the midst of the Berlin bustle, mobility and short-distance travel is a top priority. Around 1.5 million passengers commute on the S-Bahn during the average work week.
What do visitors to Germany have to be careful about? ›
If you decide to travel to Germany: Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
How do you pay for public transport in Germany? ›
To use them, you have to buy a ticket. Ticket machines may look different in every city. In many buses, drivers sell tickets directly, but only for cash. In many buses, you can only pay with coins or small notes (€5 or €10).
Is there Uber in Germany? ›
2. Uber. While Uber faced regulatory challenges in Germany, it continued to operate in several major cities, including Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt, and Stuttgart. Uber offers various services, including UberX (standard rides), UberGreen (eco-friendly vehicles), and UberVan (for larger groups).
Is the Berlin welcome card worth it? ›
The Berlin WelcomeCard has many advantages: Once you buy the ticket, your kids can travel free when they accompany you. The Berlin WelcomeCard is valid as soon as you set foot in Berlin without having to follow any added formalities. You can save up to 50% on many attractions in and around the city.
Does Berlin have hop on hop off? ›
Hop On and Hop Off Tours are circular tours by bus of the most popular sights in Berlin's city centre.
