One of the nicest surprises awaiting you in Berlin is how easy it is to get around. Whether you're here for a short weekend or a longer vacation – there's no need to rent a car or worry about traffic jams.
Berlin boasts an extensive public transportation network called BVG. It's incredibly reliable and convenient, offering subways, commuter trains, trams, buses, and even ferries – all punctual, accessible, and easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors.
In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know: types of transportation, how the ticketing system works (including the German names), where and how to buy tickets, useful apps, and smart tips to help you get the most out of your travel experience.
Planning to explore Berlin like a local? You’re in the right place.
Types of Public Transport in Berlin
U-Bahn (Subway): Fast and efficient underground trains connecting almost every neighborhood.
S-Bahn (Commuter Rail): Above-ground trains linking the city center with outer areas.
Tram: Found mostly in the eastern part of the city – a scenic and comfortable way to get around.
Bus: Hundreds of lines covering every part of Berlin.
Fähre (Ferry): Public boat lines on the Spree River and nearby lakes – a unique and budget-friendly experience.
Operating Hours & Frequency
Most public transport in Berlin runs from around 4:30 AM to 1:00 AM. On weekends (Friday and Saturday nights), key U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines run 24 hours a day, with reduced frequency (typically every 15–30 minutes). Night buses (marked with an N) also serve major areas around the clock.
During weekdays, train services stop around 1:00–1:30 AM and are replaced by:
Night Services (Nachtlinien)
Night Buses (N): Operate all night every day and replace the U-Bahn and S-Bahn after midnight.
U-Bahn on weekends: Runs all night on major lines every ~15 minutes.
S-Bahn on weekends: Runs every ~30 minutes.
Trams: Selected lines run at night – typically every 20–30 minutes.
Frequency by Mode of Transport:
U-Bahn & S-Bahn: Every 5–10 minutes during peak hours, 10–20 minutes in the evening, and 15–30 minutes at night on weekends.
Trams: Every 10–20 minutes by day, every 30 minutes at night (varies by line).
Buses: High frequency on major lines during the day; night buses run every 30 minutes.
Ferries: Operate during daylight hours only, depending on season and route.
Always check schedules on the BVG app or website before traveling late or heading to the airport.
Fare Zones
Berlin is divided into fare zones:
AB: Central Berlin (most tourists only need this zone).
BC: Suburbs and Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER).
ABC: Covers all zones, including Potsdam.
Download the official BVG map (PDF)
Ticket Types
| Type | German Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Single Ride | Einzelfahrschein | Valid for 2 hours in one direction (no return). |
| Day Ticket | Tageskarte | Valid for 24 hours from validation. |
| 7-Day Pass | 7-Tage-Karte | Valid for 7 calendar days – great for stays of 4+ days. |
| Group Day Ticket | Tageskarte für Kleingruppen | Valid for up to 5 people for 24 hours. |
| Child Ticket | Kinderfahrschein | Reduced fare for kids aged 6–14. Kids under 6 ride free. |
Where to Buy Tickets
Ticket machines at stations: Easy to use, available in English.
Kiosks and BVG shops: Found throughout the city.
BVG App: The easiest way to buy tickets on your phone.
Online shop: Buy in advance at shop.bvg.de
Important: Physical tickets must be validated before boarding. Tickets bought via the app are pre-validated.
Useful Transportation Apps in Berlin
Download at least one of these apps to plan your route, check schedules in real time, buy tickets, and track your trip:
| App | Features | Android | iOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| BVG Fahrinfo | Official Berlin transport app – routes, live info, tickets | ✅ | ✅ |
| DB Navigator | Long-distance and regional trains across Germany | ✅ | ✅ |
| VBB Bus & Bahn | Covers Berlin-Brandenburg area | ✅ | ✅ |
| Jelbi | All-in-one for public transport, bikes, scooters, car sharing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Uber | Ride-hailing service | ✅ | ✅ |
| Free Now | Taxis and local ride services | ✅ | ✅ |
| VOLT | New taxi app with high availability | ✅ | ✅ |
Taxi Stand at Hauptbahnhof
Berlin’s largest taxi rank is located outside the central train station (Hauptbahnhof) at the Europaplatz exit. It operates 24/7 with plenty of available taxis.
Tips for a Smooth Ride
Plan ahead, especially for trips with transfers or late at night.
Day or weekly passes are usually cheaper than multiple single tickets.
Keep an eye on your belongings, especially on buses and in crowded stations.
There are no turnstiles, but there are frequent inspections. Unvalidated tickets can result in a €60 fine.
Public transport is safe and efficient, even late at night.
Ticket inspections are random and unannounced. Plainclothes inspectors can check tickets at any time, especially on trains. If you’re caught without a valid ticket, the fine is €60 – no exceptions. More than the cost, it’s an unpleasant experience that can ruin your day. So make sure to validate your ticket or buy it in advance via the app.
