Berlin State Of Berlin, Germany Travel Guide
The Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) runs Berlin's public transport system, with the S-Bahn (urban/suburban rail) run by The German railway company (DB). This integrated network lets you reach almost any corner of the city. Berlin's public transport is efficient.
The U-Bahn (subway) operates mostly underground, connecting fast. The S-Bahn (city rail) operates mostly above ground, connecting city center to suburbs. Trams mainly in former East Berlin offer scenic travel. Buses cover areas not reached by U-Bahn/S-Bahn, with day and night lines. Ferries operate on waterways, integrated into BVG.
Obtain detailed network maps at major stations, tourist information centers, or BVG app.
Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Zoologischer Garten, Friedrichstraße, Ostkreuz, Südkreuz. These connect multiple lines.
Access is a factor improving with elevators/ramps at many U-Bahn/S-Bahn stations. Buses and more up-to-date trams are wheelchair accessible. BVG app has details.
Weekdays: 4:30 AM - 12:30 AM. Weekends: AROUND the clock (reduced frequency after midnight).
Operate throughout the day. Night buses (N-lines) and some night trams for off-hours.
High frequency during peak hours (3-5 mins), less during off-peak and night.
Validate (stamp) your ticket Before journey at yellow/red machines. Unvalidated tickets mean €60 fine.
Taxis and ride-sharing services have convenient, door-to-door transportation in Berlin.
Licensed Taxi Identification: Official taxis typically beige (some premium black). Always a prominent yellow 'TAXI' a rooftop sign, city's taxi license plate.
Hailing Procedures: Hail on street if roof light on. Find at designated taxi stands (major train stations, airport, popular spots). Order via phone or ride-sharing app.
Free Now (formerly MyTaxi) most popular for booking licensed taxis. Uber also operates, mainly with licensed taxi drivers.
Connects with licensed taxis.
App-based convenience.
Licensed taxis are regulated, drivers licensed, vehicles inspected. Ride-sharing apps in Berlin use licensed taxi drivers, similar safety to traditional taxis.
Regulated and inspected vehicles.
Licensed and professional drivers.
Designated taxi stands directly outside terminal exits at BER and major train stations (Hauptbahnhof, Ostbahnhof). Follow 'Taxi' signs.
Easy to find at arrival points.
Follow clear signage.
| Service | Operation in Berlin | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| An App for booking taxis and more | Connects with licensed taxis. | Widely used, reliable. |
| Uber | Mainly connects with licensed taxis. | International recognition. |
| Taxi | Traditional metered service. | Can flag down on the street or at stands. |
For those who prefer independent exploration, Berlin holds various rental options, including cars and bicycles.
Minimum age 21-25. Valid national driving license (IDP recommended/required for non-EU/EEA). Major credit card for deposit. Booking in advance advised. DiscoverCars.com
Sixt, Europcar, Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and providers in the area.
Green sticker (Umweltplakette) needed for city center; rental cars usually have this.
Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are required.
Speed Limits: 50 kilometers per hour in urban areas, 100 km/h rural. Autobahn advisory ONE hundred thirty kilometers per hour (some sections no limit, drive safely). Road conditions generally excellent.
Road safety is high. Speed limits strictly enforced; fines substantial. Pay attention to signs, construction zones. Be aware of cyclists (dedicated lanes, right-of-way).
Note: Parking in central Berlin can be challenging and expensive. Look for public parking structures (Parkhaus) or use parking apps.
Berlin is a very bike-friendly city with flat terrain and far-reaching bike lanes. Dockless systems like Lime, Tier, and Bolt offer electric scooters and bicycles via their apps.
Call a Bike, operated by Deutsche Bahn, is a station-based system. Numerous independent bicycle rental shops also have daily or longer-term rentals, usually including helmets and locks.
These are less frequent for general tourism. Specialized rental facilities may exist but typically require specific motorcycle licenses. Electric scooter sharing is widely available.
Cyclists must adhere to traffic laws. Helmets are not legally required but are highly recommended.
Traditional tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not part of Berlin's transport.
Some electric rickshaw-style pedicabs operate for novelty tours in central tourist areas.
Integrated into BVG system, offers special views in lake districts.
Located in Marzahn, connects areas within the "Gardens of the World" park.
