Travelers intending to visit Berlin, Germany, will find that their primary gateway via air is the Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER).
As the main international airport serving the capital city, Brandenburg Airport stands as the nearest airport to Berlin for both national and international arrivals and departures.
Since the commencement of its operations, BER has taken over the functions of the former airports, Tegel and Schönefeld, becoming the single most significant air transport hub in the region.
BER is located just a short distance from the center of Berlin, ensuring convenient access to the city’s myriad attractions and business centers.
Historically, Tegel Airport (TXL) and Schönefeld Airport (SXF) served Berlin, but operations have since consolidated under Brandenburg Airport to streamline travel.
Not only does BER connect millions of passengers to Germany’s vibrant cultural heart, but it also acts as an important node for connecting flights between various European and global destinations.
For those arriving in Berlin, the airport offers a wide array of transportation options to reach the city center or other desired destinations. Trains, buses, and taxis are readily available, guaranteeing a smooth transfer from the airport to any place within Berlin or the surrounding region.
With superior facilities and a strategic location, Berlin Brandenburg Airport is the optimal starting point for exploring Berlin and beyond.
Overview of Berlin’s Airports
Berlin’s aviation network has been restructured with the opening of Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which now serves as the primary international gateway to the city.
The historical airports, Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF), have played significant roles but are no longer in regular operation for commercial passenger flights.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)-Nearest Airport to Berlin
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is currently the main airport serving Berlin, located approximately 18 kilometers south of the city center.
Equipped with modern facilities, BER has effectively replaced the city’s older airports as the main hub for both international and domestic flights.
IATA Code: BER,
Location: The airport is situated just a short distance from the motorway, providing easy access to the heart of Berlin.
Historical Airports: Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF)
- Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL): Once the major airport of Berlin, Tegel Airport is located in the northwest of Berlin. It used to be the busiest airport in the city but ceased its operations after the opening of BER.
- IATA Code: TXL,
- Location: It was situated 8 kilometers from the city center.
- Berlin Schönefeld Airport (SXF): Serving as a secondary airport to Tegel, Schönefeld Airport mainly handled low-cost carriers. Like TXL, SXF is no longer operational for commercial passenger services, having been incorporated into the new BER.
- IATA Code: SXF,
- Location: The airport was located southeast of Berlin, adjacent to the location of BER.
Traveling to and from BER
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) serves as the main international gateway for travelers to Berlin and the surrounding region. Efficient and diverse transportation options make the commute to and from the airport convenient.
Public Transportation Options
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is well connected to the city through a range of public transportation services. The Airport Express Train and regional trains (RE7, RB14, and FEX) offer quick transfers to major hubs like Alexanderplatz and Potsdam.
There are also S-Bahn lines, namely the S9 and S45, which provide more frequent stops across the city. Ticket machines available at the airport make purchasing tickets easy.
- Train: Hourly departures to central stations.
- Bus: Regular services to various destinations in Berlin.
- S-Bahn: Convenient for local travel within the city.
Private Transport and Taxi Services
Travelers seeking more personalized transport options may opt for private transport, taxis, or rideshare services like Uber. Taxis can be found directly outside the terminals, and designated pick-up locations are provided for ride-hailing services.
- Taxi: Available 24/7 outside terminals.
- Uber: Book via the app for airport pickups.
Car Rental and Driving
For those who prefer self-driven mobility, several car rental agencies operate at BER, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs. Driving from the airport to Berlin’s city center typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Car Rental: On-site agencies with a variety of options.
- Driving: Connects to major highways and routes.
Planning Your Travel from BER
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) serves as the gateway to Berlin, offering numerous amenities and options for passengers to smoothly transition from air travel to exploring the city. Careful planning can ensure a seamless experience, from finding a place to stay to navigating the airport’s various facilities.
Hotels Near BER
For travelers seeking convenience, a range of hotels are situated in close proximity to BER, offering a spectrum of choices from luxury to budget-friendly accommodations.
Many hotels also provide shuttle services for easy airport access. For example, the IntercityHotel Berlin Brandenburg Airport is just a short ride away and offers a blend of comfort and convenience for weary travelers.
Airport Facilities and Airlines
BER is well-equipped with a variety of facilities to cater to the needs of its passengers. These include lounges, restaurants, and shops. Travelers can choose flights from a wide array of airlines operating at BER, connecting Berlin to international and domestic destinations.
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express, as mentioned on Rome2rio, provides train services that help passengers get from A to B, including connections from the airport to central Berlin.
Mobile and Web Applications for Travel
Numerous mobile and web applications aid passengers in planning their journeys. These tools are especially handy for real-time updates, booking tickets, and navigating through BER.
Rome2rio is one such tool that simplifies travel planning by consolidating various transport options and helping travelers make informed decisions. This platform can be accessed through your tablet, mobile device, or computer, ensuring you have all the necessary travel information at your fingertips.
Alternative Airports to BER
When travelling to Berlin, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the primary international gateway, but there are several other airports within a reasonable distance that serve as feasible alternatives for both international and domestic flights.
Dresden Airport (DRS)
Located approximately 166 km from Berlin, Dresden Airport (DRS) offers a convenient alternative for travelers. It handles a mix of domestic and international flights, serving as a gateway to the eastern region of Germany.
The airport facilitates efficient access to not just Dresden, but also to Berlin, especially when flights to BER are unavailable or inconvenient.
Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ)
Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) is situated around 179 km away from Berlin and presents another viable option for passengers.
It is a significant hub for cargo and also caters to a variety of passenger airlines. LEJ provides a less crowded alternative with good connections to both local and major destinations.
Other Nearby International Airports
In addition to Dresden and Leipzig/Halle, there are other nearby international airports that passengers can consider:
- “Solidarity” Szczecin-Goleniów Airport (SZZ) is located in Poland, about 230 km from Berlin. It serves as an alternative especially for travelers in the northwestern part of Poland or those near the German border.
- Poznan Lawica Airport (POZ), more distant but still within the range for travelers looking for alternative routes, serves Poznan, Poland, and offers various international connections.
Navigating to Berlin City Center
Upon arrival at Berlin’s nearest airport, travelers have a variety of options for reaching the city center.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), formerly known as Berlin Schönefeld Airport, is the primary airport serving the area. Efficient public transport options and direct connections are available to facilitate a convenient transit.
Public Transport to City Center
Berlin is known for its robust public transport network, consisting of regional trains, the S-Bahn (suburban trains), and buses that connect the airport to various parts of the city.
Regional trains like the Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains RE7 and RB14 offer quick transfers from BER to key hubs like Ostkreuz and Berlin Hauptbahnhof (the main train station). The local train S9 and the Airport Express FEX also provide regular services to the city center.
- S9 Train: Departs every 20 minutes, connects to the city center.
- Airport Express (FEX): Rapid transit with four main stops, including the airport and central stations.
Direct Connections and Transit
For direct access to Berlin’s city center, the airport’s transport options are designed for quick and hassle-free journeys. Taxis can be found just outside the terminal buildings, offering direct transport to your destination within the city.
Moreover, for travelers preferring a personalized experience, car rental agencies and shuttle services are also available at the airport terminals.
- Taxi Service: Available outside terminals; offers an immediate ride to the destination.
- Car Rentals & Shuttles: Personalized travel options with services found at the airport.
Additional Travel Resources
For travelers visiting Berlin and seeking the nearest airport, additional resources such as maps and travel tools can greatly enhance the trip planning experience. They provide clarity on distances, directions, and transportation options.
Maps and Directions
Travelers can utilize a map of airports around Berlin to determine the most convenient entry point for their journey. These maps often offer walking directions and can be invaluable in planning the route from the airport to Berlin’s city center or to other destinations.
Travel Distance Tools
Travelmath and flight distance pages assist passengers in calculating the distance to Berlin from various airports. They cater to those who prefer a more granular look at their journey, whether by plane or other means. Using these tools ensures that travelers can manage their time and expectations accurately.
Transportation Alternatives
Within Berlin, various transportation alternatives are available. Tourists can benefit from the city’s bike share programs or may opt for a unique experience by taking a ferry across the Spree river.
For every traveler, knowing all available options including search results for bus and train schedules, can lead to a more enjoyable and efficient visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
When planning a trip to Berlin, travelers often inquire about the optimal airports for arrival, direct flights, and transportation to the city center.
Which airport do you fly into for Berlin?
Travelers flying to Berlin typically arrive at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which is the primary international airport serving Berlin and is located approximately 20.1 kilometers from the city center.
Can you fly direct to Berlin from the United States?
Yes, there are direct flights to Berlin from the United States. Passengers should check with airlines for routes as these may change seasonally or annually.
What is the main international airport serving Berlin?
The main international airport serving Berlin is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which became the city’s primary airport after the closure of Tegel and Schönefeld airports.
How do you travel from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the city center?
To travel from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the city center, passengers can use various modes of transportation such as the Airport Express train (FEX), regional trains (RE7, RB14), buses, taxis, or car rental services.
What are the transportation options available from the nearest airport to downtown Berlin?
Available transportation options from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to downtown Berlin include trains (such as the FEX, RE7, RB14), buses, taxis, and car-sharing services. Each mode provides a different balance of cost and convenience.
Are there multiple airports to choose from when flying into Berlin?
There are no longer multiple airports to choose from when flying into Berlin as Berlin Brandenburg Airport is now the sole commercial airport serving the city following the closure of Tegel and Schönefeld airports.
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