Search train tickets to Berlin

Germany’s capital city has a fantastic public transportation infrastructure, so it’s super easy to get around regardless of your preferred method.

Public Transit
Berlin has arguably one of the most sophisticated train systems of any city in the entire world. The main train station, Berlin Hauptbahnhof, or Berlin Central Station, is a bustling transit hub with international, regional, and local transportation options.

The most common trains are the U-Bahn underground trains (subway) and S-Bahn elevated rails. The S-Bahn is a commuter train, offering express service along a loop in the city core. Most visitors will primarily ride the U-Bahn, as it has expansive coverage with 10 lines and nearly 200 stops. The U-Bahn uses a zone system for routes and pricing and conveniently, the majority of the city’s best attractions are in Zones A and B. Both kinds of trains run from early morning until about 1:30am Monday through Friday, and 24 hours on weekends.

Riding the bus in Berlin is another good option, although it’s not nearly as popular as the city’s ultra-fast train system. A couple of advantages to buses, however, include that there are a handful that run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and they cover more remote areas of the city where trains do not travel.

For a quick and inexpensive immersion into Berlin, hop on one of the double-decker buses running Route 100 or 200. These sightseeing buses hit most of the city’s most popular highlights and offer a fun, easy way to get the lay of the land.

Rideshare Apps & Taxis
Ridesharing is still relatively new in Berlin, and often a very literal experience of sharing a ride. When you order a rideshare from one of the city’s two major providers, CleverShuttle and BerlKoenig, you’ll likely physically share the vehicle with other passengers. It takes a bit longer than a taxi, as you’ll drop off or pick up others along the way, but ridesharing in Berlin is extremely affordable, not to mention more eco-friendly.

Berliners have never been big on hiring private transportation; it makes perfect sense, since the city has such an advanced public transportation system. Because of that, taxis are rather expensive and used on an only-when-absolutely-necessary basis. You can hail a cream-colored cab from the street, but they’re more easily found outside of hotels and at the airport.

Rental Cars
There are simply some occasions when it just makes more sense for you to drive your own vehicle in Berlin. Whether you need it just for a few hours or you’re looking to head out for a longer excursion, check Wanderu for the best rates and vehicle selection.

Reichstag
Housing Germany’s Parliament and serving as a shining symbol of the country’s reunification after a long, war-torn history, this iconic landmark is a must-see. Visiting the Reichstag Building is totally free, but you’ll need an advance reservation. Once there, be sure to walk around the glass dome for sweeping city views.

Brandenburg Gate
Another iconic German landmark is the Brandenburg Gate, an elaborate Neoclassical arch commissioned by a Prussian king in 1791. At one time, there were 14 gates to the city, and Brandenburg is the last one standing. It’s also within easy walking distance of the Reichstag, so it’s easy to visit both.

Museum Island
Berlin is so serious about its museums that it built a beautiful island in the middle of the city to host five of them. Museum Island is home to the Altes Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, Neues Museum, and Pergamonmuseum. By far the star attraction is the incredibly well-preserved bust of Nefertiti in the Neues Museum.

Zoo Berlin
Little-known to most, Zoo Berlin is home to more animal species than any other zoo in the world, including Germany’s only giant pandas! The zoo opened in 1844, and to this day remains a family-friendly activity for Berlin locals and visitors.

Beer Gardens
One of the most classic German experiences is enjoying an enormous stein of beer at a beer hall or garden. Fortunately, there are LOTS of places to do so in Berlin. One of the best is Hofbrauhaus, modeled after Munich’s iconic beer hall and complete with people dressed in traditional Lederhosen!

There are a few things that international visitors to Germany should keep in mind.

• Currency: Euro (€)

• Tipping: Accepted, but not required. Tip about 10% for good service

• Legal drinking age: 18 years old (or 16 for beer)

  Useful German phrases:

• “Hallo” = Hello

• “Bitte” = Please

• “Danke” = Thank you

• “Sprechen sie Englisch?” = Do you speak English?