Moving to Berlin from the car-centric culture of the United States was a very welcomed paradigm shift for me. Getting around in Berlin via public transport, biking, and walking replaced my constant car worries (what the heck was that noise? gas prices are HOW much?, my car insurance payment is due AGAIN?)
On the rare occasion I do need a car in the city, I just open up my Bolt app and order myself a private chauffeur or dangle a kebab in front of a friend with wheels. Life is good!!
But if you just arrived in Berlin, navigating all the various modes of transport can be overwhelming. That’s why in this transportation guide, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of navigating Berlin, from the comprehensive public transport system to alternative options like taxis, bikes, and electric scooters. Let’s get moving!
Public Transport
Public transport was one of the main reasons I chose to live in Berlin. Coming from the US, where cars are king, public transport is just not something we are really familiar with (unless of course you’re from NYC). Pretty much everyone’s everyone favorite mode of transport in the US is the car. When I visit home, my friends will get in the car and drive to a restaurant that would otherwise be a ten minute walk away like it’s no big deal. It’s not even because my friends are lazy, most of them aren’t, it’s because it’s downright dangerous! Many cities lack the basic infrastructure like sidewalks and bike lanes that contribute to a feeling of safety when you need to get from point A to point B. Though you’ll find that Berliners love to complain about the BVG’s poor connections, rising cost of tickets, and occasional construction or employee strikes, the public transport here is pretty damn great compared to many other cities in the world. I highly recommend trying it out if you plan to settle here.
Is public transport free in Berlin?
No. Though there are no turnstiles, so essentially you could technically hop on a train or bus without paying for it – and many people do, this would be considered riding schwarz (riding blac) however and could result in a serious fine if you are unlucky enough to be controlled. In that case you would have to pay a 60 euros fine. Save yourself the trouble and just buy a ticket.
How do I pay for public transport?
Pay via the BVG app (easiest option). Otherwise you can find ticket machines at every U-bahn and S-bahn station or at selected shops. On the bus, you can only purchase tickets directly from the driver and only pay by card (cash is no longer accepted). On trams, you can purchase tickets from the ticket machines directly inside the carriage. Wherever you purchase a ticket, make sure you validate it immediately, otherwise a controller has every right to issue a fine. When you buy a public transport ticket you are free to use it on any tram, U-bahn, S-bahn or bus within 2 hours of validation, you’re just not “technically” allowed to use it for a round trip. If you want a tip to save money on an individual one-way tickets, buy the 4 pack bundle.
What’s up with the ABC zones in Berlin?
Essentially everything inside the ringbahn is considered the A zone. Slightly beyond the ringbahn but still within city limits is considered the B zone. A regular ticket will cover your A and B ventures no problem. Shouuld you want to hop over to the airport however you’ll have to pay an extra cost because then you’ll be in the C zone. Confused? It all makes sense if you look at the map on the BVG site: https://www.bvg.de/en/subscriptions-and-tickets/tariff-zones-and-information
What is a kurzstrecke?
If you only need to go a short distance (3 u-bahn/S-bahn stations) or 6 bus/tram stops away, you pay less than the normal ticket rate.
What are the benefits of riding the bus, S-Bahn, U-bahn or Tram?
With the bus, S-bahn and Tram you’ll see more of the city because you’ll be above ground which might be a nice option if you’ve just arrived and you want to get oriented with your surroundings, otherwise they are all pretty much the same in the fact that they take you where you need to go and will connect you with all the delightful weirdos who make this city a special place. Follow this account for a sneak peak: https://www.instagram.com/subwaycreatures.berlin/
What’s the difference between the S-Bahn and U-Bahn?
Nothing really, except that the U-bahn stands for the Untergrundbahn (or underground railway) and is a train that runs mostly underground. The S-bahn however stands for the Stadtschnellbahn (or rapid city railway) and is above ground, usually elevated above the city below.
What’s the ringbahn?
The ringbahn (either S41 or S42 depending on which direction you are going) is a giant ring around the city center or A zone. So if you hop on the wrong train and stay on it, you will eventually end up back where you were (though it might take you over an hour.)
2. Taxi, Uber, Bolt
How to get a taxi in Berlin- honestly I don’t know anyone who rides in a taxi in Berlin. I suppose you could flag one down in the street like they do in the movies, but you could probably also download an app and/or call one like the olden days. If you’re going to go through the trouble of downloading an app though, I’d like to recommend Bolt.
Uber vs. Bolt
I am a big Bolt believer. When they first launched a few years ago, they handed out a crazy amount of free credit and from then on I was SOLD. On the rare occasion that I need to get dropped off somewhere, Bolt always seem to be considerably cheaper than Uber. I’ve also found that the drivers are always super nice (and never ever native German speakers which means it’s a great opportunity for me to practice my caveman German in a nonjudgement zone.) But if you are an Uber fan and don’t want to mess with downloading another app, it works just fine as well. Fun fact, I once moved apartments with just a taxi (before Bolt days, you guys!)
3. Bike
My absolute favorite way to get around the city is by bike. Berlin is VERY bikeable (especially compared to the US). Lately there have been more designated bike paths painted bright green and lanes that are visibly separated from the car traffic popping up around the city and it just makes my little eco heart so happy. Since bikes are very commonly used in the city, drivers are also used to navigating around them so it feels safer (although stay diligent anyway.)
How do I rent a bike in Berlin?
You can rent a bike from many of the bike shops around the city or else you can download an app and rent one from a company. Some of the more popular ones include Tier, NextBike, and Bolt although there are plenty more. Unlike the car sharing apps, it’s pretty easy to sign up and get biking right away.
Where do I buy a bike in Berlin?
If you are going to be here a while, it would be a good investment to purchase a bike of your very own. I purchased my purple cruiser from a guy on eBay kleinanzeigen a month after I arrived for only 50 euros. I’ve had to make some repairs on her here and there but she’s essentially still the same beauty she was when I first laid eyes on her. She’s a heavy girl and also extremely slow, but I like that. It keeps me humble and makes me feel safe. What she lacks in sleekness and newness she makes up for in assurance…assurance that she will never get stolen. Stealing bikes is a big business here, so if that’s something you don’t want to mess with, might I encourage you to choose an Ugly Duckling instead. Another great place to find a used bike is one of the many flea markets (although be warned, that’s where a lot of stolen bikes get repurposed) or else Facebook marketplace or every Berlliner’s favorite Facebook group, Sell Your Stuff Berlin https://www.facebook.com/groups/sysberlin
Is Swapfiets available in Berlin?
Some of my more fancy friends have recently signed up for Swapfiets which allows them to rent a bike for a monthly fee. With the membership, you don’t have to worry about regular maintenance because it’s all included. It’s worth looking into if quality, safety, and looking cool are important to you! https://swapfiets.com/
4. Walking
Is Berlin a walkable city? Berlin is a very walkable city and depending on which kiez you are in, bei Fuß (by foot) is the best way to experience the city because you’ll be exposed to colorful street art, kebab smells, and zu verschenken boxes. I LOVE walking around Berlin because I am almost guaranteed to find some crazy cool new jacket, pair of boots, or art for my apartment in a zu verschenken box. Read more about why I love this German phrase here: So you want to be a berliner here are some quirks you should be aware of part 2
5. Car share
Are there car share options in Berlin? Berliners pride themselves on being eco-friendly so it makes sense that there are a variety of car share companies available around the city. Some of the more popular ones include Miles, Sixt Share, We Share and Share Now. Downloading the apps is easy but if you are hoping to sign up, get approved and get on the road right away, especially if you have a foreign driver’s license, it might not be so easy. Some of the apps require that you either have a German license or have proof that you’ve been residing in Berlin a while. You’ll also have to go through an identity verification process. If you’ve been settled in Berlin a while, these apps might be worthwhile to check out on the rare occasion you need to do an IKEA run or you want to bring your already inflated giant pink flamingo float to Teufelssee, otherwise it might be more convenient to invest in a monthly BVG membership and splurge on a Bolt if you’re coming home late from a club in the winter for example.
6. Electric scooter sharing
Can I rent an electric scooter in Berlin? I am not the one to ask about these things since I have never used one myself but I do see them around town often and people seem to be happy while riding them. Some of the more popular companies are Felyx, Tier, and Emmy. I am assuming the registration and acceptance process is similar to car share considering they’d need to approve your license and verify your identity.
7. Bonus
buy an inflatable boat from Amazon and float down one of the many canals. I have no idea if this is legal nor do I know if it is sanitary but a few years ago a friend and I bought some späti beers, blew up our Amazon purchase with an air mattress pump, carefully hopped in the inflatable boat and paddled down Maybachufer. It was one of the dumbest/most fun things I have ever done. Be warned though, while my friend took over paddling I stretched out and accidentally got my hair in the water. When I realized what was happening and looked behind me I noticed a dead rat floating a few inches from where my hair had been. Proceed with caution Berliners!
Berlin’s dynamic energy extends beyond its iconic landmarks, inviting you to explore the city in various ways. Whether you choose the underground adventure of the U-Bahn, the elevated perspectives of the S-Bahn, or the eclectic scenes aboard trams and buses, each journey offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Berlin. Beyond public transport, the city provides an array of options to suit your style. Cruise through the streets on a bike, blending in with the locals and discovering hidden gems along the way. Consider renting a bike for flexibility or owning one for the long haul. Embrace the pedestrian-friendly streets, where every step might unveil a piece of vibrant street art or an unexpected treasure. For those seeking convenience, car-sharing services like Miles, Sixt Share, We Share, and Share Now offer an eco-friendly alternative. Electric scooters from Felyx, Tier, and Emmy provide a zippy and eco-conscious means of exploring the city. And for the adventurous souls, a bonus suggestion – grab an inflatable boat, available on Amazon, and embark on a leisurely float down one of Berlin’s picturesque canals. Just remember to proceed at your own risk – especially if rats scare you!
No matter how you choose to mosey around Berlin, each mode of transportation adds a layer to the tapestry of experiences that make this city truly special. So, whether you’re a public transport enthusiast, a biking aficionado, or someone looking to cruise the streets in style, Berlin welcomes you to explore its vibrant corners in your own unique way. Gute Reise (good journey)!
