Berlin, the ever-evolving heart of Germany, has always been a hub for travelers, dreamers, and those infamous for being notoriously punctual - yes, I am talking about Berliners. Historically, this city used to have three airports, each with its own flair and busy runways. Today, though, there's been a shake-up in the aviation playscape of Berlin, sparking chatter and curiosity alike. Ever wondered why Lufthansa, the German flag carrier, doesn't consider Berlin its runway anymore? Stay tuned, we're diving into that mystery.
How many airports are there in Berlin?
Berlin has only one major commercial airport - Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). It replaced the three airports of Tempelhof, Schönefeld and Tegel which were located far from each other in the city. BER finally opened in October 2020 after many delays and cost overruns. It is now among the busiest airports in Germany, serving approximately 24 million passengers annually with connections across Europe and worldwide.
Berlin Airport Map
All about the Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is located in Schönefeld, about 18 kilometers southeast of central Berlin. It serves as the main base for low-cost carriers like easyJet, Ryanair and Eurowings. The airport was originally planned to open in 2011 but faced numerous delays and cost overruns totaling around €6 billion. It finally opened its passengers in October 2020, replacing the aging airports of Tegel and Schönefeld which had served western and eastern Berlin respectively for decades. BER aims to handle up to 40 million passengers annually. Its location in the state of Brandenburg provides easier access from across Berlin and surroundings.
Navigating Berlin Brandenburg Airport
Terminals: The airport currently operates three terminals which are connected airside by walkways. Terminal 1 is the biggest among the three and is used for international and domestic flights. Terminal 2 is used for low-cost airlines. Terminal 5 used to be the former Schönefeld Airport Berlin located to the north of Terminal 1 but remains un-operational until further notice.
Getting there and away: If you are traveling to the airport by car, you can easily reach via the 113A Motorway or the B96a. Buses will directly drop you at the arrivals level of Terminal 1 and there are in all 8 bus stands here. BER also has an underground long-distance train station that connects it to the city center. The airport is served by S-Bahn, Airport Express (FEX), regional and intercity trains several times a day.
Parking facilities: The airport provides several parking options including short-term, long-term, and drop-off zones. There are clearly marked spaces for disabled passengers near the terminal entrances. Advanced booking is available online for those looking to secure a spot ahead of time.
Airport Transfers: Head Out with Ease
Public Transport
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is well connected to the city by public transport. The Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains (RE7, RB14) offer efficient links to central Berlin, with the Berlin Hauptbahnhof (central station) only about a 30-minute train ride away. Additionally, S-Bahn lines S9 and S45 connect BER to various parts of the city and outskirts. Express buses also run frequently between the airport and central Berlin. These are marked as X7 and X71 and provide a direct and speedy means to reach the city center.
Taxis and Ride-Shares
Taxis are available 24/7 outside the terminal buildings and offer a reliable and expedient way to reach your destination within Berlin or the surrounding areas. For those who prefer the convenience of ride-sharing apps, services such as Uber and FreeNow operate in Berlin, with pricing contingent on travel time and traffic conditions.
Car rentals
For travelers interested in self-navigation, car rental services are conveniently located at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). Major international car rental companies like Avis Budget, Hertz , Europcar, Sixt, and Enterprise are present at the car rental center located at both terminal 1 and 2.
Note: If you are a first-time visitor then the Berlin Welcome Card offers unlimited travel across the public transportation network alongside discounts on various tourist attractions. For a seamless travel experience, consider downloading the BVG app, which provides real-time information on public transport timetables, disruption alerts, and routing across Berlin's extensive transit system.
Facilities & Services
Lounges: Berlin Brandenburg Airport provides several lounges for passengers looking to relax before their flight. Both business and leisure travelers can find tranquility and comfort in these spaces, with access to an observation deck offering panoramic views of the airfield.
The Market Place: Located conveniently within the vicinity of the terminals, The Market Place at BER offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Travelers can explore a wide range of retail stores, from local German brands like Ampelmann to international boutiques like Marc O’Polo. Dining options include everything from quick snacks at bakery chains to sit-down meals at full-service restaurants, providing choices for all palates and time constraints.
Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available throughout BER, allowing travelers to stay connected with ease. Multiple charging stations are also strategically placed around the terminals, so powering up devices on the go is never an issue.
Additional Services: Among the additional services provided, Berlin Brandenburg Airport features a conference center with fully equipped meeting rooms suitable for business travelers. There are also play areas to keep children entertained, pharmacies for last-minute travel necessities, and medical services in case of emergencies.
Layover Tips & Fun Things to Do
- Enjoy VIP lounge access for a touch of luxury and comfort during your wait.
- Pick up fresh fruit and other snacks at the Rewe grocery shop located within the airport.
- Sample a variety of culinary delights at the many eateries scattered throughout the terminals.
- Check out the cultural exhibits such as the STOEBO’s Sternentalerhimmel and the Open Sky Box which reflect the region's richness in arts and aviation history. There’s also the Room of Aviation, an immersive exhibit dedicated to the history of Aviation.
- Utilize the quiet room for some peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the airport.
- If you have more than half a day of layover then consider exploring some of the nearby attractions outside the airport. The historic town of Zossen is just a short drive away, offering quaint streets and beautiful architecture to discover. Alternatively, nature lovers can explore the extensive forests and lakes surrounding Schönefeld such as the Müggelsee lake popular for swimming and boating.
- Business travelers have quick access to the Berlin ExpoCenter Airport, which often hosts trade fairs and expositions.
