When arranging a vacation to Berlin, Germany, one of the first things people ask is, “Where would I land if I fly to Berlin?” As the capital city of Germany and a magnet of culture, history, and innovation, Berlin provides a multitude of alternatives for international flights. However, Berlin is served by multiple airports, and understanding where you’ll arrive while flying into the city is vital for your travel arrangements.
In this article, we will explore the main airports in Berlin, what they offer, how to get from them to the city center, and some useful travel tips for visitors flying into Berlin. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of your landing options when flying to Berlin, Germany.
1. Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER): The Primary International Gateway
Overview
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg, or BER) is the major international airport serving Berlin, Germany. It is the major entrance point for passengers flying into the city and has been functioning since 2020, following years of delays. This contemporary airport services both local and international flights, making it the most probable airport where you will land while flying to Berlin.
Facilities and Services
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is equipped with the latest amenities to ensure a comfortable travel experience. The airport features a wide range of services, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, and transportation options. For those arriving with longer layovers or needing some relaxation before heading into the city, there are designated areas for rest, charging stations for electronics, and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals.
How to Get to Berlin’s City Center from BER
Once you land at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, you’ll want to know how to get to the city center. Fortunately, the airport is well connected to the rest of Berlin via several transportation options:
- Train (S-Bahn and Regional Trains): The most convenient way to reach the city center is via the S-Bahn (suburban train) or regional trains, which have stops directly at the airport. The S9 and S45 S-Bahn lines connect the airport with key destinations in Berlin, such as Alexanderplatz, the Berlin Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), and other major locations.
- Bus: Several bus lines also connect the airport to various parts of the city, offering a more budget-friendly option than taking a taxi.
- Taxi and Ride-Sharing: If you prefer a direct and private mode of transportation, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available at the airport.
- Car Rental: Berlin Brandenburg Airport has a number of car rental agencies if you plan to rent a car during your stay.
Airport Location and Transportation Time
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is located approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) south of Berlin’s city center. Depending on your mode of transportation, the journey to the city center takes around 30-40 minutes by train or taxi.
2. Tegel Airport (TXL) – A Historical Berlin Gateway
Overview
Tegel Airport (Flughafen Berlin-Tegel, TXL) was one of Berlin’s main international airports before its closure in 2020. For many years, Tegel was the most popular airport in Berlin, especially for flights within Europe and for travelers arriving from major international cities. Though it is no longer operational for commercial flights, it’s still worth mentioning because it held historical significance and may be relevant for those traveling in the years prior to BER’s full operations.
Closing of Tegel Airport
In November 2020, Berlin Tegel Airport officially ceased all operations following the opening of Berlin Brandenburg Airport. The closing of Tegel marked the end of an era for Berlin’s air travel infrastructure. However, if you had been traveling to Berlin earlier, Tegel would have been one of your primary landing spots.
Alternative Travel Hub
Tegel’s closure is important to note as the city has now consolidated its air travel services at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). As a result, travelers can expect all major international and domestic flights to now land at BER, the new and upgraded airport facility in Berlin.
3. Schönefeld Airport (SXF) – The Predecessor to BER
Overview
Schönefeld Airport (Flughafen Berlin-Schönefeld, SXF) was Berlin’s main airport for budget airlines and low-cost carriers prior to the completion of Berlin Brandenburg Airport. Much like Tegel, Schönefeld is no longer in active operation after it was merged into Berlin Brandenburg Airport’s operations in 2020. However, during its heyday, Schönefeld was often the landing airport for visitors flying to Berlin on budget airlines such as EasyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air.
Transition to BER
Schönefeld was a smaller, more regional airport, but it played an important role in providing low-cost flight options to and from Berlin. The transition from Schönefeld to the new Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) has streamlined the city’s air travel system, consolidating all flight operations under one roof at BER. Passengers who once flew into Schönefeld now land at BER.
Modern Infrastructure at BER
Schönefeld’s terminal has now become part of the expanded Berlin Brandenburg Airport, so travelers who previously landed at Schönefeld are now routed through the much more modern and larger facilities of BER, which offer improved infrastructure, security, and amenities.
4. The Future of Berlin’s Air Travel: The Role of BER
Overview
With the completion of Berlin Brandenburg Airport, the future of air travel to and from Berlin is now firmly focused on this one central hub. BER was designed to accommodate the growing demand for air travel in the region and to replace the older Tegel and Schönefeld airports, which had limited capacity and outdated infrastructure. Berlin Brandenburg Airport is expected to serve as a major international gateway for Berlin, with flights to and from all over the world.
Expansion and Accessibility
As the airport continues to expand, it will offer even more direct flights to destinations across Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond. Additionally, the airport’s connections to the city center via train, bus, and taxi ensure that travelers can easily reach their destination upon arrival. With its state-of-the-art facilities, passenger services, and convenient transportation links, BER is now the top choice for anyone flying to Berlin.
5. Travel Tips for Flying to Berlin
Plan Ahead for Airport Transfers
When flying to Berlin, make sure to plan ahead for your airport transfer, especially if you land at Berlin Brandenburg Airport. As the main international hub, BER is well connected to the city center, but knowing your transportation options in advance can save you time and reduce travel stress.
Be Prepared for Security Checks
As with any international airport, security checks at Berlin Brandenburg can sometimes take a bit of time. Arrive early, especially if you’re flying during peak times, to ensure a smooth experience.
Accommodation and Hotels Near the Airport
If you are arriving late at night or have an early morning flight, consider booking accommodation near the airport. Berlin offers a wide range of hotels, including those located near BER, making it easier to rest before continuing your journey into the city.
Conclusion
So, if you’re flying to Berlin, Germany, you will most likely land at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), the city’s primary international gateway. Although Tegel and Schönefeld airports were once the key hubs for air travel into the city, BER has now consolidated air travel operations and is the go-to airport for all flights to Berlin. With modern amenities, efficient transportation options, and excellent connectivity to the city center, Berlin Brandenburg Airport ensures a smooth arrival experience for all travelers.
Whether you’re visiting Berlin for business, leisure, or to explore the city’s rich history and culture, your flight into Berlin will be the first step on an exciting journey into one of Europe’s most dynamic cities.
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