Berlin transportation includes the underground and overground metro, trams, buses, and river ferries. All modes of transportation use the same tickets: the Kurzstrecke (2 EUR) is the cheapest, valid for 3 stops on the underground or 6 stops on a bus or tram without transfers; the Einzelfahrausweis (3 EUR) is a two-hour pass for all modes of transportation; and the Single-Tageskarte (8.8 EUR) is a day pass for one person. Don’t throw away your ticket until the end of your journey, as ticket inspectors often appear, and the fine is 40 EUR. Children under 6 travel free, and those aged 6 to 14 receive reduced fares.
On weekends, two underground metro lines and several overground metro lines operate 24 hours a day. Buses with the letter N in front of their number also operate at night.
Metro
Berlin’s underground system is one of the most extensive in the world, and it is also considered the most expensive in Europe. The maximum wait time for a train is no more than 10 minutes, and 1-2 minutes during rush hour.
The underground metro is designated by the letter U (U-Bahn), while the surface metro is designated by the letter M (M1 or M10). There is also a city train, the S-Bahn. It runs to the suburbs of Berlin and along some important central streets.
Ground transportation
Ground transportation includes trams and buses. Bus routes 100 and 200 pass through the most important sights, such as Alexanderplatz, the Zoological Garden, and so on. For a small fee, any tourist can arrange a wonderful bus tour.
Taxis
Finding a taxi in Berlin is easy – you can hail one on the street, find one at a designated taxi stand, or ask for one at reception or from a waiter in a restaurant. The fare is 3.90 EUR for boarding and approximately 16.30 EUR for the next 7 km.
Tourist Buses
Berlin has numerous tourist buses that take you to the city’s main attractions. Tickets cost 15-35 EUR and are valid for the entire day. You can get off at any stop and then hop on the next bus from the same company.
Berlin Welcome Card and Berlin Pass
The Welcome Card is for those visiting Berlin for 1-2 days: for 48 hours from the time it’s validated, you can use all forms of public transport in Berlin and Potsdam. You can also enjoy boat rides, museum visits, theater visits, and exhibitions with a discount of up to 50% for 29 EUR; a 72-hour pass costs 39 EUR. This card is valid for one adult, three children under 14, and one bicycle. If you’re only visiting Berlin, the card costs 24 EUR and 34 EUR, respectively.
