Roberta Aguirre
When planning a trip to Berlin, choosing the right airport is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Berlin is served by two main airports: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) and, historically, Tegel Airport (TXL), though Tegel has been closed since 2020. Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is now the primary international airport for the city, offering extensive connections to global and European destinations. Located in the southeastern part of the city, BER is well-connected to Berlin’s public transportation network, making it easy to reach the city center via train, bus, or taxi. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, flying into BER ensures convenient access to all that Berlin has to offer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Primary Airport | Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) |
| Location | Schönefeld, just outside Berlin, Germany |
| Distance to City Center | Approximately 18 km (11 miles) |
| Transport Options | Train (RE7, RB14, FEX), Bus (X7, X71), Taxi, Car Rental, Shuttle Services |
| Travel Time to City | 25-30 minutes by train, 45-60 minutes by car |
| Airlines Operating | Lufthansa, EasyJet, Ryanair, British Airways, and many others |
| Terminals | 1 main terminal (T1, T2, T5) |
| Annual Passengers (2023) | Approximately 20 million |
| Facilities | Shops, restaurants, lounges, currency exchange, car rental desks |
| Alternative Airports | None (BER is the only commercial airport serving Berlin since 2020) |
| Time Zone | Central European Time (CET), UTC+1 |
| IATA Code | BER |
| ICAO Code | EDDB |
| Opening Year | 2020 (replaced Tegel Airport (TXL) and Schönefeld Airport (SXF)) |
| Website | www.ber.de |
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What You'll Learn
- Nearest Airports to Berlin: Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF) are closest, but both are now closed
- Main Airport for Berlin: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the primary international airport
- Distance from BER to City: Approximately 18 km southeast of Berlin’s city center
- Transport Options from BER: Trains, buses, taxis, and car rentals available for city access
- Alternative Airports Nearby: Leipzig/Halle (LEJ) and Dresden (DRS) are options but farther away
Nearest Airports to Berlin: Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF) are closest, but both are now closed
When planning a trip to Berlin, it’s important to know that the city’s two historically closest airports, Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF), are no longer operational. Tegel Airport, once the primary gateway to Berlin, officially closed in November 2020, while Schönefeld ceased operations as a standalone airport in 2020, though parts of its infrastructure were integrated into the new Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). Travelers should be aware that these former airports are no longer options for flights, despite their proximity to the city center. Instead, all commercial flights to Berlin now operate through BER, which has consolidated the city’s air traffic into a single hub.
The closure of Tegel and Schönefeld was part of a long-term plan to streamline Berlin’s airport system. Tegel, known for its unique hexagonal design and convenient location just 8 kilometers from the city center, was beloved by many travelers. Similarly, Schönefeld, located in the southeastern outskirts of Berlin, was a key airport for low-cost carriers and regional flights. However, both airports were replaced by Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which is now the sole international airport serving the German capital. BER is located on the site of the former Schönefeld Airport, approximately 18 kilometers from Berlin’s city center.
For travelers wondering which airport to fly into for Berlin, the answer is clear: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). Despite the nostalgia for Tegel and Schönefeld, BER offers modern facilities, efficient connections to the city, and a wide range of domestic and international flights. The airport is well-connected to Berlin’s public transportation network, with trains, buses, and taxis providing easy access to the city center. While Tegel and Schönefeld were closer geographically, BER’s infrastructure and accessibility make it the most practical choice for visitors.
It’s worth noting that while Tegel and Schönefeld are no longer active, their legacy remains in Berlin’s aviation history. Tegel’s closure marked the end of an era, as it had been a symbol of West Berlin during the Cold War. Schönefeld, on the other hand, was a key airport for East Germany and later became a hub for budget airlines. Today, travelers should focus on BER as the primary and only airport for flights to and from Berlin. Planning ahead and familiarizing oneself with BER’s layout and transportation options will ensure a smooth arrival in the city.
In summary, when considering what airport to fly into for Berlin, the nearest and only operational airport is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). While Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF) were historically the closest airports to the city, both are now closed. BER has taken their place as the central hub for air travel to Berlin, offering modern amenities and convenient connections to the city center. Travelers should update their plans accordingly and rely on BER for all flights to the German capital.
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Main Airport for Berlin: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the primary international airport
When considering which airport to fly into for Berlin, the most straightforward and primary option is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). As the main international airport serving the German capital, BER is the central hub for both domestic and international flights. Located in Schönefeld, just southeast of Berlin’s city center, it consolidates the functions of the former Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF) airports, making it the undisputed gateway to the city. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or connecting to other destinations, BER is designed to handle a wide range of flights, from budget carriers to major airlines.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) offers extensive connectivity to global destinations, with direct flights to major cities across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond. Its modern infrastructure includes efficient check-in processes, ample baggage handling systems, and a well-organized layout to ensure a smooth travel experience. The airport’s terminals are equipped with a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, lounges, and services tailored to meet the needs of all travelers. For those arriving in Berlin, BER is the most logical choice due to its size, capacity, and the sheer volume of flights it accommodates daily.
Transportation from BER to Berlin’s city center is convenient and well-integrated. The airport is directly connected to the city’s public transport network, with trains, buses, and taxis readily available. The Airport Express (FEX) train service provides a quick 30-minute journey to Berlin’s central station (Berlin Hauptbahnhof), while regional trains and buses offer additional options for reaching various parts of the city. For those preferring private transfers, taxis and ride-sharing services are easily accessible outside the terminals. This seamless connectivity reinforces BER’s role as the primary airport for travelers visiting Berlin.
Another key advantage of flying into Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is its proximity to major attractions and business districts. Located just 18 kilometers from the city center, it allows travelers to quickly reach iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and Alexanderplatz. Additionally, BER serves as a base for exploring the broader Berlin-Brandenburg region, with easy access to nearby towns and natural attractions. Its strategic location and comprehensive facilities make it the ideal choice for anyone planning a trip to Berlin.
In summary, when deciding what airport to fly into for Berlin, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the primary international airport and the most practical option. Its extensive flight network, modern amenities, and efficient transportation links to the city center make it the focal point for air travel to and from the German capital. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, BER ensures a hassle-free arrival and departure experience, solidifying its status as Berlin’s main airport.
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Distance from BER to City: Approximately 18 km southeast of Berlin’s city center
When considering which airport to fly into for Berlin, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the primary and most convenient option. Located approximately 18 km southeast of Berlin’s city center, BER serves as the main international gateway to the German capital. This distance makes it relatively close to the city, ensuring travelers can reach central Berlin efficiently. Compared to other airports in the region, such as Leipzig/Halle Airport or Dresden Airport, BER is by far the closest and most practical choice for visitors heading to Berlin.
The 18 km distance from BER to the city center translates to a short travel time, typically ranging from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. This proximity is a significant advantage for travelers, as it minimizes the time spent commuting after landing. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, the short distance ensures you can quickly transition from the airport to your destination in the city.
To cover the 18 km from BER to Berlin’s city center, travelers have several transportation options. The Airport Express (FEX) train connects BER to central stations like Berlin Hauptbahnhof in about 30 minutes, making it one of the fastest and most cost-effective choices. Alternatively, regional trains (RE7 and RB14) and the S-Bahn (S9 and S45) provide additional rail connections. For those preferring road travel, taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars are readily available, though travel time may vary based on traffic. A dedicated airport shuttle bus service also operates between BER and key points in the city.
Another factor to consider is the southeast location of BER relative to Berlin’s city center. This positioning places the airport in a strategic area, offering easy access to major highways like the A113 and A100, which connect to the city’s road network. For travelers staying in districts such as Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, or Neukölln, the airport’s southeastern location can be particularly convenient, as these areas are closer to BER than to the city center.
In summary, when deciding what airport to fly into for Berlin, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the optimal choice due to its 18 km distance from the city center. This proximity, combined with efficient transportation options, ensures a seamless arrival experience. Whether you’re traveling for a short stay or an extended visit, BER’s location and connectivity make it the most practical and time-saving option for reaching Berlin.
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Transport Options from BER: Trains, buses, taxis, and car rentals available for city access
When flying into Berlin, the primary airport you’ll use is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which serves as the main international gateway to the city. Located in the southeastern part of Berlin, BER offers a variety of transport options to reach the city center and other key areas. Whether you prefer public transportation, private transfers, or the flexibility of renting a car, BER provides efficient and convenient choices to suit different needs and budgets.
Trains are one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to travel from BER to Berlin’s city center. The airport is directly connected to the Berlin railway network via the Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains. The FEX runs every 30 minutes and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), with stops at major stations like Gesundbrunnen and Zoologischer Garten. Regional trains (RE7 and RB14) also operate frequently, offering additional routes to destinations within Berlin and the surrounding region. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines or the DB Navigator app, and a single fare to the city center typically costs around €3.80.
For those who prefer buses, BER is well-served by local and regional bus lines. The Express Bus X7 connects the airport to the U-Bahn (subway) station Rudow, where you can transfer to the U7 line to reach central Berlin. This option is particularly useful if your destination is closer to the U-Bahn network. Additionally, night buses operate during late hours, ensuring accessibility even after train services have stopped. Bus tickets are available at the airport or via the BVG app, with fares starting at €2.90 for a single journey.
Taxis offer a convenient and direct way to travel from BER to your destination, especially if you’re carrying heavy luggage or traveling in a group. The taxi stand is located outside Terminal 1 and 2, and the journey to the city center takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares are metered, with the cost ranging from €40 to €50. Ride-hailing services like Uber are also available, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. It’s advisable to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
If you prefer the flexibility of driving yourself, car rentals are readily available at BER. Major car rental companies such as Sixt, Europcar, and Hertz have desks in the airport’s arrival area. Renting a car allows you to explore Berlin and its surroundings at your own pace, though it’s important to consider parking availability and costs in the city center. The airport is well-connected to major highways, making it easy to navigate to your destination. Be sure to check for any environmental zones (Umweltzonen) in Berlin that may require an emissions sticker for your vehicle.
In summary, BER offers a range of transport options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you choose the affordability of trains and buses, the convenience of taxis, or the independence of a rental car, getting from the airport to Berlin’s city center is straightforward and efficient. Plan ahead to select the option that best fits your itinerary and budget.
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Alternative Airports Nearby: Leipzig/Halle (LEJ) and Dresden (DRS) are options but farther away
When considering alternative airports for your trip to Berlin, Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) and Dresden Airport (DRS) are viable options, though they are located farther away from the city. Leipzig/Halle Airport is approximately 180 kilometers southwest of Berlin, while Dresden Airport is about 190 kilometers south of the capital. Despite the distance, these airports can sometimes offer more affordable flight options or better connections, depending on your point of origin. If you choose to fly into either of these airports, you’ll need to plan for additional travel time to reach Berlin, which typically involves a train or car journey of around 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Leipzig/Halle Airport is well-connected to Berlin via high-speed trains, with direct services operated by Deutsche Bahn. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a convenient option if you don’t mind the extra travel time. Similarly, Dresden Airport offers train connections to Berlin, though the journey is slightly longer, averaging around 2 hours. Both airports have car rental services available, providing flexibility if you prefer to drive to Berlin. However, keep in mind that driving in Germany is efficient but requires navigating highways like the A9 or A13, which can be busy during peak hours.
One advantage of choosing Leipzig/Halle or Dresden airports is the potential for lower airfares, especially during peak travel seasons. These airports often serve as hubs for budget airlines and regional carriers, which may offer competitive pricing compared to Berlin’s main airports. Additionally, both LEJ and DRS are smaller and less crowded, making the overall travel experience smoother and less stressful, particularly during check-in and security processes. If your priority is cost savings or avoiding the hustle of larger airports, these alternatives are worth considering.
However, it’s essential to weigh the trade-offs of flying into Leipzig/Halle or Dresden. The additional travel time and potential costs of ground transportation to Berlin can offset the savings on airfare. For instance, train tickets from these airports to Berlin can range from €20 to €50 per person, depending on the class and time of booking. If convenience and time efficiency are your primary concerns, Berlin’s primary airports—Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF), which are now consolidated into Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)—remain the most direct options.
In summary, while Leipzig/Halle and Dresden airports are farther from Berlin, they can be practical alternatives under certain circumstances. They are best suited for travelers who prioritize cost savings, have flexible schedules, or are arriving from destinations with better flight connections to these airports. Always factor in the total travel time and additional expenses when deciding whether these alternative airports align with your travel plans. For most visitors, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) remains the most convenient gateway to the city, but LEJ and DRS offer valuable options for those willing to explore beyond the obvious choices.
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Frequently asked questions
The main airport serving Berlin is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER).
No, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the only commercial airport serving Berlin since the closure of Tegel Airport (TXL) in 2020.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) south of Berlin's city center, with travel times varying depending on the mode of transportation.
Transportation options include the S-Bahn (urban rail), regional trains, buses, taxis, and car rentals, with the S-Bahn and regional trains being the most convenient and affordable options.
