Berlin BER Airport: Brilliant Tips for Getting There and Parking 2026

We all know the feeling: the flight is booked, the anticipation is huge – but the question of how to get to the airport BER tips often causes headaches. So that you arrive at the terminal relaxed, we’ve put together the most important BER Airport tips for you. Whether you travel by train, car or taxi: here you’ll find out how to avoid stress and park smartly.

Getting there by train: convenient and eco-friendly

BER is perfectly connected to the rail network. The station is located directly beneath Terminal 1 – a real advantage. From there it’s only a few minutes on foot to the check-in counters. The S-Bahn lines S9 and S45 as well as various regional trains stop here. Especially practical: with the VBB you can plan your connection in advance. Make sure you get off at the right station – the stop is called “Flughafen BER – Terminal 1-2”. For everyone coming from the city center: the S-Bahn ride takes about 30 minutes, and with the ICE from the main station only around 20 minutes. A tip: use the current flight deals to fly cheaply and save on getting there too.

By car: routes, parking and P+R

If you’re arriving by car, you should keep an eye on traffic conditions. BER is located south of Berlin, and the A113 and A10 lead directly there. Turn on the sat nav and off you go – but allow plenty of time, especially at peak times. There are numerous parking options at the airport, from short-stay zones to long-term parking. The multi-storey car parks P1 to P5 are directly at the terminal; the outdoor car parks with shuttle service are somewhat cheaper. A real insider tip are the P+R spaces in the surrounding area, for example at the Flughafen BER station. There you can park for free or cheaply and take the S-Bahn to the terminal. You can find more detailed information on the official website of BER Airport.

Pack smartly and sail through security

Security at BER is modernly equipped, but you should still keep a few things in mind. Pack liquids in containers of up to 100 ml in a transparent bag and have your ID and boarding pass ready. Electronic devices such as laptops and tablets often have to be shown separately. Another BER Airport tip: download the official BER app – it shows you the current waiting times at the checkpoints. That way you can plan your time better. And remember: from 2026 new hand luggage rules may apply – check with your airline in advance.

Terminal 1 or 2? What you should know

BER consists of two terminals. Terminal 1 is the main terminal with most airlines, while Terminal 2 is mainly used by budget carriers. Check your booking in advance to know where you need to check in. The two terminals are about 5 minutes’ walk apart – so don’t mix them up. In Terminal 1 you’ll find numerous shops, cafés and restaurants, including well-known chains like Starbucks and local bakeries. A sensory highlight: treat yourself to a fresh pretzel or a piece of cake before departure – it makes the wait more pleasant.

Food and drink at BER: what can you expect?

The gastronomic selection at BER is diverse. From quick snacks to full meals, everything is on offer. Particularly recommended is the “Marché” restaurant in Terminal 1, which offers fresh juices and salads. Fans of German cuisine also get their money’s worth: why not try a currywurst or a schnitzel. For coffee lovers there are various cafés, including Berlin roasters. A tip: if you have time, sit down in one of the quieter areas upstairs – it’s often more relaxed there than in the hustle and bustle.

What to do in case of delays or problems?

If your flight is delayed, stay calm. BER offers comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi (for a limited time). During longer waits you can relax in the rest zones or use the lounges if you have access. Check the monitors or the app for the current status. If you miss your flight, contact your airline’s desk. And remember: for longer delays you may be entitled to compensation – more on that in our article on passenger rights.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best way to get to BER Airport?

Traveling by train is often the most relaxed option. The S-Bahn S9 and S45 as well as regional trains stop directly beneath Terminal 1. From Berlin Central Station, the ICE takes only about 20 minutes. By car you reach BER via the A113 – but watch out for possible traffic jams.

Are there cheap parking options at BER?

Yes, in addition to the multi-storey car parks directly at the terminal, there are cheaper outdoor car parks with shuttle service. A particularly inexpensive alternative are the P+R spaces at the Flughafen BER station. There you park cheaply and take the S-Bahn to the terminal.

What tips are there for a relaxed departure?

Allow plenty of time, check the waiting times in the app and pack your hand luggage according to the current rules. Use the time before departure for a snack or a coffee in one of the cafés. And don’t forget to keep your boarding pass and ID close at hand.