Guide To Berlin Airport is something every traveler heading to or through Germany’s capital genuinely needs before they arrive. Berlin Brandenburg Airport — officially coded BER — is the main international gateway to Berlin and the surrounding state of Brandenburg, located in Schönefeld just south of the city. After years of delays, BER finally opened in 2020, replacing the old Tegel and Schönefeld airports and bringing all of Berlin’s commercial air traffic under one modern roof. The airport handles a wide range of short-, medium-, and long-haul flights, serves as a hub for easyJet, Ryanair, Eurowings, Condor, and Sundair, and sits just 20 minutes from the city center by train. Just like pre-booking a comfortable ride with Windy City Limousine Chicago before touching down at O’Hare removes the guesswork from your ground journey, knowing BER’s layout before you arrive turns a potentially unfamiliar airport into an easy, confident experience.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) at a Glance
Berlin Brandenburg Airport operates two terminals — Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2) — connected by a short walkway, with all arrivals and departures handled from these two buildings. The airport’s train station sits directly beneath Terminal 1, making it one of the most convenient airport rail connections in Europe. BER handles primarily European short- and medium-haul routes, with a growing selection of long-haul connections to destinations across Asia, North America, and beyond. This complete Guide To Berlin Airport covers how to get there, parking, terminals, airlines, lounges, restaurants, shopping, hotels, and everything in between.
Where Is Berlin Brandenburg Airport?
BER is located at Melli-Beese-Ring 1, 12529 Schönefeld, southeast of Berlin in the state of Brandenburg. It sits approximately 18 kilometers from Berlin’s city center and is reachable in around 20 minutes by direct train. For general inquiries, the airport can be contacted at 030 609160910.
How To Get To Berlin Airport: All Your Options
Getting to BER from central Berlin and the wider region is straightforward, with multiple train, S-Bahn, and bus options feeding directly into the terminal.
By regional train and the Airport Express (FEX): The main station, Flughafen BER, sits directly beneath Terminal 1 and is just a short walk from check-in. The FEX Airport Express runs every 15 minutes, connecting Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Potsdamer Platz, and Südkreuz to BER in around 30 minutes. The RE8 runs hourly and operates 24 hours between central Berlin and BER. Additional regional services including the RB22, RB23, RB24, and RB32 connect BER to Potsdam, Oranienburg, and surrounding towns on an hourly basis.
By S-Bahn: The S9 runs every 20 minutes from Spandau via Alexanderplatz and Schönefeld. The S45 runs every 20 minutes from Südkreuz via Schöneweide. Both are affordable options well-suited for travelers with manageable luggage.
By bus: Express buses X7 and X71 connect U-Bahn stations Rudow and Alt-Mariendorf to BER every 5 to 20 minutes from Terminal 1’s Arrivals Level E0. The BER2 service connects Potsdam Central Station to the airport 16 times daily in approximately 55 minutes, with tickets purchased on board. Night buses N7, N7X, N36, and N60 cover late-night and early-morning journeys when train frequencies drop.
By private car transfer: For business travelers, families, or anyone who prefers a door-to-door service with fixed pricing and a professional driver handling the route, a pre-booked chauffeur transfer is the most comfortable and reliable way to reach BER without the stress of navigating public transport with luggage.
Parking at Berlin Brandenburg Airport: Full Guide
Berlin Airport parking offers over 10,000 spaces across multiple zones, covering everything from quick drop-offs to long-stay options. The first 10 minutes are free in short-term parking — with no ticket needed thanks to license plate recognition — making fast pick-ups and drop-offs genuinely hassle-free.
Short-term parking is located directly in front of both terminals on the Departures and Arrivals levels. After the free 10-minute window, charges apply per the standard rate paid at the machine using your plate number.
Premium parking (P1 and P2) puts you just steps from the T1 check-in hall and includes a Premium Plus option in a private, gated area within P1, accessible only with a valid parking ticket.
Comfort parking (P3, P7, P8) is ideal for families or longer stays, with covered, well-lit facilities, easy elevator access, and barrier-free entry close to both terminals.
Economy parking (P6 and P107) is the budget-friendly option. P6 sits near both terminals, while P107 requires approximately a 25-minute walk — a reasonable trade-off for the lower daily rate.
Valet parking is available from €129 and must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. Drop your vehicle directly in front of Terminal 1 and the team will park, clean, or charge your car on request — the most effortless parking experience at BER for those willing to pay for convenience.
Berlin Airport Terminal Guide: T1 and T2
BER has two terminals, and understanding both is central to this Guide To Berlin Airport.
Terminal 1 (T1) is the main hub, located between the airport’s two runways and housing the primary check-in halls, the train station on Level U2, the majority of departures and arrivals, all four airport lounges, and most restaurants and shops. Car access is via the B96a or A113, exiting at “Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg.” The closest parking is P1, P2, P3, and P6.
Terminal 2 (T2) is a short walk from T1 via the walkway on Arrivals Level E0. It handles a smaller set of airlines — primarily Ryanair, Wizz Air, Play, and Vueling — and is closest to parking garages P7 and P8. Car access follows the same route as T1.
Airlines Flying From Berlin Brandenburg Airport
Terminal 1 handles the majority of BER’s carriers, including AEGEAN, Aer Lingus, Air Baltic, Air France, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, Condor, Delta Air Lines, easyJet, EgyptAir, El Al, Eurowings, Finnair, Hainan Airlines, Iberia, Icelandair, Jet2, KLM, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Norse Atlantic Airways, Norwegian Air, Pegasus Airlines, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian, SAS, SunExpress, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, TUIfly, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, and many more regional and charter carriers.
Terminal 2 serves Play, Ryanair, Vueling Airlines, and Wizz Air — primarily ultra-low-cost European carriers.
Airport Lounges at Berlin Airport: Where To Relax Before Your Flight
BER airport lounges cover a good range of options for different traveler types, from premium pay-access lounges to a modern co-working space and a full Lufthansa Star Alliance lounge.
BER Lounge Tempelhof — Terminal 1, Gate A20
Located in Terminal 1’s Schengen departures area at Gate A20, Level E1, the Tempelhof Lounge is the larger and more premium of BER’s two pay-access airport lounges. It features panoramic runway views, varied seating zones including relaxation, working, dining, and a fully equipped conference room. The buffet covers hot and cold food, and hot and cold drinks are included. Showers are available for freshening up before departure.
Access and Pricing: €48 pay-at-door by EC or credit card. Free for children under 3. Complimentary or discounted access is available through select partner loyalty programs.
BER Lounge Tegel — Terminal 1, Gate B17
The Tegel Lounge sits at Gate B17, Level E2 in Terminal 1, reached via stairs from Level E1. Its design pays deliberate homage to Berlin’s former Tegel Airport, with a warm aesthetic and a mix of work, social, and relaxation areas. The buffet includes vegetarian and vegan options — a thoughtful touch not all airport lounges manage — and showers and a conference room are available.
Access and Pricing: €36 pay-at-door by EC or credit card. Free for children under 3. Partner loyalty program access available.
NUUUORK Co-Working Lounge — Terminal 1 Arrivals, Level E0
The NUUUORK lounge is a modern co-working space located in the arrivals area of Terminal 1, making it particularly useful for passengers who have just landed and need to get straight to work. It offers comfortable seating, work pods, private phone booths, a multimedia meeting room, high-speed Wi-Fi, and snacks.
Access and Pricing: Bookable via the NUUUORK platform. From €12 per hour, or €24 for 2 hours, with all-day and full day-pass options available.
Lufthansa Senator and Business Lounges — Terminal 1, Gate B20
Located at Gate B20 in Terminal 1 departures, the Lufthansa lounges at BER are modern, art-infused spaces featuring all-day buffets, a steam fireplace, a TV lounge, a library wall, shower facilities, and runway views. They represent the most premium lounge experience at BER for eligible passengers.
Access and Pricing: Open to passengers with Lufthansa Senator or Star Alliance Gold status, and Business Class travelers on Lufthansa Group flights. Day passes are available for €39 to €49 depending on the season, payable at the door or pre-booked online. Free for children under 2.
Best Restaurants at Berlin Airport: What To Eat at BER
Berlin Airport restaurants are concentrated primarily in Terminal 1 and cover a range of budgets and tastes — from familiar international brands to spots with a genuinely local Berlin character.
Haferkater is a standout worth seeking out — serving sweet and savory oat bowls with fresh toppings and, by many accounts, the best coffee in the airport. Kiez & Friends brings a cozy Berlin neighborhood feel with pizza and salads. East Side Berlin leans into local culture with dishes like solyanka soup and Berlin Wall-inspired decor — a genuine taste of the city before you leave it.
Laggner’s Bistro is reliable for traditional fare including grilled sausages and draft beer. Auf die Hand covers lighter options with sandwiches, quiches, salads, and cakes. Mövenpick handles quick Fairtrade coffee and snacks to-go for passengers in a hurry. The usual international names — Burger King, Starbucks, and AsiaGourmet — are also present across the terminal for those who want something familiar and fast.
Shopping at Berlin Airport: What To Buy at BER
BER shopping is centered in Terminal 1’s Market Place and covers duty-free, fashion, tech, souvenirs, and travel essentials.
Heinemann Duty Free is the main duty-free shop at Berlin Airport, stocking perfumes, cosmetics, spirits, and tobacco at tax-free prices for eligible international passengers. Capi and Tech2Go handle electronics and tech accessories. WHSmith, InMotion, and RELAY cover books, magazines, snacks, and travel essentials — and RELAY includes a Deutsche Post counter for mailing postcards or letters before you board.
For Berlin souvenirs, My Berlin and Promobo are the go-to stops, with the Museum Shop offering more heritage-oriented items. Fashion options include GANT and PICARD, while Rituals covers skincare and fragrances. Pocket Shop carries books and reading material for the flight.
Hotels Near Berlin Airport: Where To Stay at BER
Hotels near Berlin Brandenburg Airport range from on-site luxury to budget-friendly options just minutes from the terminal.
The Steigenberger Airport Hotel Berlin is located directly at Terminal 1 on Level U1 and is the most premium on-site option, offering 322 rooms and suites, a restaurant, bar, spa, fitness center, and 11 meeting rooms. No shuttle required — it’s a few steps from the terminal entrance.
The IntercityHotel Berlin Airport BER is also directly connected to Terminals 1 and 2, featuring sleek modern rooms with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and a restaurant, bar, sun terrace, and gym with a steam bath. A solid mid-range choice for both leisure and business travelers.
The B&B Hotel Berlin-Airport sits approximately 10 minutes from BER and offers 140 modern, soundproofed rooms at budget-friendly prices. A paid shuttle is available from €3.50. It’s a practical, cheerful option for travelers who prioritize cost over proximity.
Berlin Airport Amenities: What’s Available Inside the Terminal
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals under the network name _BER Airport Free Wi-Fi. ATMs and currency exchange services are available across all terminals.
Workstations are located in T1 at multiple departure gates and security areas, featuring six bistro-style desks per station with charging outlets including wireless charging. Print and copy services are available in Terminal 1 for last-minute documents.
Showers are located in T1 at Level E0 and cost €10, which includes a towel and shampoo. Card payment only — Visa, Amex, Mastercard, and debit cards accepted.
Napcabs sleeping cabins provide private rest pods for long layovers, located near the train station in T1 on Level U1. Drinking water dispensers are available in both terminals near restroom vestibules.
The Kids’ Corner playground in T1’s departure area keeps younger travelers occupied. A Room of Silence on T1’s Gallery Level E2 (behind Starbucks) is open to all passengers for meditation or quiet reflection.
Medical and pharmacy facilities include two Metropolitan Pharmacy locations in T1 (Arrivals and Departures), the Ernst von Bergmann Medical Center in T1’s Outdoor Area at Level U1, and a dental service at the same level.
Smoking areas are designated outdoor zones at multiple entrance areas and gate locations across both T1 and T2, clearly marked and positioned away from main passenger flow.
Book Your Berlin Airport Transfer
Whether you’re arriving at BER after a long transatlantic flight or heading out on a European trip, having your ground transportation sorted in advance makes the whole day run better. Skip the packed S-Bahn, the confusion of unfamiliar bus routes, and the stress of navigating a new city with luggage. Book your Berlin Airport transfer here and travel door-to-door in comfort, with a professional driver who knows the route.
Frequently Asked Questions — Guide To Berlin Airport
1. What is the IATA code for Berlin Brandenburg Airport? The official IATA code for Berlin Brandenburg Airport is BER. You’ll see it on your boarding pass, baggage tags, and all flight booking platforms.
2. How many terminals does Berlin Airport have? BER operates two terminals — Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 — connected by a short walkway on Arrivals Level E0. All commercial arrivals and departures are handled from these two buildings.
3. How do I get from Berlin city center to the airport by train? The fastest option is the FEX Airport Express, which runs every 15 minutes from Berlin Hauptbahnhof via Potsdamer Platz and Südkreuz, reaching BER in approximately 30 minutes. The S9 and S45 S-Bahn lines also connect central Berlin to BER every 20 minutes each.
4. Which airlines use Terminal 2 at Berlin Airport? Terminal 2 serves Ryanair, Wizz Air, Play, and Vueling — primarily ultra-low-cost European carriers. The majority of airlines at BER operate from Terminal 1.
5. Does Berlin Airport have pay-access lounges? Yes. The BER Lounge Tempelhof (€48) and BER Lounge Tegel (€36) are both open to any passenger paying at the door by card. The Lufthansa lounge also offers day passes from €39 to €49. The NUUUORK co-working space starts from €12 per hour.
6. Is there free Wi-Fi at Berlin Brandenburg Airport? Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals under the network _BER Airport Free Wi-Fi. No time limit or purchase is required to connect.
7. Are there showers at Berlin Airport? Yes. Shower facilities are available in Terminal 1 at Level E0 for €10, which includes a towel and shampoo. Payment is by card only — cash is not accepted.
8. How far is Berlin Airport from the city center? BER is located approximately 18 kilometers southeast of central Berlin. By FEX Airport Express train, the journey takes around 30 minutes. By car in normal traffic conditions, expect 20 to 30 minutes depending on your destination in the city.
9. Is there a hotel directly connected to Berlin Airport? Yes. Both the Steigenberger Airport Hotel Berlin and the IntercityHotel Berlin Airport BER are located directly at the terminal complex and require no shuttle transfer. The Steigenberger is the more upscale option; the IntercityHotel offers solid mid-range comfort.
10. What is the best lounge at Berlin Brandenburg Airport? For the most complete premium experience, the BER Lounge Tempelhof at Gate A20 offers the best combination of runway views, food, showers, and a conference room for €48. For Lufthansa and Star Alliance passengers, the Lufthansa Senator and Business Lounges at Gate B20 are the standout option with all-day buffets and premium facilities.
