How to buy Berlin public transport tickets and day passes
In Berlin you can buy public transport tickets in the BVG app, at ticket machines in every U-Bahn and S-Bahn station and on trams, and on buses. One ticket covers the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, trams, and ferries within the zones you choose. Paper tickets must be validated in a stamping machine before your trip; app tickets are valid from the time you buy or activate them.
Step by step
- Choose your zones. Berlin is divided into zones A, B, and C. AB covers the whole city, including most sights; ABC adds outer areas such as Potsdam and BER airport.
- Pick the ticket type. Options include a single ticket (valid for about two hours in one direction with transfers), a short-trip ticket for a few stops, a 4-trip ticket, a 24-hour ticket, and multi-day tickets.
- Buy it. Use the BVG app or the S-Bahn Berlin / DB apps, or a machine on the platform or in the tram. Station machines have an English menu and take cash and cards; the machines inside trams take coins only.
- Validate it. Paper tickets bought in advance must be stamped in the small machines on platforms or inside trams and buses before the journey starts.
- Ride. There are no turnstiles, but plainclothes ticket inspectors check regularly, and riding without a valid ticket leads to an on-the-spot fine. Tickets bought from bus drivers or the machines inside trams are usually already validated.
Which ticket suits a tourist
- A few rides: single or 4-trip tickets.
- A busy sightseeing day: a 24-hour ticket, often cheaper than three or more singles.
- Several days: a 7-day ticket or the Berlin WelcomeCard, which combines transit with discounts at attractions.
- Longer stays or trips around Germany: the Deutschlandticket, a monthly subscription for local and regional transport nationwide (not ICE or IC trains).
FAQ
What is the difference between the S-Bahn and the U-Bahn?
The U-Bahn is Berlin's subway, run by BVG; the S-Bahn is a commuter rail network run by Deutsche Bahn that reaches farther into the suburbs. The same tickets are valid on both.
How much does the S-Bahn cost in Berlin?
The same as the U-Bahn, buses and trams: one fare system covers them all, and the price depends on the ticket type and zones (AB or ABC). Fares rise most years, so check current prices in the BVG app or on a machine.
Is a day ticket worth it in Berlin?
Usually, if you'll take about three or more rides within 24 hours. For a few rides, single or 4-trip tickets are cheaper; for a week, a 7-day ticket costs less than daily passes.
Is public transport free in Berlin?
No, except for small children: kids under six ride free with an adult.
How do you pay for the U-Bahn in Berlin?
Buy a ticket before boarding: in the BVG app or at a station machine, which take cards and cash. On buses you can buy a ticket at the front, but since 2024 only by contactless card or phone, not cash, so the app is the easiest option.
How do I get from BER airport to the city?
Trains and S-Bahn lines run to the center. You need an ABC ticket because the airport is in zone C.