BER Airport Insights & Guide
Key BER Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know BER Airport
Discover Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), Germany's newest hub, featuring a unique rooftop terrace for plane spotting. Our concise guide offers essential tips for navigating BER, from flight updates to dining options, ensuring a smooth travel experience. Dive into our Comprehensive Airport Guide for detailed insights on BER and global airports, preparing you for a seamless journey.
iFly Tip: Discover essential advice for navigating airports on our airport info page.
Navigating BER's Terminals
Berlin BER Airport has a single terminal building with five levels. The terminal is divided into two main areas: the Schengen area and the non-Schengen area. The Schengen area is for flights within the European Union, while the non-Schengen area is for flights outside the EU.
The terminal has four concourses: A, B, C, and D. Concourse A is used for Schengen flights, while Concourse B is used for non-Schengen flights. Concourse C is used for both Schengen and non-Schengen flights, and Concourse D is used for long-haul flights.
There are a total of 80 gates in the terminal, with 25 gates in Concourse A, 25 gates in Concourse B, 20 gates in Concourse C, and 10 gates in Concourse D. The terminal is used by major airlines such as Lufthansa, EasyJet, Ryanair, and Turkish Airlines.
To navigate the terminal, passengers can follow the signs and information displays throughout the building. There are also information desks and airport staff available to assist passengers with any questions or concerns.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
BER has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The two terminals are connected by a covered walkway, which takes approximately 10 minutes to walk. If you have a tight connection or prefer not to walk, there is also a free shuttle bus that runs between the terminals every 5-10 minutes. The shuttle bus stops are located outside of both terminals.
If you are arriving at Terminal 1 and need to get to Terminal 2, follow the signs to the covered walkway or shuttle bus. If you are arriving at Terminal 2 and need to get to Terminal 1, follow the signs to the covered walkway or shuttle bus. The covered walkway and shuttle bus are both accessible and easy to navigate.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from BER-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"BER is divided into Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 5. Terminal 1 is the main terminal and is quite large, so give yourself extra time to navigate through it, especially if you have a tight connection." — Hans M., Berlin, Germany, August 2023
"If you're flying low-cost airlines, you'll likely be in Terminal 2. It's more compact, but still has all the amenities you need. Just be aware that it can get crowded during peak times." — Anja K., Potsdam, Germany, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The Airport Express (FEX) train is the quickest way to get to Berlin's city center. It runs every 30 minutes and takes about 30 minutes to reach Berlin Hauptbahnhof. It's reliable and avoids the traffic you might encounter with a taxi or ride-share." — Markus L., Berlin, Germany, September 2023
"If you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more direct route, consider booking a taxi in advance. The fare to central Berlin is around €50, but it can save you the hassle of navigating public transport with heavy bags." — Petra S., Königs Wusterhausen, Germany, October 2023
Parking
"For long-term parking, P4 is your best bet. It's a bit further from the terminals, but there's a free shuttle that runs every 10 minutes. It's also cheaper than the closer options." — Klaus W., Schönefeld, Germany, November 2023
"If you're just picking someone up, use the Kiss & Fly area in front of Terminal 1. You can park there for up to 10 minutes for free, which is usually enough time for a quick pick-up." — Ingrid T., Berlin, Germany, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"For a quick bite, head to the food court in Terminal 1. There are plenty of options ranging from German cuisine to international fast food. My personal favorite is the currywurst stand near Gate B20." — Lars F., Berlin, Germany, January 2024
"If you're looking to do some shopping, the duty-free stores in Terminal 1 offer a wide range of products, from local Berlin souvenirs to high-end luxury goods. It's a great way to kill time before your flight." — Maria J., Potsdam, Germany, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Security lines can get long, especially during peak travel times. Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight for domestic and 3 hours for international flights to avoid any last-minute stress." — Thomas R., Berlin, Germany, March 2024
"If you have a long layover, consider booking a lounge pass. The BER Airport Lounge in Terminal 1 offers comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary snacks and drinks. It's a great way to relax and recharge." — Sabine L., Schönefeld, Germany, April 2024
iFly Tip: Discover what happens behind the scenes during your flight with our airline pilot's explanation.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Berlin BER Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated areas outside of the terminals. Curbside parking is strictly prohibited, and vehicles left unattended will be towed. However, there are several options for those who need to wait for arriving passengers.
For those who wish to wait in their vehicle, the airport offers cell-phone waiting areas. These areas are free of charge and allow drivers to wait for up to 30 minutes until their passenger has arrived and collected their luggage. Once the passenger is ready to be picked up, the driver can quickly proceed to the designated pick-up area.
Parking Facilities & Options
If you're flying out of BER, you'll find several parking options available to suit your needs. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking in several lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminals.
If you're picking up a passenger, the airport also has a cell phone waiting area where you can park for free and wait until your passenger is ready to be picked up.
For those with disabilities, designated handicapped parking spaces are available in all parking areas, with easy access to the terminals.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking facilities are available nearby. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient and affordable option for travelers.
Transportation Options
Travelers arriving at Berlin Brandenburg Airport have a variety of ground transportation options available to them:
- Car Rentals: Berlin Brandenburg Airport offers car rental facilities with major providers such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. These providers offer a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. Visitors can easily rent a car by booking online or at the rental desk located in the terminal.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport with designated drop-off areas located outside the terminal. The fares for taxi services are regulated by the city of Berlin and are based on distance traveled. Travelers are advised to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning their journey.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available at the airport with designated pickup areas located outside the terminal. However, there are restrictions on the use of these services in Germany, and travelers are advised to check local regulations before using them.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for travelers who prefer a more convenient and hassle-free option. These shuttles offer door-to-door service and can be booked online or at the airport. The pickup areas for airport shuttles are located outside the terminal, and fares vary depending on the destination.
- Public Transportation: Public transportation options are also available at the airport, including buses, trains, and the S-Bahn. These options offer an affordable way to travel around the city, with regular services running throughout the day. Travelers can purchase tickets at the airport or online. The FEX (Flughafen Express) train provides a direct connection to Berlin's central station (Hauptbahnhof) in about 30 minutes, while the S9 and S45 S-Bahn lines connect the airport to various parts of the city.
iFly Tip: Explore how major airline hubs streamline the global air travel system.
Airport Hotels
Traveling can be stressful, but finding a comfortable and convenient place to stay doesn't have to be. Whether you're looking for a short stay between flights or a longer visit to explore the city, we've got you covered with a variety of hotel options. From the luxury of the Steigenberger Airport Hotel to the cost-effective B&B Hotel, there's a wide range of options to choose from. Many of these hotels are located in the scenic region of Schönefeld, offering easy access to local attractions like the East Side Gallery. Amenities often include complimentary WiFi, fitness centers, and allergy-free rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Explore the options below to find the perfect hotel for your stay. Berlin Brandenburg Airport Hotels
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
When it comes to dining and shopping options, BER Airport has plenty to offer. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you're sure to find something to suit your taste.
For a taste of local cuisine, head to Berliner Bistro, located in Terminal 1. Here, you can enjoy traditional German dishes like currywurst and schnitzel, as well as a variety of sandwiches and salads. Another great option is Marché Mövenpick, also in Terminal 1, which offers fresh, seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
If you're in the mood for something international, try Kamps Backstube in Terminal 1 for delicious baked goods, or Scharfes Eck in Terminal 5 for spicy Indian cuisine.
When it comes to shopping, the airport has a wide range of stores to choose from. For luxury fashion and accessories, head to Hugo Boss or Michael Kors in Terminal 1. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, check out Berlin Souvenirs in Terminal 1 or My Berlin in Terminal 5.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Brandenburg Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Brandenburg Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Simply connect to the "BER Airport Free WiFi" network to stay connected.
- Lost and Found: If you've lost an item, visit the lost and found office located in Terminal 1. The office is open from 8am to 8pm daily and can be reached by phone or email.
- Children's Play Area: Brandenburg Airport has dedicated play areas for kids in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 5 to keep young travelers entertained while they wait for their flight.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers services such as wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms. Inform your airline prior to your flight or speak to a member of staff at the airport if you require assistance.
- ATM: Several ATMs are available throughout the airport for your banking needs.
- Medical Assistance: A medical center located in Terminal 1 is staffed by trained medical professionals and equipped to handle a range of medical issues.
- Airport Lounges: Brandenburg Airport features several lounges including the Lufthansa Lounge and the Airport Club Lounge. These lounges offer amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating areas to relax before your flight. Access may be granted through membership programs or for a fee.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight departure at Berlin Brandenburg Airport. One way to do this is by utilizing the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Another helpful tool is the use of airline mobile phone apps. By downloading the app for your specific airline, you can receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes directly to your phone via text, email, or push notifications. This can be especially useful for staying up-to-date on any last-minute changes to your flight.
Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Berlin BER Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com. This website provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information, making it a reliable resource for air travelers.
By utilizing these tools, air travelers can stay informed about the status of their flight departure and make any necessary adjustments to their travel plans. Safe travels!
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is located in Germany.
- Terminals: The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 (main terminal for domestic and international flights) and Terminal 2 (exclusively for Schengen flights).
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include easyJet, Ryanair, and Lufthansa. For a complete list of airlines, visit the BER Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: The airport handles approximately 70,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: Berlin Brandenburg sees around 600 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: Popular destinations include Palma de Mallorca, London, Istanbul, Barcelona, and Zurich.
- Hub Status: The airport serves as a hub for easyJet, Ryanair, and Eurowings.
Airport History
Berlin Brandenburg Airport, located in the capital city of Germany, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1909 - The Johannisthal Air Field, the first airport in Berlin, is opened.
- 1923 - Tempelhof Airport, one of the first commercial airports in the world, is opened.
- 1936 - Berlin-Tegel Airport is opened to handle the increasing air traffic in the city.
- 1945 - The end of World War II leads to the closure of Tempelhof Airport.
- 1960s - Berlin-Schönefeld Airport is expanded to become the main airport for East Berlin.
- 1990 - After the reunification of Germany, plans are made to build a new airport to replace Berlin-Schönefeld and Tegel airports.
- 2006 - Construction of the new Berlin BER Airport begins.
- 2012 - The opening of BER is delayed due to construction issues and safety concerns.
- 2020 - BER Airport finally opens to the public, replacing Tegel Airport as the main airport for Berlin.
Today, the airport serves millions of passengers each year and continues to play an important role in the history of aviation in Germany.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Berlin Brandenburg Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: BER
- Airport Website
- Phone: +49 30 60911150
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH, 12521 Berlin, Germany
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Berlin Brandenburg Airport Q&A
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