Getting Around Berlin
Public Transportation
Berlin's integrated public transport system is the best way to get about. One ticket allows travel on all trains, trams, busses and ferries run by the public transport authority (BVG). Berlin's integrated public transport system (known as the BVG) is the best way to get about.
An interconnected three-zone system (ABC) which only requires one ticket, allows you to hop from bus to underground (U-Bahn) to surface rail (S-Bahn) and tram with one ticket. Trams are fast and convenient and small ferries will get you across Berlin's lakes.
By Taxi
TAXIs are numerous and available at all times (almost). Taxi stands can be found at all main stations and airports as well as outside KADEWE and hotels. Most Berlin taxi drivers speak English, but don't take it for granted.
Taxi Fares: Start at € 2.50 and € 1.53 per km; Short Ride (Kurzstrecke): a € 3 ride for up to 2 km drive if you hail the taxi from the street.
By Car
You will soon get the hang of driving in Berlin with its wide, long avenues and main roads and civilised traffic. Right of way is to traffic coming from the right - a diamond shaped yellow sign means you have right of way.
*Remember that cycling routes are common and a cyclist going straight on has precedence at a right hand turn.
*In the East trams have the right of way.
*The ringroad is called the Berliner Ring.
By Bicycle
Cycling is highly recommended in Berlin, as it is easy and safe. Cycle lanes are a pleasure to follow especially around the Tiergarten park area. If you like cycling, Berlin is a cyclists' paradise so don't miss the opportunity to explore Berlin on your bike.
Berliners enjoy cycling all-year round and the city accomodates cyclists by providing excellent cycle paths which isolate cyclists both from cars and from pedestrians.
You are also allowed to take your bicycle on the U- and S-Bahn, just check which train compartment has the bicycle sign and if anyone happens to be standing there they will usually make way for you and your bike.
Cycle paths are extensive in West Berlin but the Eastern half still needs to catch up and the standard of roads lags behind. With the amount of road and building work going on it can be a challenging ride!