Berlin Brandenburg Willy Brandt Airport, known as Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), is the main airport serving Berlin, the capital of Germany. It opened in October 2020, replacing the former Berlin-Tegel and Berlin-Schönefeld airports to serve as the city’s only international airport.
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Berlin Airport (BER) – Brief overview
Berlin Brandenburg Willy Brandt Airport (BER) is the international airport serving Berlin, the capital of Germany. Here is some brief information about the airport:
- Opening: BER officially opened on 31 October 2020, after several years of delays and numerous challenges during construction.
- Location: Located in Schönefeld, south-east of Berlin, it replaced the city’s two previous airports, Tegel and Schönefeld.
- Capacity: The airport was designed to cope with growing passenger traffic and has a capacity of around 40 million passengers per year.
- Terminal structure: BER has a main terminal (Terminal 1) and a smaller terminal (Terminal 2). Terminal 5, the former Schönefeld terminal, has been temporarily decommissioned.
- Connections: The airport is well connected to the public transport network, including S-Bahn and regional train connections to Berlin and the surrounding areas.
- Special features: The airport is named after Willy Brandt, a former Chancellor of Germany and Nobel Peace Prize winner.
- Services: BER offers a variety of services, including numerous shops, restaurants, lounges and car rental centres.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport plays a central role in the region’s air traffic and is an important hub for travelling within Europe and beyond.
What else you must see before taking off from Berlin
Berlin, a city with a rich history, vibrant culture and impressive architecture, offers visitors a wealth of sights. If your departure is imminent and you only have a short time left, don’t miss these highlights:
Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate is more than just a landmark; it is a symbol of German history and unity. This neoclassical monument, which once symbolised the division of Berlin, now stands for peace and unity. A photo here is a must for every visitor to Berlin.
Berlin Wall and East Side Gallery
A visit to Berlin would not be complete without a look at the remains of the Berlin Wall. The East Side Gallery, a colourful piece of the former wall, is covered in artwork symbolising freedom and hope.
Reichstag
The German Bundestag in the Reichstag building is not only politically significant, but also architecturally impressive. A guided tour of the building or a visit to the glass dome offers a unique view over the city.
Museum Island
Museum Island is an absolute must for art and culture lovers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of Berlin’s most important museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Old National Gallery.
Potsdamer Platz
Potsdamer Platz, once a field of rubble, is now a vibrant centre of modern architecture, shopping and entertainment. This place offers a stark contrast to historic Berlin and shows the modern development of the city.
Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie was the most famous border crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. Today it is a popular tourist destination that serves as a reminder of the city’s divided past.
Gendarmenmarkt
Gendarmenmarkt, one of Berlin’s most beautiful squares, is surrounded by three impressive buildings: the German Cathedral, the French Cathedral and the Konzerthaus. The harmonious architecture and lively atmosphere make this square an ideal destination for a last walk in Berlin.
Transport options to reach Berlin Airport in good time before departure
Getting to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is straightforward thanks to a variety of transport options. Here is an overview of the options available:
- Public transport: BER Airport has excellent connections to the public transport network. The S-Bahn lines S9 and S45 as well as various regional trains (RE7, RB14) offer direct connections between the airport and central points in Berlin, such as the main railway station and Alexanderplatz. These options are both cost-efficient and environmentally friendly.
- Bus connections: There are several bus routes connecting the airport to different parts of Berlin and the surrounding region. The X7 express bus and the X71 bus are popular options for getting to the airport quickly.
- Taxi: Taxis are a convenient, albeit more expensive, way to get to the airport. Official taxi ranks can be found at various points in the city. Journey times may vary depending on traffic conditions and location in the city.
- Car hire: For travellers who prefer flexibility, hiring a car can be a good option. Numerous car hire companies can be found in the city and at the airport itself.
- Private transfer: For an even more comfortable experience, a private transfer can be arranged. This service is particularly useful for groups or travellers with a lot of luggage.
- Parking options at the airport: For travellers arriving by car, BER Airport offers various parking options, from short-term parking to long-term parking.