Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TICKETS & PASSES
The transport network is divided into fare zones A, B and C with tickets available for
zones AB, BC or ABC. One ticket is valid for travel on all forms of public transporta-
tion.
Most trips within Berlin require an AB ticket, which is valid for two hours (interruptions
and transfers allowed, but not round-trips). Notable exceptions include trips to Pots-
dam and Schönefeld Airport, where the ABC tariff applies.
Children aged six to 14 qualify for reduced (ermässigt)rates; kids under six travel free.
Tickets are available from bus drivers, vending machines at U- or S-Bahn stations
(English instructions available), vending machines aboard trams and from station of-
fices and news kiosks sporting the yellow BVG logo. Some vending machines accept
debit cards. Bus drivers and tram vending machines only take cash.
Single tickets, except those bought from bus drivers and in trams, must be validated
(stamped) at station platform entrances. Anyone caught without a valid ticket must
pay a €40 on-the-spot fine.
If you're taking more than two trips in a day, a day pass (Tageskarte)will save you
money. It's valid for unlimited rides on all forms of public transport until 3am the fol-
lowing day. The group day pass (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte)is valid for up to five
people traveling together.
For short trips, buy the Kurzstreckenticket,which is good for three stops on the U-
Bahn and S-Bahn or six on any bus or tram; no changes allowed.
For longer stays, consider the seven-day pass (Wochenkarte), which is transferable
and lets you take along another adult and up to three children aged six to 14 for free
after 8pm Monday to Friday and all day on Saturday, Sunday and holidays.
S-Bahn & Regional Trains
S-Bahn trains (S1, S2 etc) don't run as frequently as the U-Bahn, but make fewer stops and
thus are useful for covering longer distances. Trains operate from 4am to 12.30am and all
night on Friday, Saturday and public holidays.
Individual reviews indicate the closest station.
