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The public transport network

Explore Berlin with the BVG now. You can find your individual route in our connection search.

Tariff zones

Berlin has a standardised tariff system for local public transport (ÖPNV). This system comprises different tariff zones, which are graded according to distance. The city is divided into three tariff zones:

  • Tariff zone A covers the area within the S-Bahn ring
  • Tariff zone B covers the city area (the Olympiastadion is located in fare zone B)
  • Tariff zone C extends into the neighbouring countryside
Karte der Tarifzonen Berlin

Network Maps

The network map shown below includes underground and suburban railway lines and covers the entire city area.

Map for the tariff area Berlin AB

You don't have a ticket yet?

The single and one day tickets are perfect for tourists. The tickets can be purchased at BVG ticket machinessales points or from the bus driver (but not always all tickets). Remember to validate the tickets before travelling if the ticket requires it. The tickets are also valid for the night timetable.

Purchases can also be made via the BVG Ticket App, BVG Fahrinfo App and the BVG Jelbi App.

FAQs

Where can I buy tickets?

You can buy tickets at ticket machines, from the bus driver (but not always all tickets) or in the BVG Ticket-App, BVG Fahrinfo-App and BVG Jelbi-App.

When is my ticket valid?

Your ticket from a ticket machine is only valid after you have validated it. There are usually validation machines next to the ticket machines.

If you buy your tickets in one of the apps, please follow the instructions and information in the app.

How long is my ticket valid?

This depends on the ticket selected. One-way tickets, for example, are valid for 2 hours in one direction. You can find more information on the validity of tickets in the BVG ticket overview.

Do I need different tickets to use the bus, tram, S-Bahn and subway?

No, the tickets are valid for bus, tram, S-Bahn and subway. However, always check the validity of the tickets and the fare zones in which you want to travel.

Are there discounts for children, seniors and groups?

Children: Children up to the age of 6 can always travel free of charge. For children aged 6 to 14, a reduced fare applies in most cases.

Seniors: There are no reduced fares for senior citizens.

Groups: The 24-hour small group ticket is perfect for tourist groups for any number of trips together for up to 5 people. 

How do I find the fastest connection to my destination?

The best way to do this is to use the connection search. The fastest routes are displayed there.

Can I take a bicycle with me on public transport?

Yes, you can take a bicycle with you on the S-Bahn, subway, tram and regional trains. Look out for the bicycle symbol when boarding. This indicates compartments for bicycles. You must also buy the appropriate ticket. You can choose between a Bicycle single ticket, Bicycle short trip ticket, Bicycle 24h ticket and Bicycle monthly ticket.

Are there night fares or special connections for the night?

There are no night tariffs. The same fares apply at night as during the day.

Night service Monday-Friday:
During the week, the S-Bahn and subway only run until the end of the daytime timetable. This occurs on the nights from Sunday to Monday to Thursday to Friday. The S-Bahn runs until approx. 01:00/01:30 and the subway until approx. 01:00 at night. From 04:00 in the morning, both means of transport run according to the daytime timetable again. The tram runs 24 hours a day, but every 30 minutes from 00:30. Some buses are replaced by night buses. Night buses can be recognized by the designation “N”.

Night service at weekends:
At weekends and before public holidays, the S-Bahn (every 30 minutes at night), subway (every 15 minutes at night with the exception of the U4, which does not run at night) and tram (every 30 minutes from 00:30) run 24 hours a day. Night buses replace the day buses on the most important lines.

Are the stations and means of transportation barrier-free?

We are working hard to make all stations barrier-free. 85% of stations are accessible without steps, 77% have a guidance system for the blind. In addition, more than 595 of the 825 tram stops in Berlin are barrier-free. All newer subways are accessible at ground level. All trams and buses (since 2009) are barrier-free. You can find more information about barrier-free traveling on roads and tracks here.

This is my first time in Berlin. Do you have any tips?

Yes! In our tourist information you will find all the important information for your trip. We'll tell you our highlights of the city and how you can discover Berlin's most important sights from the comfort of your seat.

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