The Comprehensive Guide to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) A well-traveled person who loves airports, I can appreciate the pros and cons of tackling any airport abroad for the first time-let alone one as sprawling (and relatively new) as BER. Created using my own experiences and meticulous research, this guide is designed to be your one-stop-shop for everything essential you need know so that your Berlin Brandenburg Airport ordeal can go as swimmingly when possible.

And the newly open Berlin Brandenburg Airport, which opened in October 2020, is a shining example of modern German engineering and organization. This centralised all of Berlin’s air traffic in a single, modern airport to replace the old Tegel and Schönefeld airports. Whether you’re new to Berlin or an old pro, here are the ins and outs of BER that can help smooth your journey.

In this guide, I’ll break down Berlin Airport and tell you all about its storied history, jaw-dropping architecture, what security is like there now and which are the best amenities around. Best of all, it is not just another airport manual. It provides a deep dive to give you the power that comes with insider information and little-known tips other travel experts rarely share. Here is how to get in and out of Berlin Brandenburg Airport like a pro for some unforgettable nights.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport Overview

History and Background

The Berlin  Airport (BER) opened last October after years of delays and difficulties and was a project championed by three German states — Germany Today/Hannes Caspar; Berlin Airport/AFP/File Named for West German chancellor and Nobel Peace laureate Willy Brandt, BER was conceived as the single point around which Berlin’s air traffic would converge, thereby replacing Tegel and Schönefeld with all flights operating from one unified location. The new airport was a watershed moment for the renewal of Berlin’s air infrastructure and instructive in Germany Incorporated as signifying efficiency, progress. Airy and modern, BER’s chic appearance is more than just window dressing—it represents a city on the move in more ways than one.

Location and Accessibility

Strategically located about 18 kilometers to the south of Berlin city center, Berlin Airport — also known as Willy Brandt-Berlin-Brandenburg Airport (BER) is well placed for travelers using public transport or coming by road. The city and nearby regions are well inter-connected with the airport through network of highways, public transportation transactions & rail services. It´s easy to get here from the center, or even outskirts of Berlin It sits next to the A113 and A117 motorways also, so you can drive up there very easily, with plenty of parking. Further the Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains offer frequent services from Berlin to its main railway station, Berlin Hauptbahnhof with direct connection options available making it truly a traveler-friendly airport.

Terminal Information

Terminal Layout

The airport has three terminals: T1, T2 and T5. Terminals T1 and T2 located inside the main airport building (Central Terminal) & whereasT5 is based on Schönefeld Airport site, known as BER S.X. T1 is the main terminal with modern facilities and ample room for check-in, security, and boarding. T2 has more gates and amenities than T1 but is smaller. Samui T5 Bangkok Airways, Nok AirTokli has more like the budget airlines and offers a bit of basic but good service. Attractive, each terminal is signed and fully equipped to facilitate the displacement of users in order through airport.

Facilities and Services

Brandenburg airport berlin offers all kinds of amenities and services that will make every traveler feel like home. In the terminals multi check-in counters, self-service kiosks and information desks will attend to you. With choices ranging from light snacks to well-appointed sit-down restaurants, the airport offers an assortment of dining opportunities suited for a range of palates. There are plenty of duty-free stores, boutiques and specialty shops selling souvenirs from cheap to luxury. The airport also has lounges, WiFi and business centers for those who need to relax or work. Other facilities at the airport include child care services, prayer rooms and medical assistance to offer a hassle-free travel experience for all passengers.

Arrival Procedures

Immigration and Customs

When you are aware of what to expect flying back through Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), the process could be as little hassle for immigration and customs. In order to help you, who has just gone through all this for a few times here is my step-by-step guide:

Passport control: The path that is followed when you disembark the plane and make your way to passport control. EU/EEA citizens will have their separate lanes in comparison with Non-EU ones; this was done for the sake of an overall faster border process.

Red Tape: Bring your passport, visa (if necessary) and all the documents you need with you. Altogether, officers are comprehensive and do not take too long.

Go through passport control, and then head for customs. Custom Formality Red channel – if you have goods to declare Green channel – no-go.

Baggage Claim

Baggage claim at Berlin Airport is pretty easy. Once you arrive in the baggage claim, look for your flight number of these electronic boards on which belt is to come. In the case something goes wrong (e.g. lost or damaged luggage) you can quickly go to special counters, and get a help from well trained people immediately.

Departure Procedures

Check-in Process

Travelers can check in using one of BER’s multiple options, regardless if they are more digitally-inclined or traditionalists.

Online Check-in: Keep time by checking through on-line check in of your airline website or app. The majority of the time this can be done where 24-48 hours before your flight.

Self-service Kiosks: For others who would opt to check out on the airport, then self service kiosk provide it also located near the preliminary.

Check-in Counters: Passengers requiring staff assistance and those with special requirements.

Security Screening

At Berlin Brandenburg Airport, security screening is detailed but rather efficient. Here are some tips to facilitate the procedure:

Prepared: Get your boarding pass and ID out. Take out your electronics and liquids from seremban bus hasilbaggage.

Security Lines – Listen to security personnel and put your stuff in bins available.

Prohibited Items – Learn what items are prohibited to prevent delays.

Passenger Amenities

You may also want to know that this airport is designed for the benefit of those who get in: passenger comforts are at a premium, with it being possible to avail yourself of such things as

Dining: With offerings to appeal to every palate and budget, BER features everything from quick bites up through gourmet meals.

Shopping: Duty-Free, local and international deparment stores.

Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in the airport to help you stay connected with your work and friends.

Lounges: Have a comfortable seat and some refreshments in one of the airport lounges to make your travel experience less stressful.

Family Facilities: Childcare rooms as well as play areas are at hand to keep the youngest travelers entertained.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport Special Services

The Berlin Brandenburg Airport does its utmost for all travellers, especially those with special needs.

Special services for passengers with reduced mobility: BER is barrier-free, provides handicapped bathrooms as well as wheelchair assistance and priority lanes.

So overall, Berlin Airport is a smooth experience for arrivals and departures with excellent facilities to suit your every need. Whether you are going through immigration, having a meal or need special help: Berlin Brandenburg Airport takes care of everything and accompanies the passengers on their way with efficiency during all stages.

Airport Pet Policies

Flying with pets is always a bit of a challenge, but Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) has implemented extensive policies to help ensure the process goes more smoothly for everyone. Having flown with pets fairly frequently as a global nomad, I can tell you that Berlin Brandenburg Airport is extremely well set up for these requirements.

Traveling With Pets Recommendations

Documentation: make sure that your dog vaccination details and the microchip number are up to date, plus any travel permits you might need for where you live or planning on moving.

Airline Policies: Check with your airline regarding pet travel and crate requirements.

CRATE AND COMFORT: Place your pet in an IATA-approved, comfortable and secure crate. Bring their familiar blankie, or toy with and let them feel comfortable

Pet Relief Areas

Traveling with your pet: Berlin Brandenburg Airport knows what you need to provide pet relief areas with stations for the disposal of waste. There are spaces inside and outside the terminals for man’s best friend to do some business before or after a long flight.

Transportation Options

Due to its great connectivity options together also getting there and leaving Berlin Brandenburg Airport is easy. This is where a few Trad Techniques of mine come in handy, and that you can rest assured are tried-and-true.

Public Transportation

Berlin Hauptbahnhof – Airport Express (FEX): A train which connects BER with central Berlin in just 30 minutes. A speedy and economical way to the city center.

Regional trains: Regular RE and RB services will connect BER with different regions in Berlin-Brandenburg throughout the day.

S-Bahn: The S9 and S45 run north-south through the district of Berlin with direct links to several major interchanges.

Car Rentals and Taxis

Car Rentals: All major car rental companies operate out of BER, which means you have the opportunity to explore not only Berlin but also the region around it. Make sure to book your speedsailing date in advance for the best rates and most availability.

Taxi: Taxis can be easily found outside the terminals. The trip to the city center is typically 35-45 minutes. Keep an eye on the taxi meter so that you are not overcharged.

Shuttle Services

Some of the hotels around Berlin Brandenburg Airport process the free use of a shuttle bus for their guests. Should you be spending the night nearby, this would also make for a convenient alternative.

Tips for New Visitors

Visiting a new airport can be stressful, but as long as you choose the right hacks from this guide, they will make your life easier and improve the way you feel at Berlin Brandenburg Airport.

Navigating the Airport

Signage: Take notice of the multilingual signs all over the airport. But the idea is that it will get you to where I am going faster.

Time Management: Check-In, Security 2-3 hours prior.

Apps/Mobile Maps: Real-time schedules, status of the flight and maps are available at Berlin Brandenburg Airport Airport app.

Cultural Etiquette

Courtesy: Impolite behaviour is a huge no-no, and Germans appreciate punctuality. Always be polite to airport personnel and other travelers.

Language: Although many Germans speak English, knowing a little bit of German can help make your travel experience even richer.

Hidden Gems

Observation Deck: Spend some time enjoying the view from up here to get a one of kind look on BER’s runways and Berlin skyline.

Local Taste: Enjoy german food at the various restaurants within the terminal area. They have pretzels and bratwursts too!

Having this knowledge of Berlin Brandenburg Airport pet policies, pet transportation options, and tips will give you smooth confidence in your travel journey helping to create an extraordinary experience.

Nearby Attractions

Berlin – a city imbued with the past and infused with culture, as well as rich in life. If you have a few minutes before your flight or are waiting for the next leg of your trip at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), take advantage and visit some points near what promises to be one of these sensational city. I am a wanderer at heart and here are some of my favorite recommendations.

Tourist Destinations Around Airport

Müggelsee Lake

Nestled in Müggelsee, Berlin’s largest lake is only a short drive from the airport. Image: For a leisurely afternoon you can walk along the shoreline, rent paddle boats or just sit an enjoy! Ideal place for idling before jetting off somewhere.

Treptower Park

Located on the River Spree, only a stone’s inverted throw away is Treptower Park. Soviet War Memorial is one fraction of this extensive park which also features large lawns, rows and more boat rides. This oasis is a peaceful respite in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the airport.

Schloss Köpenick

Looking for a bit of historical architecture, head over to Schloss Köpenick the baroque palace on an island in Dahme River. TAKE A TOUR OF THE DECORATIVE ARTS PALACE INTO its beautiful garden A perfect cultural event that matches foreigners to their trends, and it is not hard for them because knowledgeable experience with the pulse of BER.

Accommodation Options

There are several wonderful hotels ranging in amenities that cater to those visitors who may be looking for a hotel near the airport. Based on what I have experienced, here are a few ideas:

Steigenberger Airport Hotel: A few minutes from the terminals, this property delivers luxe guestrooms and well-being zone with an array of dining venues.

The Intercity Hotel Berlin Brandenburg Airport – ideal for business travellers with its modern rooms, conference facilities and convenient airport location.

Holiday Inn Berlin Airport: Comfortable rooms and a fitness center, with shuttle buses to and from the airport

Visiting Berlin Brandenburg Airport reveals not only an airport that is part and parcel of the city, but one in which functionality marries itself with a sense of ease well reflecting at least my experience from various trips to this location. So, whether you are arriving there or having BER as layover airport — we made the ultimate guide for making your time in this place more productive and fun.

The smooth arrival and departure procedures, the wide range of passenger amenities as well as other special services make BER an airport that is dedicated to improve your travel experience. Plus, if ever you have some time to spare during your visit; don´t forget the other convenient tourist attractions in and around Charlottenburg — they give you a taste of how versatile Berlin is.

I already saw it with my own eyes that when you have the right information, what could be a stressed situation ends up smooth as butter for us travelers. I hope it helps you to feel confident and prepared for your journey through Berlin Brandenburg Airport. Good luck and have fun Brining in Berlin!