Berlin Brandenburg Willy Brandt International Airport (BER) serves Germany’s capital and replaced Tegel and Schönefeld airports when it opened in late 2020. The notorious decade-long construction delays and cost overruns at the airport weren’t the end of its troubles. BER continues to struggle with slow security lines and confusing signage that frustrate even experienced travelers.
But don’t worry. With a little know-how (and one game-changing free security timeslot), BER is totally manageable. If the travel gods are on your side, it can even be pleasant. As a frequent traveler and former Berlin resident, I’ve got the tested tips and strategies you need to make the best of BER.
Getting to and from BER
Getting to BER requires more planning than Tegel did, since the airport sits about 23 km (approximately 14 miles) from the city center. The journey varies depending on your transportation choice and route, the FEX express train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof takes about 23 minutes, though other options may take longer. Taxis and ride shares will get you there, but expect a hefty fare and potential traffic delays.
Luckily, BER is well-connected to Berlin’s excellent public transportation system, with a rail station right at the airport and bus stops just outside. My advice is to leave for the airport at least three hours before departure for most flights, though you should always check your specific airline’s recommendations.
Getting to BER via train
Berlin’s train system connects BER to the city through multiple local and regional lines, which can be confusing for first-timers. Train is my preferred option since it’s affordable and usually efficient, but you’ll want to plan your route ahead of time to avoid getting lost in the options.
When you’re leaving the airport, Google Maps is your friend. You can buy a digital ticket on the VBB, BVG or S-Bahn apps, or grab a paper one from the machines one level above the platform. A word to the wise: validate your paper ticket before you board. Just do what the locals are doing. If you don’t, you could face a hefty fine, and Berlin’s ticket inspectors are famously strict.
Several trains, including the regional FEX, RB22, RB23, RE8 and S-Bahn lines S9 and S45, connect BER to major hubs like Berlin Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) and Alexanderplatz. The FEX, or Airport Express, is typically the fastest option. Currently, it departs every 30 minutes, with plans to increase service to every 15 minutes during most of the day.
That said, the FEX isn’t always Mr. Reliable. I’ve had it show up significantly late more than once when I was trying to catch a flight, which is a stressful way to start any trip. Always have a backup plan. The FEX route is currently being updated to include additional stops at Südkreuz and Potsdamer Platz. Check the current timetable for the most up-to-date route information.
Getting to and from BER by bus
If you’re more of a bus person, the express buses X7 and X71 run frequently between the Rudow U-Bahn station (at the end of the U7 line) and BER. The journey is quick, taking about 14 minutes.
The bottom line is to give yourself more time than you think you need. If you get to the airport early, great. You might just need that buffer for the adventure inside.
Get the lay of the land in advance
The terminal setup at BER is simpler than it appears. Only two of the three terminals at the airport are operational: Terminal 1 handles most international and domestic flights, while Terminal 2 serves low-cost carriers like Ryanair. Terminal 5, the former Schönefeld Airport, has been permanently closed.
You’ll find the airline check-in desks on Level E1 (first floor) in Terminal 1, or on Level E0 (ground floor) in Terminal 2. Look for the screens to see which desk is for your airline. The lines can be long, especially for budget carriers, so if you can, travel with only a carry-on and check in online beforehand. Your future self will thank you.
How to manage security lines at BER
I won’t sugarcoat it: Berlin’s security experience is one many passengers, myself included, dread. At peak periods like Easter break or summer holidays, the wait can stretch to an hour or more. Before the timeslot service launched, I’ve sprinted to catch flights because of glacially slow lines. The good news: there are strategies to streamline the process.
How to book a security timeslot at BER
My top tip for flying out of BER: Book a security timeslot through the BER website or app. This free service, called BER Runway and developed by Copenhagen Optimization and CLEAR, lets you reserve a spot from 7 days in advance at Security Control 2 in Terminal 1. Your timeslot is valid from 5 minutes before to 5 minutes after your appointment time. Just know that during peak periods, you may still wait longer than the advertised five to 10 minutes.
Monitor security lines via the app or at the airport
If you couldn’t book a timeslot, keep an eye on the wait times using the BER app or website. Once you’re at the security area, large screens will show you which checkpoints have the shortest lines. Since all gates are accessible from any security control in either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, you’re free to pick the quickest one.
Prep as much as possible before going through
A baffling thing about BER security is the lack of space to get your bags ready for the scanner, which slows everything down. Try to get organized before you reach the checkpoint.
I can’t stress this enough: follow the rules exactly. As of August 2025, Terminal 2 and the last four security lanes in Control Area 1 of Terminal 1 have been updated with CT scanners from Smiths Detection so you no longer need to take out liquids or laptops. For remaining lanes in Terminal 1 you should still take out your liquids and electronics without being asked. Security officials at BER are extremely strict, and you don’t want to be the reason for a holdup.
Allow more time for non-Schengen flights
If you’re flying to a non-Schengen country, such as the United States, you’ll need to go through a second security screening. All non-Schengen passengers should allow extra time for passport control as well. This security control is available for up to two hours prior to departure but closes 30 minutes before your flight leaves.
The airside experience at BER
Here’s a fun quirk: because BER took so long to build, some parts of it felt a little dated the day it opened. You’ll notice a lack of electrical outlets at the gates (look for charging stations instead). It’s also not uncommon to find moving walkways and escalators out of service. My advice? Charge your devices before you leave for the airport or bring a portable battery, and give yourself plenty of time to reach your gate, as signage can be confusing.
Lounges at BER
The lounge situation at BER is frustrating for travelers who fancy a pre-flight retreat. The airport only has two lounges (Tempelhof and Tegel), both located in Terminal 1. Tegel is near Gate B17 on the Main Pier, while Tempelhof is at Gate A20 on Level E1 in the Schengen area. Both offer pay-at-door access that’s more affordable than some European airports. Priority Pass cardholders won’t find an Aspire lounge here, but you’ll get credit at Mövenpick Cafe or NU Made With Love in Terminal 1. Check which lounge works with your airline before you fly.
Shopping at BER
Don’t count on doing a major shopping spree at BER. The options are limited, and if you’ve just escaped a long security line, you’ll probably be heading straight for your gate anyway. You will pass through a decent duty-free shop with a solid selection of perfumes, liquor, and toys.
One thing you should definitely buy here is a bottle of water. Drinking fountains to refill your own bottle are surprisingly hard to find in the terminal.
There is one shop I always make time for: Ampelmann. This beloved German brand features the iconic symbols from East German pedestrian traffic lights. Now a symbol of the country’s reunification, these little figures adorn everything from T-shirts to magnets, making for a unique and delightful souvenir.
Traveling with children at BER
BER does have a few bright spots for families. In Terminal 1, there’s a dedicated Family Lane at the security control for those traveling with children up to five years old. After security, there’s a Kids’ Corner playground located right behind the Market Place on Level E1. It can be a bit tricky to find, so don’t be shy about asking for directions.
Arriving at BER: Prepare to wait at baggage claim
Another common gripe among travelers at BER is the long wait for checked bags. I’ve been there more than once, and it’s agonizing to watch that empty carousel go round and round when all you want to do is get to your hotel. While sometimes checking a bag is unavoidable, I’d strongly suggest traveling with only a carry-on if you’re flying into BER. It could save you a whole lot of time and frustration.
This KAYAK-commissioned article is presented as-is, for general informational purposes only, and may not be up-to-date. The opinions contained in the article are original to the author and reflect their authentic experience, which may vary significantly from the experience of others.
