Subway Guide
Berlin’s underground system runs two types of train, the S-Bahn and U-Bahn. Both travel above and below ground. There are fifteen S-Bahn lines and nine U-Bahn train services. U-Bahn stations are marked with a white U against a square blue background while the S-Bahn stations feature a round green sign with a white S in the centre. Routes denoted with an S or U indicate what system they are on, for example: U1, U2, U3 or S41, S42.
Train operating times vary slightly, however most run during the week from 05:00-01:00 (with night buses replacing most services between 01:00 and 05:00) and during peak hour run every 5 min. On the weekend trains run 24hrs every ten to twenty minutes, depending on the time of day.
Trains will stop at every station. The newer trains have a push button to open the doors, while the older trains (normally found on the S-Bahn) require the use of a lever handle.
To find out the network near you visit http://www.bahn.de.
You purchase your tickets from the yellow machine located on all train platforms. All ticket machines have English translation, simply click on the British flag at the bottom of the screen.
There are a number of different fares to consider and reduce fare tickets are available for students and pensioners.
- A single fare – valid for 2 hours – €2.10
- A daily ticket – valid until 3am the next morning – €6.10
- A short distance – valid for 3 train stops (changes allowed) or 6 tram/bus stops (changes not allowed) – €1.30
- 4 ticket single fare – each valid for 2 hours, cheaper than buying them separately – €8.00
- 7 day Pass – this allows up to three children aged 6 to 14 to travel with an adult free of charge on Mondays to Fridays from 8pm and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. – €26.20
- Monthly Ticket – this allows up to three children aged 6 to 14 to travel with an adult free of charge on Mondays to Fridays from 8pm and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. – €72.00
If you are traveling with your bike, you will also need to purchase a ticket for this.
Once you have purchased your ticket, you will need to validate it in the small red or yellow box. This will be next to the ticket machine.
At every train station you will find both city street maps and train network maps which are clear and easy to understand.
For more information including route planners, maps and additional fare information, visit the Deutsche Bahn interactive website http://bahn.de, available in English.
