Berlin has a number of public transport links which will help you to travel around the city while you’re studying with us. No matter what time it is, there’s always transport available.
Not only is using public transport often cheaper than owning your vehicle, it is definitely more environmentally friendly. Germany has a goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 so using public transport is an excellent way to help meet this target.
In addition, travelling on trains and buses is a great way to get some the best views of the city, spend some time reading a book or even cram some last-minute revision!
Vending machines are available at the U-Bahn (subway and underground), S-Bahn (light rail) and tram stations for you to purchase your tickets from. The machines accept cash and EC cards, but you will not be able to use credit cards. Remember your ticket must be validated/stamped before boarding the U-Bahn and S-Bahn.
You will need to purchase a tram ticket from a bus driver or at the BVG offices. The vending machines only take coins and sometimes exact change is required. If you purchase your ticket from the bus driver, please make sure you have the correct amount as they only carry a small amount of change.
U-Bahn lines run every 15 minutes and all night on Friday, Saturday and public holidays. To work out your route, you will need to find network maps on the platforms. This generally applies across most transport links.
It should be noted that the U-Bahn operates an ‘honour system’. There will rarely be barriers blocking you from getting on to or out of platforms because it is expected that you will have a valid ticket. Occasionally, inspectors will walk around the trains and carry out inspections. If you are caught without the correct ticket, you will have to pay a large fine.
