By Bus
Berlin’s public transport system is very broad and the tickets are comparatively cheap, especially when passes or travel cards are used. The buses are operated by BVG (The Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe Company) and consist of normal buses, MetroBus, ExpressBus and night buses. Apart from these, there are private tourist coaches as well. There are also ‘hop-on-hop-off’ tourist bus services that operate around the city.
By Cab
Taxis are found in most parts of the city. They have bright ‘taxi’ plates on the roof of the car. The taxis are mostly privately run and many cab drivers are self-employed. Taxis can be simply waved down or found at taxi stands or even pre-booked via phone or app (MyTaxi-App). Taxi stands are numerous, especially in central areas near stations and at major intersections. You can phone for a cab 24 hours daily on 261 026. Most firms can transport people with disabilities, but require advance notice.
By Cycle
West Berlin is wonderful for cycling – flat, with lots of cycle paths, parks and canals to cruise beside. East Berlin has fewer cycle paths and more cobblestones and tram lines. Cycles can be taken on the U-Bahn (except during rush hour, 6-9am and 2-5pm), up to a limit of two at the end of carriages that have a bicycle sign. More may be taken on to S-Bahn carriages, and at any time of day.
By Rental
There are several car rental agencies in Berlin, providing both self-driven and chauffeur-driven options. Some of the major ones are Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Europcar, Budget, etc. The excellent network of bike paths in the city make it a great place for travelling on bike. Central Berlin has numerous bike-rental outlets. There are also bicycle tours and bicycle-sharing websites which are quite useful for tourists, in Berlin.
By Metro
The U-Bahn (subway/metro) is a mainly underground rail system. All the U-Bahn stations have electronic signs that provide the time and direction of the next train. Most U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines work 24 hours on weekends and main holidays.
By Local Train
The Berlin S-Bahn (suburban train) is a mostly an over-ground rapid transit railway system that operates in and around Berlin. The regional trains go along the same central, east-west connection. Trams are also a great way to get around Berlin. The tickets can be purchased from the first tram cart itself. The trams are also run by BVG and it operates primarily in the Eastern boroughs.
On Foot
Though the public transport system is easy and efficient, walking around Berlin is also a great way to get around and take in the sights of the city. The city has a growing cycle culture and has cycle lanes and signs at all traffic signals.