Get the Most Out of your Layover at Berlin Airport

A layover at Berlin Brandenburg Airport doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you only have a short break or several hours to spend, BER offers plenty of opportunities to relax, shop, eat, and even explore Berlin itself.

Things to Do Inside the Airport

  • Shopping: Both T1 and T2 have extensive shopping areas with international brands, local shops, and duty-free zones. Even window shopping is a fun way to pass time.
  • Food & Drink: Try German dishes or international cuisine. Terminal 1 has a large food court on level 2, while Terminal 2 has restaurants mainly at Departures (E1).
  • Wi-Fi: Free internet throughout the airport lets you work, browse, or connect with family and friends.
  • Culture: Terminal 1 features art installations like the Sternentalerhimmel (Starry Sky floor), Pae White’s ceiling artwork, and the Open Sky Box light installation. Don’t miss the Gadget sculpture outside or the Subject Pavilion at the train station stairwells.
  • Observation Deck: Located on T1’s rooftop, it offers panoramic views of the runways. Entry fee: 3€ ($3).
  • Quiet Spaces: The “Room of Silence” at T1 level 2 is a meditation and prayer area open to all passengers.
  • Lounges: The airport runs two pay-per-use lounges in Terminal 1, the BER Lounge Tempelhof and the BER Lounge Tegel, both named after Berlin's former airports and open to any traveller for a walk-up or pre-booked fee. If you are flying Lufthansa or a Star Alliance partner, the Lufthansa Business and Senator lounges are also in Terminal 1.
  • Hotels: For long layovers, book a stay at Steigenberger Hotel or IntercityHotel, both located near T1. Note: they are in the pre-security zone, so allow time to re-clear security.

Exploring Berlin During a Long Layover

If your layover is long enough (at least 6–8 hours), consider leaving the airport. Berlin city center is 27km (16.7 miles) away. Expect around 45 minutes by taxi (~60–70€ / $65–75), 30 minutes by Regional Train (RE8/RB23), or 50 minutes by S-Bahn S9 (ticket 5.00€ / $5.00). Always return 1–2 hours before your flight.

Top Attractions to Visit

  • City Center Walk: Start at Alexanderplatz, continue along Unter den Linden, and see the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag.
  • Museum Island: Explore world-class museums like Pergamon, Neues Museum, and Bode Museum. Reachable via Airport Express + U5 line.
  • East Side Gallery: Walk along the remaining Berlin Wall, painted with murals by artists from around the world. Accessible via train to Ostbahnhof.
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Take a sightseeing bus tour from Alexanderplatz to explore Berlin’s highlights without hassle.

Tips for a Smooth Layover

  • Always check if your nationality requires a visa to leave the airport.
  • Plan your return with enough time for check-in and security.
  • If short on time, enjoy airport lounges, cultural spots, or the observation deck instead of rushing to the city.

Smoker on a layover? Terminal 1 has four airside smoking cabins (gates A02, A38, B02, C01) plus outdoor zones by the entrances; see where to smoke at Berlin Airport.