Berlin's Public Transport: The BVG
Getting Around Berlin with BVG – Your Guide to Public Transport
The Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) is Berlin’s main public transport provider. It operates the U-Bahn (underground), trams, buses, replacement services, and ferries.
Note: the S-Bahn (urban railway) is operated by Deutsche Bahn, not BVG.
BVG makes getting around Berlin easy, reliable, and convenient. Here's what you need to know:
Ticket Zones and Fares
Berlin's public transport is divided into three fare zones:
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Zone A: Inner city, including everything inside the S-Bahn ring
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Zone B: Outside the S-Bahn ring up to the Berlin city limits
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Zone C: Surrounding areas, including Potsdam and BER Airport
Berlin's public transport is divided into three fare zones:
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B (within Berlin city limits – most common)
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BC
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ABC (includes Potsdam and BER Airport)
Choose your ticket based on the areas you plan to travel through:
Types of Tickets
The BVG offers various types of tickets to suit different travel needs:
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Single Ticket: Valid for 2 hours in one direction. Transfers between buses, trains, and trams are allowed. A return trip requires a new ticket.
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Short Trip Ticket: Valid for up to 3 stops on trains or 6 stops by bus/tram. A cheaper option for short distances.
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4-Trip Ticket: Slight discount when buying four single journeys at once.
Ticket Validation
Before traveling, you must validate your ticket by stamping it at the yellow or red machines found on platforms or inside vehicles. Inspections are carried out regularly, and fines apply for unvalidated tickets.
Monthly Tickets & Subscriptions
The BVG offers monthly tickets and subscriptions for regular travelers:
VBB Eco-Ticket
Shareable with family/friends on evenings and weekends. Unlimited travel in selected fare zones. Includes free transport of children under 6, luggage, strollers, wheelchairs, one dog, and up to 4 people at specified times.
Berlin Abo
Non-transferable monthly subscription for the AB zone. Requires a 12-month minimum. Includes children under 6, one dog, and mobility aids..
58 EUR/month flat rate for unlimited travel across Germany on local/regional transport (excludes ICE/IC/EC trains). Includes free travel with hand luggage, wheelchairs, baby carriages, etc. Valid from the last day of the previous month (00:00) until the first day of the following month (23:59)
VBB Trainee Ticket
Unlimited travel within the entire VBB network, available to eligible trainees. Proof from your training institution is required
BVG Student Ticket
Free for students in the AB zone. Zone C requires a connecting ticket. Must be purchased online via the BVG website. You’ll need a passport photo, student ID, and proof of Berlin address.
BVG Apps and Ticket Purchase
BVG offers three helpful apps for travel planning and ticket purchases:
BVG Ticket-App
Buy and store all types of tickets (single, day, short trip, 4-trip, etc.) directly on your phone
BVG Fahrinfo-App
Plan your journeys, view real-time departures, and purchase tickets. Includes maps and the best routes across buses, trains, trams, etc..
BVG Jelbi-App
Access all Berlin mobility options — public transport, bikes, scooters, car sharing, taxis — in one app. You can also manage your Deutschlandticket here.
Buying Tickets in Person
Ticket Machines
Found at most U-Bahn and tram stations. Accept cash, German debit cards, and credit cards. Available in multiple languages. Tickets bought here must also be validated.
Service Shops
Official BVG counters (yellow sign) are located throughout the city. These generally accept cash or German debit cards only (credit cards often not accepted).
Find a BVG Sales Outlet:
Use the BVG website or any of the apps to locate your nearest sales point for subscriptions or advice.
Useful Tips
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Always validate your ticket before boarding.
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Keep your ticket with you during your journey — ticket inspections are common.
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For full app features and updated info, check the FAQ section on the BVG website.
Final Note:
This guide gives an overview of the current BVG system, but details may change. Always check the BVG website or app for the most up-to-date information.
