Overview

Traveling from Brandenburg Airport (BER) to Bautzen opens the door to Saxony’s hidden gem – a town steeped in medieval history, Slavic culture, and iconic mustard-colored architecture. The 230 km journey typically takes 2.5–3 hours by road, winding through the lush landscapes of eastern Germany. Whether you’re visiting for Bautzen’s UNESCO-recognized Old Town, its famed Senf (mustard) production, or business in the region, seamless transportation ensures your trip starts right.

Getting to Know Bautzen

Bautzen, one of Germany’s oldest cities, straddles the Spree River and is the cultural heart of the Sorbian minority. Key attractions include:

• Ortenburg Castle: A 10th-century fortress offering panoramic views.
• Reichenturm: The “Leaning Tower of Bautzen,” tilting more dramatically than Pisa’s.
• Sorbian Museum: Dive into the traditions of Europe’s smallest Slavic community. The town’s cobblestone streets and Gothic spires make it ideal for history buffs and slow travelers.

Arriving at Brandenburg Airport

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) serves as eastern Germany’s primary international hub. After landing:

1. Follow signage to baggage claim and exits.
2. Currency exchange and SIM card kiosks are available in Terminal 1.
3. Taxi ranks and car rental desks are on the ground floor. Pro tip: Download the VBB app (vbb.de) for real-time public transport updates.

Main Transfer Options

Public Transport: Trains & Buses

Public transit from BER to Bautzen involves a train to Dresden followed by a regional connection:

• BER to Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Direct FlixTrain or DB Regio services (2 hours, €25–€35).
• Dresden to Bautzen: Regional RB64 train (1 hour, €10–€15) or bus 400 (1.5 hours, €8). While budget-friendly, this option requires navigating transfers and timetables. Check schedules via Deutsche Bahn.

Taxi & Rideshare

Taxis from BER to Bautzen cost €250–€350, with rideshare apps like BlaBlaCar offering shared rides (€50–€80). Ensure meters are running or agree on fares upfront to avoid overcharging.

Car Rentals

Major providers (Sixt, Europcar) operate at BER. Expect €60–€100/day for compact cars. Note:

• Autobahn A13 (toward Dresden) connects to Bautzen.
• Parking in Bautzen’s Old Town is limited – book accommodations with parking.

Private Transfer Services

For stress-free travel, pre-book a Brandenburg Airport to Bautzen transfer with providers like A2B Transfers. Benefits include:

• Fixed pricing (€200–€280) with no surge fees.
• Meet-and-greet service at arrivals.
• Child seats, Wi-Fi, and luxury vehicles on request. A2B’s 24/7 support and flight-delay compensation (up to 60 minutes free waiting) make it ideal for families and business travelers.

Choosing the Best Method

Recommendations:

• Budget travelers: Opt for trains but brace for multiple changes.
• Families/Groups: Private transfers simplify luggage and child seat logistics.
• Business trips: Prioritize A2B’s punctual, professional service.

Travel Tips & Local Insights

• Scenic detour: Take the B96 highway via Spreewald for UNESCO-listed wetlands and kayaking routes.
• Peak seasons: Book transfers early during Christmas markets (November–December) or the Sorbian Easter Festival.
• Language: While German dominates, Sorbian (Wendish) bilingual signage adds cultural charm.

Reaching Your Final Destination

Most transfers drop guests at Bautzen’s Kornmarkt or their accommodation. If staying outside the center:

• Local buses (#10, #14) connect to suburbs.
• Taxis are sparse – pre-book return trips via your hotel.

Where to Get More Info

• Bautzen Tourism: bautzen.de
• Train Schedules: Deutsche Bahn
• Private Transfers: A2B Transfers
• Road Conditions: ADAC Traffic

Safe travels – may your journey to Bautzen be as memorable as the destination!

FAQ

Q: How far is Bautzen from Brandenburg Airport? A: The distance is approximately 230 km, with a typical drive time of 2.5–3 hours.

Q: Are there direct trains from BER to Bautzen? A: No – travelers must transfer in Dresden. Use the DB Navigator app for live updates.

Q: What’s the best option for an airport transfer Bayreuth from Brandenburg? A: While Bayreuth is west of Berlin, providers like A2B offer tailored cross-country transfers. Compare routes via Bayreuth Airport shuttle service options.

Q: Do private transfers include child seats? A: Yes – specify requirements when booking. A2B provides seats at no extra cost.

Q: Can I book a transfer last-minute at BER? A: Pre-booking is advised, but some taxi desks accommodate on-demand requests (premium rates apply).