Navigating from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to Potsdam can be effortless with the right planning. This guide covers everything from cost-effective public transport to premium private transfers, ensuring you reach this UNESCO-listed city comfortably.

Overview

The 40 km journey from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Potsdam takes 45–90 minutes depending on traffic and mode of transport. Potsdam, renowned for its Prussian palaces and gardens, lies southwest of Berlin and serves as a cultural and historical gem for travelers.

Getting to Know Potsdam

Potsdam captivates visitors with:

• Sanssouci Palace: Frederick the Great’s summer residence
• Dutch Quarter: 18th-century red-brick architecture
• Filmpark Babelsberg: Europe’s oldest large-scale film studio
• Cecilienhof Palace: Site of the 1945 Potsdam Conference

The city’s compact layout makes it ideal for exploring on foot, though efficient public transport connects key areas.

Arriving at Berlin Brandenburg Airport

BER’s Terminal 1 serves most international flights. After baggage claim:

1. Follow signs to “Train Station” (lower level) for regional trains.
2. Taxi ranks and rideshare pickup zones are outside Terminal 1’s arrivals hall.
3. Pre-booked Brandenburg Airport private transfer drivers typically meet guests at designated areas with name boards.

Pro tip: Download the VBB app for real-time public transport updates.

Main Transfer Options

Public Transport: Trains & Buses

• Regional Train (RE1): Direct to Potsdam Hauptbahnhof (45 mins, €4.30). Departs every 30 mins.
• Bus X7 + S-Bahn: Take X7 to Rudow, then S-Bahn S9 to Potsdam (70 mins, €3.80).

Budget-friendly but less ideal for luggage-heavy travelers.

Taxi & Rideshare

• Taxi fare: €70–€90 (fixed rates via BER’s official partners).
• Uber/Bolt: ~€55–€75. Confirm surge pricing during peak hours.

Car Rentals

Major providers like Sixt and Europcar operate at BER. Note:

• Parking in Potsdam’s city center costs €2–€4/hour.
• Autobahn A115 often has congestion during rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–6 PM).

Private Transfer: Comfort Meets Convenience

For a seamless luxury transfer from Brandenburg Airport, services like A2B offer:

• Fixed pricing (€85–€150 depending on vehicle class)
• Meet-and-greet service
• Complimentary 60-minute waiting time
• Options from sedans to 8-seater vans

Choosing the Best Method

Recommendations:

• Budget travelers: Regional trains offer reliability.
• Families/Groups: Pre-book a private minivan.
• Business travelers: Opt for luxury transfers with Wi-Fi.

Travel Tips & Local Insights

• Scenic route: Ask drivers to take the Glienicke Bridge route for views of the Havel River.
• Peak times: Avoid weekday mornings (7–9 AM) when commuters flood A115.
• Booking window: Reserve airport transfers to Poznan or Potsdam at least 24 hours in advance during summer.

Reaching Your Final Destination

Most transfers drop guests at central locations like Potsdam Hauptbahnhof or directly at hotels. From there:

• Tram 92/96: Connects to Sanssouci Park (€2.80).
• Bike rentals: Discover hidden gems like Pfingstberg Hill.

Where to Get More Info

• Potsdam Tourism Board – Event calendars & maps
• BER Airport Transport Hub – Live transit updates
• A2B Transfers – 24/7 booking support

Safe travels!

FAQ

How far is Potsdam from Berlin Brandenburg Airport? Potsdam lies 40 km southwest of BER, typically 45–60 minutes by road.

Is there a direct train from BER to Potsdam? Yes, the RE1 line runs directly to Potsdam Hauptbahnhof every 30 minutes.

What’s included in a luxury transfer from Brandenburg Airport? Services like A2B provide bottled water, Wi-Fi, and meet-and-greet assistance.

Can I book a transfer for a large group? Yes – providers offer vehicles for up to 8 passengers. Specify requirements when booking.

Are child seats available? Most brandenburg airport private transfer companies provide them free upon request.