A long layover in Berlin is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Berlin-Tempelhof International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at THF:
First, verify that you can enter Germany — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 60 minutes into Berlin, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EUR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Berlin from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Berlin layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$17 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$36 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Berlin.
Exploring Berlin on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Berlin, two standouts are:
- Brandenburg Gate & Reichstag Building — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- East Side Gallery — Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside THF — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Tempelhofer Feld Park Exploration
- Tempelhof Airport Building Tour
Eating Well on a Berlin Layover
- In the city: Curry 36 (Mehringdamm) and Mustafas Gemüsekebap are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Berlin.
- At the airport: Luftgarten and Cafe im Flughafen will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Storing Your Luggage at Berlin-Tempelhof International Airport
Specific locker facilities at THF aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Berlin itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at THF should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Germany and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at THF
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, THF has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Berlin is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Berlin.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.