Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL) was one of Berlin’s primary airports until it ceased operations on November 8, 2020, when air traffic was fully moved to the new Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). However, let’s walk through a guide that would have been helpful for travelers visiting Berlin Tegel Airport before its closure. For anyone flying into Berlin today, please refer to information on the Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER).
General Information About Berlin Tegel Airport
Located 8 km (5 miles) northwest of Berlin’s city center, Tegel Airport served as a key entry point to the city. Known for its unique hexagonal terminal building, Tegel was compact and easy to navigate. Despite its size, the airport handled millions of passengers annually and was known for efficient service, particularly for domestic and European flights.
- Terminals: Tegel had five terminals (A, B, C, D, and E), with Terminal A as the primary terminal. The layout allowed travelers to reach their gates quickly after check-in.
- Services: Tegel offered a range of amenities, including duty-free shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as lounges for business travelers.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi was available for up to 60 minutes per session.
Public Transport to and from Tegel Airport
Berlin’s efficient public transportation system made it easy for visitors to travel between the city and Tegel Airport.
- Bus Connections: Since Tegel lacked direct train or metro access, buses were the primary mode of public transport. Key bus routes included:
- TXL Express Bus: A fast connection to Berlin Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), running every 10 minutes.
- Bus X9: Connected Tegel to the Zoologischer Garten station, one of the city’s major transport hubs.
- Bus 128 and Bus 109: These buses linked Tegel to other parts of the city.
Currency Exchange and ATMs
Tegel had several options for currency exchange, although it’s generally recommended to exchange only small amounts at the airport due to higher rates.
- Currency Exchange Counters: Located in the arrivals area, with major providers like Travelex.
- ATMs: Found in the main terminal building, they allowed for cash withdrawal in euros using international bank cards.
Berlin Transport Cards and Passes
Berlin’s transport system (BVG) offered several ticket options for tourists, making travel around the city convenient.
- Single Tickets: Valid for 2 hours in one direction within the AB zones (covering most of central Berlin).
- Day Tickets: Unlimited travel for 24 hours in the selected zones.
- Berlin Welcome Card: A popular option for tourists, providing unlimited public transport and discounts at numerous attractions. Available for 48 hours, 72 hours, or 5 days.
Tickets could be purchased at the airport, online, or through the BVG app.
Mobile Networks and SIM Cards
For international visitors, getting a local SIM card ensured connectivity and reduced roaming fees.
- SIM Card Providers: Major providers like Vodafone, Telekom, and O2 offered prepaid SIM cards.
- Where to Buy: SIM cards were available at airport kiosks, electronic stores, and various convenience shops in Berlin. In some cases, they could also be purchased from vending machines in the arrivals area.
- Plans: Options typically ranged from €10–€25, with varying data limits. Valid ID was often required for registration.
Taxi Services and Rideshares
Taxis provided a convenient option for reaching the city center, though they were pricier than public transport.
- Taxi Stands: Located outside the arrivals area.
- Fares: Estimated fare to central Berlin ranged from €25 to €30. All taxis were metered.
- Rideshare Services: Companies like Uber were available, though they had a limited presence compared to taxis.
- Tipping: Although not mandatory, a small tip of 5–10% was appreciated.
Car Rentals
Tegel offered various car rental options for travelers wanting the flexibility of their own vehicle.
- Rental Companies: Major companies like Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, and Avis operated within the airport.
- Location: Car rental counters were conveniently located near the arrivals area, with parking just outside the terminal.
- Requirements: An international driver’s license was often recommended, especially if the primary language of the license was not German or English.
Local Tips and Secrets for First-Time Visitors
- Early Morning Flights: For early flights, check if your hotel offers a breakfast box or other to-go meal option, as airport dining was limited in the early morning.
- Time Management: Tegel’s layout was compact, but travelers were advised to arrive 1.5–2 hours early for international flights due to potential security queues.
- Local Etiquette: Berliners are generally direct and appreciate efficiency. It’s customary to stand on the right side of escalators and to be mindful of bike lanes.
Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL) was known for its functional design, efficient layout, and close proximity to central Berlin. Public transport, including the popular TXL and X9 buses, made reaching the city center easy, while the array of transport passes and SIM card options catered to both tourists and business travelers. Although it no longer operates, Tegel remains an iconic part of Berlin’s aviation history, fondly remembered by locals and travelers alike.