The UEFA EURO 2024 football (soccer) championships are heading to Germany, and Berlin will be a major host city! With a focus on sustainability, it’s the perfect time to explore the city in a more environmentally conscious way.
Getting to Berlin
Trains: The Green Choice
Traveling to Berlin by train is the most eco-friendly option. Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national rail service, operates on 100% renewable energy. International routes from France, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Austria, and Switzerland are plentiful.
For early bookings and seat reservations, check out Deutsche Bahn: https://www.bahn.com/.
Flights: If You Must
If flying is unavoidable, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is well-connected to the city center. The Airport Express (FEX) takes 30 minutes to Berlin Central Station, while the S-Bahn line S9 offers a more leisurely 45-minute journey.
You can find more information on the https://www.visitberlin.de/en website.
Long-Distance Buses: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
For budget travelers, long-distance buses arrive at ZOB Berlin, offering connections both domestically and internationally.
Driving: Consider Alternatives
While driving is possible, expect heavy traffic during EURO 2024. Park + Ride facilities outside the city center are a better bet than attempting to drive directly to the stadium.
Exploring Berlin Sustainably
- Olympiastadion and Your 36-Hour Travel Pass As a EURO 2024 ticket holder, you get a fantastic perk: a 36-Hour Travel Pass for the entire VBB public transport network! This covers Berlin and the wider Brandenburg region, making exploration a breeze. Remember, Olympiastadion Berlin has no public parking, so embrace public transit.
- Public Transport: Your Key to the City Berlin boasts an excellent network of buses, trams, and its S-Bahn and U-Bahn trains. Get tickets easily via machines or download the BVG app.
- Walking: Embrace the Berlin Vibe Walking Berlin’s historic streets is a must! Stretch your legs on the scenic 20-minute stroll from Berlin Central Station to the Fan Zone by the iconic Brandenburg Gate.
- Cycling: Like a Local Rent a bike and experience Berlin as the locals do! Several providers offer convenient rentals, with the Jelbi app being a great resource.
- Taxis and Rideshares When you need a lift, taxis and rideshare apps (like Uber and Bolt) are available, but use them sparingly for a greener journey.
- E-Scooters: Fun and Eco-Conscious Zip around the city on an e-scooter! Be sure to park responsibly, avoiding pedestrian zones where they’re prohibited.
Important Travel Tips
- Know Your Documentation: If you’re from within the EU/Schengen area, your ID card or passport suffices. Those from outside (e.g., the UK) need their passport and might require a visa. Refer to Germany’s Federal Foreign Office website for the latest information.
- Timing is Everything: Keep travel times in mind. Allow extra time during peak hours, as journeys might take longer.
Let’s make EURO 2024 an eco-friendly celebration of football! Enjoy your trip to Berlin!