Bavaria To Berlin: How Far Is Too Far?

Berlin and Bavaria are two regions in Germany. The distance between the two is approximately 271 miles or 436 kilometres. There are various ways to travel between the two, including by train, bus, night train, rideshare, car, or plane. The fastest way to get from Berlin to Bavaria is by plane, which takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes. However, if you prefer to travel by land, the best option is to take the train, which takes approximately 4 hours.

Travel by train

The distance between Berlin and Bavaria is approximately 271 miles (436 km). There are a few different ways to travel between the two locations, including by train, bus, night train, rideshare, car, or plane.

When travelling by train from Berlin to Bavaria, you can expect the journey to take between 4 hours 9 minutes and 4 hours 35 minutes, depending on your departure and arrival points. The cost of the train ranges from $100 to $130.

There is no direct train from Berlin to Bavaria. To make the journey, you will need to take a train from Berlin Hbf to Munich Hbf, and then get to Marienplatz via another train. The Berlin Hbf station is served by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express, and the Munich Hbf station is also where these trains arrive.

Deutsche Bahn's long-distance services use various types of trains, including the ICE 1, ICE 2, ICE 3, ICE 3neo, ICE T, ICE 4, Intercity 1, Intercity 2, and ICE Sprinter.

You can also take a night train from Berlin to Munich, which is another option for this journey.

Travel by bus

Travelling by bus from Berlin to Bavaria is a great option if you're looking for a slower, more affordable way to get from A to B. FlixBus operates a bus service from Berlin, Zentralen Omnibusbahnhof, to Munich central bus station every four hours. Tickets cost between $45 and $70, and the journey takes seven hours and 20 minutes.

If you're travelling the other way, from Bavaria to Berlin, FlixBus also operates a bus service from Munich central bus station to Berlin, Zentralen Omnibusbahnhof. Tickets for this route cost between $50 and $78, and the journey takes seven hours and 25 minutes.

When booking a bus, it's a good idea to book in advance to secure a good seat. While booking, keep in mind that delays are always possible, so it's a good idea to get to the bus station at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

If you can, try to choose a higher-class bus for a more comfortable journey. These often have added perks like air conditioning, soft reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and bathrooms.

Travel by plane

When considering air travel between Berlin and Bavaria, the primary option is to fly into one of Bavaria's two major airports: Munich Airport (MUC) or Nuremberg Airport (NUE). Both airports offer a range of domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to different parts of Bavaria. Here is some key information to consider when planning your journey:

Flights from Berlin to Munich:

The flight time between Berlin and Munich is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. This route is served by several airlines, including Lufthansa, Eurowings, and easyJet. Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL) offers the most direct flight options to Munich, but you can also consider departing from Berlin Schönefeld Airport (SXF) for additional flexibility. When booking your flight, keep in mind that flight frequencies may vary depending on the season and demand.

Flights from Berlin to Nuremberg:

The flight time from Berlin to Nuremberg is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. While this route has fewer flight options compared to Munich, you can still find direct flights with airlines such as Lufthansa and Eurowings. Both Berlin Tegel (TXL) and Berlin Schönefeld (SXF) airports offer convenient departure points for this route.

Airport Transportation in Bavaria:

Once you arrive at either Munich or Nuremberg Airport, you can easily continue your journey to other parts of Bavaria. Both airports provide excellent ground transportation options:

Munich Airport (MUC) is well-connected to the city centre and other parts of Bavaria. You can choose between the efficient S-Bahn (urban rail) system, express buses, or taxis for your transfer. The S-Bahn provides a quick and affordable option, with lines S1 and S8 connecting the airport to Munich's main train station (München Hauptbahnhof) in about 45 minutes.

Nuremberg Airport (NUE) also offers convenient transportation options. You can take the U-Bahn (underground rail) line U2 to reach Nuremberg Central Station (Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof) in around 12 minutes. Alternatively, buses and taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal.

Connecting to Other Bavarian Destinations:

Bavaria boasts an efficient rail network, making it easy to connect to other destinations after arriving at either Munich or Nuremberg Airport. The German railway company, Deutsche Bahn, offers comprehensive train services throughout the region. You can conveniently purchase train tickets online, at the airport, or at any train station.

When planning your journey, consider using Munich or Nuremberg as a base and then exploring other Bavarian highlights such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Regensburg, or Rothenburg ob der Tauber by train. Both cities offer excellent accommodations and serve as ideal starting points for day trips to various attractions in the region.

Practical Advice and Considerations:

When travelling by plane, always allow sufficient time for check-in, security checks, and potential flight delays. Stay updated on any COVID-19-related requirements or restrictions, such as testing or vaccination mandates, which may vary depending on your departure and arrival points.

Keep in mind that air travel can be more expensive compared to other transportation methods, especially if you are booking last-minute or during peak travel seasons. However, flying can significantly reduce travel time, making it a convenient option if you are short on time or prefer a more direct route.

Finally, consider the environmental impact of air travel and explore carbon offsetting options if you wish to mitigate your carbon footprint.

Travel by car

When planning a road trip from Berlin to Bavaria, you're in for quite the adventure as you embark on a journey of roughly 500 kilometres. The duration of the trip can vary, but you can expect to spend around 5 hours on the road, depending on traffic and your speed. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect and some tips to make your drive smoother.

The most direct route is often the preferred choice, taking the A9 highway. This route offers a straightforward path, and along the way, you'll encounter some interesting sights and potential stops. One of the highlights is the Leipzig area, which you'll pass by or can opt to explore. Leipzig is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, boasting beautiful architecture and a lively atmosphere. It's an ideal place to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and explore a bit of German history if you have the time.

As you continue your journey, you'll drive through charming rural landscapes and small towns. Keep in mind that the highway has toll sections, so be prepared to pay a small fee for the convenience and ensure you have cash or a card ready. The route also offers a glimpse of German history, as you'll pass near the famous Nuremberg, a city known for its medieval architecture and significant role in World War II history. If you're interested in a historical detour, Nuremberg is definitely worth considering for a short break.

When it comes to driving in Germany, it's important to be mindful of the speed limits and driving regulations. Germany is known for its Autobahn, where some sections have no speed limit, but always stay informed and abide by the posted limits. Rest areas and service stations are readily available along the A9, providing opportunities to refuel and take breaks as needed.

Travel by rideshare

Ridesharing is a flexible and affordable way to travel from Berlin to Bavaria. Using a ridesharing platform, you can connect with drivers already making the trip and offering spare seats in their cars. This option can be ideal if you're looking for a more direct journey and a chance to meet locals or fellow travellers. Here are some things to know about travelling from Berlin to Bavaria by rideshare:

Firstly, the distance between Berlin and Bavaria is approximately 500 kilometres. This trip can be quite long, so ridesharing can provide a more comfortable journey if you're not in a rush, as you can stop and stretch your legs along the way. Popular ridesharing websites and apps connect people looking for rides with drivers offering them. You can search for rides going from Berlin to any city or town in Bavaria, such as Munich, Nuremberg, or Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Posting your travel plans on ridesharing platforms allows drivers heading that way to get in touch. You can also search for existing trips that match your itinerary and send a request to join. It is essential to communicate clearly with your driver about the details of the trip, including the route, any necessary detours or stops, and the cost. While some rideshare trips may only require a small contribution to fuel costs, others might involve a more substantial fee, especially if the journey is long or the driver provides additional services.

Remember to consider the timing of your trip and the availability of rideshares. In general, it is easier to find rideshares during weekdays when many people are commuting or travelling for work. On the other hand, finding a rideshare during the weekends or holidays might be more challenging. However, don't let this deter you, as there are always people travelling, and you might just need to be a bit more flexible with your travel plans. Lastly, always prioritise your safety when using ridesharing services. Trust your instincts, and only travel with drivers who have positive reviews or references from other passengers. It is also beneficial to let someone know your travel plans and keep them updated throughout your journey.

Frequently asked questions