How to Find the Cheapest Berlin Flight Tickets?

Finding the cheapest flight tickets can often feel like a daunting task, but with a bit of patience and the right strategies, you can snag some great deals. I’ve spent countless hours navigating various booking platforms, comparing prices, and testing different methods to secure the best possible fares. I’ll share my experience flying from Munich to Berlin, tips for finding the cheapest flights, and a detailed look at recommended airlines and airports.

My Flight Experience: Munich to Berlin

Booking the Flight

For my trip from Munich to Berlin, I decided to fly with Lufthansa, a reputable airline known for its excellent service and punctuality. I booked an economy class ticket, aiming to keep my travel costs low while still enjoying a comfortable journey. I used Skyscanner, a reliable flight comparison website, to find the best deal. After comparing several options, I managed to book a round-trip ticket for €150.

Departure from Munich Airport (MUC)

Munich Airport, also known as Franz Josef Strauss International Airport, is one of the busiest airports in Germany. It’s located about 28.5 kilometers northeast of Munich city center, and it’s easily accessible by public transport, including the S-Bahn (S1 and S8 lines), which takes around 40 minutes from the city center.

Upon arriving at the airport, I checked in at the Lufthansa counter, which was quick and efficient. Munich Airport is well-organized, with clear signage and plenty of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges. As an economy class passenger, I didn’t have access to the premium lounges, but I found a cozy café where I could relax and enjoy a coffee before my flight.

The Flight: Economy Class on Lufthansa

Boarding the flight was a smooth process, thanks to Lufthansa’s well-managed system. The economy class cabin was clean and comfortable, with adequate legroom and ergonomic seats. The flight attendants were friendly and professional, ensuring that all passengers were settled in and comfortable.

The in-flight service was excellent. Despite being a short flight (approximately 1 hour), Lufthansa provided a light snack and beverages. The in-flight entertainment system offered a variety of movies, TV shows, and music, which helped pass the time quickly.

Arrival at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

The flight landed at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, which is the main international airport serving Berlin. The airport is located approximately 18 kilometers southeast of the city center. The airport’s modern design and efficient layout made navigating through it straightforward.

After disembarking, I collected my luggage and made my way to the airport’s train station. The airport is well-connected to Berlin’s public transport system, with regular trains (FEX, RE7, and RB14) and buses (X7, X71) that take you to the city center in about 30 minutes.

Finding the Cheapest Flights: Tips and Tricks

1. Use Flight Comparison Websites

Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak are excellent tools for comparing flight prices across multiple airlines. These platforms allow you to set price alerts, view price trends, and filter results based on your preferences.

2. Book in Advance

Booking your flight several weeks or even months in advance can significantly reduce the cost. Airlines typically release their cheapest seats first, so early birds often get the best deals.

3. Be Flexible with Dates

If your travel dates are flexible, you can use the “flexible dates” feature on flight comparison websites to find the cheapest days to fly. Midweek flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are usually cheaper than weekend flights.

4. Consider Alternative Airports

Flying into or out of alternative airports can sometimes be cheaper. For example, if you’re traveling to Berlin, you might find cheaper flights to airports slightly outside the city and then take a train or bus into Berlin.

5. Sign Up for Airline Newsletters

Many airlines offer exclusive deals and discounts to subscribers of their newsletters. Signing up can give you access to special promotions and flash sales.

6. Use Airline Miles and Points

If you’re a frequent flyer, you can use your accumulated miles or points to book flights at a reduced cost or even for free. Joining airline loyalty programs can also provide additional perks, such as free checked baggage and priority boarding.

7. Book on the Right Day

Studies have shown that booking flights on certain days of the week, such as Tuesdays or Wednesdays, can result in lower fares. Airlines often release their sales on these days, making it a great time to book.

Recommended Airlines for Munich to Berlin Flights

1. Lufthansa

Lufthansa, as Germany’s flagship carrier, offers a robust schedule of flights between Munich and Berlin, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

• Pros:
• In-Flight Service: Lufthansa is renowned for its excellent service standards, offering complimentary snacks and beverages even on shorter flights.
• Punctuality: Known for its reliability and on-time performance, making it a preferred choice for travelers with tight schedules.
• Comfortable Seating: Seats are well-designed with adequate legroom and adjustable headrests for enhanced comfort.
• Cons:
• Higher Prices: Lufthansa tends to have slightly higher fares compared to budget airlines like Eurowings and EasyJet.
• Booking: Reservations can be made directly on the Lufthansa website, where frequent flyers can also benefit from membership rewards and upgrades.

2. Eurowings

Eurowings operates as a low-cost subsidiary of Lufthansa, offering competitive fares on flights between Munich and Berlin.

• Pros:
• Affordable Pricing: Eurowings provides budget-friendly options, making it suitable for travelers seeking economical choices.
• Frequency: Multiple daily flights ensure flexibility in scheduling, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
• Decent Service: While amenities are basic, the service standards are generally satisfactory for short-haul flights.
• Cons:
• Additional Fees: Passengers may incur extra charges for checked baggage, seat selection, and onboard snacks.
• Booking: Tickets can be purchased conveniently via the Eurowings website, offering easy online booking options and occasional promotional fares.

3. EasyJet

EasyJet is a prominent budget airline with extensive coverage across Europe, including flights between Munich and Berlin.

• Pros:
• Competitive Prices: Known for its low-cost model, EasyJet offers some of the most affordable fares on this route.
• Accessibility: Online booking is straightforward, with regular promotions and discounts available for savvy travelers.
• Punctuality: EasyJet maintains a good track record for on-time departures and arrivals, ensuring reliability.
• Cons:
• Limited Amenities: Passengers should expect minimal legroom and additional charges for extras like onboard refreshments and priority boarding.
• Booking: Tickets are available for purchase on the EasyJet website, where travelers can manage bookings and add optional services as needed.

4. Air Berlin (historical)

Air Berlin, once a major player in the German aviation industry, ceased operations in 2017. Its legacy is carried forward by other carriers offering similar domestic routes.

• Pros:
• Extensive Network: Air Berlin previously offered a comprehensive network within Germany and Europe, connecting major cities like Munich and Berlin.
• Service Quality: It was known for decent service standards and competitive pricing, making it popular among travelers.
• Cons:
• Closure: Financial difficulties led to Air Berlin’s closure, impacting travelers who relied on its services.
• Alternative Carriers: Travelers can now choose from other airlines like Lufthansa, Eurowings, and EasyJet to fill the gap left by Air Berlin.
• Booking: Since Air Berlin is no longer operational, travelers should book flights with alternative carriers mentioned above for flights between Munich and Berlin.

Nearby Airports and Transportation

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

Berlin Brandenburg Airport is the main airport serving the city. It has modern facilities, numerous shops and restaurants, and excellent public transport connections. The airport is about 18 kilometers southeast of the city center, with regular trains (FEX, RE7, RB14) and buses (X7, X71) connecting to central Berlin.

Munich Airport (MUC)

Munich Airport, located 28.5 kilometers northeast of the city center, is one of the busiest and best-connected airports in Germany. The airport features two terminals with a wide range of services, including shopping, dining, and lounges. Public transport options include the S-Bahn (S1 and S8 lines), which provide a quick and efficient way to reach the city center.

Transportation Tips

• Public Transport: Both Munich and Berlin have extensive public transport systems. Purchase a day pass or multi-day pass to save money if you plan to use public transport frequently.
• Taxi and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available at both airports. They provide a convenient but more expensive option compared to public transport.
• Car Rentals: If you prefer the flexibility of driving, car rental services are available at both airports. Be sure to book in advance to get the best rates.

Final Tips and Suggestions

Booking Tips

• Be Flexible: Flexibility with your travel dates and times can lead to significant savings. Midweek flights are often cheaper than weekend flights.
• Set Price Alerts: Use flight comparison websites to set price alerts. This way, you’ll be notified when prices drop.
• Check Multiple Websites: Don’t rely on just one booking platform. Compare prices across multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
• Consider Layovers: Sometimes, flights with layovers are cheaper than direct flights. If you don’t mind the extra travel time, this can be a cost-effective option.

Packing Tips

• Travel Light: Avoid additional baggage fees by traveling with only carry-on luggage. Pack versatile clothing and essentials to minimize the number of bags.
• Check Baggage Policies: Each airline has different baggage policies. Make sure to check the size and weight limits to avoid unexpected fees.

At the Airport

• Arrive Early: Arriving early at the airport ensures you have enough time to check in, go through security, and relax before your flight.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on your flight status for any changes or delays. Most airports and airlines provide real-time updates via apps and digital displays.
• Enjoy the Amenities: Both Munich and Berlin airports offer a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges. Take advantage of these to make your wait more enjoyable.

Finding the cheapest flight tickets to Berlin requires a bit of research and flexibility, but it’s definitely possible with the right approach. By using flight comparison websites, booking in advance, and being flexible with your travel dates, you can secure great deals and enjoy a comfortable journey. Whether you choose to fly with a premium airline like Lufthansa or a budget carrier like Eurowings or EasyJet, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs and budget. Safe travels and happy flying!