Berlin Brandenburg Airport is modern and well-organized, which helps when travelling with children. The main decision is whether to take the train (cheap and fast) or a car (convenient and door-to-door).
Inside the airport with children
The terminal is spacious with lifts connecting all levels. Baby-changing facilities are available in restrooms throughout both terminals. There is no dedicated children's play area in the arrivals zone, but the walk from baggage claim to either the train station or taxi rank is short and accessible. Trolleys are free.
From Terminal 2, there is a covered walkway of about 5-10 minutes to Terminal 1 and the train station. This is manageable but adds to the journey with a stroller and bags.
Transport for families
| Option | Child seat | Luggage space | Door to door | Price to centre | |---|---|---|---|---| | FEX train | N/A | Luggage racks | No | EUR 4.00 per adult, free under 6 | | S-Bahn | N/A | Limited | No | EUR 3.50-4.00 | | Taxi | Rarely available | 2-3 large bags | Yes | EUR 45-65 | | Pre-booked transfer (sedan) | On request | 2-3 large bags | Yes | EUR 50-80 | | Pre-booked transfer (van) | On request | 5+ large bags | Yes | EUR 70-110 |
The train with children
The FEX has dedicated luggage areas and is less crowded than the S-Bahn. Children under 6 ride free on Berlin public transport. The train station has lifts, but you need to find them, and platforms can be busy. During off-peak hours, the FEX with kids is perfectly manageable. During rush hours, it becomes stressful with a stroller and multiple bags.
The main challenge is the last mile. The FEX takes you to Hauptbahnhof, but you then need to continue to your hotel by U-Bahn, S-Bahn, or taxi. With tired children, this second leg can feel longer than the first.
Child seats in German taxis
German law requires child seats for children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm. However, taxis are exempt from this requirement when used for short journeys. This means taxi drivers are not obligated to provide child seats. Most do not carry them. If you need car seats for your children, a pre-booked transfer is the way to go. Specify the ages and number of children when booking.
Strollers and heavy luggage
A family of four with two large suitcases, two carry-ons, and a stroller will find a standard sedan taxi tight. Request a van taxi at the rank or book a van transfer. On the train, this amount of luggage is manageable if you have a luggage trolley to the platform and someone to help load.
Recommended approach
For families with children old enough to walk and manage their own small bag, the FEX train is excellent value and an adventure for kids. For families with babies, toddlers, or lots of equipment, a pre-booked van transfer is worth the cost. The ride is direct, the driver handles luggage, and you can request car seats.