Berlin is a great place.

Just when you thought it could only happen in Britain, large parts of Berlin's S-Bahn (local train) network have been closed down for safety checks!

In particular the entire S9 service to Schonefeld Airport is suspended.

For detailed info see the local transport authority at http://www.vbbonline.de/start.php?id_language=2

The S-Bahn company has issued an emergency map showing replacement bus services and the VBB has done the same - except their bus services are different!! The VBB has also issued a press release that mentions the first set of buses (routes SXF1, X7 and 171) but it's timetable service is currently crashing if you ask for details (I wonder why!).

Any travel info regading use of S-Bahn in guidebooks should be double checked (at least) locally.

Deutsche Bahn's local trains to the airport are running about twice an hour and local tickets are valid (within relevant zones).

Best of luck.......


Update

Slight improvement expected from Monday 3rd August. S9 will resume running to Schonefeld Airport every 20 minutes but all S-Bahn trains are still running short length with possible overcrowding. SXF1 express bus remains available to local ticket passengers between airport and SudKreuz. Latest estimate for normal service to resume (all trains running with correct number of coaches) is early December.

Berlin is a breeding ground for creative people and ideas... love it!

Just returned from my 3rd visit to this amazing city. I love better each time. I stayed at the Hotel California.......... yes, you can check out but you can never leave!!! LOL. Seriously, it's in a great location right on the K'dam, handy for trains, U bahn and buses. I will write a review on the hotel section. Check this city out if you get the chance.

Just had our 4th stay at the Agon Opera and tbh it is starting to look as though it could do with a refurb, and the breakfast didnt seem as good as I remember either, location is still great obviously, may have to follow Jade's advice and check into the Hotel California next time.

Hi

Hubby & I have just returned from a long weekend in Berlin with 8 friends and are considering a return trip for the Christmas markets in December. We can't decide between three hotels and would love anyone's recommendations.

We are looking at either the Swiss Hotel, California or the Savoy.

Thanks.

Berlin to stay Mitte or Kurfurstendamm?

going to berlin for 4 nights at the end of oct..never been before

which is the best area to stay in?

For me it would have to be Mitte- that's where all the iconic Berlin sites are, we like to walk about and see everything lit up at night.
Ku'dam is nice for a visit, but it doesn't shout "Berlin " at you in the same way.
(I put details of where we stayed in the other thread)
kate