How to get from Warnemunde Cruise Port To Berlin

Finding a way to travel from the cruise port of Warnemünde to Berlin can be a daunting task. There are many options, from economy buses to carefree charter trains. This variety means that each person can choose their own preferred method of travel. And as we all know - we like to choose our comfort. But with many choices comes many questions about the specifics of each travel method, and finding this information can be another difficult process in planning a vacation. That's why we've taken on the challenge of compiling each of the modes of transportation from the cruise port of Warnemünde to Berlin with a little or more information about their advantages and disadvantages.

How to get from Warnemunde Cruise Port To Berlin

1. Chartered Train (Ship-Sponsored Tour)

Chartered Train Services

Charter trains are one of the most popular forms of transportation on organized vacations. This is not surprising, as they are essentially private trains organized by cruise lines for their passengers. These trains are rented exclusively to cruise guests, providing a direct and hustle-free connection from Warnemünde to the heart of Berlin. 

How to book a chartered train service?

Another advantage of a chartered train is the simplicity of booking. The booking process can easily be done through the cruise line, when booking a cruise or on board.

How much does a chartered train service cost?

If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. While highly convinient, the cruise charted train services come at a steep price, often multiple times higher than similar services provided by other providers. Typically, prices range from €200 to as much as €700 per person. It is difficult to quote a single price for chartered train transportation. In addition to added convenience and comfort, your trip may include inclusions such as reserved seating, assistance with luggage, and sometimes even meals or drinks on board, all for an additional fee. 

2. Shared Shore Excursion from Warnemunde to Berlin  

A shared excursion from the cruise port of Warnemunde to Berlin can be the ideal option for a stress-free trip to Berlin. Comfortable conditions in a modern coach with functional toilets relieve you of the stress of finding connections on public transport, as well as the hustle and bustle of other tourists. 

As the coach is tailor-made for the tour, you are guaranteed to see all the major sights of Berlin on time, and when it comes to return time, you are sure to arrive on time for your cruise departure. The coach picks you up from the port, so you don't have to worry about finding it in a hurry, and drops-off at the port – no stress about making it to your cruise. You'll be lighter with a few nervous glances at your watch. 

Another advantage is an English-speaking driver (which may not be a sure thing on public transport) and a knowledgeable guide who will make sure you don't miss the city's highlights.

Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War
Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War

 

How to book a shared shore excursion from Warnemunde? 

The booking process is quite simple, and the prices start from as little as 115 EUR per person. Checkout our All-In-One Berlin Shore Excursion, select the date and number of participants and the website will show you everything you need to know: departure time, duration and return time (at least 1 hour before the ships depart).

3. (Semi) Private Shore Excursion from Warnemunde to Berlin 

Private Shore Excursion

The private option guarantees 100 percent focus on enjoying the beauty of Berlin and a stress-free journey. Both the transfer to and from the port (matched to the ship's arrival and departure times) and the qualified guide are tailored to your needs. A sudden change of plans? A longer break? An earlier return? It's all up to you. A private driver for the day, with excellent English skills, can be a huge help in exploring a city as vast as Berlin. The driver and your guide, they will make sure your journey is as comfortable and rewarding as possible. In addition, the guarantee of arrival at the ship's departure time allows you to relax throughout the journey. If this comfort sounds like the perfect fit for you, checkout our Private Berlin Shore Excursion From Warnemunde and Rostock 

Reichstag Building, the meeting place of the Bundestag - “Federal Assembly”
Reichstag building, the meeting place of the Bundestag (“Federal Assembly”)

 

Semi Private Shore Excursion

A lesser-known but ideal combination of comfort and independent travel is the semi-private travel option. The issue of on-time transport, with a set departure time for the ship from the port, is the biggest stressor, so the semi-private option provides shared transport from Warnemunde cruise port with a private vehicle and a personal tour a guide in Berlin.

4. Shared Bus Transfer from Warnemunde to Berlin 

Taking the public bus means a lot of preparation and stress about getting everywhere on time. However, if you enjoy bus travel and that touristy feeling, it's worth considering a shared bus transfer.

It's a guarantee that you'll arrive on time, as ourthe bus picks you up at the port and returns with enough time to get you back to your cruise in peace. Also, in a foreign place you feel much more at ease in familiar company. Travelling on a bus shared with the ship's passengers provides this comfort. The modern bus has accessible toilets and the driver speaks English, so you can communicate without fear if you have any concerns or questions on route. 

How much does shared bus transfer cost?

The economics of travelling together are also encouraging. The shared bus is relatively inexpensive, especially considering the number of facilities it offers. The price is less than €90. Check out our Berlin On Your Own - Round Trip Transportation from Warnemünde and Rostock Port.

5. Private Transfer/Taxi Service from Warnemunde to Berlin

A private transfer and taxi may seem like an everyday form of transportation, not very touristy. However, some people appreciate the comfort of not having a strict schedule and the freedom to travel in their own group. Having your own choffeur for a day can be a luxurious way to experience the best Berlin has to offer.

Example car for private transfer from warnemunde cruise port to Berlin

Price

If you’re traveling in a group, Mentioning group travel, a private transfer can be more cost-effective than other methods. For a transfer from the Port of Warnemunde and Rostock to Berlin you should aim to spend between 480 EUR (4 seater) and 750 EUR (9 seater). 

The average price per kilometer in Germany is 2 euros, but prices can range up to 5 euros (in Berlin).

With that being said, if you’re looking for a private transfer and a stress-free guaranteed return on time, checkout our Transfer from the port of Warnemünde and Rostock to Berlin option. 

6. Traveling to Berlin from Rostock Port via Public Train

Another popular travel option from Warnemunde to Berlin is the renowned German rail system.  The German rail system is known as well-marked and clear. Communication shouldn't be a problem either, as most of the staff speak very good English and are generally helpful, making navigation fairly simple.

Berlin train station

The route

The journey begins with a short ride on the regional train from Warnemünde to Rostock. The station is a 5-minute walk from the port. On arrival in Rostock, you will board an express train to Berlin, which will get you there in approximately 2:20h.

Tickets/Price

If you plan to travel by train on your own, be sure to purchase your tickets online in advance. This will not only save you time, but may also provide you with special deals, group discounts or economy fares to lower your transportation costs. Ticket prices vary between 35€ and 55€ one way.

7. Public Bus  

Customer stepping on the public bus from Warnemunde to Berlin

It is also possible to travel to Berlin by public bus. One option is FlixBus, a well-known European transport company with many routes connecting major cities. However, here you should bear in mind that it is important to fit in the departure and arrival schedules of the buses. Bus departures from the Port of Warnemunde are quite irregular, it is important to discern before you arrive. It is also worth noting that not all drivers speak English. This can pose a problem when you need to ask for directions or explain your route. 

The route

The nearest bus stop is at Zum Zollamt in Warnemünde – a 15-minute walk from the port. As the cruise ship arrives around 9am, you'll need 30 minutes to get off. Then walk to Zum Zollamt and take a bus to Berlin at 9:55am. This only gives you a 10-minute head start, in case of a possible delay of the ship you'll have to wait 2 hours for the next bus. The journey to Berlin takes about 3.5 hours and the last stop is on Alexanderstraße in Berlin - at 13:20. To get to the centre, you'll have to take the tram - another 15 minutes. The fastest time to get to the centre itself is 1:40pm. 

The return journey also needs to be planned well in advance. For a stress-free return, take the bus from Alexanderstraße at around 4 p.m. This way you'll be in the port by 8 p.m., having about an hour's time before departure. 

Collected itinerary

  • 9:00am - arrival in the port
  • 9:30am - step ashore
  • 9:45am - arrival at the bus stop
  • 9:55am - departure of the bus
  • 1:20pm - arrival in Berlin
  • 1:40pm - arrival in the city centre
  • 4:10pm - departure from the city centre
  • 4:30pm - departure from Berlin
  • 7:50pm - return to the bus stop
  • 8:05pm - return to the port
Sample itinerary for sightseeing Berlin and traveling from Warnemunde via Public Bus
Example itinerary for visiting Berlin from Warnemunde via Public Bus

 

Price

Transport by city bus is one of the economical options. The price of a one-way bus ticket is around 13€ and tram tickets are 2.4€. The total will be around 40€.

8. Traveling via Rented Car from Warnemunde to Berlin

Client Agreement sign up for rental car in Warnemunde, for a trip to Berlin

Renting a car gives you the most independence when travelling. Own your own car and have total control over your route, without having to worry about multiple stops if you want to. Overall, it gives you a great deal of freedom that other methods lack. However, the complications of the car hire process can be hard to make up for. Here are the things you should prepare before hiring a car: 

  1. having an active driving licence and credit card
  2. a deposit amount (prices vary, but at least €500).

The closest rental car point is 15-minute walk away from the port in Warnemunde.

Parking

The parking situation in Berlin should also be mentioned. As it is the capital, most car parks are paid. A normal one costs €2 per hour, but near interesting tourist attractions the amount goes up to €4 per hour.

Price

The total cost should include:

  • deposit = 500€
  • cost of car rental for one day = approx. 80 EUR, depending on the season and type of the car
  • fuel = 45€
  • cost of parking = 30€

Total = 115€ + 500€ (deposit)

Keep in mind this price excludes any insurence on your rental car, as well as any tickets for public transport you'd probably need to move around Berlin faster. 

10. Summary

As you can see, the choices are many, just as the needs of each traveller are different. This article has been prepared to reduce some of the stress and save our travellers valuable time. We hope that the options collected here are of some help in choosing the perfect way for you. After all, such a trip is all about rest and relaxation and we wish you nothing less. Enjoy your trip!