1. Ride a bike with a Swapfiets subscription

If you're going to be cycling often in Berlin (...and most students do) Swapfiets is the easiest and most reliable way to do it. You pay a fixed monthly fee and get your own high-quality bike or e-Bike. No surprise fees, just a bike that works, always.

All bikes come with anti-slip tyres, double locks, and always-working lights. And if something breaks? We repair or swap it, often the same day. You can also add Full Theft Coverage for extra peace of mind. It’s flexible too: pause when you’re away, cancel anytime, and even move your subscription to another city/country.

On top of that, Swapfiets offers student discounts in select cities and a referral programme that lets you earn rewards by inviting friends. So not only do you ride worry-free, you might also ride for less. For everyday travel on a budget, this is your most all-inclusive, student-proof option.

2. Use your student Semesterticket

Most Berlin universities include a Semesterticket in your student fees. This gives you unlimited access to Berlin’s public transport network—U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses and trams—for the entire semester. It’s great for longer trips, rainy days, or getting to places your bike doesn’t quite reach.

Check your university website or ask your student office to confirm what’s included. If you’re not eligible for the Semesterticket, consider the €58 Deutschlandticket, which offers nationwide access to local and regional trains.

3. Walk when it makes sense

In central districts like Mitte, Kreuzberg, or Prenzlauer Berg, walking is often the simplest (and cheapest) option. Berlin is flat, easy to navigate, and full of interesting detours. If you’ve got time, just walk it. You’ll get to know your surroundings and save money without even trying.

4. Consider car sharing for one-off needs

Sometimes you’ll need to move furniture, take a trip with friends, or get across town late at night. That’s when car sharing apps like "Share Now", "Miles" or "BlaBlaCar" come in handy. Not budget-friendly for daily travel, but useful for those rare times when a bike or train won’t cut it.

5. Budget for bike-friendly extras

Even the cheapest transport option needs a bit of planning. If you're cycling, you’ll want a good raincoat and maybe gloves for colder months. If you're using public transport, download the BVG app to plan routes and check delays. And if you’re sharing rides, keep your student ID handy, some services offer discounts.

In short?

For most students, a Swapfiets subscription plus a Semesterticket is the best combo: bike for daily life, public transport for longer journeys. You’ll stay flexible, save money, and ride worry-free without giving up convenience.