The journey from Berlin to Hamburg is something I’ve done several times, but this trip felt different. A lot of it had to do with the way I planned it and how much more comfortable I made it this time. Here’s a detailed account of my flight experience between the two cities in Germany, which are often compared for their unique vibes but connected by the swift flight that takes you across the country.
1. Booking the Flight: A Smooth Process
One of the most important parts of any trip, especially a quick domestic one, is the flight booking process. Normally, I would go for the typical flight comparison websites, but on this occasion, I chose Skyscanner to book my tickets. The platform has always offered a smooth user interface, competitive prices, and the flexibility to easily compare different flight options, so it felt like the right choice. After browsing for a few minutes, I found a great deal on a flight with Lufthansa, which stood out because of the timing and the airline’s reputation for comfort.
I booked my flight directly through the website, and the confirmation email came through quickly. I’ve found that booking directly through an airline is usually less stressful when it comes to checking in or handling any potential issues. Skyscanner, in this case, provided me with an excellent range of options, and the flight I selected was scheduled to take off from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) and land at Hamburg Airport (HAM).
2. Pre-Flight: Preparation and Anticipation
The day before the flight, I spent some time organizing everything I would need. Although the flight was short (just under an hour), I always prefer to be fully prepared. My suitcase was packed, and I had a small hand luggage bag with a book and my headphones, knowing I’d want to relax and zone out during the flight.
I also had to make sure I arrived at the airport with enough time to navigate through security. I always arrive at least an hour and a half before the flight to avoid any last-minute stress. I’ve learned that with Lufthansa, you can usually count on a fairly quick check-in process. The digital check-in option on their app was particularly useful and saved me time by avoiding the need for paper tickets.
3. At the Airport: The Berlin Brandenburg Experience
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is a large, modern facility, and even though it can sometimes be a bit busy, I’ve always found it well-equipped for both leisure and business travelers. I passed through security smoothly, and although there was a minor delay at the security checkpoint due to the line, it didn’t cause any real issues.
Once through security, I took some time to explore the duty-free shops. There was an assortment of options, from cosmetics to snacks, but I decided to grab a quick coffee from one of the airport cafes to kickstart the day. There’s something relaxing about sitting down with a good cup of coffee while watching the hustle and bustle of the airport.
A little while before boarding, I made my way to the gate. It’s always a bit of a balancing act between arriving early enough to get a good seat and not being too early to avoid waiting for long periods. Lufthansa’s boarding process was organized, with clear announcements for priority boarding, followed by standard boarding.
4. The Flight: Comfortable, Efficient, and Relaxing
The boarding process was quick, and the gate agents ensured everything moved smoothly. Once I stepped onto the plane, I was impressed by how modern and clean it was. I’ve flown with Lufthansa a few times before, and their planes are always in excellent condition, but this one really stood out in terms of overall comfort.
As I settled into my seat, I noticed the layout was spacious, even in economy class. The overhead compartments were large enough to store my hand luggage without hassle, and there was ample legroom, which always makes a huge difference, especially on a flight where you don’t want to feel cramped for the duration.
I sat back and began to settle in. Lufthansa’s crew was attentive and friendly, always making sure the passengers were comfortable. The flight attendants offered a selection of beverages, including tea, coffee, and juices. I opted for tea, as I often do when flying. The calm atmosphere on the plane, combined with the soft hum of the engines, created an environment that was conducive to relaxation. It felt like a smooth glide across the sky, and the short duration of the flight meant there was no rush, no long stretches of uncomfortable sitting.
The in-flight entertainment was another plus. I tend to bring my own entertainment—books and music—but I like it when there are options available. Lufthansa provided a small screen in the back of the seat, offering a range of movies, shows, and music. I appreciated the variety, but I ended up reading my book for most of the flight. The flight attendants also handed out snacks, which were a nice touch for such a short journey.
As we approached Hamburg, the seatbelt sign came on, and I prepared for landing. One of the things I’ve come to appreciate about Lufthansa is their smooth approach to landing. No bumps or sudden drops, just a gradual descent into Hamburg’s skies.
5. Arrival at Hamburg Airport: A Seamless Transition
Hamburg Airport is one of those places where you can immediately feel the difference in the air. It’s a little smaller and more intimate than Berlin Brandenburg, which makes it feel welcoming and easy to navigate. I deplaned without any issues and followed the signs to baggage claim.
Even though I hadn’t checked in a large suitcase this time, the baggage claim area was efficient. I noticed that Hamburg Airport is particularly good at handling international flights, with clear signs and helpful staff guiding you to where you need to go. There was no delay in collecting my bag, and it didn’t take long to exit the airport.
Once I made my way out of the terminal, I decided to take a taxi to my accommodation, which wasn’t far from the airport. Hamburg’s public transportation system is excellent, but I had a few things to drop off at my hotel first, so I opted for the convenience of a taxi. The drive was quick, and the smooth ride gave me a chance to enjoy the city’s landscape as I made my way into the heart of Hamburg.
6. The Lufthansa Experience
Flying with Lufthansa between Berlin and Hamburg was an experience that reminded me how comfortable and efficient air travel can be when you choose the right airline. The booking process through Skyscanner was smooth, and I felt well-prepared for the journey. From the comfortable seating to the attentive service, everything about the flight felt easy and stress-free. The seamless arrival at Hamburg Airport completed the experience, and I couldn’t help but feel relaxed as I made my way into the city.
This flight was the kind of experience that I will happily repeat in the future. Sometimes, the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination, and this was one of those times.