How To Get To Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp From Berlin

The Sachsenhausen concentration camp is one of the most important historical sites in Germany and is located just outside of Berlin. It is a reminder of the atrocities that occurred during World War II and a reminder of the suffering of those who were held there.

Getting to Sachsenhausen from Berlin is relatively easy, as there are a number of options available to visitors. Here, we will outline the best way to get to Sachsenhausen concentration camp from Berlin and explain the different modes of transport available.

By Public Transport

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Sachsenhausen from Berlin is by public transport. There are two main options for getting to Sachsenhausen by public transport: by train or by bus.

By train

The easiest and most direct way to get to Sachsenhausen from Berlin is by train. There are two railway stations in the vicinity of Sachsenhausen: Oranienburg Station and Sachsenhausen Station. Both stations are within walking distance of the concentration camp, and there are regular direct trains to both stations from Berlin.

The journey time from Berlin to Oranienburg Station is approximately 45 minutes, while the journey time from Berlin to Sachsenhausen Station is around 50 minutes. There are also regular regional trains that run between Oranienburg Station and Sachsenhausen Station, with journey times of around 10 minutes.

By bus

The other option for getting to Sachsenhausen from Berlin is by bus. Several bus services run between Berlin and the concentration camp, with journey times of up to 1 hour 15 minutes.

The most direct route is on the X10 bus which runs from Alexanderplatz in Berlin directly to Oranienburg Station. From there, you can take a regional train or walk to the concentration camp.

By Car

For those who prefer to travel by car, there are a number of routes from Berlin to Sachsenhausen. The fastest route is via the A10 motorway, which runs directly from Berlin to Oranienburg. The journey time is around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Once you arrive in Oranienburg, follow the signs for ‘Sachsenhausen KZ-Gedenkstätte’ (concentration camp memorial). The concentration camp itself is located just a few kilometres outside the town centre.

By Bike

For those who prefer a more active mode of transport, cycling is a great option for getting to Sachsenhausen from Berlin. The journey time is around 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on your level of fitness.

The route follows the banks of the River Havel, passing through some beautiful countryside and along some peaceful riverside paths. There are also several cycle routes that run directly from Berlin to Oranienburg, which can save you some time.

Additional Information

Once you arrive at Sachsenhausen concentration camp, it is advisable to allow at least half a day for your visit. The camp has a large visitor centre which provides detailed information about the history of the camp and its prisoners, as well as exhibitions, films, and guided tours. Entrance fees apply, and tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.

It is also important to remember that Sachsenhausen is a place of remembrance, and visitors should respect this by being respectful and mindful of their surroundings at all times.

Conclusion

Getting to Sachsenhausen concentration camp from Berlin is relatively straightforward, thanks to the numerous public transport links available. By train or bus are both viable options, while those who prefer to drive or cycle can also make the journey easily. Once there, visitors should allow at least half a day for their visit, and should always remember that Sachsenhausen is a place of remembrance and respect should be shown at all times.

Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp is located at Strasse der Nationen 22 D-16515 Oranienburg, Germany. Sachsenhausen is a former Nazi era concentration camp that is located 35 kilometers north of Berlin. The camp is open daily from 8:30 a.m. until 18:00 p.m. (15 March-14 October) and it is open from 8:30 a.m.to 16:30 p.m. (from 15 October until the 14^th of March).

Sachsenhausen can be reached by taking the S-Bahn (elevated trains) S1 train line and riding it for 35-40 minutes up to the S-Bahn Oranienburg Bhf (S Train Oranienburg Train Station).

You will need to purchase an ABC (zone) 24 hour, single day ticket for 10€ from one of the ticket booths inside train stations. Or you can purchase two one-way single ride ABC (zone) tickets from the machine for 3.80€ each. Remember to validate the 24-hour, single day ticket in one of the red or yellow punch boxes next to the ticket booth, before you board the train.

Also please don’t forget that in case you purchased 2, single ride ABC tickets, then only validate one ticket on the way there, and validate the other on the way back.

Another option for getting to Sachsenhausen even quicker is boarding the Regional Train/Regio (RE5) heading north towards the city of Rostock. The train leaves once an hour and it will get you to Oranienburg a few minutes quicker and you can even find restrooms on board as well.

Once you get to Oranienburg you will have the option of taking the 804 bus (heading towards Malz) to Gedenkstätte Sachsenhausen/Memorial Sachsenhausen. It is a short 7-8 minute bus ride or you can walk twenty minutes to the camp. To walk there you would need to exit the station and make a right on Stralsunderstr.

Continue walking for about 5 to 6 minutes until you see Bernauerstr., where you will have to turn right. You will continue to walk on Bernauerstr. for another 6-7 minutes until you see Strasse der Einheit, where you will have to turn left; Continue walking on Strasse der Einheit until you see Strasse der Nationen, where you will make a right, then just walk until you reach the end of the street, and you will have arrived.