Figuring out how to use mass transit in any major city can be a major headache, even if you've done your homework. However, Berlin, with its 7 different ways to get around, is an entirely different affair.
Don't fear, fellow travelers. A multi-day pass (aka. the WelcomeCard) can make getting around much easier, as it allows you to hop on any bus, tram, U-Bahn, S-Bahn train, or ferry as you please, without having to worry about the fare or how to pay. Plus, as a side benefit, if you plan to see sights all over the city you can probably save a bit of money as well.
We must offer a word of caution: pay careful attention to when you validate. Berlin has plain-clothes ticket checkers roaming around, who tend to target tourists.
On our last trip to Berlin, our WelcomeCard expired on our final day, one stop before we were going to get off a tram. As luck would have it, a ticket checker came up to us and asked for our tickets and, after examining our well-worn passes, he informed us that we must buy another ticket, as ours had expired. So, be sure that your passes are good for your entire journey, not just when you get on. It could cost you.
You can get the WelcomeCard at the tourist information centers run by Berlin Tourismus Marketing, most transit ticket counters, many Berlin hotels, and online (if you live in Europe.) The 48 hour, 3-zone pass will cost you 18 Euros; the 72 hour is 24.50.
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