The tram (Strassenbahn) is a great way to get around, and an important part of the BVG’s network. Most tram lines are in eastern districts because officials in West Berlin misguidedly tore up the tracks, thinking cars were the future. The tram service is set up to complement the city’s U-Bahn and S-Bahn coverage. Many of the main lines have been dubbed MetroTram routes, similar to important bus routes. This means some trams are labelled M1 or M8 and others might just be the 12 or 18. Trams have automated ticket machines that only take coins. If you buy tickets onboard you do not need to validate them. The fare structure is the same as for the rest of the BVG network.