Nightlife in Berlin
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- Berlin nightlife - the top 5 districts
- Berlin clubbing dress code
- The Dos and Don'ts
- The top 10 most popular clubs in Berlin
- Berlin - the home of techno & trance
Berlin is arguably the hippest city in the world, known for its diverse nightlife scene that includes everything from pubs housed in derelict ruins to funky beach bars along the Spree. The city (along with Amsterdam) is also known for being one of the most liberal cities in Europe, which means that its nightlife scene is not limited to rock, alternative, and techno clubs. In fact, visitors to Berlin will find a plethora of unique and off-beat establishments that cater to all types of music lovers. Despite the city's reputation as a nightlife hotspot, however, navigating Berlin's club scene can be tricky. Many of the best pubs, bars, and clubs don't go out of their way to advertise themselves, so visitors will need to do a little research to find the best places to party. In this guide, we'll take you on a tour of the top ten Berlin Clubs and offer tips on how to make the most of your time in the city.
Berlin nightlife - the top 5 districts
1) Mitte District
The Mitte district has been the place to be for some time now. This former Eastern bloc slum has undergone a wonderful renaissance, meaning that while it has retained a few characteristic rough edges, it also boasts top venues such as King Kong Klub, Kaffee Burgera, and Weekend to name a few. The Mitte district is popular with both locals and tourists, and visitors to Berlin will find that the nightlife scene here is diverse and eclectic. The King Kong Klub, for example, is known for its retro décor and quirky atmosphere, while the Kaffee Burger is a popular spot for live music and performances.
2) Kreuzberg
Kreuzberg is another area worth investigating. More edgy than Mitte, and with a large number of artists and immigrants, it's slowly forging its reputation as a happening district. The nightlife scene in Kreuzberg is diverse and inclusive, and visitors to the area will find everything from punk rock clubs to techno clubs. One of the most popular clubs in Kreuzberg is SO36, a punk rock club that has been around since the late 1970s. SO36 has hosted some of the biggest names in punk rock, including the Ramones, Iggy Pop, and Siouxsie and the Banshees.
3) Prenzlauer Berg
As Mitte has become more gentrified and touristy, residents of Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain are seeing some of the most hip and interesting spots spring up on their doorsteps. Prenzlauer Berg is a popular area for families and young professionals, and the nightlife scene here is diverse and eclectic. Visitors to Prenzlauer Berg will find everything from trendy wine bars to underground techno clubs. One of the most popular clubs in Prenzlauer Berg is Club Maria, which is known for its cutting-edge electronic music and stylish décor.
4) Friedrichshain
Friedrichshain is another up-and-coming area that is worth checking out. This neighbourhood is known for its vibrant street art scene and its diverse mix of residents, which includes both artists and immigrants. The nightlife scene in Friedrichshain is diverse and eclectic, and visitors to the area will find everything from rooftop bars to underground techno clubs. One of the most popular clubs in Friedrichshain is Suicide Circus, which is known for its cutting-edge techno music and its industrial décor.
5) Schoneburg
Fans of David Bowie, meanwhile, should make a line for Schoneburg, as this is where androgynous popstar and cult hero used to live and hang out. Today the area is extremely popular with Berlin's gay community, and visitors to Schoneburg will find a thriving nightlife scene.
Berlin clubbing dress code
When it comes to dress code, Berlin is generally more relaxed and casual than other major cities. While some clubs may have a specific dress code, most will allow entrance in whatever you feel comfortable in. That being said, it's always a good idea to avoid looking too touristy or sloppy. Dress in clothes that you would normally wear to a night out, and avoid looking too flashy or overdressed.
To improve your chances of getting into the best clubs in Berlin, it's important to plan ahead. Some clubs have long lines, especially on the weekends, so arriving early can save you time and ensure that you get in. If you're traveling in a group, it's a good idea to split up and approach the bouncers one or two at a time, rather than arriving as a big group. This can make it easier to get in, especially if the club is looking for a diverse crowd. Finally, don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals or fellow club-goers. Berliners are generally friendly and welcoming, and may be able to offer tips or advice on the best places to go out.
The dos and don'ts
To plan a good nightclubbing experience in Berlin, there are a few dos and don'ts to keep in mind. Firstly, do your research ahead of time. While Berlin has a seemingly endless array of nightlife options, not all clubs will be right for everyone. Look into the type of music and atmosphere you enjoy, and seek out clubs that align with your preferences. Secondly, don't be afraid to try new things. Berlin is a city that encourages experimentation and exploration, so don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try a new club or venue.
Another important consideration is safety. While Berlin is generally a safe city, it's important to take precautions when going out at night. Stick to well-lit areas and busy streets, and always keep an eye on your belongings. It's also a good idea to have a designated meeting point with your group in case you get separated.
Finally, it's important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Berlin has a reputation for being a liberal and open-minded city, but it's still important to be mindful of the community around you. Don't be disruptive or disrespectful, and be aware of noise levels when leaving the club at the end of the night. By following these dos and don'ts, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable nightclubbing experience in one of the world's most vibrant cities.
The top 10 most popular clubs in Berlin
1) Berghain/Panorama Bar - This iconic club is known worldwide for its incredible sound system and legendary parties. With its strict door policy and notoriously long lines, Berghain is not for the faint of heart, but those who make it inside are rewarded with an unforgettable experience. If you're only in town for one night it has to be the legendary Berghain and Panorama Bar - weaklings need not apply! Am Wriezener Bahnhof.
2) Watergate - Situated on the banks of the River Spree, Watergate is a popular spot for techno lovers. The club is split over two floors, with the upper level offering stunning views of the river.
Falckensteinstraße 49.
3) Tresor - One of the oldest and most respected clubs in Berlin, Tresor has been a staple of the city's techno scene since the early 1990s. The club is known for its gritty, underground vibe and is a must-visit for fans of hard techno.
Köpenicker Str. 70.
4) KitKatClub - This alternative club is known for its outrageous parties and anything-goes atmosphere. The dress code is famously liberal, and visitors can expect to see a variety of interesting outfits on the dance floor.
Köpenicker Str. 76.
5) Sisyphos - Housed in an abandoned factory complex, Sisyphos is a unique club that is as much a work of art as it is a place to dance. The club features multiple dance floors, a beach area, and even a swimming pool.
Hauptstraße 15.
6) Wilde Renate - This quirky club is known for its eclectic music and whimsical decor. The club is housed in a former apartment building, with each room offering a different experience.
Alt-Stralau 70.
7) Prince Charles - Located in the hip Kreuzberg district, Prince Charles is a popular spot for fans of electronic music. The club is known for its relaxed atmosphere and features a large dance floor and outdoor area.
Prinzenstraße 85f.
8) Ritter Butzke - This former factory space has been converted into a popular nightclub that attracts a diverse crowd of music lovers. Ritter Butzke is known for its great sound system and features multiple dance floors and outdoor areas.
Ritterstraße 26.
9) Griessmuehle - Another club located on the banks of the River Spree, Griessmuehle is known for its diverse programming and inclusive atmosphere. The club features multiple dance floors and outdoor areas, as well as a record store and art gallery.
Sonnenallee 221.
10) About Blank - This intimate club is known for its quality sound system and carefully curated lineup of DJs. The club features a cozy dance floor and outdoor garden area.
Markgrafendamm 24c.
Berlin - The home of Techno & Trance
The main reason that Berlin has long been a hub of creative expression and artistic innovation, with a thriving nightlife scene that has become a global symbol of underground culture, is because the city's dance culture has a rich history, dating back to the 1920s when Berlin was home to the Cabaret scene, and it continues to evolve and flourish today.
One of the most significant contributions to Berlin's nightlife scene is the techno music that originated in the city. Berlin techno is characterized by its incredible driving, repetitive beat, and dark, industrial sound. The music emerged in the city's abandoned warehouses and factories in the 1980s, a reflection of the city's post-war grit and industrial decay.
Famous techno bands that originated in Berlin include Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream, and Einstürzende Neubauten. These bands helped to define the sound of techno and influenced a generation of musicians who would go on to create their own music in the city. But Berlin's nightlife scene is not just about techno. The city has also played a significant role in the development of the trance music genre. Trance emerged in the 1990s as a subgenre of techno, characterized by its uplifting melodies and hypnotic rhythms. It quickly gained popularity in the city's clubs and at events such as the Berlin Love Parade.
The Berlin Love Parade was an annual event that started in 1989 and was held until 2003. The parade was a celebration of dance culture, and it attracted hundreds of thousands of people from around the world to the streets of Berlin. The event was a symbol of Berlin's openness and tolerance, and it played an important role in shaping the city's cultural identity.
The Love Parade also helped to establish Berlin as a center of electronic dance music. The event featured some of the world's most famous DJs, and it provided a platform for up-and-coming artists to showcase their talent. The Love Parade was a celebration of the power of music to bring people together, and it remains an important part of Berlin's cultural heritage.
Today, Berlin's nightlife scene continues to evolve and innovate. The city is home to some of the world's most famous techno clubs, such as Berghain and Tresor, which attract visitors from around the globe. The city's clubs and bars provide a platform for young artists to showcase their talent and continue the legacy of Berlin's dance culture, making Berlin's nightlife and dance culture essential parts of the city's identity. The city's techno music and trance scene have helped to shape the global dance music industry, and events such as the Berlin Love Parade have played an important role in establishing the city's cultural heritage. Berlin's nightlife scene continues to evolve and innovate, and it remains an essential destination for anyone interested in underground culture and electronic dance music.
Comments
I managed to get into Berghain but my buddy didn't pass the dress code. Couldn't miss the chance so I went in myself. Sorry, mate! :)
ReplyBerlin is not for weedy types with adidas shoes - the dress code is tough, and you won't get in any of the cool places if you're dressed like you're on a stag do in Brighton.
ReplyNothing comes close to Berlin.
ReplyWill they ever bring back the Love Parade?
ReplyGoddammit I missed Berlin during lockdown.
ReplyThe home of techno. Nowhere else comes close. Love it!
ReplyI am travelling tomorrow Berlin alone i do know anything
ReplyYou will discover a lot about yourself and meet amazing people! Be brave, let yourself get lost as it is one of the true beauties of life. When you let yourself release control and the universe take over - trust - magical things can happen ;)
Replyplz let me know about that
ReplyI'm travelling to Berlin in November with my friend for her 21st but we are a bit worried about were to go for nightlife as we have heard the door policy is very strict. We have also read on a lot of reviews that it helps if you are older and speak German. We are both young girls who cannot speak any German and are struggling to find help on were is best to go for a good night out. We are wondering if anyone could please help us with what bars and clubs are good to attend preferably techno bars?
ReplyI'm travelling to Berlin in November with my friend for her 21st but we are a bit worried about were to go for nightlife as we have heard the door policy is very strict. We have also read on a lot of reviews that it helps if you are older and speak German. We are both young girls who cannot speak any German and are struggling to find help on were is best to go for a good night out. We are wondering if anyone could please help us with what bars and clubs are good to attend preferably techno bars?
ReplyI'm travelling to Berlin next week with 9 other mates (all male) for my 21st. I was just wondering if anyone on here could shed some light to give a few examples of places we would actually get into as I have read a lot about how strict the door policy is for British males. Any help would be very much appreciated, I just don't want to be wandering the streets of Berlin on my 21st because no where will let us in haha.
ReplyI want to know if there is any exclusive clubs in berlin that play rnb?
ReplyMaxxim Club in the west city. Had an epic night there.
Replymy experience at berlin night clubs esp sky club was epic................berlin nightlife a must if u r gonna visit the country.
ReplySup! Wanna go out tomorrow (tuesday april 5th)...any tips? Hip hop, R&B, reggae, latino,...any fun bar open till late will be good hahaha
ReplyIm travelling to Berlin on Thursday 9th april and am looking for a club open that night I Particularly like techno but many open wed and the weekends. Help please?
ReplyIm travelling to Berlin on Thursday 9th april and am looking for a club open that night I Particularly like techno but many open wed and the weekends. Help please?
ReplyI've never found anywhere better than Berlin for partying and nightlife. Amazing !
ReplyI'm looking for a good nightlife photographer in March 2015 based in Berlin. I'll be there that month.
ReplyHello! Me and my friend we are to guys that are going to travel to Berlin in 2 weeks. From the 13th to the 22nd of February. Does anybody have some tip to which places and clubs we have to visit during our stay over there?
ReplyHi! I am visiting Berlin end of the month, for three days,little fashion trip, getting new ideas n getting inspired by new concepts, I am a 20yrs old, guy looking for a partner who could show me high-end fashion stores and knows about the clothing industry. Please let me know if you interested in helping me out, Thanks
ReplyI would like to thnkx for the efforts you have put in writing this blog. I am hoping the same high-grade site post from you in the upcoming also. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own website now. Actually the blogging is spreading its wings fast. Your write up is a great example of it.
Replyi am visiting berlin and hamburg in april first week 2014. any lady companion interested? mail me at chinu000@gmail.com
ReplyHey everyone! I am going with a friend of mine to Berlin from next saturday until tuesday! I would like to know if there are clubs opened on monday or sunday! We are two guys from portugal, if any ladie wants to join and show some places around, it would be great! thanks
ReplyI will be visit Berlin this coming August for a week and I will be alone please advice which best night club to visit please contact me only lady's lool sweet30@hotmail.co.uk
ReplyHello, me and my brazilian gf will be visiting Berlin from 21 to 24 june 2013. We are looking for a brazilian bar where everybody dances to brazilian (funk) music. If not possible then good latina bar with dancefloor. Thanx and maybe you can join us-)
ReplyI'm in Berlin now. Lots of entertainment even for me with my urban culture background. Find me on Facebook... Kareem cash
ReplyHey guys... A friend and I will be in Berlin in June 2013 (13-17th) and we want some tips about bars, nightclubs where we can have fun....Tks
Replyi want to come and play in berlin night club i am musician from nigeria please give me the detain
Replyhii everybody i will be in Berlin on 10-23 June 2013 please recommend for me ,good places for night life bars,,club,,,i am 26 male,,,is there any lady want to join me ??please this is my contact email,,,alansha20@yahoo.com
ReplyHI, I'm planning on comming to Berlin the first week of september and would like to know some great places to stay & visit, 2th hand stores,lesbian pubs& clubs, restaurants & artshows... I'm 37 and something. Any tips are welcome. lisa@divinglisa.be
Replyhi i going to berlin for ITB show and will be staying till 13th march to c the city as well , any nice bars n clubs recommendation pls advice and if any girll who wana join and show me around the city also drop an email at jas12003@hotmail.com best regards jas
ReplyHi guys! Me and my friend are going to Berlin this summer and are wondering what the best clubs are. We're 19, girls from Sweden! email me: carolineljohansson@live.se
ReplyBackyard Gallery/Club is THE BEST. Once you convinced the (actually pretty nice) doormen you have the fun of your life #Berlin standards. Very trendy, underground, hippest music and people, I LOVE this place
ReplyHi I'm also going to Berlin tomorrow from 1st-3rd Feb 2013. Can you tell me we all the best Rnb, Hip Hop, basement or Afro beat clubs are? we are two young girls mid 20s from london who want to make the most of our weekend out there.
ReplyI'm planning on visiting Mitte, Berlin on 1/2/13 - 3/2/13 with a few mates. And was wondering whether anyone can suggest any good winebars/clubs which play RnB/Hip-Hop/Soul/Soulful House. But above all else, good crowd, 30 plus age group?
ReplyHi, going to Berlin for the first time!!! with my girlfriend, love epicurious dinner,sipping well prepared cocktails and drinking huge amount of German beer before heading to crazy clubbing night, especially drum&bass.... Any suggestions???:P
ReplyHi there I will be in Berlin the 19th and 20th. 42wm lukin 2 meet any ladies or fun couples to party. CU
ReplyWill be in Berlin 21-23 September. Need a lady companion to show me around the beautiful city. I am Indian/ 45/ plastic surgeon
ReplyI am american part of a rap group. Where are the best places to perform or where can we book a gig?
Replyi've been in berlin for 1 month and actually i didnt go out for parties yet coz i had some problems and it is all solved now so if any1 interested in partying plz let me know u know am new nd i dnt have friends yet
ReplyPanorama have an arbitrary entrance policy, with idiotic bouncers who give no explanations for turning people away. Bars around Kreuzberg are ok but filled with snotty Germans who blank all foreigners.
ReplyPossibly going to Berlin for school next year, I like to party and dance. Hopefully I run in to some beautiful european girls and we can party together
ReplyHey, will be in Berlin 15.12-19.12, any good partys then? Two finnish and one german girl searching for unforgetable nights!
Replycan you tell me some good discos or clubs in berlin and if will be any good party betwen 27.10-01.11 2011
Replyanyone know whats going down on 24/09/2011 - 26/09/2011... anything good at watergate or the berghain? will be my first time in berlin
ReplyHey, Been to berlin before but we got so drunk on the first night it ruined the entire weekend..so we are coming back 6th october - 9th. We need I feel some escorts for the nights to help take us to the best clubs. Anyone interested in helping us?
ReplyHi, I'm going to Berlin for the first time in the end of September. I would like to know about the best rock n roll pubs over there n stuff 4 someone whos going to spend only 10 days in there. Thanks
ReplyHi, I will be visiting Berlin, carrying a ping pong bat and some nightclubbing clothes, during the last weekend of August 2011, Sat 27 to Tues 30. If anyone wants to catch up and hunt out ping pong tables (I hear it's quite a big craze at the moment) and possibly do a hop around Insomnia, Kitkat and all those famous clubs, drop me a line. JJ
Replyim looking for a club in berlin that plays all different types of music and where u can also get a table
ReplyI've been living in Berlin for one month now, these are the hot spots for electronic music: Tresor - industrial/schranz techno, and progressive/electro house http://www.tresorberlin.com/ Icon - drum & bass/dubstep, trip hop, and electro (go on weekends) http://www.iconberlin.de/ Watergate - house mostly, this club has an amazing view over the Spree http://www.water-gate.de/ Astra Kulturhaus - not strictly electronic, but they always have a fantastic party http://www.astra-berlin.de/ Often on weekends if you're at the right place, there are free parties under bridges. Check out the Warschauer Strasse/Ostkreuz area on a weekend.
ReplyHI, I'm in Berlin next weekend, 22-25th July, and I'm looking for some good underground clubs to go to, house/electro music. Can anyone suggest some places to go? Thanks
Replyi see how everyone comments the clubs and all but my main question is WHAT ABOUT THE GIRLS?? Im going there in less than a week from now (2. August 2011) and would like to know if it's worth going there for the ladies alone cause i can have fun whereever i can pickup girls
ReplyHi I was in berlin first time it was great but after i visited the clubs i woke up in the hospital with 4.3 promille
ReplyI'm from Cali and have been living in Berlin for a few months! If your into house/techo go to Maria! But don't go until about 2am bc the main headliners go on stage at 6am! Good djs and crowd and be ready to stay out allllll night and morning For bars you will find plenty and transportation is super easy. Definitely pre-game before going into anything. Beers are cheappp at markets, esp little grocery stores. Get wasted :P
Replyhi! im a photographer going to berlin next week. (26th-30th of april) im looking for someone too take me around berlin to underground clubs or big events for me to document and make a story about. contact me if anyone is interested or pass it on if u know someone who does. :)
ReplyHi. anyone know of any small techno clubs in berlin. theres a group of us going to berin from 31st march to 2nd April.
ReplyMyself and m y friend are hitting Berlin 4th March 2011 for a long weekend!! Cant wait to go to all these clubs & bars! Bring it on!!! x
Replymy friends and i from outside glasgow are hitting berlin from january 5th till the 7th, which is a wednesday till friday. are we likely to find any really good clubs in berlin on these nights?
ReplyShoo! Tell me where I need to go clubi´n in Berlin. Me and my art-class goin´there on a studytrip, but I wanna see the other side of Berlin while I´m there. LOVE CLUBIN`!
ReplyHey im a student planning on visiting berlin in september. where is best club for english speaking 18 year old looking for good party? any help would be awesome. thanks
Replyme an a few mates are flying out to Berlin today. to be honest wasn't my first choice of destination. however i hear the clubbing scene there is meant to be good, so who knows...
ReplyHi 7 of us are coming to Berlin on New Years Eve 2011 - any recommendations on clubs or bars - music policy - hip hop, drum and bass, dub step anything urban?!
ReplyGoing to Berlin for New Years 2011. My cousin bailed on me but I am still going! Just seeing if anyone else is planning on going? Need a travel buddy.
Replyhi aleksa, i'm going to berlin on the 27.10, i would like to know where underground party are ?
Replyhey, cody.. I'm interested in same types of music.. I'm travelling to berlin right now, and would love to go out with someone fun, i love drum&bass, jungle, techno.. and good partys, shoot me a msg if u want 2 party together!
ReplyGoing to possibly visit Germany... Interested in the clubs/ rave scane... Anyone wanna help out?? Lol. Going for 3 months, need plans lol :)
ReplyI'm thinking of going to Berlin for a long weekend with my friends for my 21st at the end of January/ early February. We are all serious club-lovers and are into all sorts of music. I've heard Berlin is famed for it's early 90s-esque clubs scene so we're really up for trying some clubs like that. Can anyone suggest some cool, kooky clubs and bars?
ReplyI've heard at the "about blank club" is a decent party friday, 6th of august. as far as I could find out it is a markgrafendamm, but maybe google to make sure...
ReplyHey I'll be in berlin end of august. I have an extra tix to a concert Aug 24th Queens of the stone age if anyone wants to meet up and go let me know.
ReplyHey everyone, Me and 6 of my mates are coming to Berlin on the 29th of July.We love our clubbing, drinking and woman and were wondering were is it all at?places to stay close to the happening spots..
Replygirls watch out im coming to berlin in sept 010, need someone to let me know where the best clubs are at, drinks on me! mojo_mj@hotmail.com
ReplyA buddy and I are looking for a place to stay in Berlin. Since it will be our first time, where is a good area to stay at?
ReplyHey everyone, I'm in Berlin for two months and eager to see alot of the city's nightlife..I've only been to Weekend club so far, so keen to try more! If anyone is interested in meeting up let me know (email is t_moh@hotmail.co.uk). I'm genuinely really lovely :) xx
ReplyHi please could you recommend any places where they play good hip hop, and r'n'b? We're coming for just two nights and would like to explore the Berlin scene...
Replyplenty of evertonians will ne making their way their on 6th August, any ideas of good bars to go?????
Replyoh email address i dont know if im allowed to add my email here. its purple8712@gmail.com super bored. save me :DDxx
Replyin berlin for a couple nights, im up for a few drinks tonight. my friend canceled on my at the last mint, if anyone is up, look me up on facebook or something and let me know! xx
ReplyGuys, 2 British girls here 4 a few nights. We're both 18 but if u look bristish or speek English don't even bother trying at the big clubs. Never met a bunch of doormen who were so up their own asses. If your not from Berlin ur going 2 have a hard time in the big clubs! Just thought we'd let u know!!
ReplyOk kiddies. A lot of your questions will be answered by...me. I'm an American exchange student and have been in the B for about 5 months. Those of you youngsters (>22y/o) will definitely have some problems at the bigger clubs like Watergate and Berghain. You need to look "interesting" "gay" "the part". They are both fantastic joints tho. Weekend is always a sure win for just about anyone. AMPM is always easy for touristy folks. Have to take into consideration the amount of tourists looking to rock these places, but the club managers and door men may not be so keen on letting you in. There are huge image complexes amongst these clubs and they have reputations to uphold. Last suggestion, if you do find yourself in the line at some of the bigger clubs, especially Berghain, try not to appear "western" or speak too much English. Besides that, tear this place up, its a riot folks!
ReplyEyy My sis and I (25-29) stay for the weekend in Berlin, We need to know for the best parties for the w-end!..pls help!!
ReplyHeading to Berlin and would like to meet up with some people this weekend for some fun! Myself, and two other guys Americans looking for a great time!
ReplyI will be in Berlin for one night June 16th from Orlando Florida. Then going to Poland for 1 week before I return to Orlando. Anybody know the area? Wants to hang for drinks?
Replyi am going to berlin in 26th of June staying for 5 nights i need somebody to show me the attractive places
Reply2 girls from Canada looking for someone to show us around :D we are arriving on Wednesday the 19th May 10 YAY
Reply