5 Can't-Miss Nightlife Spots in Berlin

A place where gender experimentation, techno beats, S&M, left-wing politics and punk rock come together, Berlin is famed for its vibrant and progressive nightlife scene. Whether you wish to dance to acid, electronic, and industrial music at Berlin’s legendary nightclubs, listen to alternative bands at underground venues in Kreuzberg, or pay a visit to some of the best speakeasy cocktail bars in the country, there is no shortage of options for going out at night in Europe’s clubbing capital.

1. SO 36

SO 36 is without a doubt one of my favorite venues in Berlin. I’ve seen hundreds of cool bands from all over the world perform here and attended a bunch of '80s dance parties. Located in the Kreuzberg neighborhood, the club is all about live music performances and alternative lifestyles. From trash metal to hardcore bands, there is something for everyone at this awesome music club in Kreuzberg. SO 36 has a large following in the gay and lesbian communities and attracts diverse crowds of visitors.  

2 Tresor

Welcome to Tresor, one of the oldest techno clubs in Berlin. Situated inside an abandoned power plant in the Mitte district, this venue throws some of the best techno parties in the city with both resident and International DJ’s. The club even has its own record label and apart from techno, plays industrial and acid music.

3 Ramones Museum

Flo Hayler is the ultimate fan of the legendary band Ramones from New York. After spending years of collecting hundreds of posters, t-shirts, and all other kinds of Ramones memorabilia, Flo noticed that his apartment in Berlin was getting way too small for all this stuff. So, what did he do? Flo decided to open the world’s first and only museum devoted to the Ramones. After nearly 10 years in Mitte, the museum was relocated to Kreuzberg. Today, you can find more than 500 pieces of memorabilia ranging from gig setlists, signed photos, and t-shirts to pants worn by a member of the band. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and see acoustic performances and Ramones-related special events.

4 Kitkat

Berlin is definitely not short on weird and unique nightclubs and the one that first comes to mind is the adult-only Kitkat. This S&M club attracts a diverse crowd of visitors and based on the outfit you put on, it will be decided by the staff are you or are you not invited to join their crazy parties. Their Saturday CarneBall Bizarre is one of the most talked-about parties in the city, while Friday evening events offer a more laid-back experience. As for the music, it’s all about trance and techno beats.

5 Green Door

Located in the chic Schöneberg district, Green Door is a popular cocktail bar well-known for its cozy atmosphere and sleek décor. Keep in mind that to get in, it is necessary to ring the bell! Once you get inside, expect to see a stylish interior with furniture imported from NYC and a long wooden counter. Go for the signature champagne-based cocktail called the Green Door and you won’t be disappointed. I like their motto on the entrance that says “the power of positive drinking”, as well as the happy hour that runs daily from 6 to 8 pm.