Tips for Nightlife in Berlin: Your Ultimate Guide

Berlin’s nightlife is legendary, drawing partygoers from around the globe eager to experience its unique blend of music, culture, and hedonism.

From the notorious Berghain and Kit Kat Club to SchwuZ and Tresor, both shaped by marginalized communities like the LGBTQIA+ or Black communities, the city’s clubs offer something for everyone.

This guide will help you navigate the nightlife in Berlin, from what to wear to how to get in and where to eat late at night.

Here’s an overview:

Getting into Berlin’s Clubs: General Tips

There are a lot of myths going around, some true, some less so: Wear black, don’t smile, and so forth. But the following holds true for most nightclubs in Berlin:

1. Research the Club: Understand the specific vibe and dress code of the club you’re planning to visit. One way to do this: Join the Augmented Reality guided tour about Berlin’s Clubs.
2. Respect the Bouncers: They have the final say. A polite and respectful attitude goes a long way.
3. Avoid Large Groups: Smaller groups or going solo can increase your chances.
4. Cash is King: Most clubs prefer cash, so make sure you have enough on hand.

What to Wear for Berlin Nightlife

Here’s what to wear when hitting the streets at night in Berlin.

Berghain and General Dress Code Tips

Do you have to wear black? No! Is it an advantage to wear black? No, not necessarily. It is a myth often seen floating around that you have to wear black if you want it to make past the bouncer of Berghain or other clubs in Berlin.

Unless there is a specific dress code (like for many Kit Kat nights), there are only two pieces of advice that hold true everywhere:

1. Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely be dancing for hours, so choose comfortable shoes.
2. Be Yourself: Authenticity is appreciated. Wear something that makes you feel confident and fits the club’s vibe.

Specific to Kit Kat Club

1. Bold and Creative: Fetish wear, latex, leather, and lingerie are encouraged. Express yourself and your fantasies. No streetwear. This means no jeans & shirt and no sneakers. Also naked is not enough. You want to go extraordinary. It doesn’t have to be classic fetish gear, like leather or latex. Anything unusual, sexy and eye-grabbing could work.
   General rule: Your look will work if you think people will stare at you if you wear it on the streets. 
2. Accessories: Masks, collars, harnesses, and other provocative accessories can enhance your look and raise your chance of getting in.

Best Areas for Nightlife in Berlin

Head to these areas for the most vibrant nightlife in Berlin:

1. Kreuzberg: Known for its alternative and diverse scene, with clubs like SO36 and Watergate.
2. Friedrichshain: Home to the legendary Berghain and other hotspots like Cassiopeia and RAW-Gelände.
3. Mitte: Offers a mix of upscale bars and underground clubs, perfect for a more polished night out. But also legends like Kit Kat and Tresor.
4. Neukölln: A trendy area with a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring quirky bars and clubs. Home to Germany’s oldest queer club: SchwuZ!

Where to Go First

The perfect night in Berlin doesn’t just include one place:

1. Pre-Drinks: Start your night at a bar around Kreuzberg’s Schlesisches Tor, Friedrichshain’s Boxhagener Kiez, or Neukölln.
   In summer, open-air clubs and areas like Klunkerkranich, YAAM, Holzmarkt or Club der Visionäre offer great atmospheres and views for the early evening before heading to the nightclubs.
2. Night Clubs: Some nightclubs open at 10 pm, but most only around 11 pm or midnight, unless they are hosting a multi-day party that has been running since at least the night before already. Still, the queues can start already around 9 pm.
   So plan ahead: Do you wanna avoid long waiting times in the queue? Then it’s best to arrive at the club between 9 and 11 pm or after 3 am.

Related read: The Best Bars in Berlin (Including Rooftop Bars)

How to Get In

Most tips you find online about getting into Berlin’s exclusive clubs, like wearing black, not smiling, or looking uninterested, are myths and often don’t guarantee entry. The best way to increase your chances is to understand the clubs’ histories. This includes the communities that built them, the marginalized groups they support, the sexuality and sexual politics they embrace, the political struggles they’ve faced, the music they showcase, the DJs who perform, and the philosophies they stand for.

A highly recommended way to gain this deep understanding is by joining a guided tour about Berlin’s club culture, such as “The Story of Berlin’s Clubs.”

This tour, featuring Augmented Reality elements, provides an immersive deep dive into Berlin’s club culture, covering the so-called Big Five—Berghain, SchwuZ, Tresor, Kit Kat Club, and SO36—as well as an overview of other significant clubs.

Understanding these elements enhances your appreciation of Berlin’s nightlife and significantly raises your chances of getting in, as the bouncers will sense that you genuinely respect and comprehend the essence of these iconic venues and their communities.

Price: €49
Duration: 4 hours
Minimum age: 18
Meeting point: In front of SchwuZ Club
Tours are in English. German tours available as a private tour.

Book this tour directly with the operator

Late Night Street Food

Do you need a snack while waiting in line or after leaving the club in the morning? Most clubs have take-out food stalls in their immediate neighborhood.

You can also head to any of the “Spätis”: Berlin’s convenience stores are perfect for a quick snack and a beer on the go.

Transport Tips

1. Public Transport: Berlin’s U-Bahn and S-Bahn run 24 hours on weekends, making it easy to get around.
2. Bicycles: Renting a bike is a popular option for locals and can be a convenient way to travel between venues.
3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: These are readily available but can be pricey. Apps like Uber operate in the city.
4. Walking: Many clubs are located within walking distance of each other, especially in areas like Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg.

Ready to Experience the Best Nightlife in Berlin?

Berlin’s nightlife is a vibrant and eclectic mix of music, culture, and freedom. Whether you’re aiming to get into the elusive Berghain, exploring the uninhibited Kit Kat Club, or simply looking to experience the city’s unique club scene, understanding the local etiquette, dress code, and transport options will enhance your night out.

Embrace the spirit of Berlin, and let the city’s legendary nightlife guide you to unforgettable experiences.