When it comes to nightlife, few cities in the world can match what Berlin has to offer. From house beats that make the dance floor tremble to intimate lounges that offer spectacular views, these seven clubs are among the coolest to be found in the German capital.
Opened last year by the owners of the former Bar25 and current KaterHolzig, Chalet is making waves in Berlin’s clubbing scene. Housed in the center of Kreuzberg in a 150 year-old building, it’s a must-visit for the trendy and style-conscious. Chalet also hosts a number of art exhibitions in the upstairs area, while the outdoor beer garden welcomes those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
One of the oldest and best-known clubs in Berlin, Cookies has long maintained its reputation as a full-on party institution. The venue’s DJs mix electric funk with minimalist house rhythms, making for a perfect partying scene for savvy and style-conscious Berliners.
White Trash is a quirky, all-in-one club, burger joint, tattoo parlor, smoking cinema and tiki shack. After grabbing some good old-fashioned American food in the restaurant upstairs or (why not?) a spur-of-the-moment tattoo, head downstairs for music ranging from ’50s rockabilly to retro and garage to punk.
Situated on the banks of the canal, the spacious Club der Visionaere is known for its open-air partying, though it also hosts a small indoor dance floor. The club gets busy on the weekends, when an after-hours crowd fills up the place. With a chilled atmosphere, a resident DJ playing house and electronic music, and cheap drinks, this is the perfect venue in which to unwind and dance after a long day.
Berghain/Panorama
Berlin’s premier clubbing spot, the unique Berghain/Panorama still welcomes thousands of clubbers every week, with mammoth lines just to get in the door. Boasting a simple décor, the imposingly large space attracts all sorts of clubbing enthusiasts, ready to party through the night and following day.
Once upon a time, Golden Gate was a creaky joint lurking under a railway. These days, the place has rebranded itself as a cool, small techno joint that has brought some life to its still-minimalistic interior. the venue’s small garden is popular on summer nights, and visitors can divide their time between a raucous dance floor and relaxed sitting area in cooler weather.
No list of Berlin clubs would be complete without Tresor, the infamous venue that’s been around in various incarnations since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Currently situated in Kreuzberg and spread over three floors, the enormous space plays host to both renowned international DJs and newcomers.
(Main image: © iStock/Thinkstock)
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
whose Berlin guide covers all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas in the city
