Trade - Berlin - Germany
Photograph: Trade
Photograph: Trade

The 8 absolute best nightlife spots in Berlin

You’ve got to have at least one big one in Europe’s clubbing capital. This is your guide to the best nightlife in Berlin

Nathan Ma
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There are 101 ways to party in Berlin, and we’re not just talking about clubbing. At any given time of the day (or night), there’s a party somewhere in this glorious capital – you’ve just got to know the right places to look. 

So if you’re looking to hit the clubs, go and check out our list of the best clubs in Berlin (yes, there’s Berghain on there). But if you’re looking for something more alternative, you’re in the right place. For everything from queer parties and 24-hour bars to reggaeton, jazz and hip-hop, here are the best nightlife spots in Berlin.

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Nathan Ma is a writer based in Berlin. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines

Best nightlife in Berlin

1. Room 4 Resistance

What is it? Club music is rooted in underground communities, and Room 4 Resistance brings that revolutionary spirit back to several clubs, including Trauma Bar und Kino. 

Why go? This night is also known for its diversity; Room 4 Resistance highlights the work of non-white, queer, non-binary and transgender artists and extends a promise of safety and inclusivity to make space for the personal and political on the dancefloor. Playlists are lush with a refreshingly broad palette of musical influences from 1980s glam rock to industrial techno and contemporary pop.

2. Pornceptual

What is it? Nudity is far from unheard of at most Berlin clubs, and it’s actively encouraged at Pornceptual’s bi-monthly nights at Alte Münze. 

Why go? Run in conjunction with the queer-interest magazine of the same name, this party is a place to abandon your inhibitions (and trousers) to the tune of accessible techno and electronic music. Inclusivity and diversity are key; the night celebrates bodies of all shapes and sizes – and the willingness to grin and bear it.

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3. Weeeirdos

What is it? One of Berlin’s most exciting nights is the best place to find out what’s coming up strong: with techno sets by some of the city’s most exciting talent, it’s the club night to watch in the German capital.

Why go? Weeeirdos is a travelling showcase that bounces between newer venues and mainstays like Monarch. Rest assured: no matter the venue, it’s the place to be if you’re looking for friendly faces and danceable tracks.

4. Hoe_Mies

What is it? Part-community space and part-club night, Hoe_Mies is for shaking hips and shaking the table. From 1990s R&B to reggaeton and trap music, the party’s a vibrant showcase of massive hit after massive hit. 

Why go? The organisers are particularly keen to make space for women, non-binary and transgender artists to take centre stage – no easy feat in the male-heavy Berlin scene. Check their page for upcoming nights: though sporadic, a Hoe_Mies party is one not to miss.

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5. Buttons

What is it? Lasting well over 24 hours at a time, Buttons is a mainstay on the Berlin queer scene. Previously the club night was held at ://about blank, but the group split with the venue in 2021. Nights now happen everywhere from Club Ost to Zenner – check their website for upcoming parties. 

Why go? Buttons has become a cult classic among queer people due to its excellent music and vibrant crowd. Come for the night and stay for longer – you certainly wouldn’t be the first Buttons partygoer to find themselves still out and about when the sun comes up.

6. TRADE

What is it? A well-established favourite on the German capital’s party circuit, Trade is a travelling night worth looking out for.

Why go? The rotating cast of trendy DJs blends touring talent like Brat Star with local heroes like Lotic and Simon Kaiser for a mix of boundary-pushing beats that defy conventional description. Dress in black and clear your calendar for the next morning: the parties go on late, and you won’t want to miss a minute.

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7. Cocktail D’Amore

What is it? Since its inception, Cocktail D’Amore’s been known for its unbeatable atmosphere. The queer party always has an unparalleled crowd. Its fans were delivered a serious heartbreak when its long-standing home Griessmuehle closed down in 2020. But it kept going, now hosting parties all over Berlin. 

Why go? Clubbing is about community, and Cocktail’s community is tight-knit but welcoming: come with an open mind and be prepared for a good time. 

8. Bodysnatch

What is it? When the Berlin winter sets in, Bodysnatch brings the heat to Monarch. With a colourful mix of reggaeton, grime, Jersey Club and hip hop, the bass-heavy beats warm even the most frigid evenings. 

Why go? If you’re tired of techno, come here for high-energy music and a higher-energy crowd. You’ll find the already cosy venue full – so be ready to bump and grind.

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