This is the very first time I've been denied to enter a venue. I'm a very seasoned clubber and I know the rules, I have hundreds of the most iconic ones around the world under my belt. Apparently their criteria is a marketing strategy to keep their reputation of "a tough club", all the rumors about "the vibes" it's not really true. I saw people getting in that should have not and viceversa. Even the bouncer, a black young girl, didn't look to belong, no offense but she seemed someone who was told to act with an attitude by her boss rather than a professional. Long short story, 1.30hr line around 1.30am, it's part of the game, I knew it, arrived at the door we were two, absolutely properly dressed for the club "rules" and sober and polite, she asked me if I spoke German or English, once I replied English she asked me which DJ I was going for, I told her the ones (Efdemin and Lolsnake were lined up at that hour). She lough and said "not tonight". Really non sense. Once upon a time a club, now it's a tourist attraction where this is the game. read more

Spoke my best German to Sven Marquardt and he laughed at me, but he let me in. Haha! This place is legendary, don't be uptight. You're going to see things you'll want to unsee and you will get solicited for chemicals, it's Berlin. ;) The sound system is phenomenal. read more

This club is ambigous to its own mission. They are said to be liberal but act like the complete opposite. I was watching who they were letting in, and e.g. all the brown color skin people were not allowed to enter. Honestly, there was not even a big queue in front of the club. They try to act like they are tough, but they are going really into the wrong direction without realizing. There were also not too many people inside. This club will soon go from being a legend to being a complete shit and congrats to its employees. I hope you enjoy your lovely job sitting outside all night and having this beutiful power to decide about who can go into your shitty club. I hope you will bankrupt soon. read more

Location: The location can seem a bit sketchy, but I never felt particularly unsafe at any moment. You will most certainly encounter some unusual people outside. The People: After reading so many reviews about it, I understand why they have a strict appearance. But once you are in, pretty much every staff member is as friendly as any staff member can be. Bartenders were amazing. The Venue: - Part of the charm of this venue is the fact that it values privacy so I will not get into specifics, but I will mention general things: great drinks, a dark room, "rest" areas, AMAZING music, unisex bathrooms, really long lines, but great overall vibe inside. You will rarely find pictures of the venue because cell phones are covered with stickers in order to provide privacy for everyone inside, as it should be. A great club. - Upon being accepted inside, and after paying the entrance (which was like 5 euros only), the first ten seconds of entering this club was some of the happiest ten seconds of my life (nightlife-wise). - It opens at midnight on Friday and closes Monday morning. Maybe next time with enough energy drinks I can stay longer than 10 hours dancing. The Drinks: - Vodka shot and Red Bull: I do not remember how much it costs but it was so cheap. So happy. Upshot: The music in this venue can be described as follows: this is THE ONLY CLUB IN THE WORLD that I would personally go to absolutely sober without drinking alcohol (or smoking, etc.) and still have the best time of my life. That is how good this venue is. I got rejected the first time I tried, but the second time I got in. A part of my soul left me in Berghain, and I cannot wait until the next time I go to this venue. This is my favorite electronic club in the world, by far, nothing comes close to it. read more

Berghain - My friend and I are showing off the remnants of our Berghain stamp. - Dance Clubs Near Me - Berlin, BE

Came a 2nd time during a later visit to Berlin, with the intent of checking it out on Sunday. We actually arrived early at 8am, and got rejected. Then showed up again around 3pm (wearing the exact same clothes) and made it in. So my recommendation is to come later for easier entry as the club is probably a little emptier. It still had a fair amount of people as we entered and the crowd seemed to be more locals than Saturday night. It got busier later in the night. Tips: -ice cream bar also sells smoothies, sandwiches and coffee. Smoothie was quite good -if you do go on Saturday night, the stamp will cover your entrance till Monday morning. So you can go and rest up on Sunday, and then return later in the evening -we left Sunday dinner to grab dinner and some fresh air at a nearby restaurant -Sunday has more locals. Saturday night is quite touristy and has a long line -this time I wore hoodie, black tank top and dark shorts (in pretty cold weather) read more

Berghain - Dance Clubs Near Me - Berlin, BE

(JUST BE OLD) I was rejected at the door for being, "to young." Unfortunately, I think the club is going for an older more rugged crowd and discriminates against anyone who looks under thirty years old. Personally, I was very upset because they refused to even check the age on my passport. I'm 23 years old and unable to grow facial hair so naturally I have a young look. Extremely disappointing that this place would discriminate solely on an age assumption. I wish I could give a proper review regarding the quality of drinks or the atmosphere... However my two hour waiting experience ended promptly at the front door by two old men saying, "du bist zu jung." (You are to your) :/ .... Good luck finding young guys there! read more

Very Strenge Security Personals. There could be a better way of selecting who should come in, and who not. read more

I'm 1-for-1 at the Berghain and still to this day... I'm not sure how I managed--especially after getting rejected from Tresor on earlier on in the week. In my mind I was already prepared to get hit with the "nein, next." Honestly I don't think my writing could do this place justice and I've been putting off this review since the moment I left the club. Prior to flying out to Berlin, I did my fair share of research and the closest review that mirrors my experience was the one published on The Vly House by Nick (a must-read if you're a fan of the Berghain or any Berlin nightclub). I rolled up on a Sunday afternoon (Unity Weeeknd, extended holiday), bottle of whitebier in hand, extra clothes in my bag, stank RBF on full. I kicked a few cigarettes while waiting in line just to pass the time while feeling the weight of my phone in my pocket, which I did not dare to pull out. If you're gonna take photos or video, take all of your footage while you are hundreds of meters away. There are cameras outside of the entrance from which the security watch you even before you reach the metal gates. After an hour's wait, I reached the front, eyes fixated on everyone but the security guards. Sven wasn't present, but I think I would've been incontinent of urine had he been there. One of the security members began to ask me questions while the others continued to watch the line from the surveillance TVs inside. He asked me: if I spoke German or English, if I had come alone, where I was from, why I travelled all the way from DC to Berlin, and how old I was. After answering all of his questions, he told me to wait. And it was the longest minute of my life--longer than a treadmill or microwave minute. I felt myself trembling harder than I had during any class presentation, and I tried not to make eye contact with anyone. Finally, the security member waved me inside. After a quick pat down, cover fee of 15 euros, and the precious arm stamp, I had entered church. read more

Berghain - 29/09/2017 stamp - Dance Clubs Near Me - Berlin, BE

If I could give -5 stars, I totally would. A cute mid-30s couple, hot russian chick and handsome man from Venezuela. We are turned down by a skinny dude in adidas shorts that have a length of a toddler sock. Meanwhile 99% people let in are obviously Gay. I have absolutely nothing against LGBTQ, but I don't appreciate false advertising (totally my problem, but that's what reviews are for). Even Uber driver, who drove us to Berghain said he came and left after 40 minutes. He also told us not to go inside dark rooms... so basically if you combine online reviews, local people's opinions and observations of people getting in, it's a 100% LGBTQ club and if you are straight, u r not getting in. Would be nice if this place didn't pretend they are exclusive but instead just were open about their preferences for visitors. It's a cheap ass trick to be advertised as 'so hard to get in', 'guest list' bla bla. It's probably an amazing Gay club and respectfully the management should have guts and courage to advertise and promote it as such rather than call it exclusive and turn down cool random sober tourists in black, as positive and kind as anyone can be. Double F*ck to the liars and pretensious morons. read more

If you like ice cream in an industrial environment: the snackbar is a must see. They also serve vegan smoothies, bananas and sandwiches. At the panorama bar you can also order espresso. Prices are more than fair and the food is fresh. I was a bit disappointed when I found out that non of their sandwiches are vegan. Keeping in mind that the line can take up to 3h I think this place is great if you happen to be around. Also: smoking is allowed at this venue. I didn't mind but might the relevant for others. read more

I've been attending Berghain since 2008 and was in Berlin for ten days in July 2022. Berghain was fab as always, managed two visits and was in the club for nearly fifty hours over the two weekends. Please heed caution now they no longer issue an ink stamp so you can return to the club. They now issue a plasticy bracelet. Upon returning from having a shower they thought I had been tampering with it or had borrowed it from another. A burly thing popped out and cut it off as the corner was slightly peeling. I thought they were going to simply replace it but I was told to leave. I managed to rejoin the queue and paid another 22 euros - and I definitely got my money's worth - but be careful with your bracelets ravers! read more

Longest line ever Way too many dudes (no shirt/pants is apparently ok?) Same song for 3 days No VIP Bathroom is gross, very messy and confusing. No photos allowed but i still take this one read more

Best ice cream in Berlin! And for only 1.50. They also have amazing smoothies..try the acai! Always long bathroom lines but I guess people like to take their time in Berlin. Music is okay..but go for the ice cream and you won't be disappointed! read more

One of the most peaceful and accepting places on earth I know. Nowhere else (and I travel alot) did I found a place (i.e. a crowd of people) that is so accepting, open-minded, peacful, tolerant. It is just a perfectly safe, closed area where you literally can do whatever you want without anyone getting offended by that "whatever". Feeling like dancing naked ? Go for it - No one will stare at you / judge you / make stupid jokes etc. Feel like talking to completely strangers from all over the world ? Go for it - very seldom have I gotten strange looks for starting conversations with total strangers. Its just a very safe and welcoming atmosphere. The "safety" is also included in the architecture - there are no dead-ends anywhere. Even in the toilets you always can keep on walking and walking without getting "stuck". Besides it has great great music, one of the best sound system in the world and great DJs - but in my opinion, what makes it so special and unique is the attitude of the majority of the crowd. This obviously doesnt happen "by luck" or "by chance". It is the direct result of their very strict door policy. They try to select (within seconds - only based on outward appearance) who has this tolerant and open mindset and who - on the other hand - might be offended by the stuff going on inside. So if you get rejected, and think they made a "wrong" decision, as you think you have the right mind-set to accept anyone doing anything in front of you - dont be upset - the bouncers are only humans and cannot see "inside your head". They just have to make a very quick decision which they get most of the time right. To get rejected can also happen to regular "church goers". Once you have been inside and experienced the spirit I tried to explain above, you will understand and respect the very important work the bouncers do in order to keep the spirit and "safe-area" feeling inside intact. So if u got rejected, dont be sad/upset/mad; just go to one of the other great clubs of Berlin (e.g. Sysiphos or Golden Gate) and try it again another day with Berghain. read more

Berghain - Entrance to the Church of Techno. - Dance Clubs Near Me - Berlin, BE

If you can get in (the hype about the door is actually true), GO. I lived in NYC for 10 years, and I've never seen anything like this. Uninhibited is the name of the game, and every floor feels just as much a human art exhibit as the wildest party you'll ever experience. People fly in to try their luck on a Friday and stay the entire weekend. There's a cafe, multiple bars...you have no reason to leave, and many don't until it closes Monday afternoon. I danced, drank, took naps in booths, spent hours on a swing, and saw some truly beautiful things. Go. read more

I grew up in South Africa during a very violent time in history. The only place I felt I could fully be myself, express myself and be safe doing it was at an underground dance club called the Playground. When I walked into Berghain I was overwhelmed with happiness to have found such a place again. What Davy W says is so true: "One thing I adored about the club was the entire lack of attitude from everyone I saw. Every single person I saw there was present in the moment, concentrating not on making a scene or being seen, but rather participating and engaging in a massive group expression. I've mostly been in American clubs where a macho bro or a shrieking Trixie can kill the mood for everyone else. That didn't happen here, and I can't imagine it happening. I think that might be the reason that it seems like you have to be German to get in - I think it's possible that German people just know how to behave better than tourists who want a notch in their club belt." It's an Art to be able to curate a club full of people so that you get that fantastic energy. I feel that Sven and the doormen must be Wizards in their understanding of people and energy. read more

One of the best experiences of my life. Being selective is an important part of life. Having standards and expectations can be used positively. While there is a line to cross, in which we all flirt with one way or another, desired results are acquired when we focus on preferences and don't settle. The sound is amazing. The crowd is perfect. The drinks are delicious. The music is fantastic. I'll always be fortunate to have danced the night away-literally. Highly recommended. read more

Adolf Hitler would have been very impressed with this club. I am author of multiple open source softwares which are being used everywhere by all humans for free. (including Germany) I was visiting form USA, for giving talks about my open source projects in different countries in Europe. A german college urged me to visit Germany and Berlin and specifically this place. I read the reviews before and people mentioned they are racist. I didn't want to believe that till I see it for myself. I dressed very professionally and showed up! First of all what a terrible part of the city. tens of drug dealers approached me, people puking on the side walk and there was no easy way to get there by public transportation. After passing all the drug dealers and heroin consumers, I arrived there around 11:30 pm, I didnt see any line as I had expected ! Then I noticed a very dirty door and two guys with dirty t-shirts were infront of the door. I told myself, that couldn't be the entrance of a famous place that a colleague would urge me to see as part of a german life experience ! The bouncers started yelling stuff in German, and one of them translated "He is saying Not for you !" I said why what are the requirements ? He responded, Requirements is not you ! he was extremely rude. and said "we don't need to tell you what is our requirement." I explained the guy I visit Germany only for 2 days and this was on my list. but I don't think their english was good enough to undrestand me or their racism was blocking their comprehension. This was a terrible first impression of Germany and ruined my beautiful cross country euro trip. This place is not a good idea for non-germans to visit. This place would have been shut down very easily in united states or any other civilized country. I suggest to the owners of this place to avoid spreading hate and wasting people's time, frankly write a honest policy what they expect to enter this place. If this is just for a pure aryan race who can only speak german, just be brave and say that, so people don't waste hours of their life and spread hate across humans. read more

What can I say? It's Berghain! I have been here a handful of nights for shows. Ugly building, but the darkness really does the interior some favours (although nothing can redeem those disgusting bathrooms... luckily the backstage ones are much nicer). The sound is pretty good; people rave about it but I don't think it's exceptional, although it's not terrible either. The Panorama Bar is probably the nicest part of the building. A few things to note: no cameras, there is a coat check with a "snack bar," earplugs are free here, and there is no Pfand. read more

I've thought a lot about Berghain since my visit this weekend. I've read a lot about how frustrating it is to get rejected. I was lucky enough that I and my friends were allowed in after a brief interview, and I had a spectacular time. The venue itself is astounding, with the high ceilings and worn-down walls and fixtures really giving you the feeling that you're in an entirely different reality once you step inside. One thing I adored about the club was the entire lack of attitude from everyone I saw. Every single person I saw there was present in the moment, concentrating not on making a scene or being seen, but rather participating and engaging in a massive group expression. I've mostly been in American clubs where a macho bro or a shrieking Trixie can kill the mood for everyone else. That didn't happen here, and I can't imagine it happening. I think that might be the reason that it seems like you have to be German to get in - I think it's possible that German people just know how to behave better than tourists who want a notch in their club belt. So what I might recommend, if you really want to go here, is that you reexamine the reasons you want to spend an evening at Berghain. Is it because you've heard of it, and it's a status thing? Is it because you bought a shitload of drugs from one of the dealers outside and you want to get fucked up enough that someone else has to take care of you because you over indulged? Is it because you spent $400 on your new shoes and you want everyone to see them? This might not be the place for you. But in my case, I'm a middle-aged, heavyset, bearded, American gay man in a black t-shirt and jeans who wanted to listen to amazing music, dance with his friends, and make new friends to dance with on the floor. And I think the doormen saw that in me, and that's why I got in. And I'm super grateful for that. Just an amazingly great experience. read more

The unsettling truth is that this place is a racist, nationalist and even classist club. I cannot tel you what it's like because I've never been inside. I have been rejected four times from this place, following the code I read about since I was little, and having read the lineup and gone at all sorts of hours. There's no real pattern except: 1. Be white 2. Speak German 3. Buy extravagant and expensive fetish wear I watched in line as dozens of people of color got rejected, as people from other countries got rejected and saw people with expensive designer clothes, people who could pass as German get in. People who don't have the luxury -- yes, luxury -- of wearing a crazy hairstyle because of work -- all rejected. In 2017, if your party isn't accessible and public it is not radical. If this is a party for Germans, they should ask for ID cards. If this is a party for techno die-hards, they'd ask the lineup and if you knew it you could get in. The fact is they judge you bases on your appearance. It's a party for a specific class of the bourgeoisie, of traits of a specific race, and nationality and the extreme prejudice of three doormen. The fact that Berghain is still supported by others is alarming and striking. Berlin is a place of acceptance and social equality. There are dozens of other Berlin parties that non-white people, people who can't afford fetish, and people who don't have the luxury of dying their hair green can go to. This place thanks of itself as avant-garde but it's only helping to reinforce discriminatory narratives that don't represent the values of the techno or Berlin community. Even in allegedly exclusive New York or London you'll encounter parties that are accepting of multiculturalism. read more

This is my review of Club Berkgain the famous electro-music club. I went to Burkgain for the 1st time 2 listen to the techno music and do the butt drugs in the room with the sex. I flew to Berlin only for this from drunk Alaska. I was rejected despite being a wormy Jew lesbian wearing all black (only hash instead of weed all week to make sure I was all black!) and with no smile, but the men in black rejected my present of Capri-suN juice w/ multivitamins. I only wanted 2b nice. Who doesn't like juice?! I have many gay friends but not here. will never be returning to this place. GO TO WATERGATE INSTEAD. I have heard very good tech-house there and sometimes people even say they like the way I dance 1/5 stars for ambiance out front--Saw many influencer with unique black kilts and fashion from the future: inspiring. Thanks, Jill from Alaska, age 45 read more

On DJ Mag's ranked 13th night club in the world, it definitely scores high. But on my personal list of night clubs, it could be the hardest club to ever get into. Why? Because it doesn't matter how much money you have, how pretty you are, or who you know. Everyone waits in line (sometimes up to 4 hours in the rain or snow)-- there is no bottle service, and you'll be banned if you try to bribe the bouncers. Berghain exists because everyone that goes in is considered equal. The DJs who effortlessly perform, do so in the back in a corner unseen from the crowd because they wish to be one with the floor. The night club takes over an abandoned power plant and people from all over the world try to get in and experience the beauty within the sound that Techno brings. The parties are most known for starting at midnight on Saturday and going until Monday at noon, so I've seen people take in their toothbrushes. You cannot sleep if security sees you sleeping you will be kicked out. What to wear: So every tourist that comes to Berlin thinks you have to wear black, no heels or dresses, only Jeans or sneakers. Hair not done with no heavy make up and to look serious at the door. But to be honest that's not entirely true. The door policy is somewhat of a myth and the majority of people who get turned away think it's because they're racist. Some nights they do like to keep the crowd German, and keep out tourists but there are so many Syrian refugees (I give each one a hug every time I meet them, they've been through hell and just want to be in a safe place), Japanese nationals, and even Americans inside (that can all speak German...) so its somewhat diverse. What I've been told by my German friends who go nearly every weekend, is that they are looking for individuality. Piercings, dyed hair, tattoos are always a plus (even more so if it's on your face or neck). Being gay is a plus, since Berghain is historically known for being an underground illegal gay club before the Wall came down (but now it's 75% straight with dark gay sex rooms available to use, hah) And don't be afraid to wear color, you don't have to wear entirely black even though that is the unspoken dress code rule, I've seen people go in wearing yellow rain jackets and pink hoodies. Sven, the notorious Berghain bouncer with the spider tattoo on his face (he wrote an amazing autobiography about his experience as a bouncer for Berghain- read it!) only works for special events now, but the story is told that he would glance into your soul and see if you were the right energy for the party. So my best advice is be yourself, if you don't get in don't be upset. Germans even get denied because they want to keep the crowd more touristy, just know that you probably would have a better time somewhere else. There's over 20 clubs in Berlin. And each one is just as amazing. read more

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I love the hype around this place. Went 5 years ago, reviewing now, but still to this day remains an epic memory. I went in totally innocent, just hyped up from my Berlin-native friend telling me how exclusive it is and how you have to have a certain look. Left there in such a daze with lipstick smeared all over my face. Everyone was so friendly, and the venue is just so epic. It truly was an experience worthy of the epic tales people still tell of it. read more

For one of the supposed best nightclubs in the world, my expectations were high, and I left disappointed. Maybe it was just an off night. I didn't want to wait in the infamously-long line, so I started my night at another nearby club and then went to Berghain at 5am. When I arrived there was no one in line. I walked right up, said "Hallo" to the bouncers, and was politely waved in with a "Please. Have fun." in English. I'm in my 30s with piercings, a rainbow mohawk, horn implants, and from the USA - and wore rainbow sweatpants (...over a leopard print catsuit and harness ;-) ). The patdown/search was pretty light, mostly for weapons or an obvious stash of drugs, but was quick, and the guy was professional and also wished me a good time. Cover was E18. Coat check was E1.50 and I received a necklace with my number. The place seemed kinda empty tbh, which was good because there was plenty of room to dance, but not so good because it felt like the energy level was lacking. Many people looked 'freaky' like me; people were friendly/respectful, but it wasn't a "happy having a great time" vibe, but more of a "serious/doing my own thing" vibe. The people seemed to be in age from late 20s/early 30s to late 40s/early 50s and it was a very diverse crowd - it felt about 60% men/40% women, and there were plenty of non-white people. I did not get the impression that the bouncers were racist one bit. The techno on the main floor sounded kinda uninspired, as was the house music being played upstairs at the Panorama bar. The sound system was alright, but did not live up to expectations for supposedly being one of the best in the world. I've heard better systems at Brooklyn raves or half the sound camps at Burning Man. Call me jaded. All of the bar tenders were friendly and polite, service with a smile, and also have free earplugs available behind the bar. They all spoke English. I was really pleasantly surprised by how nice the staff were, given their reputation. Anyways, I ended up leaving after 3 hours and returned to the club I was at before because I was just bored. I'm gonna give Berghain another shot next weekend because maybe it just wasn't "popping" like usual - I like their concept, but didn't really have fun. To everyone complaining about the door policy, they are very selective for these reasons: a) Sex and drugs are rampant and they dont want prudish people standing around and staring at people and being judgmental. The point is to make it a "safe space" for open-minded freaks to 'do their thing' without being hated on by the general public. b) They dont want amateurs who will get messed up and can't handle themselves, or causing trouble. You know, the young drunk bright-eyed-bushy-tailed European c) No spectators! Participants only. Come to dance and have a wild good time. Do NOT come because you heard how great it is and just want to check it out/say you were there. c) They don't want posers who try to act like someone they aren't, just because you read online that you need to wear all black, speak German, don't speak until spoken to, and all that other crap. The bouncers can spot a phony amateur before you even get to the front of the line. I felt like they did a great job of selecting the "right" people, and everyone inside exemplified the vibe - freaky, wild, and hard-core. No children, no BS. d) Plenty of women and 'people of color'. Don't blame the bouncers for being racist or not admitting you because of your nationality just because you didn't get in. e) All the reasons that people complain about for not getting in - like "speaking English" or "not being German" or whatever else - are just arbitrary reasons to tell you to go away. You weren't rejected because you don't speak German. f) When thousands of people line up every weekend and try to get in, and most of them all look the same (wearing black), it's hard for bouncers to determine who can and who cannot 'handle it'. So yeah, the decisions may seem arbitrary, but the bouncers are good at what they do, and professional about it. Tips for getting in? Act mature. Be self-confident. Don't pretend to be someone you are not because they know if you are trying to BS them just to get inside. Don't wear chic fashions because they know you're going to be a spectator and not mess up your nice clothes. Wearing boots helps because it makes you look like you're there with a purpose - to dance in the midst of broken glass and urine and coke baggies. Most important - just DO YOU. If you don't get in, maybe Berghain just isn't for you, or it just isn't your night. There are tons of other nightclubs nearby, so have a backup plan. tl;dr: Berghain is over-rated, but is a serious nightclub for serious party people. And the staff are really cool. read more

Best Techno Club on planet Earth! I really loved it! The sound and clima system is amazing! Be comfortable seeing dicks and naked people and come alone! You'll love it! Was there after Fashionweek - so we were 12 models (8 girls) and only 2guys and 2 girls got in! Doesn't matter how good you look or how many girls you have! If your VIBE matches you get in!;) read more

The music is a bit heavy, but overall a very nice place with a funny bouncer)) the rest of the staff is also good, I liked everything except the prices read more

Part of why the Berghain is great is because they are able to curate a great crowd. Reading some of the other reviews I want to correct a few misconceptions. 1) They are not racist. If you've been inside you'll know there are people of all different nationalities and backgrounds. I've seen a Japanese school girls, an old man in PJs, a person in a wheelchair. It was as diverse as a college promotional photo. 2) People don't really go here for New Years. While it is fun New Years celebration here isn't as big as it would be in other places; mostly tourist go on New Years. 3) The door policy isn't exactly RANDOM. It's generally pretty obvious who will get in. If you think that you'll be let in cuz you're a bunch of pretty girls think again. This is the door to get your ego checked. Fat checkbooks won't get you in. read more

Drugs. Booze. Friends. Sex. Awesome fucking techno. Metal swings. Lose your mind and have the best time of your life. If you're dark twisted morbid then you've found your wonderland. If not this place is your nightmare. If these aren't things you're into then you will not get in. If you do get in you'll be miserable. Have fun falling down the rabbit hole. read more

This club was both amazing and scary at the same time. I discovered it by complete accident when I happened to be in Berlin for Easter weekend a couple years back. Apparently that particular weekend is a special party weekend for Gays at this club. The exterior of the building is an old soviets era looking multi level building that looks more like a town hall then a dance club. However, the EDM and strobe light beaming from the windows make it clear it is anything other than a government building. The line to get in on this particular night was some 2-3 hours. Luckily I had been invited by some people I was talking to online (grindr) and they let me join the queue with them, shortening the wait to about 45 minutes. When you get to the head of the line, a bouncer decides if you are fit for entry. I was advised to say as little as possible, to be cool, calm and collected. He allowed me and my friends to enter. From there we paid the cover which was about €28 at the time. Then it's onto the clothing check. I was told it's not good to have much on you as this place can be scary and theft is possible in the darkness. I checked all my clothes with the exception of my underwear, tennis shoes and socks. They used a magic marker to write 2089 in my arm to indicate my number to later retrieve my belongings. Entering into the main bar area, it looked pretty night club-esq. The music was loud, the lighting low, but dance lighting was present and there was a well lit bar. Most everyone was naked or nearly naked. I ordered a drink and then decided to go explore. On walking through a hallway to the next room, people were literally having sex. I stopped and observed for a moment astonished by this club as it was nothing I had experienced before. What laid ahead was even more astonishing. The next room was a large open room, similar to a warehouse. It had guys milling around, going through to others rooms, standing and watching as people came and went. There was also large canvas tents setup, similar to army style tents. When you'd go in the tents there was large tires, and chains and people engaged in sex, groping, touching, and oral sex. Nothing appeared to be off limits. Moving on, you could descend a flight of stairs into what I would describe as the catacombs. This was an area that was much darker then the rest. There were little closet size cubby openings that were big enough for a couple people to step in, in which sex was happening. There was also a row of tables, not normal tables; sex tables. These were at the height that would allow someone to stand there while another was on the table for sex. Above the table was a metal bar that ran the length of the row, this bar had paper towels on it and provided something for someone to hold onto during their sexual exploits. There was also a row of swings. I saw unimaginable things here. I.E. Fisting. Climbing another flight of stairs lead to more of a dance floor type room, again anything goes, but it was mostly dancing. Everyone was pretty respectful of space and boundaries. Sure, people would touch and certainly gather to watch, but if a touch was unwanted, pushing the offending hand away was typically all that was needed. I really didn't see any condoms being offered so bring your own. Drugs were present and available. I was there for maybe 3 hours. I've heard that some stay the entire weekend without leaving. I'm sure this place has bathrooms but I didn't see any. read more

What a wonderful weekend at the Berghain. A friend from London and I were having a coupla drinks in a fancy bar and met a guy from Texas, i believe. We told him about the club and he was happy to come along. We were pretty lucky to get him in. And he seemed pretty amazed about the ongoing party. We somehow lost him in the club. I bet he too had a good night. read more

I would have given this place 5 stars but I got some poop on my brand new Mahnolos. I would have given this place 5 stars but I got some poop on my brand new Mahnolos. I would have given this place 5 stars but I got some poop on my brand new Mahnolos. I would have given this place 5 stars but I got some poop on my brand new Mahnolos. read more

This is a serious place, where they're serious about techno, and serious about partying. No detail is overlooked. The door policy exists to facilitate a proper mix of insanity and respect. You want to get in? Ask yourself a few questions first. Have you ever been to a gay club? Were you comfortable there? More importantly, was the gay clientele comfortable with YOU? Berghain and Ostgut emerged from the gay community, and the gay community is still their backbone. Do you often party until the sun comes up? Can you keep yourself together for the duration, or do you get wasted and black out? Can a bouncer surmise that you're a seasoned party machine just by looking at you? Berghain has enough of a crowd coming through that they don't need to take chances on just anyone. So who gets in? Lone wolves. Techno freaks. $300 black shirts. 6 foot tall/100-pound models. Old men (40+). Record geeks. Gay men who will to take their shirts off. Hip hetero tourist couples. Bondage gear. If you're thinking about going with a bigger group, don't. It's not that kind of place. Never gone to a club alone before? Try it sometime. The dancefloors are huge and the party goes on and on and on. The selective door keeps people inside respectful, so you can dance for actual days without interruption. All that said, there is a downside. The club's reputation makes it a magnet for those who want to show off their black outfits or brag to friends back home. You may see tourists having techno epiphanies as though they've never danced before. There are worse problems to have, I suppose. read more

perhaps the most nerve wracking moment of my life was the 15 seconds standing in silence before Sven as he peered into my soul. and nothing compares to the validation felt when he gave the nod of approval, granting permission to enter the church of techno... berghain... yes it has its flaws. yes, it can be very touristy (especially sat nights - those lines jezus christ). but after spending 12 hours there in one weekend, all i can say is... wow. i will be back soon : ) read more

A lot of "minimalist" reviews of this place but not many with specificity, so I'll try to explicate, first on getting in: 1) NO GROUPS OF BLOKES. Seriously, I've seen even two (e.g. Americans on their own, dressed perfectly nicely for clubbing) get ejected, unless they're gay. (And yes, darlings, this is Berlin and Berghain is always at least partially gay on most nights and particularly gay on Saturdays, so the bouncers can discern the difference between two straight blokes and a gay couple (or pair of friends)). Don't even think about showing up with three or more gents unaccompanied by ladies. 2) LADIES: ABSOLUTELY DO NOT DRESS UP. Seriously, this isn't London or NYC, and you're walking into what is basically a rave. Repeat after me: YOU WILL NOT GET IN, PERIOD, IF YOU'RE WEARING HEELS. Your odds of getting in wearing a dress or short kit are slim as well. Dress COOL -- think Bohemian, with jeans and tops that don't display your cleavage -- along with SENSIBLE SHOES. Trainers are perfectly respectable here. Again, leave any "glam" sensibilities at home for the night, at least if you want to get in (and regardless of how hot you are/think you are/wish you were). So ... SMALL, mixed groups, with a slight male lean (e.g. three gents, two ladies) -- dressed "cool" but not "touristy" (and yes, they can spot "chav" gear from a mile away) -- are your best bet of getting in. If you don't pass muster at the door, WALK AWAY. Do NOT put up any sort of fuss; you will only embarrass yourself further. Anyhoo ... once you're inside, head straight to the second floor for some heavy house, and upstairs (to the very top) to chill out. Drinks are surprisingly cheap, considering the club's notoriety. The queue outside starts forming about 45 minutes prior to the (scheduled but usually late) midnight opening, and stays long pretty much all night. I cannot attest to Sunday afternoons, as my stamina is not *that* great, but I hear the door's easier but still no sort of cinch. To go back a bit, to the part of actually getting there: a taxi's your best bet, but should you go the public transport route, I'd *highly* recommend noting *detailed* directions on a mobile phone prior to departure. You'll want to head right after exiting the Ostbahnhof station, but from there it's too confusing to explain here. If you see taxis exiting onto Strauss der Pariser Kommune, you're on the right track. Or you could really do it like a local and drive yourself there in a Car2Go, but you'll need to plan well in advance for that one. read more

Lol, walked over, said "hi" to the bouncer, he looked at us and said "you don't get in." Oh okay great, bye. Guess don't say hi. Don't even try to speak English. 1:37am, Friday night, no queue, still strict as fuck. read more

My wife and I went clubbing twice in Berlin, on a Friday and a Saturday, and we went to Berghain/Panorama Bar both times. On Fridays, only Panorama Bar is open, not the full Berghain experience, which sealed our decision to return on Saturday. We got in both times. The poor reviews of this place tend to be from those who didn't get in. So read through all the reviews (especially Jeff K's), and look elsewhere on the web for tips, so that you're prepared for what the door men are (and are not) looking for, both in dress and behavior. It's not, as some suggest, random, but the simple fact is that at least 50-60% of the people in line do not get in, so do have a backup plan- there are plenty of cool places to go in Berlin. And if the casual chic streetwear which predominates here isn't part of your style already, then maybe you'd have more fun at a different club anyway. You don't have to go to this club just because. More importantly, if you're not into some serious dancing to some serious techno and tech house, on a very smoky, very hot, and very sweaty dancefloor in a gritty industrial setting, versus "I just wanna go out and get shitfaced with my friends and jump up and down to music I recognize", then save yourself the bother. Go find those other clubs where you will have a fun time doing that stuff. You can also look up Berghain on the web for a lineup of who will be playing, if that helps you decide. And when I say "techno", I don't mean some catch-all phrase for EDM for which many people use the term, at least in the States. I mean TECHNO. Example of some who didn't do their homework: Ahead of us in line were a group of four Swedish women, already drunk, loudly singing songs, all wearing brightly-colored department store dresses and wedge heels, commensurate purses hanging from their shoulders, with hairdos done up just so. They were having a great time in line, and I hope they continued to have a great time wherever they ended up. But they didn't get in, they couldn't understand why, and they spent a futile minute or two trying to get an explanation from the door guy. They didn't get one. A few dress notes: less than 5% of the guys there had button-up shirts on. Nearly all of the women had on flat shoes or sneakers. Less than 5% of the people in general were wearing anything brightly colored, few to none with anything like a traditional print or logo. T-shirts and tank tops, yes, but most with a non-traditional cut or style. We were there in summer, so shorts, yes, but of the variety you'd see if you'd spent any time wandering around Kreuzberg that day, which you probably should do whether you're researching Berlin street clothing or not. In general, think basic street cool. Practical notes: There are vendors selling beer and food on the street outside. If you get any, be done with it (and any conversation) well before you get close to the door. We were approached by a dealer while in line, but didn't try his wares. As stated by others, when you get to the front of the line, one of the door guys will ask you how many you are, and if you know your Kraftwerk classics (as anyone entering this place should), then you already know how to say "1...2...3...4...", etc. in German (smaller numbers being better, of course). And don't forget the mistake the guy made when holding up the wrong fingers in Inglourious Basterds! While the door guys do know that a good portion of the crowd isn't German, it seems to help to at least try to fit in. You will be searched upon entry, told not to take photos (you may be sorely tempted to anyway; resist this urge or risk being forcibly ejected, possibly camera-less), and then pay and get stamped (€12 on Friday, €14 on Saturday as of this writing). Next is optional coat/bag check (€1.50; I think they have snacks and other random stuff as well), and away you go. The bar has a drink menu, which makes things a bit easier on you. As usual, beer is cheapest (€3-4), mixed drinks are more expensive (€7-8). Bottled water is also cheap, but if you're broke, Berlin tap water is very good, and there are plenty of partiers drinking it in the unisex bathrooms. Good luck, and do bring sunglasses for the trip home! read more

Now, I've heard alot about this place, was really looking forward to a gourmet bergher. Waited in line for ages, had to pay to get in!!! Couldn't find a table, the music was too loud!!! no menus, noone took our order, noone in sight. I took my boyfriend here expecting one of those notorious berghers but they didnt even serve wedges!!! WORST DINING EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE!!! the berghain is overrated read more

Everyone raves about Berghain, until you realize Berghain is exactly that. It is one of those clubs that parties for days... I actually slept in between partying and showed up at Berghain around 7am to party until 2/3pm. Day party you say - it's like the night never ended. You rarely hang out with the people you go in with... and well, avoid the darker areas. Actually why, do it all! Eat icecream, make out with strangers, wear chains, swing, do the dirty - openly and let your kink side role. read more

There should be a six-star option on Yelp specifically just for Berghain. It is a rare, rare occurrence that your expectations for something are extremely high, and not only are they met, but they are exceeded. Berghain did just that. It took my expectations and mocked them with it's all mighty awesomeness. We showed up at about 7am on Sunday morning, we had left our Saturday night event at about 4am, but waited a while to head to here in hopes the line would die down. It wasn't too bad, we were inside pretty quick, and I must admit I felt pretty special when groups were getting turned down in front of us. If you don't want to get turned down, don't talk loudly in English, don't dress like you're not there to dance, and don't be a tool. Huzzah! When you first enter, it's a big coat check area and then you ascend the stairs into the beginning of the chasm that is the night club area. Words can't describe the sensation of walking up the stairs, through the smoke, the music growing louder and louder and then being in the thick of it. It's fucking awe inspiring. If you're really into techno, and old power plants. Which any sane human is. The dimensions of this place are ridiculous and it's hard to really even picture it. The ceilings are 18 meters high, and there are different rooms and levels all over the place. It's a giant, seemingly never-ending techno mecca. The sound system in the main room is unreal, one of the best I have ever heard. And they bring in a top-notch selection of DJ's to really put it to good use. I could go on and on and on, but I'll just tell you that if you're on the fence, get the fuck off of it and get your ass to Berghain. read more