Berlin – Europe’s No. 1 for live music. Here, legendary techno clubs redefine the party experience. One place in particular stands out: Berghain – regularly listed among the best clubs in the world. An underground club that catapults you into new worlds. Originally opened as a gay club, today it is a space for everyone – with a sound system that sets standards, world-famous DJs and a raw, industrial atmosphere that is second to none.
But the entrance is notorious – hardly any club has a stricter door. Berghain stands not least for Sven Marquardt, the iconic face of the door policy. Few people are as closely associated with the club as he is: with his distinctive look and penetrating gaze, he has long been a Berlin legend. But how do you get past him – and the rest of the door crew? How do you actually get in? We’ll show you how you can significantly increase your chances next time.
1. dress code – black is the main thing?
The dress code is probably the biggest concern for many people wondering how best to get into Berghain. And yes, the outfit definitely plays a role – but is black really compulsory? Not necessarily. Whether black, white or colorful: it’s not about conforming to a certain look, but about looking authentic. The club is not looking for uniformed members of an all-black cult, but people who present themselves genuinely and convincingly.
Outfits that look like a disguise are rather unfavorable. A good rule of thumb: Am I wearing the outfit – or is it wearing me? That’s what it’s all about – and this authenticity also characterizes the special atmosphere inside the club. If you prefer to wear color, feel free to do so. The only thing you should avoid is high heels – not only because they are uncomfortable, but also because they don’t really fit the setting stylistically. Overall: not too chic, not too glam – after all, Berghain is an underground club and not a gala.
2. show attitude – or not?
Should you look cool or smile? How do you behave in the queue – and what can you expect when you stand in front of the doorman? Many people are unsure how they should present themselves. But the most important thing is to stay relaxed and natural. Have normal conversations with your companion, but don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself. The bouncers should only notice you when it is really your turn.
An absolute no-go: appearing drunk. Nobody wants to let in guests who are already in danger of crashing outside. Pushing is also not well received. When you’re standing in front of the doorman, attitude counts: radiate that you belong. Or as DJ Peggy Gou puts it in a nutshell: “You have to look like you’re ready to go in.”
3. what time to queue?
Your chances of getting into Berghain also depend heavily on when you queue. Friday or Saturday night around 1 or 2 a.m. is rather unfavorable – that’s when most people are in the queue and the longer it is, the more difficult it is to get in. A little tip: The Instagram account @berghainlinelive posts regular updates on the current queue – so you can check live when it’s really worth waiting. It’s best to arrive before midnight or on a Sunday morning. The crowds are often more relaxed then – and you still have a full 24 hours to party.
4. alone, as a couple or with a crew?
Your company also plays a role in deciding whether you get in. If you turn up in a group that’s too large, it’s usually difficult – especially if the constellation doesn’t fit. For example, four women in a group often have worse cards than a mixed team of four consisting of two women and two men.
While a high proportion of women is desirable in other clubs, Berghain strives for a balanced ratio. The club was originally opened as a gay club and is now open to everyone – nevertheless, men often get in more easily than women on average.
5. do you know which DJ is playing?
You go to Berghain for the music, for the experience – not just to be able to say later that you were there. That’s exactly what the bouncers want to see: People who are really interested in the sound and culture of the club. That’s why it’s worth knowing the DJ sets, especially on the night you want to go. After all, some of the most renowned DJs in the world play at Berghain – it would be pretty embarrassing not to know who’s playing. Another plus: knowledge of German. The bouncers may also speak English, but if you can answer in German, you’ll feel a little closer to the scene.
6. take a selfie – or not?
What is absolutely undesirable in Berghain: the cell phone camera. People come here to be themselves – filming or taking photos would interfere with this freedom and is considered disrespectful. Even in the queue, you should leave your cell phone in your pocket – selfies or stories in front of the entrance are not well received. Inside, the camera is covered with a sticker anyway, but the bouncers are already watching outside to see who is only there for the social media moment and who wants to experience Berghain in its pure essence.