If Berlin is known for one thing, it is for its music scene. People from all over the world travel to the German capital to experience for themselves what everyone is talking about. It’s not for nothing that Berlin was named the live music capital of Europe. The city offers an enormous variety: from classic bars and indie spots to listening bars, which create a new sound experience with high-quality sound design and a relaxed atmosphere. But in one category, the city dominates like no other: Techno clubs.
Pulsating beats that get body and soul moving. A feeling of freedom, ecstasy and community – for many, techno is not just music, but a way of life. Anyone familiar with the scene automatically associates Berlin with techno. It can be heard in clubs, at illegal open-air festivals, and soon perhaps even in subway stations – thanks to a new project in which DJs are to play at various stations. But with so many options, the question arises: where is the best place to rave? We show you the best techno clubs in Berlin so that you are guaranteed to find the right bassline.
1st Berghain
Berghain is probably the best-known techno club in Berlin – and not just among locals, but worldwide. The club is associated with legendary line-ups, top international DJs, uncompromising sound quality and the infamous doorman look. Admission is considered to be one of the toughest of all: who gets in is decided in a matter of seconds based on dress code, attitude and indefinable bouncer criteria.
A long queue is guaranteed here – thousands try to get in every weekend. And yes, the chances are rather slim. But those who do manage to get in are in for a first-class club experience. Inside, people dance until well after sunrise, sometimes for days on end. And if you need a short break, you can relax in the Panorama Bar area with its impressive views.
📍 Am Wriezener bhf, 10243 Berlin
2. ://about blank
Friedrichshain is also home to another club that has long been an integral part of Berlin’s techno scene: ://about blank. Originally started as an illegal venue, the club has become one of the most popular addresses for electronic music since its official opening in 2012. Inside, ://about blank is deliberately raw and industrial – perfectly attuned to the vibe of house and techno beats. Especially in summer, the spacious garden becomes a highlight: with open-air floors, retreats and a relaxed festival feeling in the middle of the city. Events such as “Buttons” or “Homopatik” reflect the club’s open, inclusive atmosphere and musical diversity – with line-ups ranging from local talent to international DJs.
📍Markgrafendamm 24c, 10245 Berlin
3rd Sisyphos
One of Berlin’s most legendary techno clubs is located in the Lichtenberg district: Sisyphos. The club has been playing on the site of a former dog biscuit factory since 2009 – and has since established a firm place for itself in Berlin’s nightlife and festival culture. In the Hammahalle, the main floor, everything revolves around driving techno and harder beats. The Wintergarten, on the other hand, offers more melodic sounds – house and deep house dominate here. And on the floor called Dampfer, guests can expect a mixture of tech house and more experimental sets.
📍Hauptstraße 15, 10317 Berlin
4th Tresor
Originally started in the vaults of an old department store, Tresor moved to a disused thermal power station in Köpenicker Straße (Berlin-Mitte) in 2007. The place captivates with its raw, industrial charm – and musically with hard techno with a strong Detroit influence. The basement floor (Tresor) is dominated by raw, uncompromising beats, while the Globus (first floor) plays more melodic house sounds. In the summer months, a garden area enhances the club experience with relaxed open-air vibes. The club has made international techno history with its own label Tresor Records. Tresor is not only a star of the club scene, but an integral part of Berlin’s music history. Tresor owner Dimitri Hegemann has lent his former door to the Humboldt Forum –
📍Köpenicker Str. 70, 10179 Berlin
5th Ritter Butzke
Industrial design with unplastered brick walls, high ceilings and creative lighting design – that’s what makes Ritter Butzke one of the city’s most renowned techno clubs. Initially opened in 2007 without official permission, the club temporarily moved to the former “Karl Marx” party college before returning to its original location with official permission in 2009. Today, Ritter Butzke offers several dance floors as well as an open-air area for the summer. Electronic sounds – from driving techno to groovy house – are played by local and international DJs.
📍Ritterstraße 24-27, 10969 Berlin
6th Renate
You can get lost while raving here! Renate delights with a labyrinthine layout of numerous individually designed rooms – a unique backdrop for dancing the night away to driving techno. The playful furnishings range from baroque wallpaper to disco balls and in the garden there are hand-built swings and cozy seating areas to take a breather. If you’ve never been to Renate, it’s high time you did: it’s due to close at the end of the year. The reason is an expiring rental contract with no possibility of renewal. However, the operators are already working on a new location to keep the Renate’s techno tradition alive.
📍Alt-Stralau 70, 10245 Berlin