Berghain

Overview

Berghain is the world's most famous techno club, occupying a brutalist former power plant near Ostbahnhof. Known for its marathon weekend sessions, legendary door policy, and cathedral-like main floor, it has defined Berlin's electronic music culture since 2004.

Highlights

• Main floor: A 18 m–high turbine hall with a Funktion-One sound system and no natural light.
• Panorama Bar: The upstairs floor with wraparound windows for house and electro — sunlight floods in on Sunday morning.
• Berghain Kantine & exhibitions: The ground-floor bar and occasional art installations.

History

Opened in 2004 by Michael Teufele and Norbert Thormann (formerly of Ostgut), Berghain is named by merging Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain. The building is a 1950s thermal power station.

Visitor Tips

• Door policy: Famously selective — dress dark, come late (after 01:00), don't take photos in the queue.
• No phones: Photography is strictly prohibited inside; phones get a sticker over the camera.
• Duration: 3–12+ hours.