Berghain

Berghain is the best-known club in Berlin and one of the most famous in the world. It occupies a huge former power station near the Ostbahnhof, on the border between Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg, and since opening in 2004 it has become a symbol of the city's techno culture and of the freedom of its nightlife. The name combines the two districts it sits between, Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain.

The building houses two main spaces. Berghain itself, on the main floor, is a vast concrete hall with a powerful sound system and a focus on techno. Upstairs, the Panorama Bar is smaller and lighter in mood, with house music and large windows whose shutters are famously opened at moments during the morning. The weekend Klubnacht usually starts late on Saturday night and continues for many hours, often into Monday, and people come and go throughout. Line-ups feature resident DJs alongside international names, and the programme also includes concerts and other events, all listed on the official website.

Berghain is known for its door policy. There is no guest list for most visitors and no dress code that guarantees entry, and the door staff decide who comes in. Many people are turned away, especially at peak times, so it is best to go with an open mind and a back-up plan. Groups tend to have less luck than individuals or couples, and it helps to know who is playing. Inside, photography is strictly forbidden, and phone cameras are usually covered with stickers at the entrance; this rule is a big part of the atmosphere and must be respected.

The club suits experienced clubbers and music fans rather than casual visitors looking for a drink. Expect queues of an hour or more on Saturday nights; arriving on Sunday afternoon or evening is often more relaxed. Bring cash, as payment options can be limited, and keep your belongings to a minimum. The minimum age is 18, and ID may be checked.

The nearest station is Ostbahnhof on the S-Bahn, about ten minutes' walk away, and Warschauer Strasse is also within reach. The East Side Gallery and the Spree are a short walk south, and the bars of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg are close by for before or after.