How to get into the Βerghain
How to Get Into Berghain: The Ultimate Guide
Berghain is more than just a club—it’s an institution, a cultural phenomenon, and a rite of passage for techno lovers worldwide. However, getting past its notoriously selective door policy is no easy feat. If you’re planning to experience Berlin’s most famous club, this guide will give you everything you need to know to maximize your chances of getting inside.
Dress Code: What to Wear to Berghain
While Berghain doesn’t have an official dress code, there is a clear aesthetic that tends to work best. The golden rule? Dark, minimal, and effortless.
• Black is King: The majority of the crowd wears all-black or dark tones. Flashy colors and extravagant outfits are generally frowned upon.
• Underground, Not Overdone: Berghain favors a look that is stylish but not overly curated. Think techno minimal, industrial, and alternative styles rather than high-end designer fashion.
• Leather, Mesh, and Edgy Looks: Leather jackets, mesh tops, ripped jeans, and combat boots are all popular choices.
• No Formal Attire: Avoid suits, button-up shirts, or high heels. This is not a place for polished fashion—it’s about self-expression and blending into the underground scene.
• Comfort is Key: Remember, the club is hot, packed, and intense. Wear something breathable and comfortable for hours of dancing.
• Fetish and Alternative Styles: Since Berghain has its roots in Berlin’s queer and fetish scene, bold looks such as harnesses, latex, and minimal clothing are often seen inside. That said, don’t force it if it’s not your style—authenticity is key.
Dress Code: What to Wear to Berghain
While Berghain doesn’t have an official dress code, there is a clear aesthetic that tends to work best. The golden rule? Dark, minimal, and effortless.
• Black is King: The majority of the crowd wears all-black or dark tones. Flashy colors and extravagant outfits are generally frowned upon.
• Underground, Not Overdone: Berghain favors a look that is stylish but not overly curated. Think techno minimal, industrial, and alternative styles rather than high-end designer fashion.
• Leather, Mesh, and Edgy Looks: Leather jackets, mesh tops, ripped jeans, and combat boots are all popular choices.
• No Formal Attire: Avoid suits, button-up shirts, or high heels. This is not a place for polished fashion—it’s about self-expression and blending into the underground scene.
• Comfort is Key: Remember, the club is hot, packed, and intense. Wear something breathable and comfortable for hours of dancing.
• Fetish and Alternative Styles: Since Berghain has its roots in Berlin’s queer and fetish scene, bold looks such as harnesses, latex, and minimal clothing are often seen inside. That said, don’t force it if it’s not your style—authenticity is key.
Best Time to Arrive
Timing can significantly impact your chances of getting in. Here’s what to consider:
• Avoid peak hours: The longest queues form between midnight and 3 AM on Saturdays. Your best bet is to arrive either early (around opening time) or later in the morning when some of the crowd has already left.
• Sunday mornings are ideal: Berghain is famous for its marathon parties that last well into Monday morning. Many regulars show up on Sunday morning or afternoon, when the door staff is often more relaxed.
• Skip Friday nights: If there’s a special event, Fridays can be particularly tough due to a high volume of tourists.
Group Size: Should You Go Alone or in a Group?
Your group size matters at Berghain. Here’s what to keep in mind:
• Going alone? Good idea. Many solo visitors get in because it’s easier to blend in with the regulars.
• Small groups work best: If you’re in a group, stick to two or three people max. Large groups—especially those that look like tourists—often get turned away.
• Mixed-gender groups tend to have better chances than all-male or all-female groups.
• Don’t look lost or overly excited: Move with confidence and don’t appear like you’re “trying too hard” to fit in.
Behavior in Line: What to Do (and What NOT to Do)
The way you act in the queue can make or break your entry. Here are the do’s and don’ts:
DO:
• Stay calm and collected—acting too eager or overly chatty can work against you.
• Know the lineup—if a bouncer asks who you came to see, mentioning a resident DJ like Ben Klock or Marcel Dettmann can show that you’re genuinely there for the music.
• Speak as little as possible—short, confident answers work best.
• Keep your phone in your pocket—snapping photos or checking maps screams “tourist.”
DON’T:
• Don’t talk loudly or be overly social in line—Berghain values a mysterious, low-key energy.
• Don’t drink too much beforehand—showing up visibly intoxicated is a guaranteed rejection.
• Don’t ask questions at the door—if you’re rejected, accept it and walk away.
The Door Policy: How the Selection Works
Berghain’s legendary door policy is known for being unpredictable, but some patterns have emerged over the years. The club’s bouncers—led by the iconic Sven Marquardt—are selective, but their decisions are based on more than just appearance.
• They want a diverse crowd: The club aims for a balance of locals, regulars, and newcomers. If the crowd seems too mainstream or touristy, they may turn more people away.
• Confidence matters: Hesitation, nervousness, or awkward behavior can signal that you don’t belong.
• They’re looking for real techno fans: If you genuinely love techno and underground clubbing, you’ll have a better chance than someone just checking it off their “must-do” list.
Entry Fee and Re-Entry
• Expect to pay around €20–25 at the door.
• Bring cash—credit cards are not accepted for entry.
• If you leave, you might be able to re-enter with a stamp and wristband for an extra fee.
What Happens Inside Berghain?
Once inside, you’ll step into a world like no other. The main room features intense, driving techno, while the Panorama Bar upstairs offers a more melodic house and tech-house vibe. The lighting is minimal, the sound system is world-class, and the atmosphere is completely uninhibited. People from all walks of life come together to lose themselves in the music.
Rules Inside:
• No photos, no videos. Your phone camera will be covered at the entrance, and taking photos inside is strictly forbidden.
• Respect everyone’s space. Consent is key, whether you’re dancing close to someone or engaging in more intimate activities.
• Stay as long as you like. Many people party for 12+ hours—Berghain is a marathon, not a sprint.
Final Thoughts: What If You Don’t Get In?
Even if you follow all these tips, there’s never a guarantee you’ll get into Berghain. If you’re rejected, don’t take it personally—it happens to thousands of people every weekend. Fortunately, Berlin has many other amazing clubs where you can still have an unforgettable night.
Other options include:
• Sisyphos – A festival-like open-air club with a great vibe.
• Tresor – One of Berlin’s original techno clubs with an industrial feel.
• Ritter Butzke – A more intimate but still energetic club.
Whether you make it into Berghain or not, the true spirit of Berlin’s nightlife lies in openness, exploration, and self-expression—so go out and enjoy the ride.
Protect your ears without missing the music—check out rave earplugs for high-fidelity sound protection at Berghain.
