Well, Guten tag music fans!
The intriguing city of Berlin has always been synonymous with music and has a rich musical heritage that spans multiple genres. Since the eighties, it has attracted acts like U2, Depeche Mode, Billy Idol and many more British acts inspired by the city’s creativity.
Berlin is a city that breathes music. It is known for its rich musical heritage and is home to some of the best clubs, venues, and record stores in the world.
Are you ready to experience the vibrant and diverse music scene of Berlin? Whether you’re into underground techno clubs or classical concert halls, this music guide to Berlin has got you covered and then some that will help you make the most out of your trip to the German capital.
Here are some must-visit spots for any music lover as explored by our Music Editor Emma Harrison:
Dance the night away in a club!
Berlin’s nightclub scene is world-renowned and it’s easy to see why. Techno and electronic music are huge here and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to trip the light fantastic into the wee hours.
When we say wee hours, we are not joking and most people turn up to a nightclub in Berlin at around 1-2am in the morning. From underground clubs to techno institutions that are world-renowned, the German capital offers an incredibly diverse and vibrant nightlife scene that’s not to be missed.
Make sure you check out the Berghain which has garnered quite the reputation for being a techno institution. It truly sets the standard for all other clubs in the city. Other top-notch clubs to check out include Tresor, Watergate and KitKat, yet another famous techno club, is also worth a visit.
Not really into techno, try YAAM for chilled reggae vibes, Matrix for hip-hop and rap and Havanna Berlin for latin beats.
Stay in a music-themed hotel
The nhow hotel in Berlin’s hip riverside near the Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain neighbourhoods, is one of the coolest hotels in the entire city. Music is everywhere and if you love to eat, sleep and listen to music 24/7, then then nhow is most definitely for you.
Not only is it achingly-cool when it comes to the decor with pink interiors, oversized gumball machines and oodles of music memorabilia, the hotel also provides guitars, keyboards and even DJ equipment to hire to your room.
The hotel also puts on live music performances from local bands and musicians who take to the hotel’s own dedicated stage to entertain the guests.
Hit up the record stores!
If you’re a music collector, you’ll be pleased to know that Berlin is home to some of the best record stores in the world. Not only can you add some treasured gems to your collection, but it’s also a pretty cool claim to fame to tell your friends that you ‘bought it in Berlin!’.
From Oye Records, a small but mighty shop with two branches throughout the city that specialises in house and disco to the highly unique 33RPM which is a specialist in the fantastic krautrock.
33RPM is located inside the cafe Mukkefukk in the Kreuzberg district and you can combine diving into all that vinyl with some of the best coffee in the neighbourhood at the same time.
Watch some live music
If going clubbing isn’t really your thing, there’s no need to worry as Berlin has lots to offer every kind of music lover. Whether you get mesmerised by classical recitals or prefer to rock out, you are certain to find a music venue that gets your blood going.
From the Philharmonie Berlin which has some of the most incredible acoustics to the eclectic Lido which is a great place to enjoy intimate gigs across a range of genres.
One of the best music venues has to be the Columbiahalle, a former bus depot turned concert venue that hosts a wide range of both local and international acts. From charming indie bands to stars of hip-hop, be sure to check out who’s playing whilst you are in town. We went and saw the enigmatic Father John Misty who put on a first-class performance.
If you are in Berlin over the summer, be sure to check out a music festival which is an absolute must for any music lover. Berlin is also home to some of the best festivals in Europe. From the world-famous Love Parade to the eclectic Fusion Festival, there’s always something happening in the city.
Make sure that you don’t miss out on the annual Berlin Music Week, a festival that brings together musicians, industry professionals, and music lovers from all over the world.
Take a music tour
Berlin is synonymous with some of the most critically-acclaimed music albums of all time. From Heroes by David Bowie to Achtung Baby by Irish rockers U2, there are a variety of different music tours in Berlin that you can enjoy and immerse yourself into.
The Berlin Music Tour is a must-try music tour for anyone interested in exploring the city’s music scene. The tour takes you on a journey through the city’s music history, from the early 20th century to modern-day music which includes a visit to iconic music landmarks such as Hansa Studios.
You can even take dedicated music tours pertaining to bands and musicians like David Bowie, Depeche Mode, and more.
When it comes to music, Berlin has something to offer every taste and budget. From techno to classical, from underground clubs to concert halls, there’s always something to discover. It truly is a city that has something for every music lover. Get out there and explore – you never know what you might find!
Don’t forget to pick up a Berlin WelcomeCard which can be purchased for between 24 hours and 6 days. You can use it to navigate your way around the city with free transportation whilst using the card. It also gives you up to a 50% discount on several of the top-notch attractions that can be found throughout the city.
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