Head to Kater in the early afternoon so you can laze in the sun by the Spree, sip a Pfeffi-Red Bull and, when the mood strikes, amble inside to the dancefloor. You’ll find perfect people-watching fodder in the mixed crowd, from fresh-faced new arrivals to hardcore partiers from the previous day. (free or €5-10 according to programme)
Michaelkirchstr. 23, Kreuzberg, U-Bhf Jannowitzbrücke
Part nightclub, part circus, Sisyphos only opens its doors every two weeks, giving every fête (entrance €5-10 ) the feel of a festival. With its bright lights and variety of bars, dancefloors and food, the fact that it’s in Lichtenberg doesn’t really matter because you probably won’t leave for two days anyway. Non-clubbers will enjoy the outdoor area, which has plenty of seating and spontaneous entertainment from performers and patrons alike.
Hauptstr. 15, Lichtenberg, S-Bhf Ostkreuz
The former Heinz Minki was revived by the ex-Bar25 crew as Chalet, a 19th century-themed club with a fairy-lit summer garden and outdoor bar. Music is largely electro with light to heavyweight names gracing the decks and churning out the beats beneath the bowers (entrance €5-10 ). And, no doubt, being within friendly spitting distance of their bohemian, river-folk neighbours at Club Der Visionäre (entrance €3-5 ) hasn’t hurt either.
Chalet, Vor dem Schlesischen Tor 3, Kreuzberg, U-Bhf Schlesisches Tor, Thu-Sun 17-1, Fri-Sat 19-3
Club der Visionäre, Am Flutgraben 1, Kreuzberg,U-Bhf Schlesisches Tor, Mon-Fri 14-close, Sat-Sun 12-close
Just past S-Bahn Sonnenallee on the former grounds of a pasta factory lies this relaxed open-air spot. The staff ride around on tricycles as patrons chat on wooden benches, swings, old sofas and even two repurposed Trabants. a typical day goes as follows: outdoor hangout, post-sunset bonfire, then dancing in the adjoining three-floor building. Great music, no cover, non-touristy, very industrial, very Berlin.
Sonnenallee 221, Neukölln, S-Bhf Sonnenallee