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14 Best Cocktail Bars in Berlin (To check out while in the city)

December 2, 2021

Variety is the spice of life and what better way to add a little spice to yours than by checking out the best cocktail bars that Berlin has to offer.

If you didn’t already know, Berlin is famed the world over for its, diverse, surprising, and sometimes even surreal nightlife.

It stands to reason why many who visit this gorgeous city would be looking for the best spots to get their drink on.

But there are so many options to choose from. Do you go for the tried and tested local hotspots? Or go in blind? Well, the answer is simple, you trust us of course (wink wink).

So without further ado, let’s have a look at some of the best cocktail bars Berlin has to offer.

1. Beckett’s Kopf 

cocktail tour berlin

First up on our list we have Beckett’s Kopf.

This bar, characterized by its dark and atmospheric interior, and iconic picture of Samuel Beckett is one for the books.

Berlin loves its intellectual spark, and it shows. Don’t be surprised if you overhear a couple of strangers exchanging playful, cheeky comments on the existential dread of life over Mexikaner shots at the bar.

Keep in mind, you’ll need to ring for access into Pberg’s favorite

2. Café Salut 

cocktail tour berlin

This relaxed, laid-back cocktail bar in Schöneberg cannot resist enticing you with its charming French flair.

An assortment of fruits and herbs gives the drinks an extra touch of freshness. This makes it impossible not to fall in love with this enchanting Parisienne atmosphere!

During the day you can enjoy their tasty, wholesome coffee creations or brownies. But when the sun sets, you and your friends can indulge in one of their naughty cocktail creations – expect things to get interesting.

Later on, in the evening, DJs play funk & soul rhythms for all ages.

Whether it be for a coffee or a tequila sunrise, Café Salut is the perfect place for a catch-up.

3. Barbie Deinhoff’s

cocktail tour berlin

Next up is a local Kreuzberg pub, Barbie Deinhoff’s . This establishment is an alternative art gallery and indie rock venue that exemplifies the Kiez life at its finest.

Additionally, it serves as an LGBT+ performance place for queer nightlife.

You can expect bright rooms filled with a young, all-inclusive crowd getting together over cocktails and dance music suited to the occasion.

Two-for-one Tuesdays draw even more cash-strapped locals from all walks of life trying to save money on some of the best cocktails in Berlin. 

4. CSA Bar in Berlin 

cocktail tour berlin

You may find yourself feeling like you’re in a time capsule when visiting this cocktail bar in Berlin.

With its panoramic windows offering views of old Berlin, this bar has been one of the city’s most elite nightlife destinations for many years. Why? Because there are no TVs or loud music to compete with good old conversation

Honestly, it just feels wholesome being at this place. It is simple yet elegant with just enough vintage charm to make you feel content.

A trip down Karl Marx Allee will transport people back even further. The street is lined on both sides by historic buildings dating back as far as the last century. 

5. Windhorst’s

cocktail tour berlin

Günter Windhorst’s traditional, honest and small bar is a haven for those of you seeking serenity.

Gently curved wooden tables, cozy seating areas, and long communal tables all form part of this establishment. Pick your spot and enjoy stiff old-school cocktails with a modern twist from your favorite bartender.

All while feeling chić, old-school, and modern at the same time! 

6. Klunkerkranich

cocktail tour berlin

Here comes everyone’s favorite – and soon to be yours.

The Klunkerkranich , which translates to “wattled crane,” is less exclusive but more representative of Berlin’s scruffy and unpretentious ethos. What’s more, it has an unforgettable rooftop experience.

It has a terrific atmosphere with breakfast options for those who’d like to start their day off right.

On top of some tasty delights, this place also provides a play space for kids – toys included.

All in all, if you’re looking forward to meeting new people from all walks of life, this place won’t disappoint. It truly knows how to make you feel welcome no matter what background you come from!

cocktail tour berlin

The Shochu bar in Uma Japanese Restaurant is an excellent spot for you to enjoy some unique drinks prepared with strong Japanese liquor.

These delightful, aromatic items are made from distilled rice or potato and come complete with exotic materials for flavoring!

This cocktail scene is one of Berlin’s most exciting. From classic, cognac-based beverages and gin martinis to saffron bouquets of jasmine blossom flavored drinks — there are cocktails for all possible tastes here!  

8. Hotel ZOE

cocktail tour berlin

Looking for a unique and refreshing G&T experience?

Look no further than Hotel ZOE’s Gin & Tonic Bar . Their talented bartenders will craft you a drink tailored to your exact specifications, using some of the finest gins from all over the world.

With stylish décor and a perfect location in the heart of Hackescher Markt, Hotel ZOE is the perfect place to relax and enjoy one of life’s true pleasures – gin & tonic.

While you’re there be sure to check out their gorgeous terrace too! 

9. Buck and Breck 

cocktail tour berlin

The award-winning Buck and Breck cocktail bar is a must-visit in Berlin.

With just fourteen seats, it can be hard to get in. But the intimate atmosphere and world-class cocktails are well worth it.

The sleek, modern interior was designed by Swiss architect Bask and is the perfect backdrop for enjoying one of the bar’s creative cocktails.

Whether you’re looking for a unique night out or want to experience some of the best cocktails in the world, Buck and Breck is sure to impress.

10. Stagger Lee

cocktail tour berlin

Welcome to Stagger Lee , the bar that puts a spin on your average night out!

Stagger Lee offers old-fashioned shots and cocktails sometimes served alongside cigarettes to complete the authentic saloon feel.

The bartenders mix up classic cocktails with a modern twist. So whether you’re looking for something old-fashioned or new-fangled, they’ve got you covered.

11. Herr Lindemann

cocktail tour berlin

Step into Herr Lindemann on Richardplatz, and you’ll feel like you’re in a different world.

The menu is designed to seem like a plant encyclopedia – the pages are decorated with herb illustrations and detail the medicinal properties of each herb.

But this isn’t just some stuffy old herbalist’s shop – the cocktails here are top-notch and perfectly suited to a warm spring evening.

12. Schwarze Traube

cocktail tour berlin

The Schwarze Traube is a unique gem of Kreuzberg that offers tailor-made cocktails to its guests.

Yes, no menus!

Owner and bartender Atalay Aktas was named Europe’s best bartender in 2013, so you can be sure that the drinks here are of the highest quality.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed night out with friends or a lively evening in the town, the Schwarze Traube is worth checking out.

13. George R

cocktail tour berlin

George R is the place to go to in Moabiter for an upscale drinking experience.

With a focus on mixology, the drinks are always perfectly crafted and will make you feel right at home with the trendy, young crowd.

Whether you’re looking for a nice craft beer or something more complex like a Kehle öl, George R has you covered.

cocktail tour berlin

The Icebar is the perfect place to escape the heat and explore the cold.

Here, you can enjoy delicious drinks in cold glasses at -10 degrees.

But be warned – after no more than 20 minutes, you may want to head back into the real world.

Additional beverages can be enjoyed in their lounge area, where you can warm up and relax. We hope you have a great time at the Icebar!

  • Read also: Top Climbing Gyms In Berlin

Original Berlin Tours

Tour Details

The original berlin pub crawl.

The Original Berlin Pub crawl is like no other. Come see the best parts of Berlin’s nightlife.

Crawl with us as we take to the pubs and bars and end the night in one of Berlins Biggest Night Clubs. Here is your ticket for a good night out! Need to know the best place to go? Don’t worry we have it covered. Come hang out with us, as we find our way into some of Berlin’s best nightlife!

The new years eve pub crawl includes 2-hours of open bar.

cocktail tour berlin

This is “ The Original Berlin Pub Crawl, ” the best social pub and bar tour in the city. We tour the famous Simon-Dach Straße and experience the nightlife in Berlin’s alternative district. This guided tour meets at a cozy bar and stops for drinks at a range of venues including cocktail and shisha bars, Electro Lounges, Rock and Steam Punk Bars, and the final stop is one of Berlin’s biggest clubs . Our informative guides are there to show guests a side of Berlin that won’t be found in guidebooks.

The Original Berlin Pub Crawl Includes:

3+ berlin awesome pubs, bars, clubs, dance halls, or lounges, awesome pub crawl only drink specials free shots vip club entry to one of berlin’s best night clubs awesome personal tour guide one awesome night.

cocktail tour berlin

The pub crawl is always changing, so we can’t list bars here, but email us for any specific night, and we can let you know what we have planned. Guests must be 18+ and carry Photo ID. Berlin is full of wasted people, we expect our guests to drink and smoke responsibly.

Like no other pub crawl in Berlin

Get to know Berlin’s (in)famous nightlife with VIP entrance to one of the city’s biggest clubs. Meet your guide and mingle with other travellers before heading to the first venue to enjoy your vodka, whisky, gin, and rum mixers. Drink to your heart’s content and once you’ve loosened up, set out into the Berlin night.

The Original Berlin Pub Crawl includes: Local nightlife guide

flip cup tournament 4 venues and 1 club

Skip-the-line club entry

Complimentary shots

Drink specials

 Original Berlin Pub Crawl

Berlin Pub Crawl Best Clubs-min

In the former East Berlin district, the walls are covered in street art and the alternative scene is thriving among the Stalin designed buildings.  Socialize with other travellers, and meet the locals while enjoying some of Berlin’s best bars and our unique atmosphere.

Berlin Pub Crawl Booking & Meeting Point

Got a group booking or any questions, let us know, we would love to help.

*Terms and conditions: Guests must be 18+ to enjoy this tour. A valid photo ID is required. An AB transit ticket may be required.

Starting time:  21:00 Generator Berlin Alexanderplatz, Otto-Braun-Straße 65, 10178 Berlin, Deutschland

Running late?  Catch us here at 22:00 Generator Berlin Mitte, Oranienburger Str. 65, 10117 Berlin, Deutschland

Book Via Website or Tel.:  +49 157 838 93416 or Email: [email protected]

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13 Best Bars in Berlin

By Krystin Arneson

Germany Berlin Bar Das Hotel Bar

Berlin ’s bar scene is defined in part by its famous “living-room bars”: think candlelight, mismatched furniture from your great-aunt’s attic, and raw exposed walls. Plenty of the city’s top spots are places you wouldn't look twice at during the day, but past sunset, they come alive with boisterous banter and young revelers spilling out onto the sidewalks. Yet a different side of the city’s bar scene is full of glamor, hearkening back to the Weimar-era glory days; another face prizes German beer traditions in natural settings, with historic biergartens and cafes in lush park settings. Whatever setting you fancy to get your evening started—or to while away an afternoon—the city has it. Read on for the 13 best bars in Berlin.

Germany Berlin Bar Café am Neuen See

Café am Neuen See Arrow

Cafe am Neuen See is one of the city's most romantic biergartens, thanks to its lakeside location and dreamy surroundings in the middle of Tiergarten Park—Berlin's answer to New York's Central Park. While it shines brightest in summer, an indoor restaurant also makes for a cozy spot in the winter, with panoramic windows, roaring fireplaces, and plenty of candles. Come here to pass a lazy afternoon with friends.

Germany Berlin Bar Monkey Bar

Monkey Bar Arrow

Located on the 10th floor of the Monkey Hotel in Charlottenburg, the Zoologischer-Garten–adjacent Monkey Bar serves up excellent G&Ts as well as panoramic views of the Monkey House in the zoo below. Decor inside takes a cue from the zoo, too: There’s art involving gorillas and giraffes, and stepped seating layered in brightly woven cushions that invites guests to relax and enjoy the view. Warm golden light bulbs illuminate the space and planters give it a taste of the jungle. Come during the day for the best views—and to avoid long lines at the bar.

Germany Berlin Restaurant Geist im Glas

Geist im Glas Arrow

Dark and intimate, this is one of the city's best places for cocktails. The space is raw and industrial, but it’s warmed up by the radiant glow of candles flickering away on tables and in candelabras. Most people cluster in couples and small groups of friends, talking quietly as they savor cocktails. It's a hotspot among the barhopping locals of Neukölln and neighboring Kreuzberg, though the bar is starting to catch the attention of tourists, too.

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Madame Claude Arrow

Although Madame Claude occupies a space that was once a brothel, everything is decorated as if you've wandered into someone's apartment—but upside down. Furniture is artfully arranged across the ceiling, and half the fun is spotting the details, like sets of keys and beer bottles hanging above your head; it’s like a cozy I Spy book. Start with Mme. Claude, the house cocktail, but don't shy away from standard drinks—they're done perfectly.

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Germany Berlin Bar Tier

Weserstraße, Neukölln's nightlife street, is known for its high concentration of unpretentious "living room bars," and Tier is emblematic of them: think low-slung, mismatched vintage tables, chairs clustered together, and plenty of candles. As for the drinks, expect incredible, inventive cocktails at New York–speakeasy standards—the menu features options for timid drinkers as well as the more adventurous. "Tier" means means “animal,” by the way—after a few of these concoctions, don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Germany Berlin Bar Das Hotel Bar

Das Hotel Arrow

Past the dramatic curtains and under the vintage sign, candles abound in this tiny, eclectic bar located in a cool section of Kreuzberg. Everything is clustered together, even the tables (seating can be a bit of a gamble). The interior is raw and industrial, like many so-called “living room bars” in this section of Berlin, but it’s quirked up by vases and pots of flowers that hang from the ceiling like a rain shower of blossoms. Drinks are wonderful—especially the perfectly-mixed Old Fashioneds and Basil Smashes—and if you're at all undecided, the bar staff is happy to help you customize your own drink.

Germany Berlin Bar Clärchens Ballhaus

Clärchens Ballhaus Arrow

On beautiful afternoons and evenings, one of the best places in the city to drink is this lively courtyard biergarten—surrounded by the century-old building's decaying facade (destroyed during WWII), fairy lights, and long communal tables. The bar is an institution in Berlin, so be sure to explore. Once you're past the Otto Dix–designed sign outside, head up the creaking stairs to find the Spiegelsaal , or mirrored ballroom: With a little help from the imagination, it’s easy to picture this venue back to the hedonistic days of the Weimar Republic.

Germany Berlin Bar Prater Garten

Prater Garten Arrow

Prater Garden, Berlin's oldest biergarten, comprises almost a full acre of communal tables and benches. Although Germany’s capital city doesn't have the biergarten culture of Bavaria, this gem has been around since 1837—and has withstood the multiple tests of time for good reason. Like most biergartens, the atmosphere is relaxed and convivial: People focus on their company first and their drinks (think Pils and housemade dark beer) second.

Germany Berlin Bar Muted Horn

Muted Horn Arrow

Muted Horn's quiet location next to a discount grocery belies the complexity—and quantity—of its offerings. After passing under a pink neon sign, you'll enter a space dominated by a massive bar with 22 wall-mounted taps that pour local and guest brews, as well as fridges holding more than 100 kinds of bottles. Minimalist high-top tables and chairs squeeze in across the bar, with sofas and lower-slung tables available for cozying up. If you don't know much about craft beer, feel free to chat up the bartender or, better yet, a fellow patron—it's a friendly crowd.

Germany Berlin Restaurant ORA

One of Berlin’s most beautiful watering holes, ORA (built as a pharmacy in 1860) retains its antique glamour with restored wooden cabinetry and vintage medicine bottles that mingle alongside the booze and exquisite glassware lining the shelves. But don’t think it’s trying to be a theme bar: The old pharmacy is simply left to shine as much as possible, blending right in with ORA’s modern purpose: expertly crafted cocktails, from classics to seasonal creations.

Klunkerkranich Arrow

Bartenders at Klunkerkranich, an improvised rooftop bar that looks like it was hastily assembled by a rogue artist collective, sling mostly beer and wine at frightfully good prices. If it's a chilly day, the Tempranillo will take the edge right off. Come here with a group of friends to take in the sunset—the views over Berlin, facing toward the tower, are nothing short of spectacular.

Germany Berlin Bar Buck  Breck

Buck and Breck Arrow

The first challenge about Buck and Breck is actually finding it: The façade changes often, and once you locate it, you'll need to ring a doorbell. The bartender takes center stage here, creating cocktails around a communal table from color-coded bottles. If you can take your eyes off their skillful movements, you'll take in a streamlined, darkly minimalist atmosphere with eclectic details and art glinting in the corners.

Germany Berlin Bar Prinzipal

Prinzipal Kreuzberg Arrow

Prinzipal looks like just another closed apartment door on bustling Oranienstraße, but inside, the bar is a self-described "rabbit hole" of decadence. It's one of the few bars in Berlin with a truly luxe atmosphere (don't fear, the furniture on the upper level is still vintage and mismatched), where glamour abounds via soft lighting and draped curtains. It doubles as a burlesque venue, so expect chic, 1920s sophistication—plus some memorable cocktails.

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Cocktails & Riots: A Tour of Kreuzberg’s Best Bars

Quick details.

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Starting time: 4.00PM, 4.30PM, 5.00PM, 5.30PM, 6.00PM
  • Tour type: Walking, taxi
  • Pick-up location: Your central Berlin hotel
  • Group size: Max 14 people
  • Inclusions: Private Expert Guide, Pick up and Drop off at your Hotel, 2 Taxi transfers, Snacks and cocktails tasting

Tour Highlights

  • Experience the alterna-culture of Kreuzberg, one of Berlin’s most fascinating neighborhoods
  • Enjoy a mix of local bars, from a bowling alley to a cozy cocktail lounge
  • Visit a mind-bending bar where everything is upside-down
  • Visit Lausitzer Platz and learn about the riots and political uprisings that took place here

Tour Overview

Your Berlin cocktail tour will start at the U-Bahn Görlitzer Bahnhof — a historic train station that first opened back in 1902.

From there, your guide will take you into local life in the neighborhood of Kreuzberg. This district has long been known for its cultural diversity and alternative vibes, and you’ll learn about that reputation at our first stop, Lausitzer Platz. This is the former heart of the squatters and political uprising that Kreuzberg was so known for. It’s here that an annual street festival is held to recognize the struggles of the working class and, in 1987, it was infamously the site of rioting.

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cocktail tour berlin

However, today, instead of riots, you’ll encounter cafes, restaurants, and bars. Just like in so much of Berlin, gentrification has taken hold in Kreuzberg, but somehow, the area has also managed to retain its old charm. For that reason, Kreuzberg remains an attractive enclave for artists and creatives from all over the world.

Together with your guide, you’ll explore Kreuzberg 36 and its hidden treasures along with all that history. Your cocktail stops may vary depending on what’s open that day, but some of our favorite places to visit include a quaint old bar that’s also a bowling alley, as well as a small but chic cocktail bar.

Finally, your Berlin cocktail tour will end with a drink at the intriguing, mind-bending Madame Claude — a bar housed in a former brothel where everything is upside-down.

Once your tour ends, your guide and local cocktail expert will be all too happy to give you suggestions for other places to enjoy a beverage in Berlin.

About Our Guides

Our Berlin tour guides are more than just guides — they are true ambassadors of the city, with deep knowledge of Berlin’s history, art, politics, and culture. They will gladly share their personal stories. Our guides will always take the time to answer your questions and can adapt the itinerary to suit your wishes and interests.

Tour Flexibility

This private tour is flexible and customizable – if there are specific sights that you would like to focus on, please let us know and we can adjust the itinerary to suit your interests. The tour can be done entirely on foot or with a private vehicle with driver. Let us know which you prefer, and we can accommodate your wishes.

Simply enquire below for more information. Alternatively,  book online now and we will be in touch to finalise your tour details.

Do you have questions about the offer? Contact us using the form below.

cocktail tour berlin

Private Tour: From €451

cocktail tour berlin

You can inquire your desired private or customized tour by using this form. Please feel free to name all your wishes & interests: e.g. special starting point, pick-up service, lunch breaks, dietary restrictions, accessibility requirements, interest in certain historic topics or sites!

We will adapt all our private tours and answer all your questions. We provide prices for special services or for groups of more than six people on request.

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Prost! Where to Drink in Berlin

Fancy a cocktail? Here's where to drink in Berlin.

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Berlin is one of Europe's hippest cities and that reputation extends to its drink scene. It's a place that rewards exploration; one never knows when an unmarked door might hide an amazingly good drinking den. Don't be afraid to ring a doorbell to gain admittance, be sure to carry plenty of cash, and don't pass up a late night döner kebab to prevent that morning hangover. Here now, where to imbibe in Berlin.

Le Croco Bleu

According to local tales, the cellar of the Bötzow Brewery once sheltered two crocodiles from the Berlin Zoo at the end of World War II. True or not, the story is the inspiration for Gregor Scholl's new bar in the restored brewery. In its inner sanctum, the décor is industrial chic crossed with enchanted forest, blending taxidermy and old machinery. That odd combination could be a metaphor for the cocktail menu, which may have one wondering if the unusual drinks could possibly taste good. A gin wasabi sour? Sesame-washed bourbon? But they do work, and marvelously so. These are some of the best cocktails not just in Berlin, but anywhere.

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cocktail tour berlin

This hip, narrow wine bar is the place to explore German and Austrian wines. The grapes are geeky, but the vibe is fun and unpretentious; it's the kind of wine bar where one can sip on Scheurebe or Blaufränkisch while Arcade Fire plays on the speakers. Follow up the wine with a small glass of eau de vie from famed Austrian distiller Hans Reisetbauer: Himbeer (raspberry) for an elegant crowdpleaser, or Vogelbeer (rowanberry) for something beguilingly strange.

cocktail tour berlin

Brauhaus Südstern

No trip to Germany would be complete without a visit to a beer house. Brauhaus Südstern fits the bill with its convivial beer hall, large patio on the busy street, and quiet biergarden abutting Volkspark Hasenheide. Three house-brewed beers are always on tap, rounded out with one rotating seasonal beer—like the perfectly malty festbier, Rocktober.

cocktail tour berlin

Monterey Bar

This self-described beer and rock bar is the place to check out Germany's progressive brewing scene, with an extensive tap and bottle list including the locally made Berliner Berg Lager (a grain-forward and full-bodied take on the style) and the delicious Bevog Ond Smoked Porter from Austria. Feeling homesick? There's also some top American craft breweries in the mix.

cocktail tour berlin

Perched atop the 25 Hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, with a swanky design and rooftop views of West Berlin, Monkey Bar is the kind of place that could be popular even without a great bar program. Thankfully, they go above and beyond with a list of creative cocktails focused on rum and Latin American spirits. Recommended: The Old Cuban, Audrey Saunders' sparking wine riff on the Mojito, made with actual Cuban rum.

cocktail tour berlin

Nearby Monkey Bar geographically, but world's away in style, is Rum Trader. It's a very small, cozy bar that offers excellent mixed drinks, but the real draw here is the extensive selection of rums from all over the world. Try something unusual, like the 12 year solera-aged Arcane from Mauritius, and sip it neat while taking in the conversation at this intimate venue.

cocktail tour berlin

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Becketts Kopf

It's a cocktail bar named after Irish novelist Samuel Beckett. So, naturally drink menus arrive in Beckett books. Becketts Kopf is one of the early pioneers of Berlin's cocktail scene. The drinks are classically inspired, often with a twist, as in their excellent take on the vintage Ford libation that switches in genever for gin and a German herbal liqueur for Benedictine.

cocktail tour berlin

Stagger Lee

Ever wondered what an American saloon would look like translated into German? Stagger Lee is the place to find out. Peruse their western-themed menu of whiskey and tequila cocktails, and don't miss the house Old Fashioned made with bourbon, single malt whiskey, beer syrup and walnut bitters.

cocktail tour berlin

The porthole in the door is the first hint of this bar's Finland-inspired nautical theme. Named after an icebreaking ship, Voima—Finnish for “strength”—is a cozy bar with classic cocktails accented by unique Finnish ingredients. Where else will you find not one, but two drinks made with cloudberry liqueur?

cocktail tour berlin

This bar is in Berlin, but its selection of American whiskeys would be the envy of almost any joint in the United States. Immertreu's cocktail menu hews to well-made spirit-forward classics. Want to try a Brooklyn with real Amer Picon, an essential ingredient that remains frustratingly unavailable in the US? You've come to the right place.

cocktail tour berlin

Buck & Breck

“We're out of seats, but we have space for you behind the bar.” That was the unusual offer granted before entering this speakeasy, which was just named number sixteen on Drinks International's 2015 World's 50 Best Bars list. From the outside, you'd never know there was a bar here. Inside, the lighting, music, and close quarters create a supremely stylish place to see and be seen while sipping creative cocktails. Whether sitting at the bar itself, or standing behind it with a prime view of the action, this is a worthy stop on any Berlin cocktail tour.

cocktail tour berlin

Kantine Kohlmann

The rough exterior makes it easy to overlook this gem in Kreuzberg, but that would be a mistake. Inside is a stylish bar with a wide-ranging cocktail list and an unexpectedly good selection of mezcal.

cocktail tour berlin

NO FIRE NO GLORY Kaffee Bar

If you've made it this far in the list, odds are you're going to need some coffee. No Fire No Glory offers some of the best in the city, with multiple brewing methods and beans from local roaster Bonanza and Copenhagen roaster Coffee Collective. Looking for an alcoholic beverage? They also have a full bar with a selection of craft beers, wines, long drinks, and espresso cocktails.

cocktail tour berlin

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Cocktails Away

7 of the Best Bars in Berlin for a Delicious Cocktail

Feb 8, 2023 | berlin , city guides , Germany

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When you think of Germany, beer and pretzels may come to mind. While there are many amazing beer bars and breweries to choose from, the cocktail bar scene is also world-class. My first trip to Berlin, Germany was in January of 2020. I was supposed to go back again for a second work trip in March 2020, but that didn’t happen. On my first trip, I visited a few cocktail bars and started writing a bar guide. On my most recent trip to Berlin in July 2022, I was able to visit more cocktail bars. Here is my guide for the best bars in Berlin. I hope it doesn’t take you that long to get there and try them all out. Cheers!

1. Truffle Pig

cocktail tour berlin

  • Address: Reuterstraße 47
  • Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 8pm-close | Closed Sunday-Tuesday

Truffle Pig is a cocktail bar hidden in the back room of Kauz & Kiebitz . Just follow the pig tracks through the pub and ring the bell. The wall opens to reveal a charming, industrial chic space. The spirits collection is highly curated and offers some rare and unique bottles. The cocktails are incredible and the service was excellent.

cocktail tour berlin

I enjoyed the “Witches Be Like” cocktail (left). It is made with gin, strega, citrus, raspberry, woodruff, and foam. The cocktail on the right–SAMBA–is incredible. It’s a magical mix of silver tequila, mezcal, green chili, clarified passionfruit, lime, and ginger.

cocktail tour berlin

  • Address: Ganghoferstraße 1
  • Hours: Wednesday-Monday, 7pm-close | Closed Tuesdays

Velvet is aptly named with its inviting atmosphere that makes you feel at home. It’s located in the buzzing Neukölln district down a quiet, one-way street. Operated by a close-knit team, they collaborate on a fresh menu every week, centered around foraged plants from in and around Berlin. Every Tuesday the bar closes to allow the team time to work in the laboratory in the back of the bar. They distill, infuse and ferment that week’s herbal bounty. You can enjoy drinks inside this beautiful bar or outside on the sidewalk. It’s the perfect place to linger or pop in for a quick drink. They just won Bar of the Year in Germany for 2023 ! I enjoyed the Erdbeere. It was made with amontillado sherry, geklärter erdbeersaft, mediterraner quinquina, blanco tequila, rosa pfeffer (pink peppercorns).

3. Mr. Susan

best bars in berlin mr susan

  • Address: Krausnickstraße 1
  • Hours: Friday-Saturday, 6pm-2am | Wednesday-Thursday, 6pm-1am | Closed Sunday-Tuesday

Mr. Susan is an incredible bar owned by Berlin’s most prolific street food vendors. With a creative menu and a swanky but comfortable atmosphere, a trip to this cocktail bar will not leave you disappointed. The interior is like a jewelry box with every surface receiving special touches. From the pink quartz bar to the gold-foil ceiling and the mint-green tiled backsplash, the place shines.

cocktail tour berlin

The Pine Killer is a delicious blend of mezcal, ginger shrub, and salty pineapple. My friend had the PB&J, which I liked so much, I insisted on getting the recipe. The cocktail is made with peanut butter vodka, sake, strawberry, and salt. It was the first time I had tried a fat-washed spirit , so it was super memorable. The flavor was exactly like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

4. Bar Tausend

best bars in berlin tausend

  • Address: Schiffbauerdamm 11
  • Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 9pm-close | Closed Sunday-Tuesday

The experience at Tausend begins with trying to locate the bar. It is directly under the Friedrichstrasse train station but the entrance is unmarked. If you find a nondescript, metal door, you’ve found it. Although the menu has changed since I visited, it’s bound to be good. I enjoyed their world map of cocktails menu. I had a cocktail called Lagos Island. It featured peanut-infused Abeulo 12 rum, spices, plantain, and lime juice. We also enjoyed a delicious dinner served directly behind the bar. We walked under the bar counter to get there.

5. The Curtain Club at the Ritz Carlton, Berlin

curtain club best bars in berlin

  • Address: Potsdamer Platz 3
  • Hours: Every day, 6pm-1am

Set behind drapes just off the lobby of The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin,  The Curtain Club brings a touch of Latin American energy to Potsdamer Platz in Berlin. Driven by the aromas and flavors of South America, the bar offers storytelling cocktails along with live soul, jazz, and Latin American music. And even a Cigar Night, if that’s your thing. The colonial furnishings and centerpiece bar tie the experience together. The bar is open to the public and hotel guests.

cocktail tour berlin

The Vetiver Garden features mezcal, lemon juice, bergamot-tangerine lemonade, and vetiver syrup. It was bright and refreshing. I also enjoyed the Blue Agave & Cacao. It was made with Don Julio añejo, raspberry & blackberry, orange flower water, lemon juice, white chocolate, and vetiver. Both of the drinks were very delightful to sip on.

Other great bars in Berlin to check out

6. kauz & kiebitz.

best bars in berlin kauz & kiebitz smoke and mirrors cocktail

Kauz & Kiebitz is a local pub that is excellent for dinner before heading in the back to Truffle Pig for more drinks. I enjoyed a cocktail called Smoke & Mirrors with my veggie burger. They have a great patio area for dining and people watching.

7. Green Door Bar

Green Door Bar is the only Berlin cocktail bar on this list that I haven’t been to personally. It will be a must-visit on my next trip. I mostly want to see if their description of their decor is true, “The interior is somewhere between a private salon and a David Lynch film.” On the website, you’ll find featured drinks for the week. This one sounds divine: Certainly Marigold, made with Golden wormwood, distilled plum seeds and marigolds, single malt Scotch whisky, clementines verjus, and fig leaf liqueur. Yes please!

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The Best Craft Cocktail Bars in Berlin

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If one were to write a history of cocktails in the twentieth century, Berlin might not even get a mention. While Paris has Harry’s New York Bar and London has the American Bar at The Savoy, Berlin has remained on the sidelines—a city of cafes, beer halls and dance clubs rather than Martinis and Manhattans. However, in the first decades of the 21st century bars devoted to well-mixed cocktails have taken root in Berlin; and while they may not be indigenous to the city, they appear to be flourishing in their new surroundings. Berlin now boasts a number of excellent spots where bartenders have one eye on Jerry Thomas’s  Bartender’s Guide and the other on the future will prepare classics, remixes and new inventions with assurance and style.

There is also more than a hint of old-world glamour and decadence in Berlin’s cocktail scene. Many of the bars are hidden away in unexpected locations, and while it can be difficult to find a decent cocktail before six in the evening, few bars enforce a strict closing time, remaining open until the last satisfied customers have staggered out the door.  – Jesse Simon

Special Note: Depending on your feelings about the relationship between tobacco and alcohol, you may be delighted or dismayed to discover that, due to some loophole in EU law, virtually all of the cocktail bars in Berlin allow smoking. Most are well ventilated, but if you’re very sensitive to smoke, you may wish to limit your cocktail drinking to the summer months, when some of the bars offer outdoor seating.

Bar Marqués

The tapas-themed Restaurant Marqués, located in Kreuzberg’s Graefekiez, isn’t exactly hidden, but you might not suspect that its basement contains a small, very civilized cocktail bar. However the cosy Bar Marqués, with its waistcoated bartender and low-lit décor, is a pearl of refinement hiding in a once-edgy, now middle class residential neighborhood. Just don’t ask for a menu; there isn’t one. The bartender is your friend here. Let him know what you like and he'll mix you something to your liking.

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Becketts Kopf

The name means "Beckett’s Head"—as in Samuel Beckett—and you’ll have to look for his iconic face if you want to locate the entrance to this intimate cocktail bar in Prenzlauer Berg. Although the tastefully decorated room may be one of the smallest in town, all you need is a stool or two by the bar to enjoy a selection of cocktails that range from the time-honored to newer more adventurous creations, like the Rashomon, which mixes gin and sake with a touch of cream. The selection of individual spirits may not be as exhaustive as in some bars, but it’s always well-curated and they keep a selection of cigars on hand, ...

Buck and Breck

This small cocktail bar—which recently earned the distinction of best bar in Germany at the Mixology awards—has a devoted following among those who know how to find it. Although it is located along a major street in Mitte, just north of busy Rosenthaler Platz, you might end up walking past what appears to be an abandoned shop front. Behind the unmarked door awaits an ultra-minimalist interior featuring a single table with fourteen stools built around a modest bar area. The menu—which, in the spirit of Milk & Honey, follows the "bartender knows best" model—offers a reasonably small selection of modified classics, but ...

Le Croco Bleu

While many of Berlin’s cocktail bars look to the first half of the 20th century for inspiration, Le Croco Bleu—located in the newly redeveloped Bötzow brewery complex in Prenzlauer Berg and masterminded by Gregor Scholl, the legendary bartender of Rum Trader—has its sights set firmly on the future. Their menu of signature cocktails has a daring, experimental edge with traditional spirits sitting next to less common ingredients, such as yuzu, thyme and absinthe fairy floss (imagine cotton candy made with a not-so-secret ingredient). The decor, a combination of mid-century button-leather stools and old industrial ...

Galander Charlottenburg

You would be forgiven for walking right past the Charlottenburg incarnation of Galander. Located on a once-sketchy but now forgettable stretch of Stuttgarter Platz, the narrow bar with its dark wood and ornate copper-plate interior exudes the kind of classic cocktail bar elegance you wouldn’t expect to find on a street that faces onto the city’s main east-west elevated rail line. But while the S-bahn rolls by in the distance, one can sip a wide assortment of classic and neo-classic cocktails, either on a stool at the bar or in one of the leather armchairs in the small, chandeliered back room. And although the drinks ...

Galander Kreuzberg

On a quiet leafy street, several blocks from the genteel buzz of Bergmannstraße, Galander is the sort of apparition from another era that every traveller dreams of finding when wandering the city without a map. Situated in a building that housed a neighborhood bar at the beginning of the 20th century, the cozy, inviting interior is made up of a mixture of wood, amber and candlelight. After you’ve taken your seat at the bar (or at one of the intimate tables in the back), the knowledgeable, waistcoated barmen exhibit a humble devotion to preparing your drink exactly the way you want it. Other bars in town may have ...

There’s a sign outside, but the door—green, obviously—is locked. Ringing the doorbell activates a light in the bar, and if any one of the staff sees it, they might come and let you in. But don’t let the uncertainty put you off: once you’ve passed the admittance test, you’re free to enjoy some of Berlin’s most skillfully mixed cocktails in one of the most stylish rooms in town. While the menu offers a few house specialties and clever twists, the focus is primarily on 20th-century classics, prepared with high quality ingredients. Much of the interior is taken up by the long, dark wood bar—there are a few stools against ...

Climb the marble stairs to the upper floor of this 19th-century villa—which somehow managed to survive the allied bombings that devastated much of the area—and you will discover a series of pleasingly proportioned rooms furnished with leather armchairs and lined with locked glass cabinets filled with spirits. Lebenstern has all the splendor of a well-appointed drawing room, and their menu exhibits a similar refinement, with tasteful twists on old classics, a fine selection of champagne cocktails and a satisfying array of different gin and tonics. Thematically selected spirit flights are also available for those who ...

At Limondier the simple contemporary interior is augmented by enough small details (a typewriter, an antique lamp, old photos and newspaper clippings) to give it a retro feel that's difficult to place. Their cocktail menu follows suit with a mixture of early-20th-century classics (Aviation, Manhattan) and more experimental offerings employing a range of unconventional ingredients (pickle juice, rosemary syrup). They also have a reasonable selection of spirits—including absinthe, served according to the traditional ritual—and a pleasingly diverse assortment of tonics to accompany your gin. The menu changes two or three ...

Situated in the quiet residential buffer between busy Winterfeldtplatz and middle-class Akazienkiez, Salut offers tasteful decor, a relaxed speakeasy vibe and some of the best cocktails in Berlin.

Stagger Lee

Although it is located in the heart of Berlin’s thriving gay area, Nollendorfstraße—the street that Christopher Isherwood once called home—can get pretty quiet after the shops close their shutters for the evening. But a late and boozy night can still be found at Stagger Lee. This western-themed cocktail bar has been a consistently popular fixture of Schöneberg’s cocktail scene for the past several years. Their signature cocktails—many based around American whiskeys—pack an indisputable punch, and the smokey, Wild West ambiance is like nowhere else in Berlin. If you’re looking for somewhere that will turn a nightcap ...

Victoria Bar

Situated between a sketchy pawn shop and Berlin’s legendary Wintergarten, the Victoria Bar offers a slice of refinement along a street that has long been infamous for its nightlife. The narrow space—with high ceilings and tastefully minimalist furnishings, accented with some intriguing art—is dominated by a long bar where as many as eight bartenders in white dress shirts and black ties prepare cocktails from an impressively broad menu. Most of the classic drinks from within the whisk(e)y, gin and rum families—in addition to familiar highballs—are represented, and all are prepared with a deference to established ...

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Berlin’s Best Places to Drink

by Original Berlin Tours | Mar 7, 2024 | Cold War Tour Berlin

Welcome to Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany known for its rich history, diverse culture, and pulsating nightlife. One of the best ways to experience the city’s unique atmosphere is by exploring its thriving bar scene. From cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars, Berlin has it all. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best places to drink in Berlin.

1. Hofbräu Berlin

If you’re a fan of traditional German beer, Hofbräu Berlin is a must-visit. Located near Alexanderplatz, this Bavarian beer hall offers a lively atmosphere and an extensive selection of beers. Grab a stein of their famous Hofbräu Original and soak up the authentic Bavarian vibe. Don’t forget to pair your beer with some delicious pretzels or sausages.

2. Monkey Bar

If you’re looking for a trendy rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city, Monkey Bar is the place to be. Situated on the 10th floor of the 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, this stylish bar offers a great selection of creative cocktails. Sip your drink while enjoying breathtaking views of the Berlin Zoo and the iconic Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.

3. Klunkerkranich

For a unique and laid-back drinking experience, head to Klunkerkranich. Located on the rooftop of a parking garage in Neukölln, this hidden gem combines a bar, beer garden, and cultural space. Grab a drink from the bar and relax in the cozy seating area while taking in panoramic views of the city skyline.

4. Buck and Breck

If you’re a cocktail enthusiast, make sure to visit Buck and Breck. Tucked away in a hidden location in Mitte, this speakeasy-style bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails. The intimate setting and attention to detail create a truly unforgettable experience. Be sure to try their signature Buck and Breck cocktail, a delicious blend of Champagne, absinthe, and bitters.

5. Prater Garten

When the weather is nice, head to Prater Garten, Berlin’s oldest beer garden. Located in Prenzlauer Berg, this spacious outdoor oasis offers a wide selection of German beers on tap. Grab a seat at one of the long communal tables, order a refreshing beer, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to try some classic beer garden snacks like pretzels and currywurst.

6. Victoria Bar

If you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail in a sophisticated setting, Victoria Bar is the perfect choice. Located in Charlottenburg, this elegant bar is known for its extensive cocktail menu and skilled bartenders. Sit back, relax, and let the mixologists whip up a delicious drink tailored to your taste.

7. BRLO Brwhouse

Beer lovers shouldn’t miss BRLO Brwhouse, a unique craft beer brewery and beer garden located in the trendy area of Gleisdreieck. This innovative brewery offers a wide variety of craft beers brewed on-site using local ingredients. Take a seat in the spacious beer garden and enjoy a cold pint of their flavorful creations.

Berlin’s bar scene has something for everyone, whether you’re a beer aficionado, cocktail lover, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a lively beer garden. Explore these recommended places to drink in Berlin and discover the city’s unique flavors and vibes. Prost!

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The Best Cocktail Bars in Berlin, Germany

Enjoy a classic or an innovative concoction at one of Berlin’s many excellent cocktail bars

Berlin’s cocktail bar scene is as intriguing and diverse as the city itself. Expect everything from Weimar-inspired speakeasies to cosy Wohnzimmerbars that make you feel right at home.

Despite Berlin’s reputation for urban grit, it’s not all Späti beers in this city. Along with its sophisticated cocktail lounges and historical speakeasies, Wohnzimmerbars are beloved in Berlin for their unpretentious and welcoming vibe. These dark, cosy, candlelit bars usually feature mismatched vintage furniture and artfully faded wallpaper, and it is here where you’re just as likely to have your Negroni served in a jam jar as you are a cut-glass tumbler. The German capital’s best cocktail bars range from these homely watering holes to elegant rooftop bars – prost !

1. Buck and Breck

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Cocktails

While Buck and Breck is tiny, it is among Europe’s best places to go for cocktails – if you can find it, that is. The speakeasy-style bar, previously rated the best in Germany and 16th best in the world , isn’t visible from the street; you’ll have to look for a discreetly labelled doorbell at the address, next to a police station, to buzz in. Inside, it has sleek black furnishings and a 14-seat communal, island-style table, one side of which is devoted to the mixologists who pour from unlabelled bottles identified only by coloured bands. Order from the bar’s signature menu, or have the bartenders design a drink for you. Don’t expect to instagram your drink, though – in true speakeasy fashion, no phones are allowed. The barstools fill up fast, so arrive right when it opens to make sure you can grab a seat.

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Cocktails, German

TiER, Berlin

Leave the pretension at the door when you walk into TiER; this low-lit cocktail joint isn’t one of those starched-collar cocktail lounges. Located on one end of Neukölln ’s eclectic main drag of bars, Weserstraße, TiER – meaning ‘animal’ in German – is known in and out of Berlin for its extensive cocktail list. The margaritas and old fashioneds are particularly good, but the bartenders’ more inventive concoctions are well worth a try, too. Inside, expect Wohnzimmerbar vibes and a looping video of Bond villain Blofeld stroking his white cat. Smokers will also appreciate the large patio area. Top tip: If you need to wait for a table, head across the street to Ä (try pronouncing that) – it’s another Weserstraße gem.

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4. The Rooftop Terrace at Hotel de Rome

Although many of Berlin’s best cocktail bars are speakeasies, there’s no password necessary to enjoy views so gorgeous (featuring Berlin’s state opera building, the TV Tower and St Hedwig’s Cathedral) that they inspired a signature cocktail at this elegant rooftop bar. The ‘Touch the Sky’ is a blend of Belsazar rosé vermouth, fresh strawberries and champagne. If you’re not drinking, the home-made ginger lemonade is a tangy yet refreshing alternative. The Rooftop Terrace is the perfect place to visit in the summer after an afternoon of shopping on Friedrichstraße – just call ahead to make sure it’s not closed for a private event.

5. Mr Susan

Mr. Susan

At Mr Susan, light fittings take the shape of palm trees and peacocks, while blue-velvet and brass stools seat guests at a pink terrazzo-tiled bar. Opened in June 2018 by owner Susan Choi and bartenders Shawn Beck and Damien Guichard, this stylishly decorated Mitte newcomer, however, isn’t all about looks, with the dozen or so cocktails here expertly crafted and uniquely centred around a single ingredient. Take, for example, the well-balanced Sesame Cocktail with whiskey, apricot brandy and a few key drops of sesame oil. Mr Susan is the perfect place to pop into and refresh after a day of exploring the nearby Weinmeisterstraße shopping district , Monbijou Park and the popular Friedrichstadt-Palast performing arts venue.

6. Rum Trader

Also dubbed the ‘Institute for Advanced Drinking’, Rum Trader truly is an institution. It is one of Berlin’s oldest speakeasies, and you’ll feel like you’re drinking in another era. Drinks in this dimly lit bar are served in vintage glasses, and the barman-owner dons a waistcoat to host his guests. He eschews a menu, preferring to talk to his guests to devise the perfect drink for their palates, and the results, largely rum-based (though he also has a great selection of gin), prove he knows what he’s doing. Although the bar’s been open since the ’70s, it still manages to fly under the radar. Top tip: You’ll want to dress smart for this speakeasy-style bar, and the owner caps seating at around 20 (it fills up quickly).

7. Prinzipal

Bar, German

The fancy cocktails at Prinzipal

This unmarked speakeasy along one of hip Kreuzberg ’s main streets throws it back to the Roaring Twenties with bold, inventive libations and burlesque evenings that have helped this cocktail joint become a well-known name in Berlin. Ranked among the world’s best bars in 2016, Prinzipal hasn’t rested on its laurels. The drinks on the tiny menu aren’t cheap – some of them are as much as €17 (£15) – but they’re a story in and of themselves. For example, concoctions include the Almost Virgin Ayahuasca (cachaça, guarana, bitters, aubergine, sage and lime) and Yin & Yang (Haiti rum, sweet potato, coffee, habanero and coconut).

8. Green Door

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Cocktails, Beer

This article is an updated version of a story created by Stephanie Carwin .

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Enjoy a drink at the Sphere Bar while looking over Berlin.

Experience Berlin from Above in the Sphere Bar

Your exclusive bar experience in the Berlin TV Tower: In Berlin’s most modern and highest bar, an unparalleled experience awaits you. The Sphere Bar in the Berlin TV Tower is not just a place with breathtaking views, but also a paradise for beer, wine, and cocktail lovers.

  • Highest bar in Berlin
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Tap Beer and Craft Beer Creations

Enjoy fresh draft beer or discover the diverse world of craft beers from BRLO, the trendy Berlin craft beer brewery. For those looking for something special, we offer classics like the Berliner Weisse with homemade syrup – once described by Napoleon as the “Champagne of the North.”

Be surprised by our unique beer cocktails. Whether a Berlin Spritz, where the wine is replaced by the sparkling Berliner Weisse, or an elegant Gin Beer – these creations will completely redefine your understanding of beer.

Culinary Delights and Local Specialties

In addition to a selection of wines and classic long drinks, you can also enjoy unique snacks. How about a pretzel or the city-famous “Käsedings” from the local bakery Zeit für Brot? And of course, the absolute classic, the Spreewald pickle, as a typical Berlin snack, must not be missing.

cocktail tour berlin

A Place for Every Occasion

Whether for after-work, a romantic date, or unforgettable moments with friends and family – the Sphere Bar is your perfect place.

The Sphere Bar, where the city lies at your feet.

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Enjoy exquisite drinks and the breathtaking view of Berlin. A culinary experience you won’t forget.

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Rotes Rathaus

Rotes Rathaus in Berlin is a historic red-brick city hall, renowned for its striking architecture and significance as the seat of government in the city.

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Berlin Cathedral

Berlin Cathedral, aerial landscape viewed from the TV tower, Berlin. The Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral), completed in 1905, is Berlin’s largest and most important Protestant church.

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Alexander Platz Railway

Like other long-distance stations, Alexanderplatz is also a shopping centre for selling merchandise to travellers. Due to its importance and central location.

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Enjoy the best view of Berlin and behold all it's famous sights in 1 glance.

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Experience a dining adventure like no other by making a reservation at Sphere restaurant in the Berlin TV Tower.

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Berlin's Best Pub Crawls and Night Tours

cocktail tour berlin

This post lists and compares the various night tour options in Berlin, including pub crawls and craft beer tours as well as bus, bike, boat, and walking tours.  

Taking a night tour or joining a pub crawl is a great way to ease into the city’s bustling night vibe. Check out our post, Things to Do at Night in Berlin . 

  • Craft Beer Tours
  • Boat Tours and Cruises
  • Almost Free Bus Tours
  • Free Walking Tours

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

BERLIN PUB CRAWLS

If you're interested in trying a bunch of different brews while visiting Berlin, one of the following pub crawls is sure to please.

In addition to providing free samples, you'll also have the opportunity to experience the different cultural scenes at each pub.

This section will include all of the information you need to pick a great Berlin pub crawl. If you're still not sold on the options below, check here for additional pub crawls in Berlin .

Berlin Pub Crawl

This 5-hour pub crawl begins at 8 p.m. in a central Berlin location. Your guide is there to take you to four different bars, each with a different scene – cocktail lounges, bars, pubs, and clubs. 

Your guide will facilitate mingling and mixing with other guests.

Drinks, however, are not included in the price. You will get a free welcome shot at each stop and drink specials all evening.  This company tends to attract the backpacker crowd.

Reviews are mixed  - overall they have a review rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( see the reviews ). 

Comments range broadly from "Don't bother" to "This is a must-do in Berlin!!!"

Depending on what kind of night you are looking for, this may suit your needs. The emphasis appears to be on drinking and dancing and more drinking - but it is a pub crawl after all!

  • When: Monday - Sunday   at 20:00
  • Meeting Point:  on the steps of the entrance to Oranienburger Strasse S-Bahn station
  • Cost:  €18 per person and includes 4 shots, drink specials at each stop and VIP entry to the Matrix nightclub.
  • You will need an AB transport ticket
  • More information or to book .

The Original Berlin Pub Crawl

Original Pub Crawl

Dubbing themselves the “biggest pub crawl in Berlin”, this is a tour for partiers.

You start your evening at a cozy bar, then visit three or more drinking spots, including cocktail and shisha bars, electro lounges, and rock and steampunk bars.

The 6-hour tour concludes at one of Berlin’s biggest clubs.

Reviews Guests of the tour have given it mixed reviews on TripAdvisor, with 30% of reviewers saying the tour was the "worst", "terrible" and an "awful experience!  Zero value for money.”

However, the other 70% of participants in the pub crawl said that it was well-organized, had lots of fun, and that guides were friendly.

If exploring Berlin while getting a big buzz, this tour seems ideal and reasonably priced. 

  • When: Every day at 20:30
  • Meeting point: Belushis Bar, Ziegelstr. 28, 10117 at 21:00 until 22:00
  • Cost: €18 per person. The tour includes free shots, drink specials, one club with VIP entrance, games and prizes

The Backpack Pub Crawl

Backpacker pub crawl

This tour claims to be an authentic experience of Berlin’s nightlife as they take you to popular local spots to taste great German beer while experiencing the unique Berlin vibe.  

The tour starts at 21:30 at the meeting location where you’ll stay for an hour with your welcome drink and mingle with your fellow backpackers.

You then depart and visit 3 more local pubs/ clubs where you will get free shots and drink discounts.

A nice cost-saver is that all destinations are within walking distance so you won’t need to travel on public transportation. 

Reviews are very positive about the quality guides ( read the reviews here ).

  • When: Tuesday-Saturday at 21:30. You can arrive anytime between 21:30 and 22:30
  • Meeting spot: Mora Cocktail Bar, Grünberger Strasse 64
  • Cost: €18 includes welcome drink, free shots, and drink specials. Book and pay in advance and save 2 €

Anti-Pub Crawl: Alternative Nightlife

666 Anti Pub Crawl

Seven nights a week, Alternative Tours goes against the grain and takes small groups out to the less obvious bars, so that you can blend in with the locals.

Over the course of 5 hours, your guide leads you to offbeat drinking venues: a hippie-themed bar, a ping-pong bar, an absinthe bar, a punk-goth-horror bar, and a large industrial club.

The emphasis is on mingling and exploring, rather than getting loaded on booze. For the price, you do get a reasonable amount to drink and you are free to purchase more at each locale. 

Because group size is limited, this is a great tour if you are a solo traveler as you are probably more likely to bond with your fellow travelers.

Reviews -  This tour gets excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and Viator ( see the reviews ).

The enthusiastic comments make it pretty clear that this is a good choice for a pub crawl, even for those who don't usually like pub crawls! 

  • When: Tuesday, Thurs-Sat at 21:00
  • Meeting Point: Old CCCP Bar, Torstraße 58
  • Cost: €14 per person, free entry to bars and clubs, free shots
  • An AB transport ticket needed
  • Not currently available as of January 2024.

BERLIN CRAFT BEER TOURS

How can one visit Berlin and not have a great German Bier?

There are a few tours that will get you out at night to see the town with a guide to show you the way and tell you what's good to drink. 

Berlin Craft Beer Experience

Berlin Craft Beer Tour Experience

Apparently, Cliff is THE man for a perfect craft beer experience.

Newbies to connoisseurs will all learn something new from Cliff (who leads all the tours). He is described as engaging, charismatic and knowledgeable.

Reviews - With 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor across the board, this tour is apparently the one you want to take.

Words like “perfect” “amazing” “great” appear over and over again. Many guests "highly recommend" this tour. 

  • When : Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 19:00. Tour is 3 hours.
  • Cost:  €70 per person. Includes at least 3 local craft beers, as many as 5 beers.
  • Note: You will need an AB transport ticket valid for at least 3.5 hours.

Secret Beer Tour

The company Secret Food Tours offers a fairly extensive Berlin beer tour which will introduce you to some of the best drinks in the city.

Secret Beer Tours in Berlin

This outing includes tastings of 9 different beers and a trip to a local nano-brewery, making it both a craft beer and brewery tour.

In addition to the beer, you'll also enjoy some snacks and learn about the history that made these drinks such a popular choice in Berlin.

The Secret Beer Tour begins at 4 pm and lasts for about 3 hours, which means it runs into the night and gives you plenty of time to continue exploring the pubs of Berlin afterward.

  • €55 per person
  • Availability: Daily at 4 pm
  • Ticket price includes the cost of all 9 drinks and a snack.
  • Purchase tickets or learn more .

Craft Beer & Breweries Tour

Brewer's Tour Craft Beer

This tour is for those serious about their beer.

Your expert guide will teach you about how beer is made and about Berlin’s relationship with beer throughout history and in today’s culture.

Tours are limited to a maximum of 15 participants to keep the experience intimate and relaxed as you visit at three different microbreweries or bars.

Tours run 4 nights a week, and each tour of the week visits a different neighborhood including Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg , Prenzlauer Berg, and Mitte districts.

You could take all their tours and not visit the same place twice!

Reviews on TripAdvisor are overwhelmingly positive with an emphasis on stand-out guides who are knowledgeable and funny.

Guests were also pleased with the microbreweries visited stating that these are not places you would likely find on your own.

  • When:  Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 18:45. *Reservations are recommended.
  • Cost:   €39  Included in the price is your first beer or beer sampler (a second-round is on you). Snacks such as a classic big salty pretzel are also included.
  • You will need a travel ticket for Zone AB

If you're interested in seeing Berlin after dark, consider taking one of the following bike tours. This section will provide details about guided bike rides you can take around the city after dark.

We will cover information such as pricing, availability, and duration to help you choose the right service for your needs and expectations.

Evening Berlin Food Tour by Bike

A winning combination - beautiful Berlin by night and delicious food to give you the energy to ride all those calories off! All while learning about the city and meeting new people. 

It seems well suited to solo travelers who want to enjoy a dinner out in Berlin but prefer dining with company.

Be sure to also check out our page comparing all bike tours in Berlin .  

  Group size is capped at 15 people to ensure a personalized experience.

Your guide will share stories about Berlin's history, and its multicultural diversity, represented in the food you'll eat from three favorite local eateries.

You'll also have a chance to watch the sunset from the Oberbaum Bridge.

Reviews - On TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide, this tour received 5 stars across the board with reviews citing fabulous guides, easy bike route through a great neighborhood, quality food shared with fellow travelers.

Not one review said that the tour wasn't worth the steep price.

On the contrary, reviewers felt like they got their money's worth as well as a night to remember.

  • When:  Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Check the calendar for availability. Starting time is 17:00 (5 pm)
  • Cost: €79 per person. Included in the cost are bike rental, helmet and 3 platters of food.

Berlin By Bike Night Tour

This company offers a wide range of bike tours including their 15km, 3.5 hour-long night tour. It starts at 20:00 at the Kulturbrauerei.

Each tour includes helmets, gloves and rain ponchos if necessary. You will also receive a free bottle of water to keep hydrated during the ride.

  • €25.50 per person
  • Availability: Daily at 8 pm
  • 10 person minimum per tour

Reviews - This bike tour company is rated as the #2 outdoor activity in Berlin. That's pretty impressive!

The night tour is sure to provide you with the same high quality of their guide's knowledge while making sure the ride is safe and fun as you explore Berlin from a different perspective.

BERLIN NIGHT BOAT TOURS AND CRUISES

If you are planning to buy a tourist card, boat tours are sometimes included in the attractions in your package, and most certainly get you a discount on boat tours, so double check before buying a boat ticket.

If you are thinking of getting a tourist card, but not sure if it is right for you, see our post,  Berlin Pass vs Welcome Card vs City Tour Card?

We also compare the numerous boat tours and cruises in Berlin that you can take day or night.

Berlin Evening Cruise   by  Stern und Kreiss 

Stern und Kreiss Evening Cruise

Like most evening cruises in major cities around the world, this Berlin evening cruise is a casual way to get an overview of the city's highlights from a different perspective.

The cruise, operated by  Stern und Kreiss,  travels along the Spree river and canals riding by major attractions and famous buildings such as the  Reichstag ,  Museum Island , and the  Berlin Cathedral .

There is a variety of fairly good food available on board at reasonable prices. You can also pre-order your meal when booking tickets, but some reviewers say to wait until you are on the boat.

Reviews are mixed and this tour has a 3.5 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( see the reviews ), most complaints being about difficulty in finding the departure point.

Other issues were the duration of the tour being too long and language challenges with the commentary, which seems odd given that the company offers tours that provide guides in English as well as a written version in English.

Just make sure to choose which you would like during your ticket checkout. Generally, this seems like a nice excursion, especially in nice weather and the price is good, especially if you are a family as tickets are discounted for children under 15 and children 6 and under are free.

  • When: Fri - Sat at 18:30 (6:30 pm)
  • Duration: is 2.5 hours 
  • Departure/return point: Boat harbor/landing stage at Friedrichstrasse / Reichstagufer.
  • Cost: €29.90 adults 15 years and up; €15.00 children 7-14 years; free children 0-6.

Evening Boat Tours  by Reederei Bruno Winkler

Reederei Night Tour

­They offer one evening tour which looks like a nice experience if you want to spend some time on the water but not make an entire evening of it.

Both follow a route similar to the tour above and take you past many main attractions of Berlin. Guides speaking German and English.

Reviews -  This boat tour operator has very good reviews on TripAdvisor coming in at 4 stars, though this rating includes reviews for their many daytime tours as well.

  • Evening City Tour

This tour is 2 ½ hours long and occurs during the dinner hour, so they offer the option to purchase food a la carte on board.

When: Every Friday at 18:15 & 19:00. Check schedule for dates Cost: €30.  Discounts on tickets for children (6-14 years) 50% discount, with a Welcome Card,  adults receive 25% ­ off ticket only, not meal.

Kayak Berlin's Night Tour

Berlin Kayak by Night

A night kayak tour in Berlin probably didn’t cross your mind when making your itinerary for your trip, but this tour is certainly a unique way to experience the city in a manner that most locals haven’t enjoyed.

Kayaking is fairly easy even for a beginner and especially when you have guides to direct you.

Your guide will also share insight into the history of the area you travel through.

The route is 2 hours (5 km distance) and you will be traveling via small canals through the neighborhoods of Kreuzberg and Neukölln, two popular areas for great nightlife.

Bring a change of clothing so you can hop out of your semi-wet clothes and change into your nighttime attire and enjoy the local nightlife after the tour is done.

Reviews - Though there aren't hundreds of reviews, it's understandable since this is a niche tour. Reviews online, however, are excellent, most people citing the pleasure of seeing some of Berlin from the water.

  • When:   Tours run on various nights.
  • Cost: 25 € per person; 22 € reduced for students and private groups of more than 10 people.

ALMOST-FREE BUS TOURS

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to get around Berlin is by using public bus routes 100 and 200 .

These routes include double-decker buses that will take you right to many notable sites in the city and within walking distance of others.

At a price of only €3 per 2-hour ticket, you can easily ride around and see some of the most popular locations in the area during both day and night.

The best part about the 100 and 200 lines is that they run 24 hours a day.

This means that you can easily tour Berlin by bus even after the sun goes down, allowing you to experience a different side of the city.

If you're planning to travel around Berlin for more than two hours, you may want to consider getting an all-day ticket for €10. Although it's a little more expensive, this option will make your trip a lot easier.

Rather than purchasing a new ticket every few hours, you can just get one ticket and use it for the entire day.

Consider combining this outing with our self-guided tour of East Berlin or Central Berlin for a relatively low price and informative trip through the city.

For more information, check our post about how to use the public transport in Berlin . You'll also find more details about lines 100 and 200 on our Berlin bus tours post . 

Festival of Lights

Festival of Lights

Every October, Berlin celebrates the annual Festival of Lights when the city 's attractions are lit with spectacular colors and designs.

While throughout the rest of the year, the city's main attractions are lit, this special festival is eagerly anticipated by locals and visitors alike.

You can certainly enjoy the festival on foot (check out our self-guided tours of Berlin which you may find helpful).

You may prefer to take a bus tour, especially if you are on a short trip and don't have much time. Plus it makes for a nice structured evening plan.

You could potentially use lines 100 and 200 to reach many of the sites which celebrate this festival.

To find out about bus tours that offer Festival of Light tours, see our post about  Which Berlin Bus Tours Are Best?

Berlin Christmas Lights Tour

Christmas Holiday Lights Night Bus tour 

From late November until late December the city gears up for the holiday season with decorative Christmas lights on the famous Kurfürstendamm boulevard.

Vendors set up craft stall sin special markets. Again, for more information see our post on  Which Berlin Bus Tours Are Best ?

RELATED POSTS:

  • Top Things to do in Berlin at Night
  • Self Guided Berlin Walking Tours
  • Free things to do in Berlin

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Klunkerkranich

The best secret bars in Berlin

Here’s where to find the best hidden drinking dens – from local favourites to a car park rooftop

Berlin’s laidback drinking scene spans basement cocktail bars, café-style joints with food menus and ridiculously cool hidden drinking dens. From a ‘Twin Peaks’-themed bar with no sign to an unmarked venue with a music-reactive light installation and various drinking spots up hidden staircases – here are Berlin’s best secret places to go for a tipple.

An email you’ll actually love

The Black Lodge

The Black Lodge

You’re not a loser if you can’t find The Black Lodge on your first attempt. Or even second or third. The front of the bar has no signage except for a tiny business card pinned to a dimly lit noticeboard. Don’t worry though, the address is Sanderstraße 6 in Neuk ö lln. Those patient enough to locate it will be rewarded with a ‘Twin Peaks’-influenced bar, complete with a red room and a hidden wall that leads to… well you’ll see. At one point it was screening season two of the cult TV fave on an endless loop, although staff seem to have broken that tradition of late. Perhaps the VHS wore out…

Paloma Bar

  • 3 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Recently refurbished and one of the few (perhaps only) reasons to go to Kottbusser Tor, Paloma boasts a decent sound system, modest dancefloor and semi-regular appearances by the likes of DJ Fett Burger, making it well worth braving the somewhat chaotic kiez which it occupies. The floor-to-ceiling windows on one side of the venue provide a stunning view of the bustling street below – do keep a close eye on the events calendar, you’ll find hidden gems such as Rush Hour’s Hunee. Given that half the venue is glass and the crowd is a touch rowdy, it’s surprising Paloma’s remained such a secret. But its first-floor vantage point, graffiti-plastered staircase and shadowy, unassuming entrance is worth seeking out.

Photo: Flickr/Dominik Neubauer

Klunkerkranich

Klunkerkranich

Thanks to the restrictions on building heights in Berlin, Klunkerkranich – with its  wooden decking, bunting and a sandpit on top of a shopping centre car park – has unspoiled views of the entire city. The diverse music policy ranges from local DJs of all genres to live jazz and – although you might not know it from below – it’s insanely popular in the warmer months, so get down early as it’s quite often one-in-one-out by 8pm.

Klunkerkranich is also family friendly until the late evening and offers a small-but-decent food menu (including Korean chicken and pulled pork sandwiches). Enter via the Neuk ö lln Arcaden, take the lift to the top floor then go up the final ramp all the way to the sky.

Photo: Julian Nelken

60HZ

At 60HZ – a small cocktail bar with club aspirations – there’s a sound-reactive light installation hanging above the small dancefloor, which is generally kept jumping by local DJs. The exterior is unassuming, with a dark, unmarked door – visitors need to knock or buzz to get in – and inside it’s a relaxed night out for those who don’t fancy being squished in a superclub.

Photo: Daniel Schulz

While you’re at Paloma be sure to visit neighbouring bar Monarch, located on the other side of the hidden staircase – where you might stumble upon a live band. Berlin-based promoters Melt (best known for the high-end annual festival) regularly host events there, giving the audience a chance to see hotly tipped new acts in an intimate setting. And all this with the U1 U-Bahn line acting as a permanent backdrop: the bar has a view over the tracks.

Want more Berlin inspiration?

Abandoned Berlin: an urban explorer reveals 10 secret places

Abandoned Berlin: an urban explorer reveals 10 secret places

  • Things to do

Getting ruined in the German capital doesn’t have to mean going to a club or bar... Here are 10 abandoned buildings in and around the German capital – and the stories behind them

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art gallery

How to spend a day exploring Berlin's art and design scene

Spend a perfect day in the German capital, with stained glass, street art and spicy cocktails.

For thriving nightlife and thought-provoking art, there are few better cities than Berlin. Eye-opening and creative, it's a place where you can tour contemporary exhibitions, wander between kitschy boutiques and party into the evening, all in the space of a single day. Here's what you shouldn't miss.

10am: Stained glass in the Gedächtniskirche

Berlin’s history takes concrete form at the Gedächtniskirche (Kaiser Wilhelm Church) on Kurfürstendamm. The original 19th-century structure was hammered by Allied bombs in 1943 and then partially rebuilt after the Second World War, with the wreck of the old central spire preserved in the middle. The modernist architecture is stern, uncompromising stuff — until you go inside the chapel. Set into its honeycomb walls are hundreds of panes of stained glass, glowing an ethereal blue.  

11am: Photography exhibits at the C/O Berlin gallery

Strong, smooth coffee awaits just 450m from the Gedächtniskirche, in the cafe at C/O Berlin. The former Amerika Haus cultural centre, with its elegant 1950s setting, is now better known as one of Berlin’s best photography galleries — with a track record of socially engaged and intelligently curated exhibitions, as well as an art bookshop that’s impossible to resist.  

1pm: Lunch at Neni

Don’t leave the area without first taking the lift to this 10th-floor restaurant on Budapester Strasse, next to the leafy Tiergarten park. Make sure you book ahead and insist on a table on the north side, so you can gaze in wonder over 520 acres of inner-city trees as you enjoy the likes of Korean fried chicken salad with peanuts and pickled pomegranate, and spicy caramelised aubergine with toasted sesame and Japanese rice (mains from €18.50/£16). You might also find yourself searching for Norman Foster’s Reichstag dome on the horizon.

2pm: Street art at Urban Nation museum

This free gallery of contemporary art is just five minutes on the U2 underground line, and is funded by one of Berlin’s largest municipal housing associations, Gewobag. Through a series of scholarships and community projects, Gewobag also encourages murals on its own apartment blocks. This means you can feast on vivid paintings inside the gallery, then follow with a side-order of street art in Bülowstrasse immediately outside.

3:30pm: A riverside drink at Holzmarkt

Is the sun out? If it is, the next stop is Holzmarkt, a short walk from Ostbahnhof station. This hub of bars, businesses and restaurants is one of the few spots beside the river Spree where you can have a drink with the water lapping at your feet. Come for an unexpected city-centre combination of willow trees and peeping coots, stay for a spot of browsing. Rafiness und Tristesse upcycles olive oil cans into furniture, Die Backpfeife is a bakery serving cinnamon rolls, pretzels and sourdough sandwiches, Blackfïsk is the place to consider a souvenir Berlin tattoo.  

stained glass windows

4:30pm:   Shopping in Neukölln

You’re heading to arty Neukölln for dinner, so why not check out its small, independent shops and boutiques first? Bürknerstrasse has several, such as Kolla.Berlin. Co-owned by painter Dennis Pahl, it specialises in soft, loose-necked sweaters and reversible hooded minidresses. Nearby, Scusi Vintage sells a selection of retro Italian clothing and Yes Studio has kitschy candles and stylish glassware. If you’re here on Tuesday or Saturday you can also spoil your appetite by snacking your way along the Turkish market on Maybachufer street, which runs until 6.30pm.  

7:30pm: Dinner at Jaja Wein

Weserstrasse is Neukölln’s friendly and understated nightlife hub, and well worth a look. But first, take a detour to welcoming and unpretentious Jaja Wein nearby. Here, chef and former artist Hannes Broecker serves a short menu of vegetable-heavy dishes using local ingredients. Textures and techniques are spot-on in dishes such as celeriac tortellini with black trumpet mushrooms and an unctuous egg-yolk sauce. Alternatively, try Café Botanico on nearby Richardstrasse, a German-Italian haunt that grows its own produce for its irresistibly fresh pasta dishes.  

10pm: Drinks at Paolo Pinkel

Jaja Wein’s irresistible list of natural wines is highly likely to stretch your dinner later into the night than you originally intended, but if you have the energy and feel like going on afterwards, Paolo Pinkel is your best bet, only 150m away. Sprawling along both Weichselstrasse and Karl-Marx-Strasse, it’s an unpretentious, mood-lit and well-mannered nightlife hub comprising three kitchens, a buzzing cocktail bar and a small dance floor, which stays open at the weekends until 5am. You’ll probably find yourself dancing there after a spicy Thai cocktail or two.  

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Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation platform seeks to act as a catalyst to Educate, Advance, and Support the global drinks industry and communities we touch.

cocktail tour berlin

Inside the 140-Year-Old Distillery of Berlin’s Prussian Spirits Manufaktur

Posted on: Sep. 07, 2015 | Tours | By: Elizabeth Rushe

Preussische Spirituosen Manufaktur, a spirits distillery in the Berlin neighborhood of Wedding, dates all the way back to 1874. The distillery was set up according to an order by the Prussian cabinet, initially as a research and training institute for alcohol production. The distillery has retained its important educational purpose—it’s the only place in Germany where you can undertake a Masters in Distillery. Today it’s more than just a historic location, it’s a unique combination of distillery, learning institute, shop and tourist attraction with detailed guided tours (and perhaps most appealingly, ample tastings).

cocktail tour berlin

PSM has long since led the way in German distilling. The book regarded as the German distiller’s bible, “Trinkbranntweine und Liköre,” was photographed at the PSM distillery and published in 1964, according to Julian Machinek, an apprentice of two years at the distillery. “The pictures were taken here, this was the place to be if you wanted to be a distiller. Every distiller came from this spot,” Julian tells me. Next February, he will earn his journeyman papers, certifying that he has graduated from his apprenticeship, and can go on to become a master craftsman in distillery.

cocktail tour berlin

Stepping into the main rooms of the distillery, something is bubbling furiously over a Bunsen burner. They’re checking the proof on a new batch of liquor, distilled by Julian. A well-stocked cabinet of over 200 “drogen duftorgel” — leaves, herbs, spices, rinds and seeds for use in macerations — presides over the room. Every step of the process from creating extracts to maceration, distillation, bottling and labeling takes place under the roof of the PSM distillery. Each stage is executed by hand, and nothing is brought in from suppliers.

cocktail tour berlin

PSM uses more than 100 years of experience to inform their process and products. In the distillation room, Julian points to the vacuum distiller from 1952. “This one is especially suitable for maintaining flavors because it distills under a vacuum, [so] the boiling point is lower.” A table nearby is laden with bottles ranging in size and color, containing the macerations and distillations made on-site: rosehip, buffalo grass and orange blossom; the range of recipes points to a long heritage of inventiveness.

cocktail tour berlin

PSM not only creates their own lines of gin, vodka and liqueurs; they also collaborate with the Michelberger Hotel, a popular design hotel in Kreuzberg in East Berlin, for the “Michelberger Booze Company Ltd” range. The line includes two herbal schnapps: “Michelberger Forest,” a mellow and warm blend, and “Michelberger Mountain,” a crisp spirit likened to that feeling of invigorating fresh air that hits you as you ascend the top of a mountain.

cocktail tour berlin

In addition to creating custom products, the PSM distillery can also recreate blends for customers who struggling with the plight of a nearly finished, unidentified bottle of mystery booze. The mint liqueur currently in the PSM range came about when a customer approached the distillery with an old bottle, with a request to ‘rebuild’ it so that he could continue to enjoy it. “He asked us, ‘Can you recreate this? I don’t know what it’s called, or where it came from, but I can’t go on living without it,’” Julian says. PSM took on the challenge, and the results were so good they decided to include the liqueur in their own product line. “You can come to us with an image, a feeling, or memory of a smell… they can stay with you for your whole life,” explains Julian—he knows the value of nostalgia in his business. And this is one of the requirements of a master craftsman in a distillery, the ability to break down the flavors and aromas of a particular alcohol and pinpoint the exact ingredients.

cocktail tour berlin

In the lower level of the distillery there are large earthenware casks with a capacity of more than 200 liters, where the spirits “rest” from three to eight months for the final stage of distillation. “It’s like a ‘finding’ process, not comparable to wooden cask storage with whiskey for example, which would give a flavor,” says Julian. “The spirits are still working in a wooden vessel… in the earthenware cask the spirits are resting, finding harmony.” One of the oldest spirits, the Adler gin, has been produced here since 1874 and spends 8 months “finding harmony” in its earthenware cask before being bottled. Once the resting period is over, the spirits are pumped out, hand bottled, sealed and labeled in this room.

cocktail tour berlin

The final stop at the distillery is a bar with fully stocked shelves of the current PSM range of spirits: vodka, gin, the liqueur range including fiery galangal, quince, sweet plum, coffee and nut liqueur; Kurfürstlicher “tummy bitters” and gold-flecked spice liqueur based on a recipe dating back to the 17th century and containing 17 different spices, herbs, citrus distillate and gold leaf. You can taste and buy bottles here, as well as peruse display shelves of historical booze — the distillery has a trove of bottles dating back to the 1950s, discovered in the basement when the new owners took over.

cocktail tour berlin

You can experience Preussische Spirituosen Manufactur through consuming any of their varied products or by touring the historic facility. In either case, you’ll notice superiority and expertise that comes only with time.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Areas in Berlin for Bars

by Original Berlin Tours | Mar 7, 2024 | Bar Crawl Berlin

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Berlin and love exploring vibrant nightlife, you’re in luck! Berlin is renowned for its diverse and exciting bar scene. From trendy cocktail lounges to traditional beer gardens, this city has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best areas in Berlin for bars, so you can make the most of your visit.

Located in the heart of Berlin, Mitte is a central and lively district that offers a fantastic bar scene. Here, you’ll find a mix of traditional German pubs, modern cocktail bars, and hipster hangouts. One popular spot is Clärchens Ballhaus, a historic dance hall with a charming courtyard where you can enjoy drinks and live music.

Highlights in Mitte:

  • Katz Orange: This trendy bar and restaurant serve delicious cocktails in a stylish setting.
  • Becketts Kopf: A hidden gem known for its innovative and creative cocktails.
  • Amano Bar: Located on the rooftop of the Amano Hotel, this bar offers panoramic views of the city.

2. Kreuzberg

Kreuzberg is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, known for its alternative culture and lively nightlife. The area is filled with bars, clubs, and street art. You can start your night at Görlitzer Park, a popular meeting spot where locals gather. From there, explore the countless bars and clubs lining the streets.

Highlights in Kreuzberg:

  • SO36: A legendary music venue and bar known for punk and rock concerts.
  • Bar Tausend: Located beneath an old railway bridge, this hidden bar offers a unique ambiance.
  • Victoria Bar: This elegant cocktail bar is perfect for a classy night out.

3. Friedrichshain

Friedrichshain is a trendy neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife scene. The area offers a mix of bars, clubs, and beer gardens. Simon-Dach-Straße is the main street in Friedrichshain, filled with bars and restaurants catering to all tastes.

Highlights in Friedrichshain:

  • RAW Gelände: An abandoned train station turned cultural space with multiple bars.
  • Strandbar Mitte: A popular beach bar with sand, palm trees, and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Birgit und Bier: A unique outdoor bar and club with a spacious dance floor.

4. Neukölln

Neukölln is a vibrant and multicultural district with a thriving bar scene. Many bars in Neukölln are known for their cozy and laid-back atmosphere. Weserstraße is a street filled with numerous bars and is a great starting point for your Neukölln bar-hop adventure.

Highlights in Neukölln:

  • Ä: Known for its creative cocktails and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
  • Das Hotel: A cozy bar with a retro aesthetic and a wide selection of drinks.
  • Klunkerkranich: Located on the roof of a shopping center, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of Berlin.

5. Prenzlauer Berg

Prenzlauer Berg is a trendy and upscale neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere and charming streets. Kastanienallee and Oderberger Straße are two popular streets filled with trendy bars and pubs.

Highlights in Prenzlauer Berg:

  • Prater Garten: One of Berlin’s oldest beer gardens, perfect for a relaxed evening with a cold beer.
  • Barbara Bar: A stylish cocktail bar with a retro-inspired interior and an extensive drink menu.
  • Le Bon : A popular wine bar offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Berlin is a city that never sleeps, and its bar scene is a testament to that. Whether you’re into craft cocktails, traditional German beer, or live music, there’s a bar in Berlin that suits your tastes. From the vibrant streets of Mitte to the alternative vibes of Kreuzberg, each neighborhood has its own unique atmosphere and selection of bars to explore. So, raise a glass and enjoy the vibrant nightlife that Berlin has to offer!

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Eager for an unmatched evening escapade? Plunge into Berlin’s pulsing nightlife with our iconic pub crawl in Berlin . Each venue unravels a fresh tale, every sip crafts a lasting memory. Prepare for a night like no other!

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Cocktailbar Zeitlos Kurfürstendamm

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Cocktailbar Zeitlos Kurfürstendamm - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Budapest’s Gellért Baths

We found a swimming pool in every city on our Interrail trip around Europe

Swimming at every stop left us fresh and invigorated – and led us to parts of cities that tourists seldom visit

S tepping into the lobby of the Gellért Baths in Budapest is like stepping back in time. Having resisted the temptation to look at photos of the baths online, I was thrilled at my first sight of the spectacular art nouveau interior. After changing, my husband and I did a few laps of the main indoor pool, admiring the intricately decorated columns surrounding us. Afterwards, we explored the building’s labyrinth of geothermal pools before emerging on to the enormous roof terrace. There, we swam in the heated outdoor pool under bright sunshine.

Less touristy than the more party-style Széchenyi Baths , the Gellért offered us the chance of a decent swim and steam.

Visiting a thermal spa in Budapest is a must, but this wasn’t the first dip on our Interrail trip around Europe last spring. Lured by the offer of a discount on an Interrail Global Pass , we found time to travel across mainland Europe by rail – 30 years since I last Interrailed in my 20s – with little in mind but sightseeing, eating and drinking.

The terrace cafe at Ljubljana’s Museum of Modern Art

We had loosely planned a clockwise route, starting on the Eurostar from London to Brussels and returning via Paris two months later. Staying in mid-price hotels and hostels, we took whirlwind tours of Bruges, Brussels, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Berlin and Kraków, trying an endless stream of cafes, bars and restaurants.

But less than two weeks into our trip, when we arrived in the Slovakian capital, Bratislava, we found that our experiences were already blurring into one. What’s more, despite walking a good number of steps each day, we were feeling the effects of the freedom to overindulge and missing the routine of our regular swims back home.

So, deciding it was time to take action, we hit on the idea of seeking out a swim wherever we stopped. We Googled swimming pools and set off across the city on foot, eventually arriving at Plaváreň Pasienky . Once inside the facility’s largely deserted building, we wandered up and down staircases and along quiet corridors until we spotted a sign telling us that the entrance to the pool was “through the wardrobes”. We located our respective changing rooms and found an attendant selling tickets.

Our journey through the wardrobes then led us to a 50-metre pool – the largest in Bratislava – with just a handful of swimmers bobbing along the lanes. Though the pool was a little run down (and would soon be refurbished, to reopen this spring), we emerged feeling invigorated and ready for the next leg of our journey.

Besides the obvious physical benefits, our swimming expeditions also took us to parts of cities we might otherwise have missed.

Plage de la Gravette in Antibes

On our way to Plaváreň Pasienky, we chanced upon the giant Slovak Radio Building, shaped like an upside-down pyramid. After our swim, we travelled back to the old town by trolleybus, missed our stop and ended up at the parliament building, where we dined at a restaurant overlooking the Danube.

In Budapest, our visit to the Gellért Baths had led us across the Danube from Pest to Buda via the magnificent Liberty Bridge and given us glorious views over Gellért Hill.

As we journeyed across Europe, we became obsessed with comparing swimming pool prices and facilities, embraced the array of wristbands and tokens for lockers and hairdryers, learned that most pools insisted on flip-flops and a swimming cap, and came to accept the lack of information online about opening times.

In Austria, during our stay in the south-eastern city of Graz, we swam at  Bad zur Sonne , a pristine stainless steel-bottomed pool where the efforts of swimmers contrasted starkly with spectators enjoying an early morning beer. Later, our swim provided a conversation opener with locals, who told us how, before the building was renovated, it had been the scene of an arts event, with bands using the drained pool as a stage and artists setting up their wares in the cubicles.

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Sarah Kovandzich at La Plage de la Gravette in Antibes

A rainy day in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, led us to the 10-lane Kopališče Tivoli in Tivoli Park where, after our swim, we ate delicious savoury waffles in the pool’s Vafljivaflji cafe and drank fresh orange-and-mint tea. Our exit through the park led us to an outdoor photographic exhibition, an ornate Serbian Orthodox church and the Museum of Modern Art, with its fabulously stylish cocktail bar.

In Trieste, we walked the width of the port to the enormous Centro Federale, run by the Italian Swimming Federation. After a patient receptionist helped us register online, we made our way around the building to Piscina Bruno Bianchi . We were about to jump into an empty Olympic-size pool when we spotted the teams of swimmers arriving for their competition and noticed a smaller pool at the back for public swimming. With its six lanes and diving “pit”, the 25-metre pool was still an impressive facility.

The walk back to our Airbnb led us along the tree-lined Passeggio Sant’Andrea, where we stumbled on the Ariston cinema and watched an Irish arthouse film.

In Vicenza, we were sure we’d taken a wrong turn when we arrived at a building milling with teenagers, but a helpful student directed us across the school car park to Piscina Patronato Leone XIII . The facilities were basic but the pool was clean and orderly, thanks to an officious attendant who made sure everyone showered before getting in the water, and swam in the right direction.

In Pistoia, an underpass led us to a quiet residential area and, down a side street, to the grandly named Acquarama .

The pristine steel-bottomed Bad Zur Sonne pool in Graz, Austria

“Do you know the Olympic pool in London?” asked the receptionist, surprised to see tourists. We nodded eagerly.

“Well, this is nothing like that!” he laughed. When we saw the narrow pool with its faded tiles, we understood why he wanted to manage our expectations, but with only one lane already occupied we enjoyed another refreshing swim.

As we took the train along the Italian Riviera towards France and the weather got warmer, our swims moved outdoors, but we continued to look for modest locations.

On a fine day in Sanremo, we slipped on to the beach of Bagni Paradiso , where the rocky groynes and rows of changing cabins created the calm of a lido. As it was still slightly off-season, the only other visitors were inside the beach restaurant – guests at an Italian family lunch.

Bagni Paradiso at San Remo, Italy.

In Antibes we loved the unpolished feel of Plage de la Gravette – the horseshoe-shaped public beach behind the ramparts of the old town, made all the more entertaining by seasonal workers from the luxury yachts in the harbour, who shared stories as they swam in the sea.

In Bordeaux we took the tramway to Les Aubiers and serene Plage du Lac . We clocked up lengths while ducks swam around us and boats sailed by in the distance, rested afterwards under tall trees, watching teenagers playing table tennis – and felt we’d been fully immersed in local culture.

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    One of the best ways to experience the city's unique atmosphere is by exploring its thriving bar scene. From cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars, Berlin has it all. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey to discover the best places to drink in Berlin. 1. Hofbräu Berlin. If you're a fan of traditional German beer, Hofbräu Berlin is a ...

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    Your exclusive bar experience in the Berlin TV Tower: In Berlin's most modern and highest bar, an unparalleled experience awaits you. The Sphere Bar in the Berlin TV Tower is not just a place with breathtaking views, but also a paradise for beer, wine, and cocktail lovers. Highest bar in Berlin. Unique Beer Cocktails.

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    Bar Tausend: Located beneath an old railway bridge, this hidden bar offers a unique ambiance. Victoria Bar: This elegant cocktail bar is perfect for a classy night out. 3. Friedrichshain. Friedrichshain is a trendy neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife scene. The area offers a mix of bars, clubs, and beer gardens.

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