Berlin is not just a city of history and cutting-edge culture—it’s a city where the drinks flow as freely as the ideas. Whether you’re into sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail in a swanky hidden speakeasy or knocking back a local brew in a quirky dive, Berlin has the bar scene to match your vibe.
Berlin’s bar scene offers a fascinating blend of the unexpected and the timeless. On one hand, the city’s “living-room bars” create a cozy, almost nostalgic atmosphere, with mismatched furniture, flickering candlelight, and exposed walls.
These spots often go unnoticed during the day, but as night falls, they come alive with animated conversations and a lively crowd spilling out onto the sidewalks. In contrast, another facet of Berlin’s nightlife is the chic bars that exudd old-world charm and sophistication. Here are the best bars in Berlin;
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Das Hotel
Tucked away in a cool corner of Kreuzberg, Das Hotel bar offers an intimate, eclectic atmosphere that feels like a hidden gem. As you enter through dramatic curtains and you are greeted by a vintage sign, setting the stage for a cozy experience bathed in the soft glow of numerous candles.
The bar’s compact space is filled with raw, industrial charm, typical of the area’s “living room bars,” where the seating arrangement can feel a bit cozy. What sets this spot apart are the whimsical touches, like vases and hanging pots of flowers that seem to shower the space with color.
The drinks are exceptional, with expertly crafted Old Fashioneds and Basil Smashes taking center stage. Unsure of what to order? The friendly staff is more than happy to help you customize the perfect drink.
Café am Neuen See
Located in Tiergarten Park, Café am Neuen See is one of Berlin’s most enchanting biergartens. With its serene atmosphere and lush surroundings, it provides a perfect escape for a romantic afternoon or a leisurely gathering with friends.
While it’s especially captivating in the summer, when the open-air space by the water invites guests to relax, the winter months offer a cozy alternative. The indoor restaurant, featuring panoramic windows, crackling fireplaces, and soft candlelight, creates an intimate ambiance ideal for a peaceful winter retreat.
Monkey Bar
Found on the 10th floor of the Monkey Hotel in Charlottenburg, the Monkey Bar is one of the best places in Berlin to unwind in the evening. It offers a unique blend of excellent gin and tonics as well as breathtaking panoramic views of the nearby Zoologischer Garten.
The bar’s design plays off its surroundings, with artwork featuring gorillas and giraffes and seating that’s stacked with brightly woven cushions, creating an inviting space for guests to unwind. The interior is bathed in the warm glow of golden light bulbs, while lush planters infuse the atmosphere with a hint of the jungle.
For the best experience, visit during the day when the views are at their peak, and avoid the crowds that tend to gather later in the evening. Whether enjoying a cocktail or soaking in the sights, Monkey Bar provides a memorable setting for any occasion.
Geist im Glas
Geist im Glas is a dark, intimate gem in the heart of Neukölln. It’s renowned for its exceptional cocktails and cozy ambiance. The space exudes a raw, industrial charm, softened by the warm flicker of candlelight illuminating the tables and candelabras. The atmosphere is perfect for conversations, with most patrons gathering in small groups or couples to savor expertly crafted drinks.
Once a local favorite among Neukölln and Kreuzberg barhoppers, the bar has begun to draw the attention of curious tourists eager to experience its unique vibe. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a laid-back yet stylish environment to enjoy high-quality cocktails.
Madame Claude
Madame Claude offers an eccentric, whimsical experience in a space that was once a brothel, now transformed into a unique bar with a twist—literally. The interior feels like stepping into an upside-down apartment. The furniture is suspended from the ceiling, creating an atmosphere that’s part cozy living room, part quirky art installation.
The charm lies in the playful details: beer bottles, keys, and other curiosities dangling overhead, inviting guests to engage in a game of “I Spy.” While the house cocktail, Mme. Claude, is a must-try, it’s worth noting that the bartenders also craft standard drinks to perfection. For those seeking an added touch of entertainment, the basement hosts live music.
Tier
Located in Weserstraße, Neukölln’s vibrant nightlife hub, Tier embodies the essence of the area’s “living room bars.” The space is cozy and unpretentious, featuring mismatched vintage furniture, low tables, and a warm glow from flickering candles. It’s the kind of place where you can feel right at home, yet enjoy an elevated drinking experience.
The cocktail menu here stands out with its inventive creations, crafted to meet the tastes of both cautious drinkers and those seeking bolder concoctions. With a nod to New York speakeasies, Tier offers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. And, in case you’re wondering, the name “Tier” means “animal” in German—so after a few of their expertly mixed drinks, the wild side of things might just come out.
Clärchens Ballhaus
Clärchens Ballhaus is a beloved institution in Berlin, offering one of the city’s most charming beer gardens. Nestled in a lively courtyard, this spot is perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening. Here, you’ll be surrounded by the enchanting, fairy-lit atmosphere of long communal tables and the decaying facade of a century-old building.
As you pass the Otto Dix-designed sign outside and ascend the creaking stairs, you’ll discover the Spiegelsaal, or mirrored ballroom. The space invites the imagination to wander, evoking the vibrant, hedonistic days of the Weimar Republic, when this venue was a hub of socializing and revelry.
Conclusion
Berlin’s bar scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself—each bar offers its own unique slice of nightlife, whether you’re in the mood for sleek sophistication, quirky dive bars, or something in between. So grab your drink, raise it to the city’s ever-evolving spirit, and get ready to experience Berlin’s best bars like never before.
