How To Celebrate New Year's Eve In Berlin

As Germany‘s Hauptstadt, and a place with a world-class nightlife scene, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Berlin is the place to be on New Year’s Eve. No city will be able to compare in terms of the liveliness and diversity of the evening’s events. We’ve scoured the scene and done all the homework for you, and curated a handpicked list of the best things to do in Berlin come New Year’s Eve.

1. Brandenburg Gate

Brandenburg Gate

In the case of most major events, it’s always a safe bet to plan on partying at the Brandenburg Gate, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. Touted as one of the biggest street parties in Europe, the entire space between the gate and the Victory Column will be sequestered off for pedestrians to celebrate. Ditch the hazardous amateur fireworks darting around most neighborhood districts when the New Year roles in, and head to the gate for a professional fireworks show. Additionally, there will be live DJs and food stands featuring an international array of cuisines. Not to mention, entry is free – a major draw considering the hiked expense of entry elsewhere.

Brandenburg Gate, Pariser Platz, Berlin, Germany

Brandenburg Gate | © Katherine Price/Flickr

2. Spreepalais Alexanderplatz

Spreepalais Alexanderplatz

Another popular hub, particularly for visitors, is Alexanderplatz. Gather with friends and head to Spreepalais for a dazzling atmosphere, where industrial style meets glamorous urban interior design. Sprawling across multiple stories, this converted space will be dotted with multiple dance floors, where DJs will be spinning tracks from a myriad different genres. When the clock strikes midnight, head out to the rooftop terrace where unparalleled views of the TV tower await. This is one of the best places to watch the fireworks and enjoy a club atmosphere at the same time.

Spreepalais Alexanderplatz Am Krögel 2, Berlin, Germany

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3. Kino International

Cinema, Theater

Kino International has long been renowned for its own brand of ’60s Soviet-era glam. Today, the theater hosts a curated selection of independent film screenings and other cultural events. On holidays, and when there is otherwise cause for celebration, the Kino also opens its doors as one of the most ravishing party venues in the city. The cinema’s trademark glass facade makes an ideal vantage point for enjoying fireworks indoors. Ring in the new year by busting a move on every one of the five dance floors, each one with different musical stylings, ranging from mainstream pop to minimal techno to reggae.

5. Kulturbrauerei

Kulturbrauerei

For those looking to get multicultural on the evening of December 31st, look no further than the New Year’s party at Kulturbrauerei in Prenzlauer Berg. This sprawling building complex dedicated to arts and entertainment is fit to accommodate large crowds, and the evening is sure to include a unique fireworks show, inviting guests to see the site of one of the city’s biggest Christmas Markets in a new light. Kulturbrauerei will also host some of the most diverse mixes of music with over 30 DJs in attendance, as well as a live band.

Kulturbrauerei, Schönhauser Allee 36, Berlin, Germany, +49 30 44352614

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6. Spreespeicher Berlin

Spreespeicher Berlin

For those truly dedicated to Berlin’s scenic side, gather at the Spreespeicher Berlin to start off the New Year at the river’s edge where the fireworks reflect and glitter across the water’s surface. There is no other view of the city’s iconic lights display quite like that seen from Spreespeicher’s three expansive terraces. The price of tickets includes drinks, ranging from beer and sodas to Prosecco for the midnight toast. Expect to find music ranging from electro and R&B to disco and classics from decades past.

Spreespeicher, Stralauer Allee 2, Berlin, Germany, +49 30 814590700

View of the Oberbaumbrücke | © Grolli77/Flickr

7. HYTE

HYTE

For those looking to party in true Berliner fashion, where electronic music and edgy vibes come first, let us recommend spending the year’s most momentous evening at the Berlin Arena for the HYTE celebration. The event starts at 6PM on New Year’s Eve and continues on until 2PM the next day. The lineup features the ‘who’s who of techno royalty’ with acts like Carl Cox, Chris Liebing, Lollino, Cuky, Caleb Calloway and many more. The arena itself boasts a maze of corridors and dance floors, along with a panoramic view over the Spree River.

HYTE, Eichenstraße 4, Berlin, Germany, +49 30 53320361

Courtesy of HYTE

8. Odyssee

Odyssee

For those looking for a multifaceted experience, head to Odyssee Berlin on Landsberger Allee in Friedrichshain for a night of music and arts that form the perfect harmony in this psychedelic-themed festival. There will be continuous live sets by some of the city’s best DJs, along with gallery exhibitions as well as plenty of places to relax and hang out. Expect an immersive audiovisual experience, complete with groovy Technicolor visuals spanning over multiple dance floors. This is the ideal celebration for anyone looking to do things the Berlin way but with an enthralling twist.

Odyssee, Pfuelstraße 5, Berlin, Germany, +49 30 616718250

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