The Top 10 Techno Clubs In Germany

| © Marcheur1976/Wiki Commons
Lily Cichanowicz

Germany has certainly done its part in developing the genre of techno music, particularly as a countercultural response in protests to the country’s division during the 1980s. Throughout the ’90s and into the 21st century, the culture has only continued to flourish, largely thanks to Germany’s many techno clubs. Here are the top ten to visit.

1. Berghain

Music Venue

Mountain grove, in the Wriezener railway station, Friedrichs grove, Berlin, Germany, Berghain, Am Wriezener Bahnhof, Friedrichshain, Deutschland
© Bildagentur-online/Schoening / Alamy Stock Photo
Without a doubt, Berlin’s most famous techno club, Berghain stands at the foundation of the city’s reputation as the nightlife capital of the world. What is technically a gay or fetish club welcomes every one…as long as they are able to make it past the Berghain’s very own Charon, Sven, who guards the door in adherence to a very strict and enigmatic entrance policy. Once inside, however, this cavernous power plant turned night club in Friedrichshain offers something of a hedonistic free-for-all set to the sound of a variety of different techno styles strung in sets spun by renowned DJs from around the world.

2. Chalet

Nightclub, Pub Grub

One of Berlin’s hippest up-and-coming clubs is Chalet. Situated along the Spree, the club is housed in this 19th-century building whose interior lounge areas are decorated in antiquated style, adding a sense of aesthetic beauty to what is Berlin’s typically dark, edgy, minimal techno club scene. Plus, there is a leafy terrace complete with a pond whose trees are illuminated with hanging lanterns. Of course, there are dance floors where guests can groove to techno music situated within the club as well, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and energetic party time. Chalet is certainly a magical departure from the grungier underground majority of techno clubs.

3. Club der Visionaere

Bar, Nightclub, Cafe, Pizzeria, German

3. Club der Visionaere
© Nacho Pintos / Flickr
At least a visit or two to Club der Visionaere is a quintessential part of any summer in Berlin. This club, located near Görlitzer Park and a short bike ride from most of the city’s other major nightlife destinations, is perched right on the water, beneath massive weeping willow trees set aglow in Technicolor lights. People typically come here as a preface to a night of club-hopping as it is lovely in the earlier evening for a drink and a bit of preliminary dancing. On the contrary, CDV is also popular for the techno parties it hosts on Sunday afternoons.

4. Harry Klein

Nightclub, German

The Harry Klein Club in Munich, 2011
© Sueddeutsche Zeitung Photo / Alamy Stock Photo
Munich, one of Germany’s wealthier cities, also has a bit of nightlife worth noting. The nightclub Harry Klein in particular is renowned for its techno performances, which are complete with astounding light and visual effects. Named for the British saxophonist who occasionally recorded with the Beatles, don’t expect to find much jazz at this club. No doubt, this is the best place in Munich to catch some of the most famous DJs because Harry Klein it is regarded as the city’s premier venue for techno and electronic music.

5. Distillery

Distillery

In the up-and-coming cultural city of Leipzig, there are a few different techno clubs of which it is worth taking note. The oldest and largest club in the city, Distillery, is the one that is most often set on par with the likes of Berlin’s techno venues. The city is, after all only about an hour away by train. Distillery is located on the bustling Kurt-Eisner Strasse just south of the city center, set far back behind shambles of wooden fencing. It could be tremendously easy to miss the club altogether. Entrance requires guests to knock on the door, upon which the bouncer opens up and grants entry. Be sure to explore the cellar dance floor, as the music is typically most committed to its techno roots.

6. Elektroküche

Building, Concert Hall

Elektroküche, which translates in English to electric kitchen, is Cologne’s best techno club. Initially the progeny of Sensor, Elektroküche has been the most prominent club in this city for more than ten years. Located in a former vinegar factory, this club is most widely known for its harder techno styles, so be warned it is a bit niche. Yet, for those looking to enjoy the genre in Köln, it’s worth the exploration. Plus, a variety of concerts, festivals, fairs, and other special events take place in this building complex at the heart of the city.

7. Sisyphos

Nightclub, Contemporary

In the summertime, Sisyphos is a favorite spot among the locals of Berlin. This is largely due to the fact that it is a techno club with a multitude of amazing different attractions. There are, for instance, food stands, a pond, along with plenty of space to dance and hang out outside. Many may not realize it, but Sisyphos also has an in-house masseuse and fully functional sauna as well. Really, you could go here and happily stay for days on end without wanting for much. Not to mention, each year the owners seem to add new details to this place, keeping guests on their toes from season to season. Be warned, however, Sisyphos only keeps regular hours during the summer months.

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