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. These are the 13 best bars in Berlin.
Read our full Berlin travel guide here.
Every bar on this list has been selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by a local contributor who has visited that restaurant. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable eateries, and weigh stand-out dishes, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials. We update this list as new options open and existing ones evolve. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
