Go online and you’ll find tons of advice on how to get past hardcore bouncers who watch over the doors of Berlin’s most popular bars and notorious nightclubs.

So the best advice we can give you is:

* Load up on your research beforehand; and

* Then, go to the bar or club where you feel and know you BELONG.

For example, if you like psychedelic colors and Burning Man vibes, you may find yourselves headed to Sisyphos. Or if leather, the color black or pro clubbing is your thing, you can go online and see if Berghain is right for you.

Simply put, to bypass Berlin bouncers, you have to really fit in.

It’s not good enough that you know who’s DJing, that you’re polite and fun, or you speak German.  

You can luck out (like we did at one club because we were relaxed, clueless and dressed right), but club kids exude cool and confidence because they’re familiar with the club or the scene, they’re comfortable in their skin, they feel right in their outfit or costume, and they’re mentally ready for the night and the successive ones to come.

If you don’t want to go through such reflection or set yourself up for possible rejection after lining up for hours, you can:

* Try to bypass the bouncer by getting on a guest list. You can contact promoters through Resident Advisor (RA).

* Buy a ticket on-line in advance to a show with a good DJ. Also available through RA.

* Or visit clubs or club-like bars that have a relaxed door policy, such as Klunkerkranich (a gathering place for people new to the city) or Club de Visionnaire.

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Photo by kağan yaldızkaya on Unsplash