Berlin is one of the gay capitals in Europe.  It has been through the destruction of war and was divided for almost 30 years but it’s once again on top. It is an incredibly tolerant place where even the mayor is openly gay.

When talking about the gay scene, you must count at least three specific areas.

Schöneberg: the oldest Gay district in West Berlin. The area where elegant pubs with trendy guys-Heile Welt, Hafen- coexist in a rather small area with crowded cruising clubs -Tom’s Bar- or the most diverse fetish scene in Europe. The place to be to get to know the biggest scene in town.

What about Kreuzberg? Certainly not East…also out of the radar of the Gay West mainstream until recently. Home to the biggest Turkish community outside Turkey is also the place where a new, young and alternative, punk-inspired scene is growing strongly (Möbel Olfe, Schwuz…). And hey!  The first Gay Turkish party is taking place here (Gayhane).

Prenzlauer Berg, the old East quarter and Schöneberg’s smaller sister. A more relaxed, less compact Gay scene but worthy a visit if interested in a genuinely local atmosphere. The Schoppenstube might be a good start, before East Berlin night takes you somewhere else.

*Regardless of area preferences, all agree in that hard dancers, techno lovers and party animals belong to the Berghain / Panorama Bar. Totally mixed, absolutely crazy.

Welcome to Berlin, meine Damen und Herren!

Overview by GuyMontag