Techno Clubs

What’s going on under there?

We know that techno is the soundtrack for those with serious style. It has this sleek and addictive energy that is, once you’re in, tough to resist. Welcome to the underground.

 

Kids Stay Home: A Raver's Guide to Berlin

Techno music, repetitive beats with industrial undertones, is the domain for the truly initiated. If you know anything about techno music, you know the heart of the scene is found in Berlin.

After the genre’s beginnings in Detroit, the rise of Berlin as the global capital of techno can be traced back to the fall of the Berlin Wall. Abandoned buildings in the East were transformed into raw, underground clubs, attracting a generation of partygoers and artists.

Thinking about what to wear for a night out? Here are a few tips...

 

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The Berlin techno scene has a distinct aesthetic. All-black ensembles are the norm, but don't be afraid to experiment with textures and materials. Leather, latex, and mesh are also all commonly found in the club.

Berlin's techno culture is deeply intertwined with the city's progressive values. With its emphasis on freedom and self-expression, it's no wonder that Berlin has become a beacon for the LGBTQ+ (or FLINTA* in Germany) community. This open-mindedness is reflected in the city's fashion choices, which celebrate individuality and diversity.

Brands like BALENCIAGA and MUGLER have embraced this aesthetic, creating collections that are perfect for a night out on the Berlin club scene.

 

©balenciaga.com, ©@BerlinClubMemes 

MUGLER Pre-FALL24, AVELLANO FW24, 032C SS25 ©vogue.com, ©latexpolska.com, ©vogue.com

 

Tip: when you hit up a techno club, don’t wear your favorite clothes. You don’t want to deal with the nightmare of a spilled drink on them, or worse. Plus, whatever you wear WILL end up smelling of smoke and sweat. Speaking from experience here.

Berlin’s techno culture was recently added to UNESCO’s list of Germany’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. They recognized that “club culture deserves protection and support.” How about that? It's a testament to the enduring power of music to bring people together and shape culture. Feeling more intrigued by techno now? Want to know where to go?

   

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There's no place quite like Berghain. This legendary Berlin club, housed in a former power plant, has become a global phenomenon. Its notoriously selective door policy, where the bouncers have the final say on who gets in, has turned entry into a rite of passage. Google "Berghain outfit" and you'll find countless articles dedicated to cracking the dress code. The exclusivity is part of the allure. Spending a weekend immersed in the world of Berghain is an experience you'll never forget. With its multiple-day-long opening times, it's essentially a microcosm of its own.

Address: Am Wriezener Bahnhof 10243 Berlin S-Ostbahnhof

IG: @berghain_ostgut

    

Tresor, Berlin

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Berlin's OG techno club. Opening in March 1991, just a few months after the Berlin Wall came down, Tresor is a true pioneer of the Berlin techno scene. Set in a revamped heating plant, it’s got tons of space to dance your heart out. With its prison-bar vibe and wild lighting, you’ll lose track of time and end up greeting the sunrise with other night owls. As a cornerstone of Berlin’s techno scene, they often drop cool collabs as well. They made a perfume inspired by the club to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Berlin Wall coming down and recently teamed up with Carhartt for some exclusive merch.

 

Address: Köpenicker Straße 70, Berlin, Germany 10179

IG:  @tresorberlin

 

RSO, Berlin

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Berghain is always packed and there’s no guarantee you’ll get in. When you’re planning a techno night in Berlin, it’s smart to have a backup plan (or multiple). A solid alternative is RSO.BERLIN. A converted brewery from 1882, its amazing sound system makes for an immersive rave experience. In the spring and summer, they open up an outdoor floor, offering a unique club experience.

 

Address: Schnellerstraße 137, 12439 Berlin, Germany

IG: @rso.berlin

  

Drugstore Belgrade, Serbia

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If you’re in Belgrade, you’ve gotta check out Drugstore Belgrade. Representing the city’s nightlife, the club is set in an old slaughterhouse right across from the Danube port. It’s got that raw, industrial vibe for those into that kind of thing. The ceiling's concrete structure looks like whale ribs, and it’s a total standout. They mainly play techno, but you’ll also catch local artists performing. Be sure to check their website or Instagram for the latest lineup before you go.

 

Address: Bulevar despota Stefana 115, Beograd 11000, Serbia

IG: @clubdrugstore

 

BASSIANI, Georgia

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Few may expect just how lively the Georgian techno scene is. That said, located in a massive 50-meter Olympic swimming pool, BASSIANI is more than just a techno club. This former Soviet-era space left abandoned for a decade, has become a symbol of inclusivity in a Georgia where queer people often face discrimination. One of their standout events, Horoom Night, embodies this spirit perfectly. BASSIANI makes it clear: "We’re not interested in people who dress up or look cool. Our entry policy is all about keeping out aggressive individuals.”

 

Address: 2, Akaki Tsereteli ave, Tbilisi, Georgia

IG: @basssiani

 

Fabric, London

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It might seem basic because it’s so famous, but there’s a reason fabric is iconic. Celebrating its 25th year this year, this London club has three rooms and a bunch of bars, and they play everything from techno to house, drum and bass, and hip-hop. If you’re thinking of going, definitely check the lineup ahead of time to make sure it’s your vibe. You don’t want to end up bored if they’re spinning tracks you’re not into.

 

Address: 77a Charterhouse Street, London, United Kingdom EC1M 6HJ

IG: @fabriclondonofficial 

 

VENT, Tokyo

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Walking into VENT always feels exciting. Maybe it’s the upscale vibe of Omotesando that sets it apart from other Shibuya clubs. Head down the concrete stairs and you’ll be greeted by a minimalistic and chic interior. There’s a space at the main bar and lounge where you can mingle and strike up a conversation with an interesting stranger. True to its reputation, VENT is serious about sound, with its architecture designed to naturally enhance acoustics. Every time I’ve been, I’ve left feeling really satisfied with the sound quality. If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo soon, definitely check it out.

 

Address: 南青山3-18-19 フェスタ表参道ビルB1, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan 107-0062 

IG: @vent.tokyo

 

VURT, Seoul 

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Vurt. has a unique, deep, and dark atmosphere that’s incredibly comforting. It’s amazing to have a spot like this in the heart of Seoul where you can truly enjoy techno. When you’re dancing to the beats here, there’s a moment where it feels like it’s just you and the music. In those times, you can just lose yourself in the experience. Personally, I’m starting to miss that authentic ‘deep techno’ sound, so I think it’s time for me to return to Vurt.

 

Address: 414-20 Hapjeong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea, Basement

IG: @vurt_seoul 

 

There are times when the only way to truly disconnect is to immerse yourself in the rhythmic pulse of techno. For many, a techno club is a sanctuary, a place to lose yourself in the music and find a sense of peace. The repetitive beats and driving basslines create a hypnotic trance that can be both exhilarating and meditative. So, leave your phone at the door and prepare to be transported to another dimension.