The German capital is a hedonist’s dream where nightclubs never seem to close for the night — or morning. Near the Ostbahnhof, Berghain stands as the most iconic of these anything-goes clubs. Known all over the world, this techno destination inside an old power station keeps the toughest door in all of Berlin, but once you’re in, Berghain delivers with world-famous DJs — only the best of the best, from Carl Craig to Laurent Garnier, spin here — and equally head-turning partygoers who never seem to tire.

Along the Spree, Watergate’s glass-walled minimalist vibe offers another major stop for revelers craving thumping beats. Like Berghain, it seduces the electronic superstars to man its DJ booths. A more grown-up vibe awaits in Alexanderplatz’s House of Weekend, featuring a fabulous rooftop bar with views of the famous TV Tower.

For something tamer, Berlin’s cocktail bar scene earns the city a reputation as one of Europe’s best for mixed drinks. Its bars serve as mixologists’ playgrounds for well-crafted classics as well as innovative beverages you’ll have to come here to taste. Some of the best bars are tucked inside buzzy hotels, like Monkey Bar, which specializes in trendy tiki drinks, on the roof of 25hrs Bikini Hotel. Nearby, Stue Bar makes a truly elegant hangout for enjoying a sharp martini. In The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin the bartenders at moody Fragrances build cocktails inspired by designer perfumes. Think dramatically designed tipple (one served inside a wooden birdhouse delights with smoked sandalwood) fashioned to smell like your favorite scent from Penhaligon’s or Guerlain.

In Mitte, check out award-winning Buck and Breck, which subscribes to a less-is-more approach: It’s now one of Berlin’s most exclusive bars thanks to its speakeasy vibe, limited seating and barmen who take their time meticulously preparing something from the small menu of updated classics.

Despite its reputation as a major gay destination, some parts of the Schöneberg neighborhood, where Christopher Isherwood used to live, can get eerily quiet once local shops close for the day. But stick around and pop into Stagger Lee, a laid-back boîte with a Western aesthetic. As such, whiskey-based libations are your best bet here.