Berlin’s Top 10+ Event Spaces in 2026: Your Complete Planning Guide
Berlin continues to strengthen its position as one of Europe’s leading event destinations. For 2026, event planners benefit from an exceptional combination: landmark venue openings, established industrial spaces with modern capabilities, and an expanding selection of sustainability-focused options with advanced hybrid infrastructure.
The city celebrates its 20th anniversary as a UNESCO City of Design in 2026 while hosting the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup (4–13 September). These milestones are expected to increase demand during key periods, making early venue enquiries advisable.
Quick Picks (If You’re Short on Time)
Best “all-in-one” congress scale: Estrel Congress Center + Estrel Tower (from late 2026)
Best industrial statement venue: Kraftwerk Berlin (up to ~2,600)
Best hybrid-ready mid-size: Motorwerk Berlin
Best sustainability-first venue: Umweltforum
Best tech-forward launch space: BACKFABRIK’s CLINKER
Comparison Table: Berlin Event Venues at a Glance
Note: Capacities are approximate and vary depending on room configuration. For tailored venue recommendations based on your specific event requirements, contact our Berlin team or explore our full venue portfolio.
Venue | Best For | Max Capacity | District | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Estrel Congress Center + Tower | Congresses, multi-day conferences | 15,000+ (complex) | Neukölln | Large congress infrastructure; Tower adds premium event space from late 2026 |
Kraftwerk Berlin | Launches, shows, exhibitions | ~2,600 | Mitte | Iconic industrial halls and multi-level layout |
House of Games | Gaming, e-sports, digital culture | 10,000+ m² site | Friedrichshain | Near Warschauer Straße; opening timing may shift within 2026 |
Motorwerk Berlin | Conferences, fashion, e-sports | ~2,000 | Weissensee (Pankow) | Large hall plus gallery; strong production footprint |
Umweltforum | ESG, NGOs, sustainable corporate | ~350 | Friedrichshain | Sustainability-led venue in former church |
Forum Factory | Panels, seminars, networking | 350 standing / 199 theatre | Kreuzberg | Central, flexible mid-size option |
BACKFABRIK (CLINKER) | Tech launches, screenings | Configuration-based | Mitte | LED wall, immersive lighting, multi-camera livestream |
Riverside Studios | Creative events, music/media | ~200 | Kreuzberg | Creative waterfront setting in MediaSpree |
Startbahn | Creative gatherings, culture | ~200 | Neukölln | Distinctive church venue with neighbourhood character |
Passionskirche | Concerts, cultural programmes | ~670 | Kreuzberg | Managed rentals; strong concert credentials |
Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche | Receptions, concerts, talks | ~500 (reception) | Kreuzberg | Managed rentals; multiple seating modes |
The Venues: Top 10+ Berlin Event Spaces for 2026
1. Estrel Congress Center + Estrel Tower (Opening Late 2026)
Location: Neukölln
Best For: International congresses, large corporate conferences, multi-day programmes, hybrid events
Capacity: 15,000+ (entire complex)
Why Planners Choose It: Scale, logistics, and “everything under one roof”
The Estrel complex is one of Berlin’s most established large-scale meeting and entertainment destinations. The Estrel Tower, scheduled to expand the offer from late 2026, adds new premium event space and additional hotel inventory—rising 176 meters with 45 floors to become Germany’s tallest hotel tower.
What Sets It Apart
The existing Congress Center offers 30,000 square meters across 85 rooms, hosting over 1,200 events annually. The new Tower contributes: – 3,800 m² of premium event space – Sky Floors on levels 41-42 with panoramic city views – Ground-floor Estrel Forum (1,000 m² multifunctional space) – 522 additional hotel rooms and serviced apartments – Farm-to-table restaurant on the 43rd floor – Sky bar with outdoor terrace on the top floor
The underground walkway connecting all facilities ensures seamless logistics for large-scale events.
Sustainability Leadership
Pursuing LEED Platinum certification with photovoltaic systems, green roofs, carbon-neutral district heating, and intelligent energy management—ideal for organizations with ESG requirements.
Planner Notes
✓ Strong for programmes needing plenary + multiple breakouts + accommodation without complex transfers
✓ Sustainability positioning is a core part of the Tower narrative
⚠ If your event is in 2026, clarify which parts of the Tower and new event areas are confirmed operational on your dates
Ideal For: International conferences, medical congresses, technology summits, trade fairs, multi-day corporate retreats
2. Kraftwerk Berlin
Location: Köpenicker Straße 70, Mitte
Best For: Product launches, fashion, exhibitions, immersive brand experiences
Capacity: Up to ~2,600
Size: 8,000+ m² across three levels
This former East Berlin power plant (1961-1964) exemplifies Berlin’s industrial heritage reinvented as a contemporary event venue. The building’s raw aesthetic and historical significance create a distinctive backdrop for events seeking authenticity and visual impact.
The Space & Production
Multi-level layout suits branded journeys, exhibition builds, and split programming. Three distinct levels and two main halls provide flexibility for everything from intimate gatherings to massive productions. The venue is home to the legendary Tresor techno club, adding cultural credibility and technical sophistication.
Technical Capabilities
- Professional-grade lighting and sound systems
- 100% renewable electricity
- High-speed internet connectivity for livestreaming and hybrid formats
- Suitable for hybrid formats when planned with the right production partner
Signature Events
Hosts the annual Berlin Atonal sound art festival. Past performers include Max Herre, Einstürzende Neubauten, and major fashion weeks and automotive presentations.
Watch-Outs
⚠ Popular dates go early. Align load-in/out, late-night elements, and neighbourhood considerations with the venue team early in the process.
3. House of Games Berlin (Opening 2026; Timing to Be Confirmed)
Location: Friedrichshain (Rotherstraße / Warschauer Straße area)
Best For: Gaming industry events, e-sports, digital culture, interactive exhibitions
Size: 10,000+ m² site
Berlin is establishing a dedicated hub for gaming and creative technology. The House of Games is designed specifically for tournaments, conferences, showcases, and interactive formats where broadcasting capabilities, audience participation, and community engagement are integral to the programme.
What to Expect
This purpose-built facility offers extensive space for exhibitions, conferences, tournaments, and interactive experiences. Infrastructure supports live broadcasting and audience participation—accommodating both professional e-sports competitions and community-focused gaming events.
Planner Notes
✓ The Warschauer Straße area is ideal for international guests who want walkable nightlife and fast transit
⚠ Treat 2026 bookings as enquiry-led until operations, hire terms, and production specs are confirmed
Target Audience: Gaming companies, tech startups, digital marketing agencies, and organizations targeting younger, digitally-native audiences
4. Motorwerk Berlin
Location: An der Industriebahn 12, Weissensee (Pankow)
Best For: Corporate presentations, conferences, fashion, e-sports, large-format brand events
Capacity: Up to ~2,000
Size: 3,500 m² indoor + 5,000 m² outdoor
Originally constructed in 1910 as an electric motor manufacturing facility, Motorwerk has evolved into a versatile industrial venue offering substantial scale and flexibility. The space accommodates events requiring extensive staging, custom builds, or complex audience flow while maintaining an authentic Berlin character.
Technical Excellence
- Redundant 1-Gbit duplex connection for livestreaming and virtual events
- Configurable spaces from 200 to 2,000 square meters
- Gallery level adding 1,000 m² of versatility
- CO2-neutral operations with 100% sustainable energy
Why It Works in Practice
✓ Strong for runway, plenary-heavy formats, and brand worlds
✓ Good option if you need space and operational flexibility without being in the tightest inner-city footprint
✓ Major brands including Mercedes, McDonald’s, and Adidas have hosted events here
Berlin-Native Tip
Weissensee is calmer than Mitte/Kreuzberg. If you want attendees to focus (and still give them a Berlin moment), it’s a good trade. Nearby lakes and green spaces provide attractive post-event options.
5. Umweltforum
Location: Pufendorfstraße 11, Friedrichshain (near Alexanderplatz)
Best For: ESG summits, sustainable conferences, NGO and foundation events
Capacity: Up to ~350
Size: 1,200 m² indoor + 132 m² outdoor terrace
Housed in a former church, Umweltforum combines distinctive architecture with a well-established sustainability credentials. This venue is particularly suited to organizations where environmental responsibility is a core requirement rather than simply a preference.
Sustainability Pioneer (20+ Years)
- First venue in Germany to receive EMAS certification (2012)
- First in the event industry to commit to the German Sustainability Code
- Sustainable Partner Berlin certification
- 100% renewable electricity generated on-site
- Own rooftop honey production
- Regional, organic, and fair-trade catering as standard
The Space
Main hall features impressive 17-meter ceiling height, accommodating up to 350 people. Eleven seminar rooms spread across multiple floors. The mix of historic church architecture and modern additions creates unique atmosphere.
What Planners Like
✓ Clear mid-size capacity sweet spot for keynotes, panels, and breakout formats
✓ Strong fit for organizations that want to align venue choice with ESG reporting
✓ Full-service through BESONDERE ORTE: equipment, technology, sustainable catering, branding
Part of: BESONDERE ORTE venue family
6. Forum Factory
Location: Besselstraße 13-14, Kreuzberg
Best For: Business seminars, panels, training, networking
Capacity: 199 theatre / up to 350 standing
Size: 400 m² total (200 m² main hall, 100 m² lounge, 100 m² foyer)
Forum Factory is a reliable mid-size option with a central Kreuzberg location. It works particularly well for knowledge-sharing formats: seminars, training programmes, panel discussions, and community-style gatherings.
Why It’s on the List
✓ Solid standard AV for typical corporate requirements
✓ Easy attendee experience: central, well-connected, surrounded by strong neighbourhood hospitality mix
✓ Light-flooded event space with sustainability commitments
✓ Breakout rooms available for workshop formats
Amenities
Full HD projectors, concert-quality sound systems, professional lighting, bar lounge. Flexible rental options (half-day to multi-day). Near Checkpoint Charlie and Jewish Museum.
7. BACKFABRIK – CLINKER
Location: Saarbrücker Straße 36-38, Mitte
Best For: Tech launches, panels, screenings, high-production presentations, hybrid events
Set within a 130-year-old former ice factory, CLINKER is purpose-built for content-centric events requiring broadcast-quality output. The space features large-format LED displays, immersive lighting systems, and multi-camera infrastructure—ideal when visual presentation quality matters equally for in-person and remote audiences.
Technology Integration
- 5-meter 4K LED wall
- Immersive light ceiling
- Club-level sound system
- Multi-camera livestream setup
- Direct access to underground parking (rare in central Berlin)
Planner Notes
✓ Best used when you want polished show flow, strong visuals, and capture-ready content outputs
✓ Excellent for product storytelling, CEO keynotes, demos, and creator-style event programming
✓ Set in raw industrial architecture that merges heritage with cutting-edge event technology
8. Riverside Studios Berlin (The LAB)
Location: MediaSpree, Kreuzberg (Pfuelstraße 5)
Best For: Creative industry events, music/media gatherings, intimate performances
Capacity: Up to ~200
Riverside Studios operates as both an event venue and creative collective within Berlin’s music and media community. The waterfront location provides an authentic setting for programmes where artistic credibility and industry connections are as important as technical specifications.
The Community
A collective of renowned artists and industry professionals. Good fit for intimate programmes where atmosphere and community credibility matter as much as the technical spec.
Location Benefits
MediaSpree district along the waterfront, excellent for events connected to music, media, and the arts seeking authentic Berlin creative atmosphere.
9. Startbahn (Genezarethkirche)
Location: Herrfurthplatz 14, Neukölln (near Tempelhofer Feld)
Best For: Unconventional conferences, cultural programming, community-forward gatherings
Capacity: Up to ~200
Modernized in 2021, Startbahn occupies a distinctive church building in Neukölln’s vibrant neighbourhood. The venue appeals to organizers seeking a less corporate atmosphere while maintaining professional event operations and technical capabilities.
Design & Atmosphere
Lively interplay between neo-Gothic architecture and modern design elements. Features HAP Grieshaber’s monumental “Burning Thorn Bush” artwork. Floor cushions instead of pews, bright colors, flexible two-floor layout with removable furniture.
Technical & Amenities
Quality sound system, versatile event lighting, projector, screen, WiFi. Small garden for champagne receptions, outdoor breaks, or children’s activities. Partnership with TERZ restaurant (regional and seasonal cuisine) or bring your own caterer.
Community Connection
Functions as “open church” Monday-Friday (10 AM – 5 PM) where people can relax, work, or meditate—adding authentic local character.
Watch-Outs
⚠ If you need 300+ attendees, shortlist a different space. Use Startbahn when you want intimacy, character, and neighbourhood context.
10. Passionskirche (Halle Luja – Managed Rentals)
Location: Marheinekeplatz 1, Kreuzberg (near Bergmannstraße)
Best For: Concerts, cultural events, fundraising evenings, spoken-word formats
Capacity: Up to ~670 (600 seated + 70 standing, or 530 seated + 190 standing)
Architecture: Neo-Romanesque style (1905-1908)
This neo-Romanesque church has established itself as one of Kreuzberg’s premier cultural venues, with particular strength in concert programming. The architectural setting and proven acoustic quality make it well-suited to performance-led events and programmes requiring atmospheric impact.
Architectural Excellence
Built with unique square floor plan and central tower, creating castle-like atmosphere. Four corner towers form Greek cross pattern. Magnificent stained glass windows and spectacular circular Jugendstil chandelier (Siemens donation).
Acoustic Excellence
Early 1990s renovations converted altar area into professional stage with specialized ceiling plaster for dramatically improved acoustics. Features Karl Ludwig Schuke organ, variable show lighting, and powerful sound technology.
Notable Performances
No Angels, Tangerine Dream, Subway to Sally, Zakk Wylde, Letzte Instanz. Anne Clark recorded live album “Psychometry” here.
Management: Halle Luja Kulturmanagement GmbH (15+ years managing cultural events)
11. Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche (Halle Luja – Managed Rentals)
Location: Zossener Straße 65, Kreuzberg
Best For: Receptions, concerts, talks, hybrid-friendly cultural programmes
Capacity: Up to ~500 (reception, configuration dependent)
Style: Gothic Revival (1885-1888, rebuilt 1951-1959)
This Gothic Revival church provides flexible event configurations within a historically significant setting. The venue accommodates receptions, cultural programmes, and discussion formats where the architectural environment contributes meaningfully to the event experience.
The Space
Impressive red brick church rebuilt after WWII destruction. Features modern stained glass windows, triptych, and renowned organ. Serves as both religious building and cultural center.
Why Choose Halle Luja Venues
Both Passionskirche and Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche offer: ✓ Exceptional acoustics refined for musical performances
✓ Historic architecture with modern technical capabilities
✓ Central Kreuzberg location with excellent public transport
✓ Professional event management (15+ years experience)
✓ Unique atmosphere that elevates cultural events
Management: Halle Luja Kulturmanagement GmbH
Need help shortlisting the right venue for your event? We’ve worked with all of these venues and can provide insights on availability, pricing, and suitability for your specific programme. Contact our Berlin event team or browse more venue options.
Honourable Mentions (To Broaden Your Shortlist)
STATION Berlin
A large-format venue for exhibitions, festivals, and brand worlds where extensive floor space and multi-hall programming are required.
Arena Berlin
A go-to for major-scale events, from corporate spectaculars to large public-facing experiences.
Tempodrom
Strong option for theatre-style plenaries, awards, and high-attendance seated formats in a central location.
CityCube Berlin (Messe Berlin)
Excellent for congress + expo-scale programmes that need robust infrastructure and logistics at scale.
EUREF-Campus Berlin
Compelling choice for sustainability- and innovation-led events where climate positioning is part of the brief.
Humboldt Forum (Enquiry-Led, Prestige Option)
Standout setting for high-profile programmes where architecture, cultural context, and centrality are strategic. Located on Museum Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it cost to hire an event space in Berlin?
Costs depend on venue size, date, and what’s included (technical, staffing, exclusivity). As a planning range: – Mid-size venues: Typically start around €1,500-3,000 for short hires – Large industrial and arena-style venues: Often reach five figures once production is included – Peak season premium: Expect 15-30% higher rates during May-June and September
For venue-specific pricing and package options, contact venues directly or work with a local DMC for negotiated rates.
How far in advance should I book for 2026?
Peak months (May–June and September): 6–12 months ahead
Mid-size corporate events: 6–9 months typically works, but popular dates sell earlier
New openings (Estrel Tower, House of Games): Book early and confirm operational dates
Which Berlin districts are best for event venues?
Mitte: Central location, high hotel density, easy logistics
Kreuzberg/Friedrichshain: Creative energy plus nightlife adjacency
Neukölln: Strong value and alternative atmosphere, emerging cultural scene
Weissensee/Pankow: More space, calmer setting, production-friendly
Do Berlin event spaces provide catering services?
Most venues either offer in-house catering or have preferred partnerships. Umweltforum, Estrel, Forum Factory, and Kraftwerk provide catering options. Some venues (like Startbahn) allow external caterers. Berlin’s diverse culinary scene supports everything from vegan buffets to traditional German cuisine to international options.
What size events can these venues accommodate?
Berlin’s range spans from intimate 50-person workshops to 15,000+ attendee conferences: – Small (50-200): Riverside Studios, Startbahn, CLINKER – Mid-size (200-500): Forum Factory, Umweltforum, Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche, Passionskirche – Large (500-2,000): Motorwerk, Kraftwerk – Very Large (2,000+): Estrel complex, Arena Berlin, STATION Berlin
Are these venues accessible by public transportation?
Yes. Virtually all major Berlin venues are well-connected to U-Bahn and S-Bahn networks. The city’s integrated BVG transport system makes car-free event attendance practical. Many venues offer bicycle parking reflecting Berlin’s cycling culture.
What technical equipment is typically included?
Standard inclusions: WiFi, projectors/screens, basic sound systems, stage lighting
Advanced venues (BACKFABRIK, Motorwerk): 4K displays, livestreaming capabilities, broadcast-quality production equipment
⚠ Always confirm specific technical requirements during booking
Which venues are best for hybrid events?
Shortlist venues with production-ready infrastructure and plan a technical recce early. Top choices include: – Motorwerk: 1-Gbit duplex connection, production-friendly layout – BACKFABRIK (CLINKER): Multi-camera setup, LED wall, broadcast-ready – Estrel: Large-scale hybrid capabilities with in-house technical teams – Umweltforum: Hybrid experience with livestream infrastructure
Most venues now offer hybrid capabilities, but success depends on proper technical planning and experienced production partners.
Can I host events in churches in Berlin?
Yes. Berlin has several church venues operated professionally for cultural and corporate events: – Umweltforum (former church, 350 capacity) – Startbahn/Genezarethkirche (modernized church, 200 capacity) – Passionskirche (720 capacity, Halle Luja managed) – Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche (500 capacity, Halle Luja managed)
Always confirm permitted event types, sound rules, technical rigging constraints, and catering policies during your enquiry.
What permits or licenses do I need for events in Berlin?
Requirements depend on event type, size, and activities: – Music events: May need noise permits – Outdoor events: Typically require city approval – Alcohol service: Requires licensing
Most established venues handle standard permits, but unique event elements may require additional coordination with Berlin authorities.
How does Berlin compare to other European capitals for events?
Berlin offers exceptional value compared to London, Paris, or Zurich while delivering comparable quality. The city’s creative energy, tech-forward infrastructure, and diverse venue options make it particularly attractive for innovation-focused events. English is widely spoken in the business community, easing international event coordination.
What makes Berlin’s event scene unique in 2026?
The combination of: ✓ New landmark openings (Estrel Tower, House of Games)
✓ UNESCO City of Design 20th anniversary
✓ Major sporting events (NBA game January, FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup September)
✓ Ability to blend historical spaces with cutting-edge technology
✓ Competitive pricing while maintaining affordability
Final Recommendations: Choosing the Right Berlin Venue
Large International Conferences (500+)
Estrel Congress Center (and from late 2026, the expanded Estrel Tower offer)
Brand Launches and Immersive Builds
Kraftwerk for industrial impact; Arena Berlin for major-scale formats
Tech-Forward Productions and Content Capture
BACKFABRIK (CLINKER) for broadcast-quality visuals and show flow
Sustainability-Led Programmes
Umweltforum for pioneering environmental credentials; also evaluate EUREF-Campus for sustainability-driven positioning
Culture and Music with Atmosphere
Passionskirche, Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche, and Riverside Studios
Unconventional, Neighbourhood-Connected Formats
Startbahn in Neukölln for character and strong Kiez context
Gaming & E-Sports Events
House of Games (when operational) for dedicated gaming infrastructure
Hybrid Events with Production Quality
Motorwerk for connectivity and scale; CLINKER for content capture; Estrel for large-scale hybrid
Mid-Size Corporate Events
Forum Factory for central location and reliability
Ready to Plan Your Berlin Event in 2026?
The DMC Collective provides comprehensive destination management services across Berlin and Germany, supporting everything from venue sourcing to full event execution.
Our Services
Venue Sourcing & Site Inspections
We maintain direct relationships with over 100 venues across Berlin, providing shortlists tailored to your programme requirements, budget, and audience profile.
Full Event Production
Complete technical coordination, including AV, lighting, staging, and broadcast support for hybrid formats.
On-Ground Coordination
Local logistics management, supplier coordination, staff briefings, and event-day execution.
Sustainable Event Solutions
Access to Berlin’s leading green venues and sustainable event practices, with ESG reporting support.
Get in Touch
For venue recommendations, budget estimates, or to discuss your Berlin event requirements:
📧 info@thedmcollective.com
🌐 Browse Berlin Venues
About The DMC Collective
The DMC Collective specializes in destination management and event production across Germany. Our Berlin team provides venue sourcing, supplier coordination, and on-site management for corporate conferences, product launches, and cultural programmes.
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