Gay Saunas in Berlin: As a gay traveller, Berlin is incredibly welcoming, liberating and iconic. It has a long history when it comes to LGBTQ+ culture and attracts lots of gay travellers each year. Many of these gay travellers are curious about visiting the gay sauna in Berlin, Der Boiler.
In this travel guide to Der Boiler, the most popular gay sauna in Berlin, I will share what to expect, the etiquette, facilities and practical information.
Berlin is a very exciting destination and I found that compared to the UK, the culture here allowed for much more open self expression and the people have a very ‘matter of fact’ and ‘no shame’ attitude when it comes to exploring these kind of spaces.
It’s therefore no surprise that it has been said the gay sauna in Berlin is one of the best gay saunas in Europe and if you’ve not been to a gay sauna before, let me provide some guidance.
Gay Saunas in Berlin
Even though Berlin has a huge gay scene (see my Complete Gay Travel Guide to Berlin), with many gay bars, clubs and shops, you might find it is surprising is that there is currently only one gay sauna in Berlin.
Whilst there may be only one gay sauna in Berlin, it is huge and spans over three floors. Read my experience and guide to the gay sauna in Berlin below:
Best Gay Sauna in Berlin: Der Boiler
Penned as one of the most visited gay saunas in Europe, Der Boiler is something that many gay travellers tick off their list during their visit to Berlin.
The entrance to the sauna is slightly through an archway off the street and made obvious by a very large metal door – depending on when you go there may be a queue.
Upon entry you pay your fee and are given a towel, a band for your locker that you can also charge drinks/food to and flip flops – the reception is well lit and the staff super friendly, they explained how everything worked.
Once you have paid, head up the stairs to the changing area. This is a huge area with plenty of space, is well lit and has hundreds of lockers etc.
When you have derobed and have your towel on you can head one level down to food and bar area. Here you can buy drinks, snacks and even full meals (some people spend all day here).
Finally head down one more level to where all the facilities are.
The first part you arrive in is chill, with heated seating areas, a large jacuzzi, showers etc. To the left various saunas, straight ahead a steam sauna maze (which is quite dark) and to the right more saunas, film rooms and other spaces to explore.
The place is a bit of a maze, take your time to explore and get familiar as it would be easy to miss a section.
You can even request spa treatments and massages. More recently they have extended their wellness program to offer relaxing yoga and gymnastics classes in their new yoga room (upstairs).
Make sure you check their event page for special nights etc.
Gay Sauna in Berlin: Der Boiler Review
I can see why this is one of the most popular gay saunas in Europe. I was impressed by how immaculately clean it was throughout the entire place.
It was also way less intimidating that expected. Especially since the first two levels are open, bright and set up to socialise. I can see why people could spend hours here quite easily.
Even getting down to the bottom floor, the first part is very chill to ease you into things. Whether looking to relax or looking for fun, this offers both and thats something I really liked.
Der Boiler Opening Times
The BOILER is open 365 days a year as follows:
Monday – Thursday 12:00 PM – 06:00 AM.
Friday 12:00 PM non stop till Monday 06:00 AM.
Address: Mehringdamm 34, 10961 Berlin, Germany
The nearest U-Bahn station to Der Boiler in Berlin is Mehringdamm.
Der Boiler Entrance Costs
There are a number of different price tiers for 6 hour sessions including:
- Single entry: €25
- Early Bird (12:00-14:00 M-F): €18
- Night owls (24:00-06:00 Sun-Thu): €18
- Youth rate (up to age 26 with ID): €18
- Plus extra deals (full details on their website)
Sauna Etiquette
To make sure you have the best experience on your travels to Berlin and your experience at this sauna (or any sauna), please note:
- Respect other guests and their boundaries.
- Communication is often non-verbal, it is important to read and respect people’s body language.
- Mobile phones aren’t permitted in most areas.
- Bring flip-flops if you don’t want to use the ones they provide.
- Towels are provided.
- Follow staff instructions.
- Remember this is a shared wellness space
For more on Berlin, check out: