Celebrate Safely in Berlin

Welcome to Berlin, the party capital of the world. Whether you’re visiting as a tourist to experience the city’s legendary nightlife – its clubs, bars, and late-night shops – or you’re a seasoned partygoer enjoying the diverse entertainment Berlin offers, your safety is our concern.

Regardless of your level of experience, the Berlin Police Department, Directorate 5 (City), is here to help you enjoy your nights out safely. This page provides essential safety information to help you avoid becoming a victim of crime.

Here, you’ll find answers to key questions such as:
“How can I protect myself from theft?”
“What are date rape drugs (K.O. drops)?”
“What should I do if something happens?”

Further resources – including advice on drug use, sexual health, and support services – are available on the website of the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg District Office.

Take time to read through these guidelines to prepare for a night out with peace of mind.
Our goal: That you can celebrate safely in Berlin.

How Can I Protect Myself from Becoming a Victim of Crime?

• General information

  While there is no guaranteed way to prevent becoming a victim, the following tips can significantly reduce the risk:

  • Avoid going home alone or with strangers.
  • Use well-lit, busy routes.
  • Carry only essential valuables.
  • Keep valuables close to your body and never leave bags unattended.
  • Avoid withdrawing cash before the party or displaying large amounts of money.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts – if a situation feels wrong, it probably is.
  • Speak up and ask others for help if needed.
  • In emergencies or dangerous situations, dial 110 immediately.
• Protecting Yourself Against K.O. Drops and Other Drugs
  • Always order your drinks directly from bar staff and take them personally.
  • Be cautious of drinks – especially mixed drinks – offered by strangers.
  • Never leave your drink unattended.
  • Check that bottles are sealed before opening.
  • Cover your drink with a suitable item (e.g., coaster or bottle cap).
  • Use over-the-counter test products (like test strips) to check drinks for substances.
  • If in doubt, order a new drink.

  Important: Alcohol and drug use can increase your vulnerability to crime.

• Guidelines to Help Prevent Sexual Assault
  • Set clear boundaries.
  • If someone gets too close, make it known – verbally or through gestures (e.g., turning away, extending your arms).
  • Stay with friends – there’s safety in numbers.
  • Watch your drinks – K.O. drops are often undetectable until it’s too late.
  • Stay clear-headed. While club romances can be thrilling, always be aware of the risks. Do you know the person well enough to go home with them?

Common Crimes Related to Berlin’s Nightlife

The weekend brings people together to socialize and celebrate – but the carefree party atmosphere can sometimes lead individuals to become less vigilant about their valuables or surroundings. This, combined with the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, can create easy opportunities for offenders.

Remember: “An open door (or bag) may tempt a saint.”

Criminal acts associated with nightlife range from theft and robbery, to the administration of incapacitating substances (K.O. drops), and sexual offenses

• Theft
  

  Theft refers to the unlawful taking of property without the use or threat of violence. In clubs or other nightlife venues, pickpocketing is especially common.

• Robbery
  

  Robbery involves the unlawful taking of property through the use or threat of violence. This may include a sudden snatching of a handbag or mobile phone, or forcibly removing an item using physical force or a weapon.

• Drug-Facilitated Crimes (e.g. “Date Rape” Drugs)
  

  Substances commonly referred to as “knockout drops” are used to render victims unconscious or unable to resist. Offenders often discreetly place these substances in victims’ drinks – especially in clubs, bars, or at parties – enabling them to commit crimes such as sexual assault or theft. Symptoms may include sudden dizziness, confusion, unusual behavior, or memory loss. These substances are only briefly detectable in blood or urine – seek immediate medical attention if you suspect exposure.

  Important: Always file a police report. The administration of knockout drops can constitute several criminal offenses.

• Sexual Offenses
  

  Sexual acts committed against a person’s will are criminal offenses. These range from coercion to rape and the distribution of pornographic content, as outlined in §§174-185 of the German Criminal Code (StGB). Any sexual act performed against a victim’s clearly expressed will is considered a crime.

  Important: “No means no.” Your body – your rules. Communicate boundaries clearly.

  Consent can be withdrawn at any time, regardless of the nature of the relationship to the perpetrator. Unwanted sexual acts are punishable by law.

If you become a victim of a crime

• Have your valuables been stolen? Were you physically or verbally assaulted?
  • File a report with the Berlin Police as soon as possible.
  • In emergencies, dial 110.
  • If it is no longer an emergency, visit your nearest police station or use the Berlin Police online reporting portal.
  • Police stations are available 24/7 in person and by phone.
• If you suspect drink tampering
  • At the first sign of dizziness or nausea, seek help immediately – approach someone you trust or venue staff.
  • If you awaken with memory loss, ensure your safety and check for missing items.
  • Seek medical attention immediately and alert the police. Knockout drops can be detected for up to 6 hours in blood and 12 hours in urine.
• If you were sexually harassed or assaulted
  • File a report or contact the Berlin Police Victim Protection Officers during office hours for advice and support.
  • For legal proceedings, secure forensic evidence – e.g., through examination at the Charité Violence Protection Clinic. This can be done without first filing a police report.
  • Do not shower or wash before examination – this preserves potential evidence.
  • Do not wash the clothing worn at the time of the incident. Store items separately in paper bags.
  • Do not disturb the crime scene.
  • Write down everything you remember.
  • Do not delete any related texts, photos, or videos on your phone – they may be vital evidence.
  • Seek emotional support – speak to family and friends, and do not carry the burden alone.

  Additional information and support can be found via the “Berlin State Criminal Police Office (LKA 14)”:“https://www.berlin.de/polizei/dienststellen/landeskriminalamt/lka-1/artikel.148804.php and in the” online database for crime victims”:https://www.odabs.org/en/index.html.

What else do I have to consider?

Time is critical – whether for recovering surveillance footage, locating stolen devices, or identifying substances. Act quickly.

• If you lose your credit or debit card
  • Immediately block the card via the national emergency number 116 116.
  • Keep a separate record of your card numbers – this will be required to block them.
• If you lose ID documents
  • Information about replacing ID cards, passports, driver’s licenses, and vehicle registration documents can be found on the Berlin Service Portal.
• If your mobile phone is stolen
  • Block your SIM card and phone via 116 116 or at www.sperr-notruf.de.
  • Provide the IMEI number (15-digit device ID) for tracking purposes. Find it on the packaging or by dialing *#06#.
  • Change passwords for any accounts accessed via the device.
  • More info available through police crime prevention services.
• Where to get help
  1. Weißer Ring e.V. and Opferhilfe Berlin – provide support and accompany victims to police, court, and other appointments.
  2. Wildwasser e.V. – support for girls, young women, intersex, trans, and non-binary individuals up to age 27 affected by sexual violence.
  3. LARA – specialist center for women affected by sexualized violence.
  4. Trauma Ambulances – rapid access to initial psychological support.
  5. Violence Protection Clinic – forensic examination services.
  6. Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg District Office – local support resources.
  7. odabs.org – online database for crime victims with anonymous support options.
• How to administer first aid

  If someone suddenly collapses – possibly due to alcohol or drugs – here’s how to respond:

  • Stay with them. Their condition may deteriorate quickly.
  • Offer water, ideally still water in a plastic bottle they can keep.
  • Ask what they consumed – it could help emergency responders.
  • If they’re with a group, determine if someone can accompany them home safely. Alert staff or security.
  • When in doubt, call 112 – emergency services are free for bystanders.

  CPR Steps

  1. Check responsiveness – shake the person gently if needed.
  2. Get help – draw attention immediately.
  3. Check breathing – clear the airway, tilt the head back.
  4. Call 112 – use speaker mode if alone.
  5. Chest compressions – press the sternum at least 5 cm deep, 100–120 times/min. Use songs like “Stayin’ Alive” for rhythm.
  6. Rescue breaths – alternate 30 compressions with 2 breaths, if comfortable. If not, continue compressions.
  7. Delegate tasks – rotate with others, and send someone to get an AED if possible.
  8. Continue until help arrives or the person shows signs of life.
• Can I drive after drinking alcohol?

  If you’ve been drinking, avoid all vehicles – cars, bikes, and e-scooters. Alcohol slows reaction time, impairs vision and judgment, and increases stopping distance significantly.

  Legal Limits:

  • Bicycles: Criminal offense at 1.6‰. Even 0.3‰ with signs of impairment can lead to charges.
  • E-Scooters: Same limits as driving – 0.5‰ is an offense, 1.1‰ is a crime.

  Note: Driving under the influence can lead to license suspension – also for future car use. If an accident occurs under the influence, insurance may reclaim costs.