Your Visit
Get to know our host city, Berlin.
Berlin, Germany’s capital, is a city where rich history meets a uniquely dynamic energy. Renowned for its culture of reinvention and its vibrant, open-minded spirit, it has long been a magnet for creatives, boasting a flourishing scene in visual arts, film, fashion, and music.
The city is famous for classical music, earning the title “capital of classical music” by the NY Times. Home to the Berlin Philharmonic, numerous orchestras, three opera houses, and a vibrant off-scene for classical music, Berlin is also a hub for artist agencies, music startups, and record labels. The music scene ranges from classical to minimal techno and global music street parades, showcasing the city’s diverse artistic support both on and off stage.
When visiting for Classical:NEXT in May 2025, you’ll have plenty of options for accommodation, dining, and leisure options to explore Learn more about Berlin at www.visitberlin.de.
2025 Locations & Venues
Colosseum
Daytime Venue
Prenzlauer Berg, near the city center, is renowned for Berlin’s post-reunification cultural explosion, making it a global hotspot.
The Colosseum cinema complex in the area is now a state-of-the-art event venue, blending 130-year-old brick walls with modern design. With ten halls for conferences, showcases, and project pitches, an 18-meter high Atrium, and triangular indoor balconies for expos and networking, it’s a diverse and inspiring setting for Classical:NEXT, eliminating endless walking for participants.
Holzmarkt 25
Nighttime Venue
Holzmarkt 25, a unique urban development complex in Berlin, spans 12,000 square meters along the Spree. This “creative village” houses diverse artists, drawing over 500,000 annual visitors for concerts, theater, workshops, and festivals, embodying Berlin’s vibrant creative scene.
Classical:NEXT’s nighttime “showcase concerts” and “club showcases” will take place in Säälchen and Kater Blau.
The project’s origin is tied to Berlin’s post-Wall history, evolving from a subcultural temporary use project in 2012 into a leading global example of user-driven urban development. Holzmarkt 25 features various event locations, including the renowned “Kater Blau” nightclub, fostering a communal atmosphere among residents and global visitors.
Travel & Accommodation
Travel
& Accom-modation
Berlin
Welcome to Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany! Berlin’s central location in Europe makes it easily accessible via train, bus, or by flying. Berlin is a vibrant cultural hub, bursting with world-class museums, cutting-edge art, and renowned nightlife. It has a comprehensive public transportation system that makes it easy to navigate the city.
To see our complete travel guide for Berlin click here.
Accommodation
To help you plan your trip to Classical:NEXT, we have arranged special discount rates at select hotels just for our delegates! These exclusive offers are available for stays between May 10-18, 2025:
Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz (4*)
Alexanderplatz 7, 10178 Berlin | Website | Email | Phone +49 30 238 90
- 10 minutes from the daytime venue and 10 minutes from the nighttime venue
- Room Rate (incl. breakfast + city tax): €129 / night
- Offer valid until 12 April 2025 (subject to availability)
- Book through this link
Hampton by Hilton Berlin City Centre Alexanderplatz (3*)
Otto-Braun-Straße 69, 10178 Berlin | Website | Email | Phone +49 30 213 085 55
- 20 minutes from the daytime venue and 15 minutes from the nighttime venue
- Room Rate (incl. breakfast + city tax): €124 / night
- Offer valid until 10 April 2025 (subject to availability)
- Book online, via email, or call using the promo code Classical:NEXT
Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz (4*)
Otto-Braun-Straße 90, 10249 Berlin | Website | Email | Phone +49 89 62039 779
FAQs
Where will Classical:NEXT take place in 2025?
Classical:NEXT is returning to Berlin, Germany from 12–15 May 2025. The main daytime venue for the Conference, Expo, Daytime Showcase concerts and Film Showcases is the Colosseum. Nighttime events will be held at Holzmarkt 25, where Säälchen will host Evening Showcases, and the renowned Kater Blau will be home to Club Showcases. The Boat Cruise on the river Spree will depart from Märkisches Ufer 48, at the corner of Am Köllnischen Park. Stay tuned for more information about the Opening, and click here to find out more about the venues.
How can I take part as an artist or speaker?
Each summer, Classical:NEXT opens its annual Call for Proposals for the showcase and conference programmes, inviting artists, presenters and speakers to apply. An our international, independent jury carefully reviews each submission and selects the official Classical:NEXT programme.
The deadline for proposals for the 2025 programme has now passed. To stay informed about our next Call for Proposals, sign up for our newsletter or keep an eye on our website and social media channels.
Click here to learn more about off C:N events and other promotional opportunities.
How can I register for Classical:NEXT 2025?
Simply click here to secure your place at Classical:NEXT 2025. After setting up a free account on C:N Connect, you register online. You can also register on-site in Berlin from 12–15 May 2025.
How can journalists get press accreditation?
We value the vital role journalists play in promoting music and in keeping the important discourse. That’s why Classical:NEXT offers a reduced rate to media professionals, subject to approval.
If you are attending Classical:NEXT primarily in your capacity as a journalist or as part of a music media company’s editorial team, you are invited to register for our special media rate. Simply complete the registration form, check the “media registration” box when entering your details, and send a copy of your press credentials to registration@classicalnext.com. Once our communications team approves your request, you will receive the discounted media rate for registration.
Press accreditation, which includes free delegate-level access to Classical:NEXT 2025, is available to a limited number of journalists who cover Classical:NEXT or its showcase artists, subject to approval. Please note that accredited journalists will not be listed as delegates in the printed guide or on C:N Connect, our online database. Only one accreditation per media outlet is allowed. To apply, contact us at media@classicalnext.com.
Can I buy a one-day ticket?
Only delegates registered for the full four-day Classical:NEXT event will have access to the Expo, Conference, Showcases, Opening, and the Award Ceremony. Please note that one-day tickets and partner rates are not available.
For more information on delegate rates, click here.
How can I update my profile on C:N Connect, the online database?
If you already have an account, simply log in to C:N Connect, the online database of Classical:NEXT, and update your profile. Once you log in, you can add a short bio, your company and role, a photo, your address, and most importantly, an email address where other delegates can get in touch with you.
Please note: the email address will only be visible to other delegates, we will not share it in any bulk mailings.
How can I book a mentoring session?
Whether you’re just starting out or already have expertise, there’s always more to learn. One-to-one and Roundtable Mentoring sessions at Classical:NEXT provide a unique chance to connect with mentors who bring a wealth of experience and offer advice and insights. This is your opportunity to find guidance, build meaningful connections and explore new possibilities.
Spaces are limited and go fast, so make sure to sign up as soon as registrations open. Stay tuned for more information…
How should I prepare for Classical:NEXT?
To help you make a great impression and enjoy Classical:NEXT, here are our tips to help you prepare.
Bring any relevant materials that can help support your case. Take some time to review and update your online presence, whether it’s your social media, professional profile, or any other online platform. Make sure it’s current, and has all the necessary information. Above all, don’t forget to bring business cards and or a quick way to share your digital contact information.
Arts presenters: bring along any promotional material you’ve used in past years, such as press clippings or previous programme schedules. These will help showcase your work and provide valuable context.
Artists and artist representatives: think about what will make you stand out. If you have video footage, bring a fully charged laptop, find a quiet corner and show people what you’ve got. Bring a few key materials, like CDs, download cards for your music or EPKs, and press clippings – anything that helps make your case, but remember: less is more. Large, heavy materials are often left behind, so keep it compact: bring small, easy-to-carry packages people can review later. Be sure to ask for a business card and follow-up a few weeks after the event to keep the connection going.
Record labels and publishers: bring relevant press materials, records, or download cards for your music or EPKs. Include compilations from your catalogue and any specific works you may want to promote or license, along with materials for artists you’d like to showcase for live performances. Publishers should also have sample sheet music or examples of commissioned projects with them.
Distributors: have your business details, your experience, and even your contracts at hand. You might sign deals right on the spot!
Programmers and journalists: bring proof of your credentials or examples of your work to help people see that you are the right person to connect with! For more information, Classical:NEXT press releases, hi-res photos and logos, check the Press/Media page.
