Your Visit
Get to know Berlin, the host city of Classical:NEXT 2025.
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.
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.
Classical:NEXT is dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere where everyone is able to fully engage and enjoy the event. We offer a quiet space in the Colosseum, open to all delegates during designated quiet hours. For more details please visit the Registration or Check-In desks.
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.
Kühlhaus Berlin
Opening Night Venue
Kühlhaus Berlin ranks among the city’s hippest venues. Much like Berlin, the space has constantly reinvented itself. Originally built in 1901 as Europe’s biggest cold storage unit for fresh produce, it later transformed into an art gallery and event space, eventually becoming a true cultural landmark in the heart of the city.
Located at the junction of Schöneberg and Kreuzberg, with Mitte just a stone’s throw away, Kühlhaus Berlin sits by the Landwehr Canal and the Gleisdreieck Park. From trade fairs, conventions, conferences, and exhibitions to catered events, festivals, concerts, and workshops, it offers a dynamic space for a wide range of happenings.
This year, it will host Classical:NEXT’s Opening Night, featuring a spectacular lineup of musicians, taking to the stage on multiple floors.
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*) [SOLD OUT]
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*) [SOLD OUT]
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)
Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz (4*) [SOLD OUT]
Otto-Braun-Straße 90, 10249 Berlin | Website | Email | Phone +49 89 62039 779
- 25 minutes from the daytime venue and 20 minutes from the nighttime venue
- Room Rate (incl. breakfast + city tax): €149 / night
- Offer valid until 10.05.2024 (subject to availability)
FAQs
Where will Classical:NEXT take place in 2026?
Classical:NEXT is coming to Budapest, Hungary from 8–11 April 2026. Stay tuned for more information 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.
This year’s programme is complete, so mark your calendar for the Call for Proposals for Classical:NEXT 2026 opening on 25 August 2025! Stay tuned for more information, sign up for our newsletter and keep an eye on our website and socials: LinkedIn / Instagram / Facebook.
You can also learn more about off C:N events and other promotional opportunities here.
How can I register for Classical:NEXT 2026?
Registrations for Classical:NEXT 2026 will open in November 2025. Stay tuned for updates by signing up to our newsletter so you don’t miss out on the best rates.
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 2026, 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.
Stay tuned for more information on delegate rates.
How should I prepare for Classical:NEXT?
Here are our tips to help you prepare, make a great impression and enjoy Classical:NEXT.
Bring any relevant materials that can support your case. Take some time to review and update your online presence, from your profile on C:N Connect to your social media, professional profile, and any other online platform. Make sure it’s current, and has all the necessary information. Don’t forget to bring business cards or a quick way to share your digital contact information.
Arts presenters: bring along any promotional materials 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 download cards or CDs 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.
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 with your Username (shown at the top of your confirmation email), 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. This profile will also appear in the Classical:NEXT App (Android / Apple).
Please note: the email address will only be visible to other delegates, we will not share it in any bulk mailings.
How do I log in to my account?
When you created your account, you were asked to choose a Username. You’ll find this at the top of your confirmation email. To log in, please enter your Username (not your email address) in the Username field. Click here to log in.
Is there a PDF version of the schedule?
Yes, you can download the schedule in the Classical:NEXT 2025 Guide here and in the Pocket Schedule here. However, please note that some information may be out of date. For the most up-to-date schedule, always refer to the website or the Classical:NEXT App.
Is there a PDF version of the “Who's Coming” list?
We don’t offer the “Who’s Coming” list as a PDF. You can always view the most up-to-date version on our website or the Classical:NEXT App (Android / iOS), where it’s regularly updated.
How do you support Accessibility and Inclusion?
Classical:NEXT is dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere where everyone is able to fully engage and enjoy the event. Companions of event participants with disabilities can access the event without registration. Stay tuned for more information about the Classical:NEXT 2026 venues.
At Classical:NEXT we are committed to creating a respectful, welcoming and accessible environment. We encourage all participants to be mindful of the experiences and needs of others. If you need support, please speak to a member of the Classical:NEXT team.
Is there a Classical:NEXT App?
Yes! With the Classical:NEXT App you can dive in to the full programme, event info and contacts, right on your phone! Just log in with your C:N Connect Username and password. Download it now to get started:
