City Guide for Coffee Lovers & Record Enthusiasts
From birthing legendary classical composers to Krautrock emerging out of Western Germany and pioneering the electronic scene in Berlin, Germany is one of the most influential musical countries in the world. The record scene that has emerged has propelled Germany as having one of the most dominant vinyl cultures in Europe.
With an ever-growing specialty coffee scene and a strong espresso culture, Germany has created some of the world’s most renowned roasters and coffee shops. While Berlin is the first city that comes to mind, the coffee scene is rapidly emerging all over Germany.
Germany
Germany’s Record Scene
Rooted in tradition, maintained by a hipster revival
Overview
Germany has long been a powerhouse in the global music scene, from pioneering electronic acts like Kraftwerk to world-renowned classical composers such as Beethoven and Bach. This rich and diverse musical legacy fuels a strong record collecting culture across the country, where audiophiles and crate diggers alike hunt for everything from rare techno pressings to vintage rock and classical vinyl. Germany’s deep appreciation for high-quality sound and analog formats has helped foster a vibrant vinyl community that continues to grow. Top cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Cologne are considered the best destinations for record collectors, offering a mix of iconic record shops, underground vinyl markets, and international record fairs. Whether you're after obscure electronic gems or timeless classics, Germany is a top-tier destination for serious vinyl enthusiasts.
Genres to look out for
Electronic / Techno / House
Krautrock / Experimental Rock
Classical Music
Best places to buy records in Germany
Local record fairs
Dates and cities can be found here
kleinanzeigen
Germany’s largest marketplace for used products
HHV
My personal favourite online retailer who also have a flagship location in Berlin, stemming from a love for hip-hop and lifestyle
Germany’s Coffee Scene
Strong espresso culture, but a global powerhouse in the specialty coffee scene
Overview
Germany’s coffee culture has deep historical roots, dating back to the 17th century when coffeehouses first emerged in cities like Hamburg and Leipzig as hubs of intellectual and social life. Today, that tradition continues with a booming specialty coffee scene that blends old-world charm with modern innovation. From third-wave cafés to micro-roasters, Germany is embracing high-quality, ethically sourced beans and precise brewing methods. Cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich lead the way as the best destinations to experience world-class coffee, featuring top specialty roasters such as The Barn, Five Elephant, Bonanza Coffee, and JB Coffee. Whether you're sipping a hand-poured filter brew or an expertly pulled espresso, Germany’s evolving coffee scene offers something exceptional for every coffee lover.
Top Coffee Roasters in Germany
The Barn
Arguably Germany’s most internationally known specialty coffee roaster
Known for light roasts, transparency in sourcing, and a strong presence across Europe and Asia
Focuses on single-origin, traceable coffees
I visit during almost every visit to Berlin
Five Elephant
Berlin-based roaster known for its balance of ethical sourcing and quality roasting
Offers a range of single-origin espresso and filter coffees
Also famous for their cheesecake!
A European favourite I tend to see at coffee festivals
Bonanza
One of the first specialty coffee roasters in Berlin
Pioneers of the lighter roasting movement in Germany
Their location on Adalbertstraße is among my favourite coffee shops ever
JB Coffee
Founded by world-class barista champion Johannes Bayer
Renowned for precision roasting and quality control
Supplies many of Germany’s high-end coffee shops
I’ve yet to try this roaster, but it often shows up on rankings within Germany