CHARLOTTENBURG ­ WILMERSDORF. Dark, smoky, swanky, and jiving ­ A-Trane is the quintessential Berlin jazz venue, a joint that provides the perfect end to a busy day of meetings or sightseeing. Performers are known the world over, from Herbie Hancock and Wynton Marsalis to Nina Hill and Alice Coltrane, and the hip, knowledgable crowd keeps a cacophony going over the intimate den. If you're searching for "cool" in Berlin, this is the place to find it. S-BAHN: Savignyplatz

MITTE. Upscale, trendy, and ... well, long and attenuated: Bar Am L��tzowplatz has no problem attracting Berlin's young professionals, thanks to its extensive drink menu. Of course, it lays proud claim to an attractive, blond-wood bar (the city's longest), which promises ample opportunity to rub elbows and chat while waiting for your favorite cocktail. Comfortable leather-backed chairs line the wall in the back, providing spots for intimate conversation. Take note: thanks to its popularity and narrow confines, Bar Am Lützowplatz tends to get crowded and stay packed until closing time. U-BAHN: Nollendorferplatz

TEMPELHOF ­ SCHÖNEBERG. Founded in the late 1800s, this is one of Berlin's oldest pubs. E & M has a wide selection of wine and liqueurs and a nice ambience. U-BAHN or S-BAHN: Yorckstrasse

TEMPELHOF ­ SCHÖNEBERG. Berlin's colorful Latin community shares its rich dance and musical heritage at this popular nightclub, located near the post office on Hauptstrasse. Tropical decor, live salsa and merengue pulsating from the sound system, and a youthful clientele eager to show off their best footwork and most stylish duds all combine to make the club's three dance floors among Berlin's hottest spots once the sun goes down. An hour prior to opening, dance classes are offered to novices. U-BAHN: Rathaus Schöneberg or Eisenracher Strasse

PANKOW. This nightspot in Mitte accommodates anyone wanting to dance all night or to catch musical acts that range from hard and aggressive to pop- or jazz-oriented. With four levels and myriad diversions, Knaack offers something to suit just about any night-owl's taste. If live or DJ-driven music isn't your favorite on the night you visit, your time's not wasted; the place also boasts the Dizzy Lounge, a swanky lounge and game area. On weekends, the club is energized by a younger clientele. Open during the week only when there is a show; check their website for specific schedules. S-BAHN: Alexanderplatz