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Time Warp is one of techno’s most legendary nights — a single, marathon indoor rave in Mannheim, Germany. Nineteen continuous hours, multiple stages, monumental production and a who’s-who of techno draw a hardcore international crowd to the Maimarkthalle each spring. This guide covers the dates, how to fly in, where to stay, and how to plan it.
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When to go: the music calendar
- Time Warp Germany — a single spring edition at the Maimarkthalle, Mannheim; the 2027 event runs April 3, 2027 as one ~19-hour, all-night marathon. Confirm the next edition’s date on the official Time Warp site — it sells out.
- The sound — pure techno across roughly five stages and 40+ artists spanning three decades of the genre. It’s a serious heads’ event, not a pop crossover.
- The format — one indoor venue, ~19 continuous hours overnight. Pace yourself accordingly.
Getting there: flights to Frankfurt (FRA)
Fly into Frankfurt (FRA), about 30–40 minutes from Mannheim by fast train (Stuttgart STR is another option). Germany’s rail network makes the hop easy. Set a price watch and secure tickets first.
→ Search flights to Frankfurt (FRA)
Where to stay (matched to your trip)
- Mannheim centre — close to transport to the Maimarkthalle and to recover after the marathon; the most convenient base.
- Near the Maimarkthalle — minimise the post-rave trip home.
- Heidelberg — a beautiful town ~15 minutes by train, a scenic alternative base.
Getting around
Mannheim has trams and buses to the venue, plus the excellent German rail network for getting in. Germany uses the euro; cards increasingly accepted but carry some cash. Plan your route home in advance — it’s an all-nighter.
Prepare for a marathon: pace yourself, hydrate, bring earplugs, and dress in layers for a long indoor session.
Airport transfer
Pre-book a private transfer from Frankfurt to your Mannheim hotel.
→ Pre-book a private airport transfer with Kiwitaxi
Stay connected: get an eSIM
A local data eSIM keeps maps, train times and mobile tickets working the moment you land.
→ Get an Airalo eSIM for Germany
Explore by car
A rental helps for exploring the region (Heidelberg, the wine country) around the event.
→ Compare and book a rental car
Sample budget — 3 nights (per person)
| Item | Budget | Mid-range |
|---|---|---|
| Flights (within Europe) | $90 | $280 |
| Hotel (3 nights) | $200 | $520 |
| Festival ticket | $120 | $190 |
| Food + drinks | $110 | $260 |
| Trains, transfer, eSIM | $70 | $150 |
| Total | ~$590 | ~$1,400 |
Money-saving tips
- Buy tickets the moment they drop — Time Warp sells out in tiers.
- Fly into Frankfurt on a fare dip and take the fast train.
- Stay in Mannheim centre to skip late-night taxis.
- Use trains/trams over cabs, and a regional ticket if exploring.
- Eat at local spots away from the station.
Plan your Time Warp trip
Secure tickets, then watch fares into Frankfurt and book a Mannheim room near transport.
Frequently asked questions
When is Time Warp Mannheim?
A single spring edition at the Maimarkthalle (the 2027 event runs April 3, 2027 as a ~19-hour marathon). Confirm the next date on the official site.
How do I get there?
Fly into Frankfurt (FRA) and take the fast train to Mannheim (~30–40 min), then a tram/bus to the Maimarkthalle.
What kind of festival is it?
One of the world’s most respected techno events — ~19 continuous hours, multiple stages and 40+ artists, indoors.
Where should I stay?
Mannheim centre or near the venue for the easiest night; Heidelberg is a scenic alternative a short train away.