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Step into Café Intime and you could almost be transported back to another era. This wonderfully atmospheric Frederiksberg institution first opened in 1922 and has long been known for its colourful, bohemian clientele and welcoming attitude towards Copenhagen's LGBTQ+ community. The intimate interior, vintage furnishings and soft lighting create a lovely setting for an evening of music and conversation. Pianists and singers regularly entertain guests, while Sunday jazz sessions are a longstanding tradition. It's particularly appealing for a date or a relaxed evening away from the louder gay bars in the city centre, although the atmosphere can become quite spirited when everyone starts singing along. Be aware that smoking is permitted, so it isn't ideal if you prefer smoke-free venues.

Punk attitude meets queer inclusivity at Skovbar, a wonderfully alternative neighbourhood bar in Copenhagen's lively Nørrebro district. With its punk-inspired cocktail menu, affordable beers and relaxed atmosphere, it's a refreshing change from the city's more conventional gay nightlife. Drinks are named after musical icons including Siouxsie Sioux, Joan Jett, Blondie and the Dead Kennedys, giving you a pretty good idea of the bar's personality before you've even ordered. The crowd is mixed and proudly LGBTQ+-friendly, with a clear emphasis on making everyone feel welcome. It's an excellent place to meet friends, enjoy a few drinks and discover a more independent side of Copenhagen nightlife. Just don't arrive expecting a glossy cocktail lounge or a pop-music dance floor.

When the other gay bars start winding down, Never Mind is where Copenhagen's party crowd heads to keep the night going. This hugely popular LGBTQ+ nightclub at Axeltorv has a large dance floor, energetic atmosphere and a soundtrack packed with pop favourites, Eurovision anthems and familiar dance classics. The crowd is wonderfully diverse, attracting gay men, lesbians, trans and non-binary visitors, and plenty of friends who simply love a good party. DJs keep the music going well into the morning, particularly at weekends, and there's a separate smoking area. It can get very busy later in the night, but that's all part of the fun. An excellent choice if you prefer dancing until sunrise rather than calling it a night after a few cocktails.

For a lively night out beyond Copenhagen's traditional gay district, RUST is one of Nørrebro's best-established music venues. This popular nightclub and concert space has been part of the city's alternative scene since 1990, attracting a younger, mixed crowd for live performances, DJs and energetic late-night parties. The music programme spans different genres, while weekend club nights focus on hip-hop, R&B and familiar dance-floor favourites. With several spaces to explore, from the main dance floor to a more intimate upstairs bar, RUST offers plenty of variety throughout the evening. It's not exclusively an LGBTQ+ venue, but its inclusive approach and commitment to a safer nightlife environment make it a worthwhile option for queer visitors who enjoy exploring Copenhagen's wider clubbing scene.

If you appreciate an interesting beer more than another sugary cocktail, Tap 21 is a great little find in Frederiksberg. This welcoming, gay-owned craft beer bar offers a changing selection of Danish and international brews, with ten taps and an extensive collection of bottled and canned beers to explore. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, making it a lovely place to settle in with friends or chat with fellow beer enthusiasts. Regular pub quizzes, beer tastings and special events provide plenty of excuses to return, while board games and cards are available for those who enjoy a little friendly competition. There's also a good choice of alcohol-free drinks, and you can bring your own food or order takeaway. An excellent alternative to the busy central gay nightlife scene.

One of Copenhagen's most important lesbian nightlife destinations, Vela is a lively and welcoming bar in Vesterbro where queer women take centre stage. Its intimate setting and friendly atmosphere make it a favourite for meeting friends, making new connections and dancing into the early hours. Expect a fun mix of pop and dance music, DJs, affordable drinks and plenty of opportunities to get involved, whether that's challenging someone to table football or joining one of the regular themed parties. Vela also hosts cultural events, bringing together different parts of Copenhagen's lesbian and queer women's communities. It's a refreshing alternative to the predominantly gay male bars around Studiestræde, with plenty of personality and a strong sense of community. Check the social media calendar for upcoming events.