Centre Stage CPH

For something a world away from Copenhagen's traditional gay bars, Den Anden Side is an essential stop for fans of underground electronic music. Hidden beneath a cinema at Axeltorv, this queer-centred nightclub brings together techno, trance, house and experimental sounds in an atmosphere that celebrates individuality, self-expression and freedom. The club has two dance floors, an impressive sound system and a changing programme curated by local collectives, with many parties continuing well into the morning. There's a strong emphasis on consent and creating a safer space for queer and marginalised communities, making it particularly appealing to visitors looking beyond mainstream gay nightlife. Check the event programme before visiting, as each party has its own musical direction and atmosphere.

For visitors interested in Copenhagen's leather and fetish scene, SLM is one of the city's most established destinations. Short for Scandinavian Leather Men, this members-only club welcomes gay and bisexual men who share an interest in leather, rubber, uniforms and other forms of fetish culture. The venue combines a sociable bar atmosphere with extensive cruising facilities, including dedicated play areas, and hosts a changing programme of themed events. Some evenings are more relaxed and welcoming to newcomers, while others have specific dress codes or cater to particular interests. Membership can be arranged through the website or at the entrance, but checking the rules before visiting is essential. Whether you're an experienced fetish enthusiast or exploring the scene for the first time, SLM offers a welcoming community within a well-established men-only environment.

For a quieter and more meaningful side of LGBTQ+ Copenhagen, Kafé Knud is a welcoming community café with a history stretching back to 1992. Founded as a meeting place for people living with HIV and those close to them, it has grown into a friendly space for conversation, support and social gatherings. Run by Hiv-Danmark, this small basement café offers food and drinks in an informal, inclusive setting, with regular community meals and activities bringing people together. It's quite different from the city's gay nightlife venues, but an interesting destination for visitors who appreciate discovering the community organisations that have helped shape LGBTQ+ life. Open on selected weekday afternoons and evenings, so check the current programme before dropping in.

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.

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.

One of Copenhagen's most unusual LGBTQ+ destinations can be found in the heart of Christiania. Bøssehuset is a wonderfully independent queer cultural house that has long provided a creative meeting place for gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans communities, with a programme that reflects Christiania's famously unconventional spirit. Rather than operating as a regular bar, Bøssehuset opens for performances, parties, theatrical productions, concerts, singalong evenings and community gatherings. The atmosphere is informal, inclusive and often delightfully eccentric, making it a fascinating place to experience Copenhagen's queer culture beyond the usual nightlife circuit. Check the programme carefully before visiting, as events take place on selected dates rather than every evening.