Den Anden Side

If your perfect night out involves excellent electronic music, cold beers and absolutely no pretension, Jolene could be your kind of place. This much-loved institution in Copenhagen's Meatpacking District has built a loyal following with its underground DJs, energetic dance floor and wonderfully relaxed attitude towards nightlife. Expect house, techno, dub and other independent electronic sounds rather than mainstream chart hits, with a diverse, creative crowd that has always been strongly LGBTQ+-friendly. The deliberately rough-around-the-edges interior and industrial surroundings are part of the appeal, making Jolene feel more like a proper local club than a polished tourist destination. It's particularly lively at weekends, when the music gets louder and the dancing continues late into the night. Come for the tunes, not the fancy cocktails.

For a livelier, more alternative night out, head to Copenhagen's Meatpacking District and discover Baggen. Formerly known as Bakken, this energetic bar and club attracts a young, creative crowd that comes for interesting DJs, underground music and a refreshingly unpretentious party atmosphere. Baggen's music programme is constantly changing, with everything from house and garage to bass-heavy electronic sounds, hip-hop and the occasional nostalgic party anthem. The industrial surroundings and relaxed approach to nightlife give it a distinctly Copenhagen feel, while the crowd is mixed, inclusive and LGBTQ+-friendly. It's particularly worth considering if you enjoy discovering local music scenes rather than sticking exclusively to gay bars. Check the latest events before visiting, as the soundtrack can vary considerably from one night to the next.

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.

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.

Ever fancied having a drink behind bars? Jailhouse CPH offers exactly that, although the only sentence you'll be serving is a fun evening with Copenhagen's gay crowd. This popular basement bar on Studiestræde has embraced its prison theme with iron bars, handcuffs, cell-style decorations and bartenders dressed in police uniforms. Despite the slightly intimidating theme, the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, attracting a predominantly male crowd that includes plenty of mature gay men and bears. It's a great place for drinks, conversation and a little flirting, especially during its popular happy hour. Food is also available on selected evenings. Don't confuse Jailhouse with a dedicated cruising club, however: the prison theme is part of the fun rather than an indication of what goes on downstairs.