Oscar Bar Cafe

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.

If you want to experience a genuine piece of gay history, Centralhjørnet is an absolute must. Welcoming LGBTQ+ Copenhagen since 1917, this wonderfully old-fashioned pub is one of the world's longest-running gay bars, and feels more like a well-loved local institution than a modern nightlife venue. Expect wooden furnishings, friendly regulars, reasonably priced beers and a wonderfully mixed crowd, although mature gay men are particularly well represented. Entertainment includes live music and shows, especially during the colder months, while the elaborate Christmas and Easter decorations are legendary. It's cosy, full of character and often packed at weekends. Just be aware that smoking is permitted indoors, which adds to the traditional atmosphere but won't appeal to everyone.

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.

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.

For one of Copenhagen's most enjoyable gay meeting places, head to Oscar Bar & Café on Regnbuepladsen, the city's Rainbow Square. With a prime location beside City Hall and a large outdoor terrace, it's a favourite with locals and visitors who want somewhere relaxed to enjoy a drink, a meal or simply watch the world go by. Oscar is equally appealing during the day and in the evening, serving everything from coffee and homemade cakes to Danish open sandwiches, burgers and cocktails. The crowd is wonderfully mixed, spanning different ages, genders and identities, while the atmosphere gets livelier as the evening progresses. On warm days, the outdoor tables are particularly popular and make an excellent starting point for exploring the nearby gay bars.

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.