Skovbar

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.