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<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-57186" src="https://static.travelgay.com/media/67787/Gay-Copenhagen-Guide-2017.jpg" alt="gay-copenhagen-guide-2017" width="100%">
<h2>Copenhagen | K&oslash;benhavn</h2>
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a port city with 500,000 inhabitants in the city itself and 1.2 million in the Greater Copenhagen area. The city is characterised by historic promenades and waterfronts, with&nbsp;bridges and tunnels making everywhere conveniently accessible.
The city has a noticeably relaxed feel. Copenhageners are renowned as open-minded, friendly and strongly committed to human rights. There are cultural events throughout the summer months. From the Roskilde music festival (Europe&rsquo;s largest), a Jazz Festival, to annual summer Fashion, Cooking and Viking events, as well as an annual <a href="https://www.travelgay.com/event/copenhagen-gay-pride">Gay Pride week</a>.
Other attractions include a rapidly developing restaurant scene. The city is undergoing a gastronomic renaissance, boasting more than a dozen Michelin star&nbsp;winners, with Noma voted the 3rd best restaurant in the world.
When it comes to shopping, the very best of Denmark&rsquo;s world-famous designscan be found in Copenhagen's shopping streets and markets. From antiques to 1950&rsquo;s classic Danish design, right up to the most contemporary and cool of Danish design products, Copenhagen has them all.
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<h5><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-64533" src="https://static.travelgay.com/media/67788/Rosenburgh-Castle-near-Copenhagan.jpg" alt="Rosenborg Castle and tulip" width="100%">Rosenburgh Castle near Copenhagen</h5>
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<h2>Gay Rights in Denmark</h2>
The fact that Denmark was the first country in the world to introduce registered same-sex partnerships &ndash; a generation ago now, in 1989, is probably all you need to know about gay rights in this most liberal of European countries.
Registered gay couples have been able to adopt children since 2009, and, leading by example again, gay Danes have been able to marry in church since 2012.
The National Association for Gays and Lesbians (LGBT Denmark) is the oldest established in the world, being founded in 1948 by Axel Axgil.
&nbsp;
<h2>Gay Scene</h2>
With a reputation as one of the most gay-friendly cities in Europe, together with a thriving gay scene in a compact, charming waterfront setting, a visit to Copenhagen is definitely up there on the gay travelling itinerary.
The <a title="Copenhagen gay bars &amp; clubs" href="https://www.travelgay.com/copenhagen-gay-bars">Copenhagen gay scene</a> is concentrated in the old city centre - around the pedestrianized main shopping street of Str&oslash;get. It is home to some of the oldest gay bars in Europe, as well as some newer venues too!
The city's highlight event is the annual Copenhagen Gay Pride in August. Copenhagen was also a proud host to the World Out Games in 2009.
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<h5><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-64535" src="https://static.travelgay.com/media/67790/Copenhagen-Pride-2016.jpg" alt="Three guys taking part in Copenhagen Pride 2016" width="100%">Copenhagen Gay Pride 2016</h5>
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<h2>Getting to Copenhagen</h2>
By air
Copenhagen Airport is just 8km from the city centre and is the busiest in Scandanavia, with direct connections to most European and major hub cities around the world. The airport is well connected to the city centre, by metro, train, bus and taxi.
The metro service is located above Terminal 3. Journey time is 15 minutes to Norreport Station (main hub station in city centre) and will cost DKK36. The metro operates 24 hours a day with reduced service over the night.
You can also take a bus into town with the 5A, running every ten minutes until 1am (reduced service until 5am) which will take you straight to the Central Station, in around 30-35 minutes. The public transport is integrated so you do not have to buy different tickets for each mode of transport.
Taxis will take around 20-25 minutes and cost in the area of DKK 250-300.
By train &amp; other
As an alternative to flying, you can easily travel to Copenhagen by train from other major European transport hubs on Eurail.
There are also ferry options for onward travel around Scandinavia, and the &Oslash;resund Bridge is a direct road link from Denmark to Sweden. Malmo airport offers internal Swedish flights and connections to Eastern Europe via Wizz Air which may be a cheaper option (depending on where you're coming from).
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<h5><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-64536" src="https://static.travelgay.com/media/67791/Copenhagan-Tivoli-Gardens.jpg" alt="Theme park in Copenhagen Denmark" width="100%">Tivoli Gardens&nbsp;</h5>
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<h2>Getting around Copenhagen</h2>
Get yourself a Copenhagen Card for unlimited public transportation in Greater Copenhagen as well as free entrance to 70 attractions and museums, together with discounts including restaurants and car hire. Or you can just purchase a City Pass.
It is also well worth doing as the locals do, and rent a bicycle to get around all the city landmarks. There are many excellent bicycle hire companies in the city centre and many cycle lanes also, so this really is a great option.
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<h2>Where to Stay in Copenhagen</h2>
Copenhagen has an excellent choice of hotels to suit all budgets and tastes. Check our <a href="https://www.travelgay.com/gay-copenhagen-hotels">list of recommended Copenhagen hotels</a>&nbsp;for gay travelers.
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<h2>Things to See &amp; Do</h2>
Tivoli Gardens&nbsp;- a combination of theme and real park (mid-April to mid-September).
National Museum&nbsp;-&nbsp;The Nationalmuseet is located in an impressive mansion house right in the city centre and will give you a concise history of Denmark throughout the ages.
The Little Mermaid&nbsp; - Synonymous with Copenhagen, you will find this Hans Christian Anderson inspired statue gazing out over the harbor. A &nbsp;must-do photo stop for every visitor!
Christiania&nbsp;- Officially the third biggest tourist attraction in Denmark, the fame of Christiania, or Staden, is due to it being the home of &lsquo;Pusherstreet&rsquo; - pushers being sellers of every conceivable variety of &lsquo;weed&rsquo; available anywhere. &nbsp;Just don&rsquo;t photograph the pushers - they don&rsquo;t like it! &nbsp;Visit the nearby Sunshine Bakery when all that weed makes you hungry!
Nyhavn&nbsp; - translating as New Harbour, your slice of chocolate box Danish maritime history. &nbsp;Enjoy a stroll past the colourful houses lining the canal, your perfect setting for outdoor summer dining.
Danish Jewish Museum&nbsp;- designed by Daniel Liebeskind, documenting the lives of Danish Jews.
Botanical Gardens&nbsp; - the place to see the best of Denmark&rsquo;s flora and fungi, in 25 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens.
A few of the many historical sights worth visiting:
Frederiksborg Palace&nbsp;- surrounded by a stunning garden.
Christiansborg Palace&nbsp; - home of the Danish Parliament.
Amalienborg Palace&nbsp;- a great example of Danish Rococco architecture dating from the 1700&rsquo;s.
Rosenborg Castle&nbsp;- A&nbsp;day trip here will give you a taste of Danish royalty, it being a former royal Danish residence.
Round Tower -&nbsp;This observatory is one the oldest in the world (dating from the 1600&rsquo;s) and still serves its original purpose now.
For contemporary culture vultures:
Arken Museum of Modern Art -&nbsp;20 km to the South of the city, between the harbour and the beach.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art&nbsp;- a cool gallery in touch with the zeitgeist of the contemporary art world (a day trip from the city).
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<h2>Visa</h2>
Denmark is within the Schengen visa area. If travelling from outside Europe, you should check to see if you require a Schengen visa.
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<h2>Money</h2>
Denmark has not adopted the Euro. The Danish currency is the Kroner (DKK). One Kroner is divided into 100 Ore.

Gay Copenhagen · City Guide

Planning to visit Copenhagen? Then our gay Copenhagen city guide for page is for you.

Copenhagen is a very liberal, prosperous city that boasts a high standard of living. It might not have the kinetic energy of London or Berlin but that's what makes it so charming: life is less stressful in Copenhagen 

It has many canals, a strong cycling culture, a welcoming gay scene, and by some measures, it's the happiest city on earth. You need about three days to get to know Copenhagen fully.

Copenhagen, with its tranquil charm and high standard of living, offers a distinct experience that sets it apart from the bustling metropolises of London and Berlin. Renowned for its liberal values and picturesque canals, the city is also celebrated for its robust cycling culture, which reflects its commitment to sustainability and ease of living.
The Danish capital boasts a welcoming and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, with a plethora of bars, cafes, and clubs that cater to the community. This inclusive atmosphere is mirrored in the city&rsquo;s frequent hosting of LGBTQ+ events, including the famed Copenhagen Pride, making it a beacon of diversity and acceptance.
Often ranked as one of the happiest cities in the world, Copenhagen&rsquo;s laid-back lifestyle is a testament to its less stressful approach to urban living. To truly appreciate what Copenhagen has to offer, spending around three days is recommended. This allows ample time to explore its historic sites, indulge in Danish culinary delights, and immerse oneself in the local culture and nightlife.

Gay Copenhagen

At the time, gay couples were allowed to have civil unions and thus was able to apply as a couple.

The ability for same-sex couples to legally adopt a child.

The difference between legal age of consent for homosexual sex and heterosexual sex.

On July 1st, 2024, Denmark lifted it&#39;s four month deferral that was specifically aimed toward MSM blood donors. Now, deferrals and rules regarding blood donations apply to everyone regardless of their sexual orientation.

The ability for MSMs (men who have sex with men) to donate blood or tissue for organ transplants. A deferral period refers to a waiting time before a man can donate after having sex.

In March 2020, the life-time ban was reduced to a 4 month deferral period.

In 1988, Denmark implemented a life-time ban on blood donations from men who have sex with men.

In Denmark, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics.

Censorship or prohibition of discussing, promoting, or teaching LGBTQ+ topics in media, schools, and in the general public.

Denmark's historic new law allows citizens to self-determine their own gender identity without any requirements for medical or psychiatric intervention.

Legal recognition of a change in gender by permitting a change on an individual's legal documentation.

By Danish naming-legislation, a man cannot have a woman&#39;s name, or vice versa, however trans people are allowed to change their gender after they get diagnosed with gender dysphoria and have sex reassignment surgery. 
 
The Act on Sterilisation and Castration was passed in 1929 and has been used as a means for trans people to get legal recognition.

According to ILGA, laws in force in Denmark do not regulate or restrict conversion therapies.

Legal status of conducting sexual orientation changing therapy ("ex-gay" therapy)

There is protection against discrimination at court in the criminal code.

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity in employment, including hiring, promotion, termination, harassment, etc.

Labour code affords sexual orientation as a ground for protection

Please note: As a general rule, surgical treatment is not offered before the age of 18. 
 
Denmark launched a centralised gender transition service in 2016, providing healthcare for trans people, including minors. 
 
On May 4th 2023, Denmark imposed some, albeit minimal restrictions on transgender people&#39;s ability to access care. This was due to increased numbers of treatment referrals. Transgender youths can still access services with parental consent from 10, from 15 in some cases parental consent is not needed.

Medical and psychological support designed to help individuals transition to the gender they identify with, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and surgeries.

In 1929, Denmark legalized sterilization, which de facto meant legalizing sex reassignment surgery, however, medical records regarding transsexualism had to be obtained abroad.

Changes to the Danish penal code in 1930, coming into effect in January 1st 1933 permitted same-sex sexual activity.

Consensual sexual activity between individuals of the same sex.

In 1866 reforms to the penal code were made changing the punishment for homosexuality from death to hard labour ranging from 8 months to 6 years.

King Christian V&#39;s Danish Code from 1683 outlawed homosexuality on the island with death as the punishment.

After extensive research, no evidence was found of the existence of any statute being formally interpreted as banning housing discrimination for LGBTQIA people however some measures have been considered by the European Commission and if passed would ban housing discrimination.

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity when applying for housing or discrimination by landlords / property owners.

Invasive and non-consensual medical procedures on intersex children have not yet been banned in Denmark.

Medical interventions performed on intersex infants to alter their genital appearance to conform to typical male or female standards, often without the informed consent of the child who is too young to participate in the decision-making process.

Since June 15, 2012, Denmark has recognised both homosexual and heterosexual marriages. Denmark was the eighth country in Europe, and the eleventh in the world to legalise same-sex marriage.

Marriage and marriage recognition between two people of the same biological sex and/or gender identity.

Denmark becomes the first country in the world to legally recognize same-sex unions as the Danish Registered Partnership Act goes into effect. 
 
"Two persons of the same sex may have their partnership registered."

LGB people have been able to serve since 1978, transgender people were largely unknown but have been permitted from at least 2014.

The ability for homosexuals to serve in the military and be open about their sexuality.

The Danish government allows the 'X' gender marker in passports.

Legal recognition of non-binary, genderqueer, or third gender identities.

Non-binary people are not allowed to change their gender in Denmark.

Denmark

Copenhagen Gay Cruise Clubs

Copenhagen

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Copenhagen Gay Bars

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Best Gay-Friendly Hotels in Copenhagen

Three guys taking part in Copenhagen Pride 2016

Copenhagen Pride Parade 2016, Denmark

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Copenhagen Gay Dance Clubs

Solo travel is on the rise and it’s easy to understand why with the unmatched feelings of liberation and freedom it provides.

LGBTQ+ Solo Travel: the Best Cities to Visit

Lesbian bars are important venues for LGBT+ women to feel safe and have fun around like-minded individuals.

Europe's Best Lesbian Bars

Copenhagen Pride 

Copenhagen Pride 2025: dates, parade & lineup

Denmark's largest gay celebrations.

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AC Hotel Bella Sky Copenhagen

Andersen Boutique Hotel

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Hotel SP34

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The Square

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Hotel Mayfair

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Generator Hostel Copenhagen

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Find frequently asked questions for gay travelers visiting Copenhagen. Join the conversation, share your experiences and chat with others.

FAQs for Copenhagen gay travelers - gay chat & forum

Copenhagen - capital of Denmark, the world's first country to recognise same-sex partnerships and home to a thriving gay scene.

Jazz Sunday - featuring singers and guests

Café Intime

Centre Stage CPH occupies the space of the former beloved Cosy Bar, in Studiestr&aelig;de, the heart of the Latin Quarter. The bar has been revitalised&nbsp; and is a must visit for anyone who loves drag shows, musicals and film hits as well as of course lots of pop music!
The bar aims to serve guests glitz, glamour and bring the party, with selected themed nights also, keeping the venue known for it's colour and flirtacious vibe remain in it's iconic place in the Copenhagen gay scene, where everyone is welcome.&nbsp;
Open every day from 4pm until late, this is a must visit when in the city.

Centre Stage CPH

One of Copenhagen's newest gay bars.

Explore the rich and often hidden LGBTQ+ history of Northern Europe on this one-of-a-kind cultural adventure from Oscar Wilde Tours. &ldquo;Nordic Gays&rdquo; takes you through Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Helsinki&mdash;three stylish and progressive capitals&mdash;through a uniquely queer lens.
This 9-day guided tour dives into the fascinating lives of iconic LGBTQ+ figures like Hans Christian Andersen, Greta Garbo, and Tom of Finland, bringing their stories to life in the cities they called home. Along the way, you'll visit world-class museums, historic landmarks, queer heritage sites, and vibrant neighborhoods&mdash;all while enjoying the comfort of luxury hotels and curated experiences with fellow LGBTQ+ travelers.
Highlights include:
- A deep dive into Hans Christian Andersen&rsquo;s romantic (and very queer) life in Copenhagen
- Greta Garbo&rsquo;s Stockholm, from her early life to her mysterious stardom
- The bold erotic art of Tom of Finland in Helsinki, with insights into his trailblazing legacy
- Visits to royal palaces, hidden queer histories, and Nordic art collections
This tour is ideal for LGBTQ+ travelers with a love of culture, art, history, and a dash of camp. Expect intellectual stimulation, gorgeous scenery, and a welcoming group atmosphere&mdash;plus the chance to walk in the footsteps of queer icons who shaped Nordic identity.

Oscar Wilde Tours: Nordic Gays

A tour following some of the most famous LGBTQ+ Nordic icons.

Copenhagen's only gay sauna (<a title="Body Bio" href="https://www.travelgay.com/venue/body-bio/">Body Bio</a> has sauna facilities, it's more of a cruise club). Amigo Sauna has been a playground for gay Danes and visitors for over 25 years. Spread out on 3 floors, facilities include a dry sauna, dark room, maze, cabins, video room and shop. Amigo gets busiest on Friday and Saturday evening. Located close to all the gay bars in the city centre.

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Amigo Sauna

The only gay sauna in Copenhagen.

One of the most popular gay hangouts in Copenhagen. Oscar Bar Cafe features modern interiors, along with cute staff and a non-smoking policy. Live DJs on Fridays. Outdoor terrace in good weather. Located at "regnbue-pladsen" right next to City Hall, close to many of our <a title="gay Copenhagen hotels" href="https://www.travelgay.com/gay-copenhagen-hotels">recommended hotels in Copenhagen</a>.
Happy hour every day from 4 PM to 9 PM.

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Oscar

Very popular bar & café near the City Hall.

The oldest gar bar in Copenhagen and one of oldest in all of Europe. Centralhj&oslash;rnet has been going since 1917. Excellent shows are held every Thursday and Sunday (between October and April). Outdoor seating available during the summer months.

Centralhjornet Copenhageng gay bar main

Centralhjørnet

The oldest gar bar in Copenhagen and one of old...

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