Copenhagen as a Gay Destination
Denmark has long been a world leader in gay rights. When the country legalised civil unions in 1989, Denmark was entering into relatively unprecedented territory – one that other Western European countries would soon follow. Adoption and same-sex marriage in its entirety are now open to same-sex couples. These liberal attitudes and acceptance of diversity are none more apparent than in the capital, Copenhagen. Aside from the admirable equality stance, this is an extremely photogenic city where beautiful medieval palaces blend effortlessly with the cobblestone streets. And don't forget to pay a visit to the Little Mermaid for good luck.
The Nightlife
Copenhagen doesn't necessarily have a gay district as such. But most of the gay venues are located in the city centre near the shopping street, Strøget. The oldest gay bar in Copenhagen is Centralhjørnet, which first opened for trading over 80 years ago and is still going strong. Other popular bars include Oscar, which also doubles as a cafe, Never Mind and Men's Bar, which attracts a leather and bear crowd. For a boogie, head to either Cosy Bar or Club Christopher.
Accommodation
All hotels in Copenhagen will welcome gay and lesbian travellers with the same generous Danish spirit as anyone else.
View our Copenhagen accommodation options.
Events
Copenhagen Pride Festival
The Danish capital first hosted pride celebrations in 1996, to coincide with the city being proclaimed a European Union Cultural capital. Today, Copenhagen's pride festivities run across five days in August and include debates, live performances and dance parties. The centrepiece and final event of the festival is the parade that begins at 1pm on the Saturday from the Frederiksberg Town Hall. The spectacular floats march around five kilometres through the streets of central Copenhagen to the City Hall Square. Following the procession, the revellers are entertained by live acts from the al fresco stage, as the city erupts into a fantastic outdoor party.
Atlantis Copenhagen to Stockholm Cruise
The renowned tour operator, Atlantis organises a dedicated gay cruise from Copenhagen to Stockholm aboard the beautiful Eurodam. Pulling up anchor at end of July, the cruise travels through the Baltic Sea visiting Berlin, Tallinn and St Petersburg. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the luxury of cruising with like-minded enthusiasts.