Copenhagen: Mermaids, canals and gay life

Søren's been married to his husband for 15 years and they live in Copenhagen. Despite describing himself as a quiet kind of guy, Søren still has lot of tips for shopping, eating out and bar crawling! Check his ideas and stay like a gay local when in Denmark's capital...

What makes your city a great gay destination?

Denmark was one the first places in Europe to accept and legalize gay couples, allowing them the same rights as heterosexuals. The city has a lot of places you can visit on your own but taking the sightseeing bus or the canal boats can be fun, too!

How gay-friendly is Copenhagen?

There are several specific gay places like bars, cafés, clubs and saunas in the city, but – in general – it’s very gay-friendly.

We only have 48 hours in Copenhagen. What can’t we miss?

The most important spots are Tivoli, the yellow harbour boats, the Torvehallerne food market, Amalienborg Royal Castle, the Little Mermaid and the shopping street called Strøget. If you're coming in December, then visiting our Christmas markets is a must!

What are the best gay events that take place in your city each year?

Every August we have the gay parade. It ends with a big party on the City Hall square and in several gay places around the city.



A gay place for brunch on weekends?

We love going to Café Vivaldi on Axeltorv across Tivoli to have brunch, but it's not a gay place specifically.



Best gay place and day for happy hour?

That will be Café Oscar, Jail House SLM or Never Mind.

We’re ready to party! The best gay clubs?

Me and my boyfriend are not at all party animals but our friends always have a blast at Never Mind; it’s very popular among gay locals.  

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

A club we feel like recommending is SLM Copenhagen which is a fetish club. Their biggest event is on Friday night, where you should wear black or denim. Each day there is a different dress code. It’s a great place, especially if you’re into the bear community, but it can be a lot of fun anyways, you can meet new people there. 



Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

We have a big sports organization called Pan Sport, where gays or lesbians meet up. If you visit Copenhagen you're more than welcome to join them.

Can you share a secret or little-known place to visit in Copenhagen?

You must try the yellow harbour boat, where you can see the city from the water.

Any beaches, parks or best other places to chill-out? 

There's the Amager Common and another popular gay beach is just off the city, near Hundinge. © flickr/Francesco

Where can we get the best view? 

The Hotel Bella Sky is one of the spots you can get an awesome view and make great panoramic pictures; we often also have lunch on their rooftop terrace and enjoy the view. There's also the tower in the Parliament, Christiansborg Palace, that you can visit to enjoy the view of the city. ●

Fancy taking in Copenhagen? Check out our City Guide and read some more Local Tips from our other hosts in this amazing city! 

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