Gay Copenhagen Guide

Denmark is far from alone in its comfortable embrace of gay culture; in Scandinavia in general gays and lesbians find themselves welcome. While they may need to go to Norway to get married, gays and lesbians spending time in Copenhagen will find the atmosphere refreshingly relaxed and open. The Danish attitude of live and let live extends far beyond its gay community, and the country on the whole has a reputation for tolerance. In fact, the Danes lack of discrimination on the basis of sexuality can actually cut the other way, as at times Copenhagen's gay bars and clubs can be swamped with heterosexuals who have come just for the party.

But the existence of establishments such as the world-famous Pan Club should reassure gay and lesbian travelers that they are welcome in Copenhagen. Those interested in gay tourism may want to time their visit to Copenhagen to coincide with October's Gay and Lesbian Film Festival or August's Copenhagen Pride event. In addition to the party scene, homosexuals are welcome into every aspect of Copenhagen life, which means the disco isn't the only option for homosexuals in this town. Denmark has a very influential homosexual lobby and serious anti-discrimination laws are on the books, making Copenhagen one of the top destinations in Europe for gay fun.