Gay bars cologne

They often host special parties and events.

Beyond CSD, look out for smaller cultural events, art exhibitions, and theatre performances with queer themes.

Get ready to discover the friendly atmosphere and diverse crowd that makes Cologne a top destination for queer travelers. The entire city generally embraces diversity. On Schaafenstraße, Die Mumu is a known late-night option, but expect lines on busy weekends. The streets here buzz with energy, especially on weekends. It seems wild I arrived and rode carnival rides, then went into the many party rooms and then there were other rooms that were unusually dark…

Backstage Diaries

If you are looking for a queer night out, this is it.

You know exactly what kind of apparel we’ll don…

Cologne’s LGBTQ+ scene is lively and welcoming. In particular take a look at:

• Ludwig Museum – most notable for its Pop Art collection, the Ludwig Museum was founded in 1976 and is home to the third largest Picasso collection. This is when Cologne Pride (CSD) takes place.

  Public transport is safe and efficient. Consider planning your Cologne pub crawlto visit multiple queer-friendly spots. If the weather is good and you want a moment to relax, this is a great option, they also have a café on site.

  I have mentioned this as a starting point for the next few activities which you can do in order from the Flora and Botanical Gardens.

  Ride the Cable Car over the River Rhine

  Whilst you may be able to ascend the tower in the cathedral, the best views of the city and the cathedral itself are seen from a little further above and away.

  Take the cable car from the zoo (which is next to the Flora and Botanical Gardens), up high across the River Rhine over to the Rheinpark for beautiful panoramic views of Cologne.

  The cable car has been running since 1957 and is penned as quite a romantic thing to do whilst you are in the city, people have even legally married in the six-minute journey across the Rhine.

  It only operates between March and the end of October so I was lucky to have this experience.

  In short, the answer is a resounding yes!

  Like other popular cities in Germany, you can rest assured that Cologne will welcome you with open arms as an LGBTQ+ traveller.

  Perhaps most reassuring of all was to learn that Cologne could indeed be one of the gayest cities in Germany with 10.6% of its population identifying as LGBTQ+, compared to the countries average of 6.9% – clearly in Cologne you will be in good company.

  LGBTQ+ rights in Germany are strong and continue to progress making the country very safe for LGBTQ+ travellers.

  Where is the Gay Area of Cologne?

  The main gay area in Cologne is Schaafenstraße where you will find the most popular gays bars, the area is also referred to as the ‘Bermuda Triangle’ – a place to go and get lost!

  Equally, there is a well-established gay area in the Old Town.

  This bar is known for its genuine German pub feel and good conversation. It's popular for its strong drinks and upbeat music. It's perfect for a relaxed evening with friends. The city's open, tolerant, and friendly atmosphere makes it very welcoming.

  Beyond the Bars: Queer-Friendly Spots and Events

  Insider Tip: Get the most out of your Cologne visit with guided tours!

  Cologne's LGBTQ+ inclusivity extends far beyond just its dedicated bars.

  Top LGBTQ+ Bars for Every Vibe

  Cologne boasts an impressive array of Cologne LGBTQ+ bars, each with its unique character. Normally the stages are at Heumarkt, Alter Markt and Gurzenich so perhaps plan to stay near one of these areas.

  One thing that I loved learning about during my queer walking tour in Cologne, was that they don’t use the term ‘pride parade’ here, they call this the CSD Demonstration – because we can never forget that pride is also a protest, not just a celebration.

  To find out the schedule for next year, head to the Cologne Pride website.

  Carnival

  If you love a huge 6-day street party then you might want to plan a trip for Cologne Carnival.

  Carnival itself is not an LGBTQ+ specific event, but you can be sure that any big event in Cologne with spectacular parties and costumes is going to attract LGBTQ+ tourists and locals alike.

  However, if you want to experience the gay side of Carnival to the maximum, then take a look at what events 5exy Party Cologne are running as during the final weekend of Carnival they host huge gay circuit parties!

  5exy Party Cologne

  If you follow me over on Instagram, you will know that I love a good circuit party and here in Cologne, that is what 5exy Party Cologne delivers.

  I have followed their account for years and have seen that they run epic (and sometimes a little naughty) events throughout the year and especially during Carnival and Pride.

  I finally attended during Cologne Pride and I have to say, it is an absolute must.

  Brought to you by Colognes first and only female Michelin-starred chef, Sahila is nearby the Wasserturm Hotel and offers a 6 or 7 course innovative, unique and flavourful dining experience.