Centralhjørnet
Copenhagen's legendary gay bar since 1917—where history, warmth, and celebration meet.
Centralhjørnet is Copenhagen's oldest gay bar, established in 1917 and located in the heart of the city's historic Indre By district. This iconic venue combines over a century of LGBTQ+ heritage with a warm, inclusive atmosphere where locals and travelers gather for drinks, drag shows, and live music. Open daily from noon, it remains a cornerstone of Copenhagen's vibrant nightlife scene.
A brief summary to Centralhjørnet
- Kattesundet 18, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1458, DK
- +4533118549
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-2 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-2 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-2 am
- Thursday 12 pm-2 am
- Friday 12 pm-4 am
- Saturday 12 pm-4 am
- Sunday 12 pm-2 am
Local tips
- Visit during winter months to experience the bar's spectacular Christmas decorations and festive atmosphere, complete with traditional Danish gløgg and holiday entertainment.
- Arrive early on weekends if you want to secure seating, as the bar becomes busy later in the evening, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Check ahead for drag show and live music schedules, as entertainment offerings vary seasonally and may include special themed nights throughout the year.
- Explore the surrounding Indre By neighborhood on foot—the narrow medieval streets, historic buildings, and nearby cafés and restaurants make for a rich pre- or post-visit experience.
- Try classic cocktails and Danish beverages; the bartenders are skilled at traditional drinks and can recommend house specialties that reflect the bar's heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Centralhjørnet location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Centralhjørnet
A Century of LGBTQ+ Heritage
Centralhjørnet stands as the world's oldest gay bar, having opened its doors in 1917. For more than a century, this legendary establishment has witnessed and celebrated generations of LGBTQ+ history in Copenhagen. The bar's longevity speaks to its cultural significance—it has survived changing times, social attitudes, and urban transformations to remain a beacon of acceptance and community. Today, it continues to honor that legacy while welcoming a diverse clientele that extends far beyond the LGBTQ+ community, embodying the inclusive spirit that defines modern Copenhagen.Atmosphere and Décor
Stepping into Centralhjørnet is like entering a time capsule of warmth and character. The interior reflects its storied past with rustic, charming décor that creates an intimate yet lively ambiance. Extravagant decorations, particularly during winter months, transform the space into a festive wonderland. The bar is renowned for its cozy, unpretentious setting where guests can enjoy classic cocktails while socializing with both locals and fellow travelers. The atmosphere strikes a balance between energetic entertainment and relaxed conversation, making it equally suitable for a quiet evening or a night of celebration.Entertainment and Events
Centralhjørnet is celebrated for its vibrant entertainment offerings. Drag shows and live music performances are regular features, particularly during the winter season, drawing crowds who come to experience the bar's theatrical flair. The venue hosts special events and themed nights throughout the year, with December being particularly festive when the bar becomes adorned with Christmas decorations and serves traditional Danish gløgg (mulled wine). These entertainment offerings have made Centralhjørnet a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic Copenhagen nightlife with personality and history.Location and Accessibility
Situated at Kattesundet 18 in the Indre By (Inner City) neighborhood, Centralhjørnet occupies a prime location in Copenhagen's historic old town. The venue is easily accessible by foot from major transport hubs—Copenhagen Central Station is approximately an 8-minute walk away, and Nørreport Station is roughly 10 minutes on foot. The surrounding area is characterized by charming old buildings, bold modern architecture, broad avenues, and narrow winding streets that capture the essence of Copenhagen's medieval core. This central location makes it convenient for visitors exploring the city's historic district.Community and Inclusivity
While Centralhjørnet was founded as a gay bar, it has evolved into a truly inclusive space where everyone feels welcome. The venue has become a favorite gathering spot for after-work drinks, celebrations with friends and family, and casual social encounters. The staff is known for their genuine hospitality and attentiveness, contributing to the bar's reputation as one of Copenhagen's most welcoming establishments. Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or simply seeking an authentic local experience, Centralhjørnet embodies Copenhagen's progressive values and commitment to creating safe, joyful spaces for all.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lur Blowers
0.1 km
Bronze Age horns meet early 20th‑century grandeur in this 20‑metre column, where two silent lur players keep watch over Copenhagen’s bustling City Hall Square.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
0.3 km
A broad, bustling boulevard where Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy meets City Hall Square, Tivoli’s lights, and the everyday pulse of central Copenhagen.
Jorcks Passage
0.3 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Amagertorv
0.4 km
Aarhus’s University Park blends Danish modernist architecture, lush gardens, and student life into one of the city’s most tranquil and historically significant green spaces.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.4 km
A quiet yet powerful royal monument in Christiansborg’s riding ground, uniting a pivotal Danish king with the groundbreaking sculptor who cast him in bronze.
Højbro
0.5 km
A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
Bishop Absalon
0.5 km
Dynamic equestrian monument to Copenhagen’s warrior-bishop founder, rising over central Højbro Plads with rich maritime symbolism and a direct visual link to Christiansborg.
Højbro Plads
0.5 km
Explore Højbro Plads, a vibrant square in Copenhagen that beautifully blends history, culture, and lively atmosphere, perfect for tourists seeking adventure.
Christiansborg Palace
0.5 km
Explore the majestic Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, a blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture that captivates all who visit.
Rutschebanen
0.5 km
Iconic 1914 wooden roller coaster in Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, offering nostalgic thrills and hands-on history amid the city’s legendary amusement park.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.5 km
Discover the Agnete and the Merman statue in Copenhagen, a stunning representation of love and Danish folklore by Højbro Bridge.
Stork Fountain
0.5 km
A trio of bronze storks, royal history and everyday city life meet at this elegant fountain in Copenhagen’s Amagertorv square on the Strøget pedestrian street.
Unmissable attractions to see
Weirdwalks Byvandring
0.1 km
Stroll the storied harbor promenade, discover Copenhagen’s iconic Little Mermaid, lush parks, and maritime sculptures along the scenic Langelinie waterfront.
Nytorv
0.1 km
Cobbled, compact and quietly dramatic, Nytorv blends royal-era markets, grim judicial history and Neoclassical authority at the pedestrian heart of old Copenhagen.
Rainbow Square
0.1 km
A small city-centre plaza with a powerful rainbow dedication, Rainbow Square turns everyday pavement beside Copenhagen City Hall into a quiet landmark for LGBTQ+ equality.
Nytorv 2
0.1 km
An everyday address on Copenhagen’s historic Nytorv, placing you between grand courthouse columns, cobbled markets of old and the pulse of the Strøget pedestrian zone.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
0.1 km
A compact oddities museum on Rådhuspladsen where shrunken heads, vortex tunnels and record‑breaking curiosities turn everyday Copenhagen into a world of wonders.
Vandkunsten Springvand
0.1 km
Experience Copenhagen’s blend of urban cool and waterside relaxation at Islands Brygge, where harbor views, bathing, and local life come together in a thriving central district.
Hans Christian Andersen Experience
0.1 km
Step off bustling City Hall Square into a multisensory world where Hans Christian Andersen’s life and fairy tales unfold through atmospheric sets, light, sound and scent.
Jens Olsen's World Clock
0.2 km
Descend beneath Søndermarken Park to discover Copenhagen’s historic water cisterns, now transformed into a mesmerizing underground art museum unlike any other in Denmark.
Gammeltorv
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s oldest square, where cobbles, Neoclassical facades and the Renaissance Caritas Well quietly trace eight centuries of urban life in the city’s historic core.
Copenhagen City Hall
0.2 km
Explore Denmark's Viking heritage along the scenic Skjoldungestien trail.
Magstræde
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s cobbled time capsule: a gently curving lane of colorful old houses, harbor history and quiet charm in the heart of the Old Town.
City Hall Square
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s grand urban living room: a historic civic square framed by City Hall, whimsical fountains, and the gateway to the pedestrian heart of the city.
Statue of Andersen
0.2 km
A larger-than-life Hans Christian Andersen sits in bronze on Copenhagen’s City Hall Square, book in hand, gazing toward Tivoli Gardens in the city’s vibrant heart.
Museum of Copenhagen
0.3 km
Explore a thousand years of Copenhagen's history through artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the stories of its people.
Church of Our Lady
0.3 km
Lively, colourful canal harbour in central Copenhagen known for vibrant houses, historic ships, waterside cafés, and rich maritime heritage.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Puk
0.1 km
Historic Danish restaurant in Indre By, Copenhagen, serving classic smørrebrød and comfort dishes in a centuries-old setting with authentic local atmosphere.
Husmanns Vinstue
0.2 km
Classic smørrebrød, candles and aquavit in a historic Copenhagen cellar devoted entirely to the long, unhurried Danish lunch.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.2 km
Warm, candlelit hygge in Copenhagen’s old town, where classic Danish smørrebrød, hearty lunches and aquavit bring traditional flavors to a cosy side-street dining room.
Hard Rock Cafe Copenhagen
0.2 km
Rock legends, legendary burgers, and unforgettable American dining in Copenhagen's vibrant heart.
Københavner Cafeen
0.2 km
Traditional Danish comfort food and smørrebrød served in a cozy, low-lit cellar restaurant on a historic Copenhagen side street steeped in hygge.
Restaurant 1733
0.3 km
Traditional Danish smørrebrød and hearty classics served in a cosy 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade, with canal views and warm, informal hospitality.
Krebsegaarden
0.3 km
An intimate art-filled townhouse in central Copenhagen where creative tasting menus, warm storytelling service and an epic cheese course turn dinner into an evening-long occasion.
ferment, ramen izakaya
0.3 km
Intimate basement izakaya where fermentation, organic ingredients, and Nordic sensibility transform ramen and bao into deeply satisfying art.
Rio Bravo
0.3 km
Western‑themed Copenhagen stalwart serving hearty Danish classics and steaks late into the night in a nostalgic saloon setting off City Hall Square.
Dubrovnik Restaurant
0.3 km
Cosy Croatian tavern in Copenhagen’s inner city, serving generous grills and rustic Adriatic comfort food in a warm, wood‑panelled dining room.
Restaurant Tight
0.3 km
Cozy multi-level townhouse restaurant in Copenhagen’s Old Town serving Nordic cuisine with a sunny southern twist, generous portions and a warm, brick-and-beam atmosphere.
Marv & Ben
0.3 km
Inventive New Nordic tasting menus and Danish culinary artistry await in an atmospheric 18th-century townhouse in Copenhagen’s historic Indre By.
Restaurant Karla
0.4 km
Century-old Danish restaurant serving beloved classics and authentic smørrebrød in the heart of Copenhagen, steps from major museums and city attractions.
Vækst
0.4 km
Greenhouse-style Nordic dining in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where seasonal vegetable-focused menus meet warm, softly lit interiors wrapped in lush foliage.
Kanal-Caféen
0.4 km
Historic canal-side lunch restaurant from 1852, serving classic Danish smørrebrød and platters in cosy wood-panelled rooms beside Frederiksholms Kanal.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Souvenir Shop
0.1 km
Compact, convenient and central, this Frederiksberggade souvenir shop on Strøget is a quick one‑stop for classic Copenhagen gifts and mementos.
Viking Souvenirs
0.1 km
Lively Strøget souvenir shop packed with Viking‑themed gifts, Danish icons and suitcase‑friendly mementos, ideal for quick last‑minute presents in central Copenhagen.
Danish Souvenirs
0.1 km
Central Copenhagen’s one‑stop Strøget shop for Little Mermaid trinkets, Viking keepsakes and easy last‑minute gifts before you say farvel to Denmark.
Wonderful Souvenirs
0.2 km
Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.2 km
Central Copenhagen’s hygge-filled stop for Scandinavian design and classic Danish souvenirs, perfectly placed on Nygade just off Strøget’s busy pedestrian flow.
Danish Art & Christmas Shop
0.2 km
A cosy, year‑round Christmas haven in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, filled with Danish‑designed ornaments, paper art and festive hygge moments.
Carmen Copenhagen
0.2 km
Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
Notre Dame
0.2 km
A cozy Copenhagen interiors institution packed with colorful Nordic homeware, thoughtful design and giftable treasures opposite the Church of Our Lady.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
0.2 km
Step off bustling Vimmelskaftet into a nostalgic world of Danish Christmas sparkle, romantic décor and gift-worthy treasures at Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen.
Duck Haven
0.2 km
A tiny, colourful shop in Copenhagen’s old town where hundreds of themed rubber ducks turn souvenir hunting into a playful, photo‑worthy detour.
Quirky Lane
0.3 km
Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Wasteland
0.3 km
A high-energy vintage hub in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, packed with curated 80s, 90s and Y2K streetwear, denim and accessories in a distinctly urban setting.
Audrey Vintage
0.3 km
Curated vintage fashion in Copenhagen's heart, where timeless style meets sustainable shopping.
København K
0.3 km
Hidden in a Latin Quarter courtyard, København K is a long-standing Copenhagen vintage shop packed with curated second-hand fashion, denim and quirky homeware finds.
Akimbo
0.3 km
A cosy basement gift shop in Copenhagen’s old town, packed with colourful design, quirky treasures and hygge-infused souvenirs on charming Hyskenstræde.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Centralhjørnet
0.0 km
One of Copenhagen’s oldest gay bars, Centralhjørnet is a cosy, festive corner pub where historic LGBTQ+ heritage meets camp décor and easy-going charm.
not your USUAL wine bar
0.1 km
Discover wines from the world's forgotten regions in Copenhagen's most unconventional wine bar.
Taphouse
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s modern beer hall, pouring 61 ever‑changing craft taps in a relaxed, Scandinavian setting just steps from the historic city center.
Musen & Elefanten
0.2 km
Smoky, old-school Copenhagen bar and cigar hideaway where classic drinks, worn wood and late-night conversations create a timeless, slightly secret atmosphere.
Southern Cross Pub
0.2 km
Two-floor Copenhagen sports pub pouring affordable pints, wall-to-wall live games, and late-night energy in the heart of the inner city.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
Zefside
0.2 km
Underground cocktail bar by night, pulsing nightclub by dawn—Copenhagen's shape-shifting social hub.
The Rooftop Bar
0.2 km
Compact rooftop oasis atop Hotel Danmark, pairing 360-degree Copenhagen views with cocktails, bubbles and golden-hour sunsets above the city’s historic heart.
Floss Bar
0.2 km
Copenhagen's legendary dive bar: punk rock heritage, cheap beer, and authentic character until 2 AM.
Godt Øl
0.2 km
Cosy basement craft beer bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pouring 12 rotating taps in a low-key, conversation-friendly setting from mid-afternoon until late night.
Bar7
0.3 km
Colorful multi-room cocktail lounge in Copenhagen’s old town, mixing bold interiors, inventive drinks and a 21+ late-night crowd over lounge beats and weekend energy.
Ruby
0.3 km
An unmarked 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade hides Ruby, a quietly glamorous cocktail institution where inventive drinks meet candlelit canal-side charm.
The Storm Inn Copenhagen
0.3 km
Experience the warmth of The Storm Inn in Copenhagen, a cozy pub offering a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
The Scottish Pub
0.3 km
Lively Scottish‑style pub on Copenhagen’s main square, pouring pints and whisky late into the night with music, sports on TV and an easygoing, social crowd.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dorsia
0.1 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Miami Bar
0.2 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Club Mambo
0.2 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Chateau Motel
0.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mirror
0.2 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Rumors
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Hive
0.2 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
La Terraza
0.3 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Cosy Bar
0.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Module
0.4 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
Never Mind
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Arch
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
0.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Den Anden Side
0.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Aesthetic Corners
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- LGBT Friendly
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly