Copenhagen/Øresund

Visit the Copenhagen/Øresund Region

Where Denmark Meets Sweden

Did you know the Øresund Region isn't just home to Vikings and great design? It's also among the most gay-friendly areas in the world! Enjoy the best of two worlds in Denmark's Copenhagen and Sweden's Malmö. The cities are renowned for their unpretentious, hip atmospheres and play host to numerous LGBT events throughout the year. Plus, both have long-standing traditions of respect and embracing all lifestyles--and an abundance of gay-friendly bars, restaurants, and hotels.

Denmark and Sweden were on the forefront of the gay rights movement, with Denmark founding its National Association for Gays and Lesbians in 1948 and Sweden in 1952. The Øresund Bridge is the key to experiencing the two cities in one easy go. This stunning architectural monument and vital gateway puts Sweden within 35 minutes of Denmark.

Discover for yourself "where Denmark meets Sweden" and dive into a mix of modern culture and fascinating history. Look for deals at TAG Approved® hotels in both cities.

World Outgames & World Views

Copenhagen is gearing up for World Outgames (July 25-August 2), combining a multi-sport event with a cultural program including a Human Rights conference. Denmark is considered one the world's most tolerant nations. It was the first country to offer same-sex marriage back in 1989--yes, that's 20 years ago--and just 10 years later it was possible for gay couples to adopt the children of their partners. The World Outgames is bound to be a feast, so dig in and get a taste of the fun celebrating your freedom with the world. And don't forget about the Copenhagen Pride Parade either!

Dazzling & Danish

Copenhagen, Denmark's capital, is the very pinnacle of cool and is renowned for its vibrant pulse and tolerant lifestyle. The first gay bar, Centralhjørnet, opened more than 80 years ago, and the city boasts its very own gay radio station, Radio Rosa. The gay scene flourishes in Copenhagen and nearly every gay venue is within a square mile of Old Town, the city's answer to SoHo. Check out Oscar Bar Café, which is charming during the day and a scintillating hotspot at night, or venture to Vela Gay Club for some cocktails and pussytails.

Smooth & Swedish

Whisk away to Malmö by train across the Øresund Bridge--a mere hop, skip, and a jump away--and explore a city that combines hipness and culture. The third largest city in Sweden, Malmö celebrates Pride in September with gays and lesbians strutting their stuff along with sassy queens and leather fans. With narrow streets, lively squares, and a cozy atmosphere, it's a city not to be missed. At Lilla Torg (Little Square) you can indulge in a wide range of outdoor cafes and trendy bars. Just make sure to check out Wonk, where they are Bringing Sexy Back!

Fly Scandinavian Airlines to the World OutGames

The official carrier of the World Outgames, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) offers more non-stop flights from the U.S. to Scandinavia than any other airline. SAS flies direct to Copenhagen from New York (Newark), Chicago, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. In partnership with United Airlines, SAS provides easy connections to Copenhagen from over 60 cities in the U.S. and Canada.

Featured Hotels

Radisson SAS Royal Hotel Nightly Rates from $ From the exterior façade to the Swan and Egg chairs gracing the lobby, the entire Radisson SAS Royal Hotel has been designed by legendary Danish architect, Arne Jacobsen. Situated in the center of Copenhagen, this five-star hotel is one of the most exclusive designer hotels in the city and a landmark of the Jet Age.

Radisson SAS Malmo Nightly Rates from $ Nestled in the heart of Malmö's shopping district, this hotel offers a Scandinavian feel in its spacious rooms and suites. Take a break in the hotel's sauna, followed by a relaxing massage, then visit the Caroli shopping center via a direct entrance from the hotel. Easy access to the railway station makes the Radisson SAS Malmo an ideal hotel for those looking to visit both Malmö and Copenhagen.

Gay-Friendly Copenhagen & Malmö

• Copenhagen is the host country for the 2009 World Outgames, which celebrates the talents and contributions of homosexual, bisexual, and transgender men and women from every corner of the world. July 2 5 through August 2, 2009 www.copenhagen2009.org.
• Copenhagen Pride Parade takes place during the Outgames, www.copenhagenpride.dk.
• Malmö Pride Festival takes place the last week in September.
• Malmö is considered by many to be Sweden's most gay-friendly city.
• The first gay bar in Copenhagen, Centralhjørnet, opened over 80 years ago and is still going strong.
• In 1989, Denmark was the first country in the world to recognize marriage between two persons of the same sex.
• Check out the Web TV Guide on Copenhagen/Øresund

Check out the Copenhagen/Øresund "Come Closer" guide.