A Tase of Lesbian Europe - Your Pocket Guide to Queer Spaces

I am touring around Europe following the pink road. It took me to some exciting lesbian/queer spaces. Some were mind-blowing, some were less impressive, but almost every one gave me a piece of the lesbian puzzle. My list contains many pop-up events with varying locations. To find the most up-to-date information, please follow the organiser on social media. Bookshops are very important community spaces, and I have marked them in red so they can be easily seen. If you don't see your favourite place, let us know! If you want to read more about Berlin's hotspots, I recommend reading my guest writer Victoria's Ultimate Lesbian Guide.

AUSTRIA
Vienna
Café Roza, Burggasse 44 (queer-feminist culture-café/bar)
Chicklit, Kleeblattgasse 7 (feminist bookstore)
Marea Alta, Gumpendorferstrasse 28 (queer bar/club)
Cafe Savoy, Linke Wienzeile 36 (Viennas oldest gay café/bar opened 1897.)
Löwenherz, Berggasse 8 (lesbian, gay and queer bookshop)

BELGIUM
Brussels
THE CRAZY CIRCLE
Rue du Prince Royale 11
A queer-friendly bar in Brussels, especially welcoming lesbian, bi, trans folks (and those questioning!) and their friends.

DENMARK
Aalborg
BUENS BOGCAFÉ - DENMARK’S NORTHERNMOST LGBT+ BOOKSTORE
Maren Turis Gade 12
Opened in Aalborg in April 2021, it was the first dedicated LGBT+ bookstore in Denmark. The bookshop offers a wide range of genres in Danish and English. Many of the books center on LGBT+ themes like queer love, transition, history, or identity, while others are included for featuring clear LGBT+ representation. Besides books and coffee, they hosts coffee clubs, talks, creative nights, and events across Jutland.

Copenhagen
Cafe Intime, Allegade 25 (One of Copenhagens oldest queer/gay bar.)
Club Vela, 2-4, Viktoriagade (The only lesbian queer bar in the city.)
Girl X Girl, (queer club events)
Lesbisk Fredag, (queer club events)
Lebbe Lounge, (queer club events)
Ladies Lounge Club, (lesbian queer events)
Sabaah, (The organization works to improve minority ethnic LGBTQIA+ people's living conditions. They arrange queer club events.)

THE POND
Poppelgade 6
A queer independent bookstore and café run by three non-binary individuals. They host events like game nights and book launches, plus two book clubs: The Small Queer Press Book Club, uplifting diverse LGBTQIA+ stories from smaller presses, and The Gender Theory and Also Sometimes Gender Fiction Book Club, focusing on gender-related books — primarily theory and academic works, from Julia Serano and Bell Hooks to Talia Bhatt and Ursula K. Le Guin — along with some fiction.

FRANCE
Paris
CABARET DES MERVEILLES
25 Rue de l'Hirondelle
The first thing someone asked me when we started talking was, "What pronouns do you use?" When I asked them the same question, they replied, "I'm not sure." I immediately loved this place. It's as queer as it gets! Drag king performances, speed dating, and dancing in the cave—you can be yourself here, whether that's naked or clothed. Many people express themselves artistically through their attire. The atmosphere is curious, warm, and super friendly. It's known for its queer feminist cultural exchanges. One thing that stood out was the way the music was organized: in the cave where you can dance, it was very loud; upstairs, in the bar area, the music was kept low, meaning you could actually have a conversation with people.

LA MUTINERIE 
176-178 Rue Saint-Martin
A self-organized bar, focused on queer, feminist, trans, and lesbian communities, is currently fighting for its survival. Last summer, they put out a call for help and were thankfully saved by their patrons. The struggle continues, if you're in Paris, be sure to visit and support them. This place has a Berlin vibe in terms of its attitude and decor. It attracts a diverse crowd, and it's more than just a bar for drinks; it also hosts evenings with karaoke, speed dating, and even tattoo or piercing sessions on certain nights.

BAR LES AIMANT.E.S
182 Rue Saint-Martin
This is an LGBTQIA+-inclusive bar. The lesbian bar Bar'ouf had been there for 10 years before it closed and got a new owner last summer. The place was rebranded as "Les Aimant.e.s." I often heard Lucie, the owner, ask clients, "What's your name?" Then, in a very discreet way, she would introduce people to each other. It's the kind of bar you can go to after a day at work, enjoy a glass of wine, and a chat with your friends before heading home. I had one of my best evenings there, meeting new people, discussing women's lives in Iran, and contemplating whether Europe is the last free resort in the world.

ELLES BAR
6 Rue de la Tacherie
They describe themselves as a festive and welcoming lesbian bar that is also LGBTQIA+ inclusive.

LA CHAMPMESLÉ
4 Rue Chabanais
Probably one of the oldest lesbian bars in Paris, it has been open since 1979.

MERCI-MARSHA
8 Rue Richard Lenoir
This LGBTQI+ bar hosts a variety of events, such as stand-up comedy from LGBTQ+ and allied comedians, drag king and queen performances, themed nights like "Dungeons and Heels," a sex-positive Q&A over drinks, themed bingo, and open mic opportunities. The bar is named after gay rights activist Marsha P. Johnson.

BONJOUR MADAME
40 Rue de Montreuil
This is a militant feminist queer cultural bar.

MONTVENUS
16 Boulevard Paul Vaillant Couturier
This queer and feminist bar offers events such as exhibitions, a Queer Poetry Evening, and a monthly "DYKE'S CLUB" (held every first Tuesday), which is a space for encounters and exchanges. During these meetings, one or more inspiring guests take the floor to address various topics to reflect upon together, aiming to feel a little stronger and empowered to act.

VIOLETTES & CO
102 rue de Charonne 
Opened in 2004, Violettes & Co is a feminist, lesbian, and LGBTQIA+ bookstore. They offer a wide selection of feminist and lesbian works, primarily in French, but also feature a small section of English literature. They host events several times a week on a range of topics relevant to the lesbian, queer, and feminist community. There's also a café, providing a space for working, reading, or chatting with friends. I got the impression that it's a good place to hang out and expand your ideas. The walls display exhibitions by different artists, and the staff spoke English and were very inclusive. 

LES MOTS À LA BOUCHE
37 Rue Saint-Ambroise
According to Wikipedia, Les Mots à la Bouche is France's oldest LGBTQI+ focused bookstore, having opened in Paris in 1980. It’s considered the best place to find works related to homosexual and lesbian issues. However my impression was that it was mainly a gay bookstore with lesbian/queer islands. They also have an English language section and a webshop. The basement houses a collection of art books and fashion magazines. I've always wanted a copy of Andy Warhol's creation “Interview”, and I was surprised to discover it wasn't online-only. I was delighted to find the winter issue 558 in the basement. I really enjoyed the mix. Even though it was written in French I appreciated the staffs personal notes on some of the books. It gave the place an extra human touch.

GERMANY
Berlin
(If you want to read more about Berlins hotspots check out my guest writer Victoria's Ultimate Lesbian Guide.)
B-Lage Pub, A leftist, rather political pub, with queer feminist monthly events, Mareschstraße 1
Begine - Women’s cultural centre, Potsdamer Str. 139
Cafe Luzia, A queer cocktail bar & cafe, Oranienstrasse 34
Curly Bar, They present themselves as: “everything but straight” and offer evenings with queer dating, comedy and karaoke nights, Adolfstrasse 17
KWIA, They describe themselves as “Ambient focused listening bar
Connect with sound, light and art in a queer space for modern rituals”, Maybachufer 16
Les Biens, Flinta, Safe Space Events, check their Insta for updates.
Lonely Hearts Cafe, Mahlower Str. 32 The best British queer brunch in town. The interior is all about Twin Peaks and Dolly Parton. Even going to the bathroom is entertaining. Go there and find out why!
Möbel Olfe, Flinta nights every Tuesday! Reichenberger Str. 177
Oya bar, Mariannenstraße 6 (queer Feminist cocktail bar)
OXI Club, They showcase regular and almost weekly FLINTA Parties, which of many are lesbian friendly. They also have a dark room which is open on sex positive/centered parties. Wiesenweg 1-4
She Said Books, Kottbusser Damm 79
Schwules Museum - Gay museum, Lützowstraße 7
Schwuz, Check out for the ‘Dykes* Gone Wild’ event. A monthly lesbian bar night, which starts with their Pepsi Boston Bar and offers free entry until 10 PM.
Silver Future, Weserstr. 206 (“For Kings and Queens and Criminal Queers”)
Spinnboden - Europe’s largest and oldest lesbian archive, Anklamer Str. 38
Stueck, Schlesische Str. 16 (cocktail bar)
Stueck Pop-Up, Pannierstraße 57 (cocktail bar)
Südblock, Admiralstraße 1-2 (bar)
Queer Girls*, They make events for the FLINTA community.

Frankfurt
La Gata, Seehofstraße 3 (Lesbian queer bar)
Zum Schwejk, Schäfergasse 20 (gay bar)
LSKH Queeres Kulturhaus, Klingerstraße 6 (queer culture house)

Munich
Glitch, Barer Straße 70 (feminist & queer bookshop)
The Lez, Müllerstraße. 26 (lesbian-queer center)

GREECE
Skala Eressos, Lesbos
You won't find street names in this small village. The best way to find places is to ask a local when you arrive, or simply explore – you'll likely find them by chance! I believe it's fair to say that never has a small village been so packed with so many restaurants and bars owned and run by lesbians and queers. If you want to learn more about the place, check out my article “Berlin’s secret twin,” in which I compare the two centers for lesbian communities, Berlin and Skala Eressos.

AVATAR
This bar is located at the far end of the small village, close to the harbour. It's one of my favourites, perhaps because they feed the stray cats and serve excellent breakfasts and lunches. During the Skala Eressos festival, the small village can sometimes feel crowded. Then, it's nice to get away from it all, and this place just gives you that extra space.

FLAMINGO
This bar is owned by an English couple and is a centre for the lesbian and queer community. You hear a lot of different languages, and you'll often find the two ladies in the kitchen fixing lunch or taking orders at the tables. My favourite evening here was last year during the festival when I saw a woman in the crowd sitting with her parrot, which wasn't on a leash. It was just hanging out with friends. You never know who you will meet. Everyone is included.

HARA BEACH BAR
It's one of the popular beach bars/restaurants right on the waterfront in Skala Eressos. It’s frequented by the diverse crowd visiting the village, including the large lesbian and queer community.

OHANA SALOON
A well-known lesbian/queer bar right in the heart of Skala Eressos. The name "Ohana" meaning family, often chosen family signals its role as a central meeting spot next to the Aegean Sea. They have excellent omeletts.

PASSIONI
This Italian restaurant is run by a lesbian lady who makes excellent food. It has a beautiful garden and often hosts performances featuring poetry or music. Here I have heard readings of Sappho and Greek folk music. They have excellent wine and provide a cosy atmosphere.

ITALY
Roma
ANTIGONE
Via dei Piceni 1
A queer bookstore specializing in gender studies, feminism, art, and queer theory.

CASA INTERNAZIONALE DELLE DONNE
Via della Lungara, 19
The International Women's House in Rome is located in the "Buon Pastore" complex, a former women's prison designated for women's social purposes in 1983. Established officially in 1992 after a feminist occupation in 1987, it's an autonomous center promoting women's policy, offering services, and fostering culture. Relying on support and resources, it houses facilities like a restaurant, guesthouse, and conference center, run by dedicated staff. It serves as a vital local, national, and international hub for women's rights, knowledge sharing, and support.

TUBA
Via del Pigneto 39/a
Tuba is a feminist and lesbian-run bookstore, cafe, and bar in Rome's Pigneto district. Open since 2007, it's a space dedicated to women's creativity, fighting discrimination, and fostering a free, joyful, and conscious community through books, art, and events. Tuba collaborates with local groups to create a safe and inclusive space for all women.

COMING OUT
Via S. Giovanni i Laterano, 8
The bar is a cornerstone of Rome's Gay Street LGBTQ+ scene since 2001, offers a diverse menu and lively events (drag, DJs, music). Founder Annalisa and her team create a welcoming space where community and diversity thrive under the Colosseum.

MY BAR
Via S. Giovanni i Laterano, 12
My Bar, a LGBTQ+ friendly cocktail cafe in Rome, features a street terrace with Colosseum views. It becomes busy after 7 pm and is situated next to the Coming Out bar.

MUCCASSASSINA
Viale Marcello Boldrini 7
This is a legendary Rome club night since the early '90s, started as a fundraiser for the Mario Mieli LGBTQ+ rights association. Now an Italian institution, it's known worldwide for its music, technology, and it’s queer nights.

GAY CENTER
Via Nicola Zabaglia 14
The Gay Center is a space for the city's LGBT+ community. It's a place where people can access support and services, and where numerous community groups find a home to meet and organize. Beyond being a busy meeting spot, the Center actively works against discrimination. They are also running a service desk offering help, support and advice to LGBT+ individuals.

Milano
ANTIGONE
Via Antonio Kramer 20
A queer bookstore specializing in gender studies, feminism, art, and queer theory.

POP MILANO
Via Alessandro Tadino, 5
Transfeminist cocktail bar. They also host various events, such as networking opportunities, to help people connect.

Turin
NORA BOOK & COFFEE
Via delle Orfane 24d
A café and bookstore specializing in gender themes, feminisms, and LGBTQIAP+ culture.

NETHERLANDS
Amsterdam
BAR BUKA
Albert Cuypstraat 124
Is a queer bar known for being a popular spot for women, but genuinely welcoming to everyone. It’s located in Amsterdam's De Pijp area (known for its great cafes and bars). They host lots of events each month, like pub quizzes, open mics, speed dating, and DJ nights. Check their Instagram or Facebook to see what's coming up. Wheelchair accessible.

CAFÉ SAAREIN
Elandsstraat 119
It was started by a women's collective 1978, including pioneers from Dolle Mina’s, Paarse September, Lesbian Nation, as a much-needed women-only café. It became a feminist stronghold and legendary queer space. Today it is one of Amsterdam's oldest and most famous feminist/queer bars. A piece of Dutch women's and queer cultural heritage. Check out their Instagram for the upcoming events.

PORTUGAL
Lisbon
CLUBE SAFO
It’s an active Portuguese association focused on advocating for lesbian rights, promoting visibility, and hosting cultural and community events in Porto and Lisbon. They are running events like "The King Thing" drag king shows in Porto and Lisbon, bringing in international and local performers. They also collaborate with other queer organizations and initiatives, like Haus of Kiteria and Queer Porto Tour. For more information check out their website.

Porto
QUEER PORTO TOUR
Discover Porto’s LGBTQIA+ Heritage. A queer tourist guide in Porto, tired of repetitive mainstream narratives, created this tour to give voice to the forgotten and silenced stories of women and dissident bodies. For more information about the citywalks check out their website.

SPAIN
Barcelona
CARITA BONITA
Carrer de Balmes, 69
If you're looking for the classic lesbian bar in Barcelona, Carita Bonita is it. Expect a welcoming atmosphere and a guaranteed good time with other women.

CANDY DARLING
Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 586
Just a stone's throw from Carita Bonita, Candy Darling is a queer bar. Check out their Monday night lesbian party for a dedicated women-loving-women vibe.

NENIS LESBIAN PARTIES
Carrer de Casanova, 171
They throw huge, lesbian parties around Barcelona on a roughly monthly basis. If one's happening during your visit, it's a must-attend. Check their social media for dates and locations.

AIRE CHICAS
Carrer de la Diputació, 233
OBS! Temporarily Closed. Keep an eye out for the
re-opening of Aire Chicas, a dedicated "girls' room" that used to be located within a larger gay club. It was an exciting and intimate space for women to mingle.

THE MINA COLLECTIVE
Looking to connect meaningfully with other queer FLINTA folks in Barcelona, have some fun, and let loose? This open-minded community hosts events just for that! They recently held a FLINTA speed dating event. Check out their Instagram for details on future events, dates, and locations.

MADRID
FULANITA DE TAL
Calle Regueros, 9
Opened around 2002, this bar is an iconic spot for lesbian, bi, and queer women in Madrid's lively Chueca district. It opened as the neighborhood was solidifying its status as a major LGBTQ+ hub in Europe. Check their social media for current hours.

Sitges
Just 40 minutes by train from Barcelona, Sitges is a beautiful coastal town. What Skala Eressos is to lesbians, Sitges is to gay men: a beloved destination famed for its festivals and accepting vibe. I stopped counting the gay bars, clubs, and restaurants – the place is packed! You'll see gay men openly holding hands, adding to the joyful atmosphere. While Sitges is predominantly a gay male hub, all are welcome. It's likely not your lesbian paradise, but it might inspire you to create one of your own!

SWEDEN
Malmö
Queer Girls Malmo, (lesbian queers meeting up for brunches)
Hotellhanget, (Lesbian queer afterwork)

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Claesgatan 8
Sweden's Only LGBTQ Bookstore is a non-profit association. Besides being a bookstore they’re also a queer cultural venue and meeting place, promoting LGBTQ+ culture through events like author talks, readings, and exhibitions. On their website they write that their mission… “is to be an enduring sanctuary for the LGTBQ+ people of Malmö and the world. Our doors are open to all the freaks and misfits, the perverts and closet cases, the dykes and faggots and queers of all kinds. To all who come here we offer the warmth of community, a resilient fight for justice, solidarity across borders and an immersion in the beauty that is queer culture. We are guided by creativity, openness, respect, mutual support of one another, pride and love. We promise to always support you to be your authentic self and to nourish your unapologetic queer identity. We vow to always push the limits of artistic expression and strive to make more LGBTQ+ people thrive in all aspects of life. Radical political thought, critical discussion and fearless creativity are our cornerstones in the fight for sexual liberation and gender euphoria. We want all queer people to not just survive, but thrive - in our space and everywhere.”

Stockholm
Hera, (lesbian queer club)
Hotellhanget, (lesbian queer bar/club)
Llips, (lesbian queer club)
Moxy, (Lesbian club)