However, it's always wise to exercise standard nightlife safety tips. Flying from the roof of the hotel upon my arrival was both the pride progress flag and the trans flag.
Indoors, there couldn’t have been any more flags dotted around, as well as rainbow bunting decorating reception.
Best of all, on the day of the parade, the hotel even switched their typical music for what appeared to be a special pride playlist, containing anthems such as Cher’s “Believe,” multiple ABBA hits, Diana Ross’s “I’m Coming Out,” and Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way.” I could have partied in the reception!
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Gay Bars in Oslo
Oslo doesn’t have a particularly large gay scene compared to other major European cities, but the bars and clubs on offer are definitely worth checking out!
In a way, the smaller scene makes for a more tight-knit community, meaning the venues that do exist are lively and full of energy.
Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!
If you’re looking for a space with a mix of vibes, Elsker is a great choice.
SLM Oslo
For those into the leather and fet1sh scene, Oslo has something for you too—SLM Oslo (Scandinavian Leather Men Oslo).
This gay cruise club operates as a member’s club, but non-members can visit for a night or a weekend, which is great for travelers.
This makes it a great choice for dancing the night away. Well, the absolute plethora of rainbows that greeted me as I stepped out of Oslo Central Station was certainly an encouraging sight!
In every direction I looked, I saw pride flags waving – it seemed that every single building was proudly proclaiming their support for their city’s pride weekend.
The highlight is undoubtedly Oslo Pride, usually held in June. Areas like Grønland and Youngstorget are good starting points for exploring the scene.
Oslo offers a welcoming and dynamic LGBTQ+ scene for every visitor. You can expect everything from cozy pubs to lively dance clubs. Open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 PM, this space is where the real party happens.
Top Oslo Gay Bars and Queer Venues
Oslo offers a selection of fantastic gay bars and LGBTQ+ friendly spots. 22, 0154 Oslo, Norway
The Salmon
The Salmon is a unique restaurant-meets-education center. Perched on elevated ground, it offers a stunning panoramic view of Oslo.
The park spans 25 acres of wooded landscape, with walking trails and over 40 sculptures scattered throughout.
They charge for bed linen, are dirtier, have no lockers and receive generally unfavorable reviews.
Gay-Friendly / Gay Bars and Clubs in Oslo
Oslo is well-known as one of the most gay-friendly cities in Europe and has a small but vibrant gay nightlife scene. Rest assured, you will have no issues exploring this beautiful and diverse city, and even the essential list of things to do to keep visitors entertained for at least a couple of days.
Tronsmo Books & Comics
A sizeable independent bookshop that specializes in lots of quirky genres, including feminism, and radical literature and even has its own LGBT section and a basement jam-packed with comic books.
Oslo Evening Buffet Cruise
One of the most popular things to do in Oslo is during the summer.
While it’s usually located in the city center, the 2024 edition was held in Sofienbergparken, creating a fantastic festival atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for an electric club night, a chill drink on a terrace, or an all-out Pride celebration, Oslo’s LGBTQ+ scene has something special to offer!
Things to Do in Oslo for Gay Travellers
Go Island-Hopping
One of the best perks of the Oslo Pass was free travel on the public ferry, which connects six different islands within the inner Oslo Fjord.
The ferry departs regularly from Aker Brygge, and I had the freedom to hop on and off at Hovedøya, Lindøya, Nakholmen, Bleikøya, Gressholmen, and Langøyene.
Each island offers something unique, from hiking trails to cultural heritage sites, like the monastery on Hovedøya.
Hint, there is a Thai restaurant across the road.
Aku-Aku Tiki Bar
I don’t care who you are; everyone loves a Tiki bar – and sitting inside sipping fruity drinks in the bitter Oslo winter makes it all the more fun. A young crowd of mixed gays/lesbians who dance the weekend away to Euro-pop trash.
Bob’s Pub
Who said gay bars have to be all unicorns and glitter twinks?
You’ve got yourself the perfect island-hopping combination!
Viking Ship Museum
The three best-preserved Viking Ships in the world, are all in one place, and they are truly incredible. It provides a safe and discreet space for its community. Plan your visit to discover the warmth and excitement of Oslo's queer nightlife in 2025.
Enjoy an unforgettable experience in this forward-thinking Norwegian capital. Initially conceived as a form of transportation on snow-covered landscapes, cross-country skiing evolved into one of the most popular sports in Nordic countries, especially in Norway, where the sport’s tradition goes way back. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city.
Oslo Pass
The Oslo Pass was an absolute must-have for my time in Oslo!
It saved both time and money while I explored the city.