Queer cheers: LGBTQ+ hotspots in Helsinki
Looking for the gayest (and greatest) spots in Helsinki? You’ve come to the right place! This city serves up cozy cafés for heart-to-hearts, bars with flair, and clubs where the dance floors are as wild as your weekend plans. Whether you’re sipping, strutting, or just soaking in the rainbow vibes, Helsinki’s LGBTQ+ hangouts have you covered. Pack your sass and sparkle—this list is as fabulous as you are!
DTM
Originally opened on Annankatu in the early 1990s, Don’t Tell Mama – or DTM – is undoubtedly Finland’s most famous gay club. Its heyday in the early 2000s was on Iso-Roobertinkatu, with another generation dancing through its Mannerheimintie reincarnation. Now located at the restaurant and event hub Teurastamo since 2023, DTM has undergone a complete facelift but remains true to its core identity. Housed in a renovated industrial hall, the venue features two dance floors, multiple bars, and an enticingly labyrinthine layout. The music ranges from ambitious house and techno (Hall 1) to classic divalicious gay disco and current hits (Hall 2).
Mann’s Street
Mann’s Street is a nightspot for those with more “mature taste”, and an absolute must-go for friends of karaoke. Found on the central Mannerheimintie since 1998, this relaxed bar has preserved its status as an old-school original regardless of trends that come and go. Names aside, the bar has always also welcomed women who like women. It is easy to recommend “Manssi” to visitors. For the humble price of a beer, you can dive into multilayered Finn-nostalgia; gay karaoke with a provincial vibe, smack in the middle of Helsinki!
Bar Struts
Located on Fleminginkatu, Struts Bar is a quirky, dramatically decorated queer cocktail bar offering an extensive selection of mocktails, cocktails, wines, and beers. The bar hosts a range of LGBTQ+ themed events, including “Drink & Draw,” queer speed dating, karaoke, and pub quizzes. It also (allegedly) boasts “the world’s smallest cabaret stage,” complete with tassels and glitter to match its charming cabaret programme.
Fairytale
The tiny Fairytale is a classic gay bar with a doorbell and non-transparent windows. Situated in the Kallio district, the bar resonates with the vibe of its unapologetic surroundings and has a take-it-or-leave-it attitude. The little bar’s vibe is even a bit David Lynch-like. In the summertime, visitors can enjoy the sun on the terrace and admire the bustle of Helsinginkatu with a summery cocktail. There is a mere handful of seats at the bar, so this is not the place to go with a large party crowd.
Hercules
A staple since 2000, Hercules is a “traditional gay bar” catering to the LGBTQ+ community. Now located in the Makkaratalo building in the city centre, it’s one of the largest nightclubs in the Helsinki metropolitan area. With multiple dance floors and a covered terrace offering views of the city lights, Hercules serves up a mix of high-energy bangers, from EDM and Eurodance to Eurovision classics and Finnish schlager. It’s the perfect spot for a carefree evening.
Street Pride Bar
Situated in the Kamppi district, Street Pride Bar promotes itself as “the people’s queer bar” and delivers on its promise with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This rainbow-forward bar focuses on socialising and features a diverse programme, including guest DJs, quiz nights, drag shows, live music, bingo, and karaoke. The clientele is notably diverse, with multiculturalism standing out compared to other LGBTQ+ venues. Event details are available on Street Pride Bar’s Instagram account.
Bear Park Café
An interior with a personal touch and tasty cinnamon buns make Bear Park Cafe a gentle and cosy bears-to-the-front café. It is located at the corner of the Kallio park carrying a very suitable name: Karhupuisto (‘Bear Park’). Stuff yourself sweet and take in the wonderful flower arrangements of the park, and admire the statue of a bear.
Room BLVD
The gay establishment on Bulevardi is one stroke posher than its competitors. Located on Bulevardi, the central street bursting with old-time charm, Room BLVD is a tad bit posher than its competitors. The bar relies on a wide champagne and wine selection, and a minimalist Nordic style. The wine list ranges from casual bottles to the Penfolds Grange red wine with a price tag of 554 euros. BLVD Room is most suitable for afterwork drinks, a date, or other relaxed encounter. There is unfortunately no dance floor. In the summertime, the terrace takes over the courtyard, allowing all kinds of stars to twinkle.
