Cologne

Cologne (Köln), Germany's fourth-largest city on the Rhine, is widely considered the most LGBTQ+-friendly city in Germany after Berlin. The Bermuda Triangle — the area around Schaafenstrasse, Merowingerstrasse, and Mathiasstrasse in the Altstadt — is a compact and lively gay neighbourhood famous for its approachable, unpretentious atmosphere. Cologne Pride (Christopher Street Day) is one of the largest in Germany.

The Bermuda Triangle

The Bermuda Triangle is Cologne's historic gay district — a cluster of bars, clubs, saunas, and community spaces in the southern Altstadt. The scene is famously diverse and inclusive, catering to a range of ages and subcultures. The area has a distinctive approachable feel compared to Berlin's more intense scene, and venues cater to leather, bear, and mainstream gay crowds alike.

Cologne Pride (CSD)

Cologne's Christopher Street Day (July) is one of the largest Pride events in Europe, routinely drawing over one million participants for the parade through the city centre. The event extends across multiple days with club nights, open-air parties, and community events.

Culture & Atmosphere

Cologne has a warm Rhineland culture that extends to its LGBTQ+ community. The city is less intense than Berlin but deeply rooted in queer history. The Cologne Cathedral, Rhine riverfront, and excellent art museums (Museum Ludwig, Wallraf-Richartz) make it a great destination beyond the gay scene.

Getting There & Getting Around

Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) has good European connections. Cologne is also a major rail hub — direct high-speed trains from Brussels, Paris, and Amsterdam. The Bermuda Triangle is a short tram or taxi ride from Köln Hauptbahnhof.

Safety

Germany has comprehensive LGBTQ+ legal protections including marriage equality, anti-discrimination laws, and hate crime legislation. Cologne is extremely safe and welcoming. The Bermuda Triangle has an active, engaged community.

Safety information