Lesbian Safe Spaces: Popular Lesbian Bars in Europe for 2024

All over the world, cities have LGBTQ+ bars that serve as a safe space for queer people to party, socialise, and have a bit of fun. With queer becoming the umbrella term, many lesbian bars are moving towards becoming inclusive for all LGBTQ+ people. You’re bound to find plenty of inclusive bars all around Europe, but if you’re ever visiting these fantastic cities, here are the best lesbian bars across Europe.

Bar Buka, Amsterdam

Nestled in the vibrant De Pijp neighbourhood, Bar Buka is loved by the lesbian community for it’s inclusive and vibrant atmosphere. Although it’s marketed as a lesbian bar, they welcome all members of the LGBTQ+ community. With plenty of events and themed nights, you’ll have a diverse range of entertainment.

📍Albert Cuypstraat 124, 1072 EA Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Crazy Circle, Brussels

You’ll find this Belgian lesbian bar in the Ixelles neighbourhood. It’s got a small and cozy atmosphere, but is still a brilliant spot for socialising and having a great night out. Founders Laïla and Axelle have transformed this bar into a beautifully welcoming space for lesbians. The bar was taken over by new owners who renovated the place, the grand reopening being on April 12th. The new owners took the opportunity to remind people it is not only a safe place for lesbians, but also for bisexuals and pansexuals. In general, they cater towards people within the FLINTA* community.

📍Rue du Prince Royal 11, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium

*Female, Lesbian, Intersex, Trans and Agender.

La Mutinerie, Paris

In the Le Marais neighbourhood, you’ll find La Mutinerie – a lesbian bar with a passion for feminism. Le Marais has been the queer scence in the capital of France since the 1980s and La Mutinerie fit in perfectly. They’ve really created a safe space for people to come socialise, have fun, and get involved in events. The bar has become a staple for the Paris LGBTQ+ community.

📍176-178 Rue Saint-Martin, 75003 Paris, France

Carita Bonita, Barcelona

In the centre of Barcelona, Clarita Bonita is a bustling spot in the city and is huge with the lesbian community there. Although it is hidden in plain sight, the interior is larger than expected, with many spots to fill. Whether you’re just starting your night or finishing it, you’re sure to have a great time. Clarita Bonita are all about the details, making sure everyone feels safe so you can have the best night.

📍C/ de Balmes, 69, L’Eixample, 08007 Barcelona, Spain

Begine, Berlin

Established back in 1986, Begine is a cultural centre and cozy meeting spot for lesbians. They host plenty of events you can get involved in, including live music, cabaret shows and art exhibitions. It’s quickly gained huge popularity in Berlin and within the lesbian community.

📍Potsdamer Str. 139, 10783 Berlin, Germany

La Gata, Frankfurt

Just off the Main river, you’ll find La Gata. They claim to be the oldest surviving lesbian bar in the world, with decades of history behind them. The bar has acted as a safe space for lesbians since 1971, boasting upbeat music and hosting weekly events. If you’re in the Frankfurt area, it’s well worth checking this place out–not only for the rich history, but also for the incredible vibes.

📍Seehofstraße 3, 60594 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Vela, Copenhagen

In the trendy Vesterbro area, Vela is Copenhagen’s only exclusively lesbian bar/nightclub. It’s a huge spot for the lesbian community to gather, with a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Whether you want to play games, jam out to some live music, or party for hours, you’ll feel right at home in this bar.

📍2-4, Viktoriagade, 1655 København, Denmark

Flamingo Beach Bar, Lesbos

Lesbos is an island in Greece, associated with the sapphic poet Sappho. The island, therefore, has ties to potentially being the origin of lesbian culture in the 7th century. During the day, Flamingo Beach Bar is a chilled out cafe. In the evening, it turns into a lesbian haven where the history of Lesbos is celebrated.

📍Skala Eresou 811 05, Greece

She Soho, London

Just around the corner from Leicester Square, you’ll find She Soho. During the day, it’s a great community hotspot and at night it turns into a bustling club. Although it’s an LGBTQ+ venue, it’s designed specifically for lesbians. Soho is full of great nightlife, so it’s well worth making She Soho one of your stops on your lesbian bars crawl.

📍23a Old Compton St, London W1D 5JL

Charles Street Tap, Brighton

Brighton is dubbed the gay capital of the UK. It’s full of great LGBTQ+ nightlife, so you’re sure to be stumbling and out of so many venues. Charles Street Tap is right next to Revenge, one of Brighton’s best gay clubs. It is a LGBTQ+ venue, but it’s often full of people from the lesbian community.

📍8 Marine Parade, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1TA

Looking for some more lesbian content? Check out yesterday’s article on lesbian poets.