First Time in Oslo – Do This (LGBTQI+ Friendly Guide)

 

First Time in Oslo – Do This (LGBTQI+ Friendly Guide) in Oslo, the stunning capital of Norway, is a city that embraces diversity, equality, and inclusivity. 

Whether you're visiting for a short weekend or planning a longer stay, the Norwegian capital offers a vibrant mix of culture, food, and nightlife – all with a welcoming, LGBTQI+ friendly atmosphere.

If you're LGBTQI+ and visiting Oslo for the first time, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your trip, from cozy stays to the best nightlife spots that embrace queer culture.

 

Where to Stay: LGBTQI+ Friendly Accommodations in Oslo

Oslo offers a variety of LGBTQI+ friendly accommodations, from chic boutique hotels to laid-back guesthouses, all welcoming to travelers of any gender or sexual identity.

**1. Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget

• Vibe: Young, trendy, and welcoming. This hotel is perfect for LGBTQI+ travelers looking for a modern and affordable place to stay in the heart of Oslo.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: Located in the vibrant Youngstorget area, close to Oslo’s queer hotspots, and with a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.

**2. Scandic Vulkan

• Vibe: Stylish and modern, with eco-conscious initiatives.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: The Scandic chain is known for its diversity and inclusion policies, and the Vulkan location is near some of Oslo’s coolest districts, including Grünerløkka.

**3. Clarion Hotel The Hub

• Vibe: Chic, luxurious, and central. This high-end hotel offers excellent service and comfortable rooms.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: Oslo Pride and other LGBTQI+ events often host gatherings here. Its inclusive environment and central location make it an ideal spot for exploring the city

 

LGBTQI+ Nightlife in Oslo

Oslo's LGBTQI+ nightlife scene is thriving, with a mix of laid-back bars, lively dance floors, and inclusive events that make the city feel like a safe, vibrant space for everyone.

**1. Hells Kitchen

• Vibe: A queer-friendly bar located in the heart of Oslo, with a cozy atmosphere and a focus on inclusivity.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: This bar is a favorite among the local LGBTQI+ crowd for its fun vibe, affordable drinks, and regular themed nights. Expect drag shows, karaoke, and more.

**2. The Dollhouse Bar

• Vibe: Glamorous, drag-filled fun. The Dollhouse is Oslo’s go-to spot for drag performances, cocktails, and late-night fun.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: Known for its inclusive crowd and fabulous drag shows, it’s a must-visit for anyone in the queer community looking for a lively and entertaining night out.

**3. Blå

• Vibe: A combination of art, music, and nightlife. Located by the river, Blå offers an eclectic mix of concerts and events.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: Though not exclusively LGBTQI+, Blå is a hot spot for Oslo's queer nightlife, particularly during LGBTQI+ events and Pride celebrations.

**4. Fellesverkstedet

• Vibe: A cool, creative space in Grünerløkka, perfect for socializing or just chilling with a coffee or cocktail.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: This place often hosts queer art and performance events, making it a welcoming spot for the artistic, inclusive crowd.

Where to Eat: LGBTQI+ Friendly Restaurants & Cafés

Oslo’s dining scene is just as inclusive as its nightlife, offering plenty of spots where queer travelers can feel comfortable while enjoying fantastic food.

**1. Südøst

• Vibe: A modern, Asian fusion restaurant with a trendy, laid-back atmosphere.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: Südøst is a popular LGBTQI+ hangout spot for its welcoming environment and delicious cocktails. The inclusive staff and the central location in the trendy Grünerløkka area make it a top choice.

**2. Smalhans

• Vibe: Known for serving simple, elegant Norwegian food made from local ingredients, this spot blends comfort and creativity.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: Located in the family-friendly St. Hanshaugen district, Smalhans is an inclusive, chill spot that caters to all tastes and dietary preferences.

**3. Café Sorgenfri

• Vibe: A cozy, Scandinavian café with a rustic charm and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: This place offers a welcoming vibe for anyone in the LGBTQI+ community, especially those looking for a quiet, comfortable space during the day.

**4. Lokk

• Vibe: A charming bistro that offers a mix of Norwegian and European flavors.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: Lokk has become a popular hangout for Oslo’s queer locals due to its friendly service and inclusive environment, perfect for a relaxed dinner out.
  
  

Explore LGBTQI+ Culture in Oslo

While you're in Oslo, take some time to learn more about the LGBTQI+ history and culture of the city.

**1. Oslo Pride

• If you're in the city in June, don’t miss Oslo Pride, one of the biggest and most inclusive pride festivals in the Nordic countries. From a colorful parade to a week of cultural events, concerts, and parties, it’s an experience that celebrates Oslo’s LGBTQI+ community.

**2. The Nobel Peace Center

• While not specifically an LGBTQI+ venue, the Nobel Peace Center often features exhibitions on human rights and equality, including LGBTQI+ topics.

**3. Bislett Bad

• Vibe: A great spot for queer people to unwind. Bislett Bad is a mixed sauna and bathhouse where LGBTQI+ people can relax in a safe, inclusive environment.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: This space is known for its inclusive, welcoming attitude and its community feel, perfect for queer travelers looking to relax and recharge.

Shopping & Queer Culture in Oslo

Oslo is home to a number of LGBTQI+ friendly shops and cultural spaces where you can find unique souvenirs, books, and queer art.

**1. Outland Oslo

• Vibe: A fantastic bookstore with a special focus on LGBTQI+ literature and graphic novels.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: Outland Oslo is a beloved stop for queer travelers looking to pick up something special and explore LGBTQI+ art, literature, and culture.

**2. The Oslo City Library

• Vibe: Modern and inclusive, with a large collection of books on LGBTQI+ topics and authors.
• Why it’s great for LGBTQI+ visitors: The library often hosts LGBTQI+ events and has a fantastic section dedicated to queer books, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in queer culture.
  
  

LGBTQI+ Events in Oslo

Aside from Oslo Pride, the city hosts a number of events that celebrate queer culture throughout the year. Look out for queer film festivals, art exhibitions, drag shows, and LGBTQI+ music festivals. Some key annual events include:

• Oslo Queer Film Festival: A showcase of the best in queer cinema.
• Drag World Oslo: A dazzling celebration of drag culture.
• Skate for Queers: A fun, community-oriented event in the city’s skate park.

 

Final Thoughts

Oslo is a city that truly embraces its LGBTQI+ community, offering a blend of inclusive accommodation, bars, restaurants, and cultural experiences for all queer travelers. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the city's lively nightlife, explore its rich LGBTQI+ history, or just relax in a welcoming space, Oslo is the perfect destination for your next queer adventure.

So pack your bags, hit the streets, and make the most of your first visit to this beautiful, inclusive city!