Name: Special Food Menu
Start: 2024-04-20
End: 2024-04-20
Location: My Lord

<h2>K&ouml;ln or Cologne</h2>
Cologne, Germany&rsquo;s fourth largest city with one million inhabitants, has both the river Rhine and a truly majestic Cathedral as its core attractions.
This proud, confident and fun-loving city has a thriving cultural scene, and is a major hub for media, business and tourism, attracting regular hordes of tourists to the many festivals and events this most liberal of German cities hosts every year.
All this makes Cologne a great gay city destination, with much to experience and discover - the city&rsquo;s extensive gay scene and beyond.
<h2>Gay Scene</h2>
Cologne in the West of the country is second only to Berlin in the East in the rankings of German gay city hotspots and takes the title of Germany&rsquo;s gay dance party capital.
The city has a large and well-established gay scene with many <a title="Cologne gay bars" href="https://www.travelgay.com/cologne-gay-bars">bars</a>, <a title="Cologne gay dance clubs" href="https://www.travelgay.com/cologne-gay-dance-clubs-and-parties">clubs</a> and <a title="Cologne gay saunas" href="https://www.travelgay.com/cologne-gay-saunas">saunas</a>, concentrated in the city centre. It is also justly famous for its annual <a href="https://www.travelgay.com/event/cologne-gay-pride">gay pride</a>, and Christopher Street Day (CSD) parade, which is one the biggest and most high-profile in all of Europe.
<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-58275" src="https://static.travelgay.com/media/67817/Cologne-Germany.jpg" alt="cologne-germany" width="100%">
<h2>Getting to Cologne</h2>
By air
Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is just 15 minutes by train (S Bahn lines S13 and S19 costing &euro;2.80) from the city centre, and is a hub for the budget airlines.
If you are travelling from outside Europe you can fly directly to either Dusseldorf or Frankfurt airports which both have easy access to the city.
D&uuml;sseldorf International Airport (DUS) has a train connection to Cologne Central Station (HBF) with a journey time of 40 minutes and train tickets starting from &euro;5 (depending on time and date).
Frankfurt Rhein-Main International Airport is Germany&rsquo;s busiest, with a high-speed ICE (InterCity Express) train connection to Cologne in one hour, with the cheapest fares available online and in advance. If you are not in a rush, a good alternative is the Rhine Valley train via Koblenz which takes 2 hours to reach Cologne with beautiful scenery en route and is 30% cheaper than the ICE train.
By train
Cologne is well served by Europe&rsquo;s high-speed rail network, with direct connections from Amsterdam, Brussels and Paris by Thalys and ICE trains, as well as the ICE train connection to Frankfurt Airport.
There are two main city train stations - K&ouml;ln Hauptbahnhof (HBF - the Central Station) and K&ouml;ln-Deutz.
High-speed trains are a great way to travel around Europe, though can be expensive, so always book online as far in advance of your travel dates as you can to obtain the best value fares.
<h5><img class="alignnone wp-image-64887 size-full" src="https://static.travelgay.com/media/67818/Cologne-skyline-e1518103581775.jpg" alt="" width="100%"> Cologne Christmas Market</h5>
<h2>Getting around Cologne</h2>
The centre of Cologne is best explored on foot. The landscape is flat and most of the important visitor sites are within a short of walk of each other.
For travel beyond the city center use the KVB public transport network. This consists of a subway network underground, which transforms seamlessly into a tram network above ground, and buses, and will get you everywhere efficiently and cheaply.
The one and three-day passes are also valid on the local VRS-network trains. Tickets can be bought from vending machines in stations and on board with prices varying depending on the distance you need to travel. There is also a network of regional trains to get you around the wider city area.
The city also has a &ldquo;Call a Bike" bicycle rental scheme &ndash; just register online for billing per minute using a credit card.
<h2>Where to Stay in Cologne</h2>
Cologne City Center is relatively compact so any hotel in the centre area stretching from Rudolfplatz to the central train station is going to be reasonably convenient.
Hotels close to Rudolfplatz (the 'Bermuda Triangle' gay district) are better for those hitting the scene every night. Hotels closer to Dom (the main cathedral) and, the central train station are better located for the major sights.
For a list of recommended hotels, visit <a title="gay Cologne hotels" href="https://www.travelgay.com/gay-cologne-hotels">our Gay Cologne Hotels page</a>.
<img class="alignnone wp-image-64906 size-full" src="https://static.travelgay.com/media/67820/Cologne-iStock-513104648-e1518103664531.jpg" alt="" width="100%">
<h2>Things to See &amp; Do</h2>
Cologne Cathedral&nbsp;(Dom) - the biggest and most complete example of classic Gothic architecture in Europe. &nbsp;Spared from destruction during World War II, the awe-inspiring Cathedral dominates the city centre and is well worth looking inside, though not necessarily the long steep climb up to the top of the tallest tower with the best city views being those of the Dom, rather than from it.
For the best view of the Dom, head over the river to the K&ouml;ln Triangle building - a modern office skyscraper with its own Panorama Observatory (&euro;3 access charge).
Cologne is a city famous for its churches, and others of note include the Gross St Martin, in contrasting Romanesque style to the Gothic Dom, and Saint Gereon&rsquo;s Basilica, dating back to the 11th&nbsp;century.
Veedel&nbsp;- look out for these traditional neighbourhoods located around the city. One in particular, Agnesviertel (U-Bahn Ebertplatz) has a really interesting mix of independent shops, galleries and bars to browse in.
Rheinauhafen&nbsp;- is the city&rsquo;s rebuilt harbour on the Rhine (1 km south of Heumarkt) for pleasant riverside walks and a good selection of bars and restaurants.
Cologne is a city of culture and has many highly regarded museums and galleries. &nbsp;The highlight is the&nbsp;Museum Ludwig, located next to the Dom, which features a stunning collection of contemporary and pop art and one of the world&rsquo;s largest Picasso collections.
Another feature of Cologne worth discovering is its many green spaces and parks. &nbsp;Just within the inner Gr&uuml;ng&uuml;rtel are the Volksgarten,&nbsp;Rheinpark,&nbsp;Aachener-Weiher&nbsp;and&nbsp;Stadtgarten parks, each with its beer garden.
And for something completely different, head to&nbsp;Claudius Therme on Sachsenbergstra&szlig;e. A genuine Roman bath house experience complete with indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and plunge pools, complete with several naturist areas. &nbsp;Located outside of the city centre, take the K&ouml;lner Seilbahn to the Therme and return by bus to K&ouml;ln Deutz Station to then take the U-Bahn back to the city centre.
<h2>When to Visit</h2>
The usual variable Northern European weather rules apply to Cologne, from occasional hot summer days to equally cold winter ones, with plenty of rain sprinkled throughout.
Cologne Gay Pride is huge and takes place every summer from late June to early July, with the Christopher Street Day (CSD) Parade and Street Festival being the closing highlights.
Cologne also hosts an annual city Carnival which takes place early in the year (February-March). This world-famous spectacle is another great time to be in Cologne as seemingly the entire city joins in the celebrations. &nbsp;It kicks off with a Women's Carnival Day, followed by masked balls and parties, then a street Carnival on Sunday and an official Parade on Rose Monday with a million spectators in fancy dress.
Other big-city attractions include the Christmas markets around the Cathedral which open in late November through to late December and are guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit.
<h2>Visa</h2>
Germany is within the European Schengen visa area. If travelling from outside Europe, check to see if you require a Schengen visa.
<h2>Money</h2>
Germany is a member of the Eurozone. &nbsp;Cash dispensers are widely available. You may be asked for a photo ID if paying with a credit or debit card in a shop.

Gay Cologne City Guide

Planning a trip to Cologne? Then our gay Cologne city guide is for you

Cologne is a big German city with an extensive gay scene centred around many gay bars and gay clubs. A great city of the Rhine, it's long been an important commercial hub. Despite its long history, Cologne was all but razed to the ground after WW2. The cathedral is a major attraction, as well as some excellent art galleries. Cologne was originally founded by the Romans in 38 BC. This is a great city for gay travelers.

Cologne, a historic city on the Rhine, is renowned for its vibrant gay scene, centered around numerous bars, clubs, and events. The city is especially lively in the "Bermuda Triangle" area near Rudolfplatz, where you'll find a high concentration of gay venues that range from bustling bars to intimate clubs. Additionally, Cologne is famous for its annual events like the Cologne Pride and the Cologne Carnival, which bring together the local and visiting LGBTQ+ community for celebrations of diversity and inclusion.
The Cologne Cathedral and various art galleries and museums add to the city's cultural appeal. For those interested in the nightlife, Cologne offers a plethora of options from the retro ambiance of certain bars to the energetic dance floors of modern clubs. The Phoenix Sauna is particularly notable for its large facilities and themed events, providing a welcoming atmosphere for the community.
For gay travelers, Cologne offers a mix of historical intrigue and a progressive, lively gay scene, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both cultural enrichment and vibrant nightlife​.

Gay Cologne

Section 1741 of the German Civil Code grants all married couples the right to adopt children.

The ability for same-sex couples to legally adopt a child.

Same-sex couples in Germany can legally adopt a step-child, biological or not of the other partner.

The age of consent of 14 years is equal for everyone.

The difference between legal age of consent for homosexual sex and heterosexual sex.

On April 1 2023, the Transfusion Act (Transfusionsgesetz, TFG) was amended to fully remove restrictions on blood donations by MSMs. 
Accordingly, the amendment to the law obliged the German Medical Association to subsequently adapt the blood donation guidelines within four months in agreement with the Paul Ehrlich Institute, Germany’s medical regulatory body.

The ability for MSMs (men who have sex with men) to donate blood or tissue for organ transplants. A deferral period refers to a waiting time before a man can donate after having sex.

On September 24, 2021, new guidelines were introduced. Men in monogamous relationships with men can donate blood with no deferral. 
 
However, men who have sex with men outside of a monogamous relationship still face a 4 month deferral.

Article 5 of the German Basic Law guarantees freedom of press, speech and opinion.

Censorship or prohibition of discussing, promoting, or teaching LGBTQ+ topics in media, schools, and in the general public.

Following the amendment of the Act on the Amendment of Names and Sex Determination in Special Cases, known as the Law on Transsexuality (1981) by Judgment No. 1 BvR 3295/07 (2011) of the Federal Constitutional Court, the criteria for changing the name or both the name and the gender marker were unified. Currently, the law requires applicants to (i) prove that "due to their transsexual status, they do not feel comfortable with their sex registered at birth", (ii) they have lived for at least three years "in accordance with the gender they identify with" and (iii) that their "situation of transexuality is foreseeably stable". This procedure is carried out before a municipal judge, which has to verify that these requirements are met by subjecting the applicant to an examination carried out by two expert witnesses "specialised in transsexualism". (ILGA) 
 
In 2017, the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSJ) commissioned the Humboldt University in Berlin to prepare an expert opinion on the "need for regulation and reform for transgender people". 
It found that the current assessment procedure is in many cases characterized by disproportionate time and expense as well as degrading and discriminatory experiences and violates the fundamental rights of the applicants. 
 
The non-governmental organization Deutsche Gesellschaft für Transidentität und Intersexualität e.V. (dgti) issues a supplemental ID card which contains one's self-chosen first names, pronouns and gender before a legal name change has taken place. It is known and accepted by German ministries, the police, and many authorities. The supplemental ID card is often a condition to correct one's name at, among others, schools, universities, banks and insurance companies. In five German states, references to the ID have been included in coronavirus ordinances and associated explanations to recognize it as an identification document, e.g., together with vaccination certificates. 
It has a special status of recognition in Germany. The legal basis of the supplemental ID card is the implementation of the request of the European Parliament, communicated in the 11th legislative period of the German parliament. 
 
When the Self-Identification law was introduced, people who went through this old process could apply for a monetary compensation.

Legal recognition of sex reassignment by permitting a change of legal gender on an individual's birth certificate.

The Self-Determination Act (Selbstbestimmungsgesetz) allows transgender, non-binary and intersex people to change their legal first names and gender identity once a year through self-identification. 
 
From the age of 14, minors may make the declaration themselves with the consent of their guardians; in order to protect the personal rights of young people, the family court can replace the parents' decision at the request of the minor in cases where the custodians do not consent, based on the best interests of the child. 
Children under 14 will need their parents or guardians to make a registry office application on their behalf. 
 
Outing or deadnaming one against their will in a way which caused them harm can be punished with a fine up to €10,000.

Section 8 § 1 of the German Transsexuellengesetz (Transsexuals Act of September 10, 1980) states that transgender people can change their first names and gender entry under the condition of gender-affirming surgery, sterilization, and divorce.

The Law for the Protection Against Conversion Treatments (KonvBehSchG) bans providing, arranging and advertising conversion therapy. Conducting conversion therapy on minors, or persons of legal age is those whose consent was obtained without their volition, is also explicitly banned. 
 
Providing, arranging or advertising conversion therapy is punishable by a fine up to €30,000. 
Carrying out conversion therapy on a minor, or an adult whose consent was obtained without their volition, is punishable by up to a year of imprisonment or a fine.

Legal status of conducting sexual orientation changing therapy ("ex-gay" therapy)

National law was amended in 2006 when the Treaty of Amsterdam was signed - giving all people the same rights under law. 
 
The Federal Constitutional Court of Germany clarified in 1 BvR 2019/16 that the general right of personality (Article 2 (1) in conjunction with Article 1 (1) of the Basic Law) protects gender identity. It also protects the gender identity of non-binary people. 
Article 3 (3) of the Basic Law includes non-binary people on the protection against discrimination on ground of their gender.

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Due to Germany being a Federal Republic many states have had anti-discrimination laws as early as 1992. But by signing the Treaty of Amsterdam (EU) Germany amended its national anti-discrimination laws to include sexual orientation.  

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity in employment, including hiring, promotion, termination, harassment, etc.

Germany fully repealed section 175 of the German Criminal Code and legalized homosexual activity in 1994.

Consensual sexual activity between individuals of the same sex.

Section 175 of the Criminal Code was relaxed for persons over 21 years in East Germany in 1968, with West Germany following suit in 1969. However, although this meant that homosexual activity between men was decriminalized, it was not made legal.

Section 175 of the Criminal Code was amended during Nazi rule to create harsher penalties for homosexual behavior between men. Imprisonment was to range from three months to ten years in prison. Many homosexual men died in the Nazi concentration camps they were sent to.

Section 175 of the Criminal Code of the German Empire criminalized homosexual activity between men over the age of 18. 
The penalty was imprisonment or a loss of civil rights.

Section 1 of the General Act on Equal Treatment (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz, AGG) prohibits discrimination on housing.

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity when applying for housing or discrimination by landlords / property owners.

A bill for marriage equality passed the Bundestag on 30 June 2017 and the Bundesrat on 7 July, becoming law on 1 October. 
Paragraph 1353 of the German Civil Code.

Marriage and marriage recognition between two people of the same biological sex and/or gender identity.

Germany recognizes civil unions and provides tax benefits to couples in a civil union.

Article 3 (1) of the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany and Article 14 of the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms protect against unequal treatment on grounds of sexual orientation. 

The ability for homosexuals to serve in the military and be open about their sexuality.

The Civil Status Act (PStG) was amended to include Parapraph 45b to allow intersex people to identify themselves as "diverse" ("divers") or remove the gender entry.

Legal recognition of non-binary, genderqueer, or third gender identities.

The Self-Determination Act (Selbstbestimmungsgesetz) applies (see: right to change legal gender).

Germany

cologne gay bars

cologne-gay-area-e1639586252512

Cologne Gay Bars

gay sauna cologne

img-5264

Cologne Gay Saunas

Cologne

cologne-1846353-1920

Gay Cologne Hotels

panorama

Cologne Gay Cruise Clubs

Visit one of Germany's most historic cities, and a home to one of the best gay scenes.

Cologne view of the Catherdral and River

Five Things We Love About Cologne

Cologne Gay Pride main

Cologne Pride CSD 2024

Celebrate Cologne Pride in 2024!

Pride_1 (50).png

Sexy

Sexy Pride World Cologne 2024

Join the Sexy Pride 2024 festivities!

Sexy Pride Cologne

Wish for a Baby Cologne

Where Dreams of Family Become Plans

Vertical Image Template (TG) (2).png

steigenberger-hotel-koln-main

Steigenberger Hotel Köln

Hotels Lyskirchen main 2

Hotel Lyskirchen

Artotel Cologne by Park Plaza main

art otel Cologne powered by Radisson Hotels

Motel One Cologne Waidmarkt Hotel

Where to Stay?

SEXY, MALE Party, GREEN KOMM..

Phoenix, Pansauna, Badehaus..

Hotels

Bars

Dance Clubs

Cruise Clubs

Saunas

Massage

Cafés

Gay Shops

Services

City Guide

Gay Map

Germany Events

A guide to Cologne's best gay bars, dance clubs, gay-rated hotels, gay saunas, cruise clubs and more. See reviews, pictures and more info on TravelGay.com.

Gay Cologne Guide 2024 - gay bars, clubs, saunas & more

North Rhine-Westphalia

The historic city on the Rhine. Cologne is renowned for its world-famous Cathedral, kölsch beer and large gay scene

Special Food Menu

My Lord Cologne gay bar cafe main

My Lord

Night Sauna - Free Soup at midnight

Sauna Vulcanus

Happy Hour - 2 for 1 beer, 7pm-8pm

Baustelle4U Cologne gay bar main

Baustelle 4 U

Wellness Day - from 4pm

Phoenix Sauna

Free Coffee & Cake  from 3.30pm

Special Themes, 2pm-8pm

Pullermanns

Beer and Schlager - from 4pm

casino-eck-cologne-gay-bar-main

Casino-Eck

Exile on Main Street is a gay bar &amp; lounge in the centre of Cologne's "Bermuda Triangle." It's one of the busiest and brightest bars on the main gay strip. Exile features live DJs on the weekends. Two bars make getting a drink a breeze. There is also a dance floor and a seating area.

exile-cologne-gay-bar-main

EXILE

Gay bar & lounge in the centre of Cologne's "Bermuda Triangle".

Late-night&nbsp;gay cruise bar with dark room in the back. Deck 5 attracts men in their 40's and 50's. Inexpensive drinks. The venue is open from 8pm until late every day except Tuesdays.

Deck 5

Late-night&nbsp;gay cruise bar with dark room i...

Popular gay sauna with large facilities including a steam room, dry sauna, jacuzzi, large cruising areas and bar. Regular themed events include 'Naked Party', 'Wellness Evening' and 'Two For One'. Massage services available. Visit Phoenix's website for details and special offers.

Popular gay sauna with hot young crowd

Check In

Check Out

Guests

Destination

  Browse a selection of tours in Cologne from our
                partners with free cancellation 24 hours before your tour
                starts.

Gay Cologne

The historic city on the Rhine. Cologne is renowned for its world-famous Cathedral, kölsch beer and large gay scene

Where to Stay?

SEXY, MALE Party, GREEN KOMM..

Phoenix, Pansauna, Badehaus..

Cologne Gay Bars

Cologne Gay Cruise Clubs

Cologne Gay Saunas

Gay Cologne Hotels

What's On Today

My Lord

Sauna Vulcanus

What's On Tomorrow

Baustelle 4 U

Phoenix Sauna

Sauna Vulcanus

Pullermanns

Casino-Eck

About Cologne

Trending Hotels in Cologne

News & Features

Cologne Events

Featured Venues

EXILE

Deck 5

Phoenix Sauna

Cologne Tours