Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
While everyone has heard of the flourishing gay scene in Berlin, Cologne, and Hamburg, Gay Hannover – Germany’s 13th largest city – often flies under the radar.
We put it down to an image problem as most people questions why we even want to go here, but the truth is Hannover is rapidly reinventing itself – and has a lot to offer LGBT travelers who are willing to give this city a chance to charm them.
The greenest city in German with plenty of modern architecture, modern art, modern everything really: sadly, along with historical buildings were destroyed during the war.
But out of the ashes has risen a vibrant gay scene with the oldest gay sauna in Germany, fun gay bars and five massive queer events held annually, frequently tied in with the biggest festivals in Hannover: Hannover Wiesn (Think Oktoberfest but not in Munich) and the Marksmen’s Fair.
While Germany might have taken a ‘better later than never’ approach to legalizing gay marriage, it is now frequently named one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world. LGBT people are simply embraced as a natural part of society, and no big fuss is generally made outside of the annual Hannover Pride.
Today in Gay Hannover, there is a well-established queer scene, although many in the LGBT community no longer feel the need to segregate themselves.
Take the time to explore here – or to meet gay locals in Hannover – and you will unearth plenty of hidden gems, vibrant neighborhoods, glorious parks and funky queer nightlife where you never quite know what to expect…
In this article we will cover...
Attractions in Gay Hannover
When it comes to gay-friendly destinations in Germany, Hannover may not immediately come to mind, but it’s a hidden gem for queer travelers. The city has a laid-back and welcoming vibe that makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a relaxing and inclusive holiday.
Hannover is a city that takes pride in its diversity, with a vibrant LGBTQ+ community that has plenty to offer. You’ll find a variety of gay bars, clubs, and events to choose from, as well as a rich cultural scene. From art galleries and museums to theaters and music venues, there’s always something happening in Hannover that caters to queer culture. Plus, the city is known for its stunning parks and gardens, which provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you’re planning a trip to Hannover, you can feel safe and comfortable as a queer traveler. The city is known for its progressive attitudes and openness towards the LGBTQ+ community. So whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a fun-filled trip with friends, Hannover has something to offer for everyone.
Things To Do In Hannover
One of the ‘must see’ attractions in Hannover is this vast, ornamental 17th-century garden actually consisting of four separate gardens.
The Great Garden has always been one of the most illustrious baroque formal gardens of Europe, while the Berggarten has more recently been transformed from a simple vegetable garden into a sizeable botanical garden that stands out in its own right with 12,000+ plants and greenhouses for orchids & butterflies…
There is also the Georgengarten and the Welfengarten, both in the style of English gardens, one of Europe’s tallest fountains, and the open-air theatre in the summer.
This large artificial lake provides 190 acres of recreational space for running, swimming, walking, parties, picnics…The list goes on. In the summer months, there is no better way to spend a lazy day in the sun.
It would be hard to miss this icon of Hannover, the castle-like city hall with a vast dome. Take the lift up to enjoy mountain & city views, followed up by a classy meal at the onsite bistro. The Germans really know how to do Town halls, right?
If you’re a lover of all things wild, cute and fluffy, you can either look out for the bears in the Hanover gay bars or explore the world-class Hanover Zoo. One of the oldest in Germany and frequently short-listed as one of the best zoos in the world, there is 7 themed area, animals from every inhabited continent with naturalistic habitats, conservation program and daily shows.
Housing one of German’s most significant collections of modern art, including a permanent collection of German & international modern artists with notable temporary exhibits. Georgengarten.
The oldest museum in Hannover is filled with the collections of a 19th-century envoy, including Classical antiquities & medieval artifacts.
One of the most underrated best Christmas markets in Germany, with a special Finnish Christmas Village (hello Helsinki!) and plenty of local crafts and glühwein! Better than markets in both Munich and Prague, largely because far-less tourists visit here, so you get a nice local vibe. The Hannover Christmas markets generally run for 25 days leading up to Christmas.
A local art gallery is featuring 5 halls with unique dimensions and atmospheres featuring avant-garde & often provocative graphic art, photography and other art forms.
An iconic and relaxing 112-hectare park with cute deer, wild boar & small animals and an 18th-century barn. Perfect for a stroll, jogging, or just enjoying the fresh air.
Aviation Museum Hannover-Laatzen
The number of gay guys who are obsessed with planes always astounds us. We guess it’s their phallic shape and all the fun cockpit jokes. Either way, if you’re interested, this is one of the best aviation museums in Germany, with over 4,500 aviation exhibits, including old planes, engines & aviator uniforms.
Limmerstraße
While the entire area of Lindin is stuffed with hipster hangouts and boutiques, this street is a good place to start. Need a cool haircut? Looking for colorful Mexican food? Wants street food or to window-shop? Trust us; you will find it here!
Gay Annual Events In Hannover
Also known as ‘Christopher Street Day / CSD Munich’, this week-long party celebrates the role of the LGBT community in making Hannover what it is today, and is totally worth planning a trip around.
Held annually in May, the highlights are the huge street festival, a vibrant parade, and events featuring politics, music, culture, and cabaret! Today Hannover Pride is largely about celebrating, but Hannover Pride still has a strong focus on its political roots and ensures total equality for all citizens in the future.
For the first time, the true Oktoberfest atmosphere is brought to the gay and lesbian scene in Hannover. Of course, the most important highlights are not waived: beer, live music, food, and DJs. What more could you want?
The largest marksmen’s funfair in the world, held annually in June, now features a Gay Tent! For ten days, this is Germany’s largest gay party marathon open to gays and lesbians, unicorns and anyone fabulous. There is a large outdoor area, mega-party tent, drag shows, 24-hour parties, awards, celebrities, live music and more. What more could you want?
The volume party in Hanover is one of the biggest queer events in Germany, drawing in revelers from all over Germany and the world. Epic DJs, live shows (and music) and entertainment that will leave you wowed. 100% unique with only three events per year, the Volume of gay parties in Hannover is not to be missed.
Holds gay film events across Germany, and there is at least one annually in Hannover, normally in October, and often in spring as well. A fun way to meet people in the Hannover gay community without using dating apps or alcohol. Plus, the films are pretty amazing (but you just need to see the sexy yet sad Free Fall / Freier Fall before you go to Gay Germany!)
Gay-Friendly and Gay Hotels in Hannover Germany
Being one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world, almost every hotel and hostel in Hannover can be considered open and welcoming to LGBT travelers. After all, being gay-friendly is simply providing a non-judgmental and respectful environment in which all people are treated equally.
Elegant design, helpful staff and great value for money also help. Some businesses in Gay Hannover have gone above and beyond in recognizing and marketing to the LGBT community, and it seems to have paid off!
There are now quite a few well-known hotels in Hannover that are go-to hot spots for gay travelers. And really, doesn’t everyone like to be surrounded by people with common interests?!
Sadly there are no gay hotels in Hannover, but there are hundreds of other hotel options in Hannover if you don’t find what you are looking for. Besides, we have frequently found the best hotel in town to be the most gay-popular and explicitly gay hotels to be grungier, less cool and less social when we have stayed.
Gay tourists normally find the most fun place to stay is central in Hannover – close to all the attractions by the gay and gay bar by night. However, as long as you are close to a subway or have hired your own car, everything is relatively easy to reach. We have put a Gay Hannover map at the end in case you need some help getting an idea of where everything is.
Whether you want a fun and social hostel, a cheap place to crash after a night of partying or a chic designer option to sip cocktails and surround yourself with fabulous people – Gay Hannover is something for everyone!
A fresh and funky hotel that offers luxury on a budget. Since there are no gay hotels in Hannover, this is our top recommendation and is a total breath of fresh air! Offering affordable high-design, at Prizeotel Hannover-City, you are in the middle of it all and, therefore, at the best starting point for an extensive sightseeing tour of the city – by day or by night!
Not in the mood for action? Then you’re also in good hands as the hotel was custom created by the New York star designer Karim Rashid, with a colorful style that puts you in a great mood whether you just want to chill, work, host meetings or drink coffee – here, everything goes nice and easy!
Sheraton Hannover Pelikan Hotel ☆☆☆☆☆
The epitome of luxury in Hannover, this 5-star hotel provides unique accommodation in the former Pelikan fountain pen factory from 1906. Located on the edge of town next to the Eilenriede City Forest, but it is only 11 minutes to the city center on the Pelikanstraße tram stop located right outside.
Guests can try creative cuisine in the Sheraton Hannover Pelikan Hotel’s 5th Avenue restaurant or fine cocktails at Harry’s New York Bar. The suites are elegantly designed with high ceilings and unique décor, making this Sheraton Hannover one of the most memorable upscale stays in town.
An upscale hotel features grand, classic-style facades, elegant rooms and an enviable location in the heart of Hannover. Bringing character, style, charm and the most modern comfort to the Hannover hotel scene, Kastens is one of the best hotels in town.
Guests enjoy free use of the Luisenhof’s gym, overlooking the rooftops of the city, as well as the on-site sauna, massage service, and rental bicycles.
A gay-popular business hotel out of the city center but right on a U-Bahn line to get around anywhere you want with ease. Spacious rooms, modern design, fantastic staff and little touches like the pillow menu make a stay here just a little bit luxurious. If you’re driving, there is also on-site parking, and modern spa facilities, including a hot tub, sauna and relaxation area.
Stylish hotel with a gay-popular bar onsite and offer fantastic value for money. Walking distance to the center of the city with a U-Bahn station right outside, delicious breakfast and helpful staff. The spa at the Dormero Hotel also includes a sauna, steam room and gym with modern fitness equipment.
Mercure Hotel Hannover Mitte ☆☆☆☆
A modern hotel recently renovated with sound-proof rooms, a fun rooftop terrace, and great transport links. The hotel is close to the city center, within 5 to 8 minutes walking distance and right in front of the hotel is a small garden to relax in. The Mercure Hotel is close to everything – supermarket, coffee shops and laundry and all the gay nightlife in Hannover.
An older hotel, recently remodeled, prides itself on having English and rooms with understated elegance. Spacious, filled with warm colors and featuring modern amenities, a stay at the gay-popular Hotel Savoy offers the best of both worlds and something a bitter different from all the international chain hotels.
Breakfast is also included in room rates, there is an on-site sauna, gym, and free bike hire, and the beautiful Herrenhausen Gardens are just around the corner!
We are a big fan of the Ibis when traveling as they have really up their game in recent years providing clean rooms, frivolous design, and low prices. You can always expect the lowest price and a room with all the essentials here, but it is nice to see more color, and a bit of chic industrial / Scandanivan style while maintaining its affordability.
The cheapest bed in Hannover offers dorm and private room options for budget travelers. Gay-friendly, but honestly not a great hostel; there just is no competition in Hannover hostels, it seems!
Still, you get a central location in the heart of the Gay Hannover, clean rooms and the chance to meet other travelers to go out and party with…It seems they have remodeled since we last visited, and the reviews are not a lot better, so why not give them a try? If you count your euro, this is the only real option.
Gay Nightlife in Hannover
Welcome to Hannover, where the party never stops – especially in the gay scene! With an abundance of bars and events, there’s always something to do for the LGBTQ+ crowd. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere or an all-night dance party, Hannover has got you covered.
For a unique experience, check out the Volume Gay Party or the Gay Tent at the Marksmen’s Fair in June, both of which attract a diverse crowd of party-goers. And if you’re just looking for a good time any night of the week, head to the central/old town area, where you’ll find most of Hannover’s gay bars and hang-outs.
One thing you’ll notice in Hannover is that most venues are LGBTQ+ friendly, so don’t be afraid to venture out and try new places. However, if you’re looking for a more concentrated gay scene, our map of Hannover at the end will guide you to the best locations. Just remember to keep your valuables safe, as with any big city.
Gay Bars & Clubs In Hannover
A non-profit gay bar in Hannover for everyone. Following their communist manifesto, they have been non-commercial, organized collectively, unsalaried, and hyper-involved in the Hannover gay scene for over 27 years.
Just as important as the dancing is the community space they provide and the multiple gay parties in Hannover they organize, including the very popular Sau Party. This is not your average gay bar and is bizarre, wonderful and weird: just how we love it!
A gay gastropub where everyone is welcome, the living room of Gay Hannover. One of the oldest gay bars in town recently brought back to its former glory, the Burgklause has been hosting homos since 1966 and continues to be a cult favorite in town, for both gays and lesbians.
With friendly owners and patrons, we love stopping by here, striking up a conversation and meeting other gay people in Hannover.
A popular gay bar is serving LGBT Hannover all the cocktails, beer and champagne it desires in a fun and frivolous environment. Pictures of celebrities and other decorations adorn the walls, and everyone is very welcoming. The perfect way to start a night out is to attend their weekly Friday Quiz nights, or karaoke every send Saturday.
A cherished and comfortable gay bar / café in the old town of Hannover. Martinos is the preferred meeting place of many hook-ups to enjoy a casual drink beforehand since it is open late during the week and on weekends but never gets too busy. Occasionally they host larger parties, so check their Facebook page before planning your night out.
The largest gay club in Hannover for dancing the night away with your queer family. Fun costume parties, the occasional drag queen, a dance floor and a full bar – what more could you ask for, really? Only open on the weekends, this no-attitude Hannover gay club exemplifies the gay scene here with a mix of people and laid-back vibes, and everybody seems to know each other.
Don’t worry, though – as a visitor, you will be warmly welcomed by the DJ spinning dance, house, and Top 40 music till the early hours of the morning. Halleloo!
Gay-Popular / Mixed Bars in Hannover
A cozy, gay-popular café on Wedekindplatz that tempts you to linger with fun cocktails and an ever-changing lunch menu. The beautiful café transforms into a social bar by night, and Café Lulu even serves an impressive breakfast, meaning they can take care of all your most pressing needs in Gay Hannover.
Timber
(Temporarily or permanently closed. If you know something, please suggest an edit.)
A cute little wooden bar in the heart of the Old Town offers gay-friendly vibes, low prices, and a cozy space to relax with a cocktail or a beer. The perfect mix of ‘Hansel & Gretel” woodland realness and modern design.
A strange and refreshingly different bar where uniqueness and individuality are prized above all else. You are guaranteed not to drink the same drink twice; one look at the bar menu and your senses are reawakened. A vibrant space where anything is truly possible. Perfect for relaxed drinks on the weekday or visit on the weekend for a busy dance floor and live music.
Gay Parties in Hannover
For the first time, the true Oktoberfest atmosphere is brought to the gay and lesbian scene in Hannover. Of course, the most important highlights are not waived: beer, live music, food and DJs. What more could you want?
Hosting gay party events around Hannover and the surrounding regions. The biggest is the Gay People Tent at the hugely popular Marksmen’s Fair Hannover in June, but check their page for more details. We saw something similar in Gay Stuttgart’s Spring Festival and were living for it!
The volume party in Hanover is one of the biggest queer events in Germany, drawing in revelers from all over Germany and the world. Epic DJs, live shows (and music) and entertainment that will leave you wowed. 100% unique with only three events per year, the Volume of gay parties in Hannover is not to be missed.
Gay Cruising & Gay Saunas in Hannover
Had enough of gay cruising in Hannover – either in the bars or elsewhere? For those who want a bit more guaranteed action, there is one gay sauna in Hannover, which – unlike all those faceless accounts on the hook-up apps – will not disappoint you.
In such a foreign-friendly city, you should have no issues visiting the Hannover gay sauna, but you could also consider one of the two gay cruise clubs in Hannover if you’re more into the cruise/fetish scene.
The first sauna to ever open in Germany, and today the only gay sauna in Hannover, Vulkan offers a relaxing environment to unwind with clean faculties and friendly staff. Recently renovated to keep up with the times, you can spend your time in the sauna, bath or wet room or hole up in a private cabin.
There is also a small sun terrace and bar area if it’s quiet or you plan on the boys coming to you. Open 7 days a week, Vulkan Sauna doesn’t close from Friday open until Sunday night.
A gay cinema, store and video store in downtown Hannover offers plenty of thrills to get your blood pumping. The cinema offers a small bar, single cabins, a sling, an S&M area, a wet zone and more – as well as a shower so you can leave clean and refreshed. The gay store offers all the latest DVDs, toys and magazines if you need to pick anything up.
The most popular cruising spot in Hannover is where all your kinky dreams and desires can be realized. Open 24 hours on the weekend, many gay men in Hannover come here after a night out to indulge in the porn cinema, private cabins, glory holes, cages, and slings. There are lockers available, stages to perform and poles to show off on.
Gay Map Of Hannover
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in Gay Hannover? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!