LGBTQI+ safe spaces and community groups

We are queer gym Amsterdam by queertopia

Work on your physical and mental well-being, and focus on movement, strength, and connection in a non-judgmental space. We Are Queer Amsterdam by Queertopia is redefining fitness for Amsterdam’s LGBTQI+ community. Offering a safe and welcoming environment, they provide inclusive exercise classes where everyone—regardless of gender identity or fitness level—can feel empowered. From yoga to group workouts, their classes prioritize safety and fun while building confidence and community. In the first week, you can come and work out free, entirely without obligation. Discover their schedule and join the movement!

We Are Queer Amsterdam | Locations in Oost and West

Dance Space Destiny: Femme Fierce Dance Classes

Feel your oats at Femme Fierce, the sexy and empowering dance class at Dance Space Destiny in Amsterdam’s theatre hub De Sloot. Designed for LGBTQI+ babes and allies, this class celebrates your inner diva while building confidence and community. Femme Fierce welcomes all levels to move unapologetically in a safe, inclusive space. In addition to Femme Fierce, they teach (kick)boxing lessons and host discussions and other events, aiming to shift towards a culture of collaboration over competition. Follow them on Instagram or email dancespacedestiny@gmail.com to join the party and unleash your Femme Fierce!

Femme Fierce Dance Classes | De Sloot, West

The Living Room: Ballroom and Vogue Classes

Hosted by the House of Vineyard, The Living Room is a safe space for the LGBTQI+ community to explore ballroom culture. Held every Wednesday evening, classes like ballroom 101, vogue fem, and runway are designed for different levels, offering an open and welcoming environment to learn, dance, and express yourself. Whether perfecting your spins or walking your first runway, The Living Room provides expert guidance and a safe space to connect with others who share a passion for ballroom culture. It’s more than a class—it’s a celebration of confidence, community, and creativity. 

The Living Room | Nowhere, West 

Kindred Kuts: A Queer-Welcoming Barbershop

Step into Kindred Kuts, a black queer-owned barbershop in Amsterdam where everyone is welcome. Specializing in gender-affirming haircuts, this inclusive space caters to the LGBTQI+ community, particularly Black and POC individuals. They offer creative cuts and welcome all hair textures and lengths – and just so you know, they love beard trims too! With a focus on comfort, kindness, and high-quality service, Kindred Kuts is a cosy refuge for a fresh cut, free from all the bull. Whether you’re after a bold new look or need a trim, this is the place to be. Go book your appointment!

Kindred Kuts | Bilderdijkstraat 77, Oud-West

The T-House: A home for trans people in Amsterdam

Looking for a safe, supportive space to connect with fellow trans people? The T-House has you covered. From social meetups to mental health support and even trans swimming sessions, they offer a welcoming environment. Whether you’re navigating challenges and need to speak to the police in a safe environment or just want to hang out with your community, the T-House is here for you. As they like to keep The T-House a safe place, they only share the address upon request, so send them an email at info@transhuis.nl.

The T-House | Centrum

COC Amsterdam: The spot to gather information

As a long-standing pillar of the LGBTQI+ community, COC Amsterdam advocates for equality and provides a wide range of services. COC Amsterdam is a crucial resource for LGBTQI+ individuals seeking support, community, and information. Their advocacy efforts have helped shape policies and attitudes towards LGBTQI+ rights in Amsterdam and beyond. Specific programs are COC Youth (Jong&Out), which creates a safe and inclusive space for queer youth to connect and express themselves, and COC Seniors, which offers a social network and activities tailored for older LGBTQ+ individuals. Since most of their website is in Dutch, email them to get more information about a topic or event: info@cocamsterdam.nl.

COC Amsterdam | Centrum

Gay Swim Amsterdam: Inclusive Swimming for all levels

Take a deep dive with Gay Swim Amsterdam, a vibrant, welcoming swimming club for LGBTQI+ individuals and allies in Amsterdam. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just swimming for fun, the club offers inclusive sessions for all levels. From technique improvement to social swims, GSA fosters a strong sense of community in and out of the pool. The club also participates in LGBTQI+ competitions, allowing members to represent Amsterdam on a larger stage. Not sure if you want to dive into the deep? Your first three swims are for free (also for tourists)! Just send an email to info@gayswimamsterdam.

Gay Swim Amsterdam | Marnixpool & Sloterparkpool, West

IHLIA: Preserving LGBTQI+ Heritage

Located at the OBA Oosterdok in Amsterdam, IHLIA is a crucial heritage organisation for LGBTQI+ history and culture. With an extensive collection of documents, books, and archives, IHLIA is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of LGBTQI+ individuals and communities. IHLIA serves as an educational space for both locals and visitors to explore the rich history of queer identities with exhibitions, lectures and research. So if you're seeking information on LGBTQI+ history or want to have a peek at their exhibition, IHLIA is a must-visit for anyone passionate about queer culture. 

IHLIA | 3rd floor OBA Oosterdok, Centrum

Queer Bird Club: A Safe Space for Birdwatching and Community

Join the Queer Bird Club for a unique way to connect with nature and the LGBTQI+ community in Amsterdam. QBC hosts guided bird-watching excursions in beautiful locations like Zwanenwater and Gaasperplas, as well as the Vondelpark, where members can explore the diverse wildlife while bonding over shared experiences. Upcoming events include bird walks and potlucks, making it a perfect blend of adventure and connection. Is there anything nicer than stopping at a birdwatching hut and enjoying light snacks while marvelling at a colony of Cormorants? Check their Instagram to connect.

Queer Bird Club | Amsterdam

Honorable mentions

Studio K, Lellebel, Bar Pamela, Bar Bario, and the other places that are an LGBTQI+ space or host queer events.

As a born and raised queer local, Daan knows all the ins and outs of LGBTQI+ life in Amsterdam. Follow him and his boyfriend Karl on their gay travel blog coupleofmen.com for queer-welcoming destinations around the world.