For queer travellers, finding a destination that offers not only beauty and adventure but also safety and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere is paramount. Whether you’re planning a romantic LGBTQ+-friendly honeymoon, a vibrant city break, or a relaxing beach holiday with your partner, our guide highlights the top 10 most inclusive European destinations where you can be your authentic self and enjoy an unforgettable trip. We’ve considered everything from progressive legislation and visible queer communities to must-visit spots and annual celebrations to help you plan your perfect escape.
Best Gay-Friendly Cities in Europe
Malta
Malta has drastically progressed over the last 20 years from a conservative country to the most progressive in Europe, ranking number one in ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Map for 10 consecutive years. It has strict legislation in place to protect its LGBTQ+ citizens and travellers, including the GIGSEC Act, making it a hub for trans-friendly travel.
Its capital city, Valletta, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting opulent baroque architecture, colourful winding streets, and ornate churches and palaces. Each September, the city hosts Malta Pride Week, a celebration of culture and history with lively street parties and parades. The islands are also home to a handful of gay-friendly beaches, notably St George’s Bay in St Julian’s – a seaside town with numerous lively bars, restaurants, and clubs. Ready to book? Discover the best time to visit Malta in our latest guide.
Must-Visit: Kaktus in Sliema, a queer-friendly cafe hosting various events, including drag shows.
Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is a lively city full of stunning architecture, historic museums and galleries, and a vibrant nightlife. Second on ILGA’s Rainbow Map, it’s amongst the most progressive cities in Europe, offering a safe haven for queer tourists. Every spring, the city celebrates Brussels Pride, typically around 17th May, which is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT). Expect colourful processions, music-filled streets, and large crowds. To experience the city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, head to the Saint Jacques district, perfect for bar-hopping.
If you’re travelling during wintertime, head to see the twinkling lights and food stalls at Brussels Winter Wonder in Grand Place, or take a train ride to Bruges for a fairytale-like Christmas market experience in a postcard-perfect medieval town.
Must-Visit: La Réserve, the oldest gay bar in Brussels, is a charming display of 18th-century Belle Époque decor with ambient lighting and affordable drinks.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Coming in at third on ILGA’s Rainbow Map, Iceland is widely recognised as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ travellers. It boasts a progressive and inclusive culture with strong legal protections, like their Gender Autonomy Act, which affirms travellers with X markers on their documents. The country is replete with LGBTQ+ culture and vibrant events, including Reykjavik Pride in March and Bears on Ice in May.
Priding (no pun intended) itself on its inclusivity, Reykjavik doesn’t have a specific gay district, but it is home to Rainbow Street, which is lined with bars, cafes, and restaurants. Holidays in Iceland offer a wealth of activities for all types of travellers, from soaking in geothermal spas at Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon to chasing the Northern Lights or exploring ice caves.
Must-Visit: The ROOF at EDITION is a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the mountains and ocean.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of the best gay-friendly cities in Europe, with a vibrant LGBTQ+ culture, a progressive, welcoming atmosphere, and strong anti-discrimination laws. Barcelona Pride is a major annual celebration stretching over several months with parades, parties, and concerts, and Circuit Festival is the biggest European gay festival with 10 days of beach and pool parties and circuit events.
The perfect blend of bustling city life and beachside tranquillity, Barcelona is an ideal location for a honeymoon or anniversary celebration with its many same-sex couple-friendly hotels. Those looking for a fun-filled holiday should check out the Gothic Quarter for ambient bars and Olympic Port for larger clubs with DJs. Otherwise, enjoy romantic strolls in the Old Town and marvel at breathtaking landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell.
Must-Visit: Savour authentic tapas while watching the sunset below the sea at Little Beach House Barcelona.
Sitges, Spain
A short train ride from Barcelona, perched on the edge of Catalonia, sits Sitges, a picturesque coastal town and same-sex couple-friendly resort. Sitges is often dubbed the ‘Gay Capital of Spain’ thanks to its vibrant nightlife, annual LGBTQ+ celebrations, and beautiful beaches, including Platja de la Bassa Rodona, which is popular with the gay community. It is a fantastic destination for an LGBTQ+-friendly honeymoon or a more relaxed, beach-focused
holiday.
The town hosts Sitges Pride every June, a week-long celebration complete with a colourful parade, beach parties, and live music, drawing international crowds. During the Sitges Carnival, held in February or March (on the week before Ash Wednesday), the streets erupt in spectacular costumes and parades, giving it a unique party atmosphere.
Must-Visit: Indulge in some local seafood at La Taberna del Puerto, a culinary gem offering mouthwatering dishes and a stunning waterside view.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
The Netherlands was the first country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2001, and today, with strong legislation and anti-discrimination laws to protect its LGBTQ+ citizens, Amsterdam is still cited as one of the best gay cities in Europe. It boasts a thriving gay and lesbian scene and is particularly known for its diverse and lively nightlife concentrated in areas like Reguliersdwarsstraat.
Amsterdam Pride is one of the biggest queer celebrations in the world, packed with street parties, spectacular events, and the iconic Canal Parade. Enjoy the stunning sight of the city at sunset with an evening canal cruise, try an authentic stroopwafel at Nicolaas Waffles, and explore the city’s many museums and galleries, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.
Must-Visit: Café ‘t Mandje, one of the oldest gay bars in the world, founded in 1927 by Bet van Beeren.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen consistently ranks high for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity, with Denmark being a pioneer in same-sex rights, having recognised registered partnerships as early as 1989. The city is known for its open and welcoming atmosphere and strong anti-discrimination laws.
Copenhagen Pride is a highlight of the city’s calendar, filling the streets with colourful celebrations, parties, and political discussions every August. The central district of Vesterbro is the heart of the gay scene, offering a variety of bars, clubs, and shops. For a relaxing day out, explore the colourful harbour of Nyhavn or visit the famous Little Mermaid statue. Couples looking for a quaint, charming experience should consider a visit to Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, which becomes magical when lit up at night.
Must-Visit: Denmark is known for being one of the most bike-friendly countries in the world. Rent a bike and cycle in Amager Beach Park, a man-made island with views of the Øresund Bridge.
Lisbon, Portgual
Lisbon is a beautiful, historic city with a laid-back, progressive culture and robust legal protections for its queer citizens and visitors, making it an increasingly popular destination for LGBTQ+ travellers. The city is renowned for its cobblestone streets, stunning viewpoints, fado music, and historic yellow trams.
Lisbon Pride, or Marcha do Orgulho LGBTI, takes place in June and includes a festive parade and public events. The vibrant neighbourhood of Bairro Alto is the central hub for the city’s queer nightlife, featuring numerous bars and clubs that cater to the community. For a romantic day trip, take a train to Sintra to explore its fairytale castles and lush gardens, or enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River. Make sure to stop by a bakery and try some authentic pastéis de nata – no trip to Portugal is complete without one!
Must-Visit: TRUMPS, a popular and long-running nightclub in Príncipe Real, known for its lively atmosphere.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin has a long and storied history as a centre for LGBTQ+ culture and liberation, making it one of the best gay cities in Europe. It is famed for its tolerant atmosphere, diverse scene, and commitment to inclusivity, backed by strong anti-discrimination laws.
The city hosts multiple queer events, including Berlin Pride (Christopher Street Day) in July and the Folsom Europe leather and fetish event in September. Schöneberg is the traditional gay district, home to many long-standing bars, cafes, and shops, while Kreuzberg and Neukölln offer more alternative and youth-focused venues. Beyond the nightlife, explore historical landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the East Side Gallery, or enjoy the vast green spaces of Tiergarten.
Must-Visit: Escape the crowds and head to Eschschloraque, an eccentric bar located at the end of a street art gallery.
Brighton, England
Often dubbed the ‘Gay Capital of the UK’, Brighton is an energetic and welcoming seaside city that has long been a haven for the LGBTQ+ community. With a strong sense of community, excellent anti-discrimination policies, and a diverse range of queer-owned businesses, it offers a safe and inclusive environment.
Brighton Pride, held every August, is one of the largest and most spectacular Pride events in the UK, featuring a massive parade and a festival in Preston Park. The Kemp Town area is the epicentre of the city’s gay scene, packed with pubs, bars, and clubs. Enjoy a stroll along the iconic Brighton Pier, explore the quirky shops of The Lanes, or relax on the pebble beach.
Must-Visit: The Marlborough Pub and Theatre, a historic queer venue known for its drag performances and progressive theatre.
Enjoy an Unforgettable Getaway with Secret Escapes’ Offers
When planning your European escape, remember that inclusivity extends beyond major city centres. Smaller towns and resorts in progressive countries often offer a warm welcome. Always do a little research on local customs and laws before you go, but ultimately, choose a destination where you feel comfortable being yourself.
Have the getaway of your dreams at a fraction of the cost with Secret Escapes’ unmissable offers on beach hotels, city breaks, and romantic escapes. For more travel advice and inspiration, deep dive further into the Escapist magazine, or get in touch for more information.