Love has no boundaries, especially in Europe. The continent welcomes everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community, with open arms. At least some parts of it. Big cities like London and Berlin are buzzing with life, offering endless opportunities for cultural exploration.
But if you prefer nature…
The majestic Swiss Alps and the famous Croatian islands provide stunning settings for outdoor adventures and romantic moments.
Yet all the beauty and culture aren’t worth much if you can’t relax, so this article will focus on places where LGBTQ+ members can feel more than welcome. Each is perfect for exploring historic landmarks, devouring local dishes, or simply existing together with nature.
Online Dating and Matchmaking: Connecting LGBT Travel Enthusiasts
While some people love traveling alone, some can’t stand it. But the same as traveling became simpler, so has dating. Meeting new people is simpler than ever. The era of wasting time on general dating platforms where members have to guess what people want is over. It’s been replaced by the era of niche sites focused on specific groups of people and relationship types.
LGBTQ+ members love that because niche sites let them stay relaxed and still meet partners. One example of a good LGBT dating platform is LesbieMates.com – lesbian dating site with members in the US and across Europe.
There’s no guessing what someone wants on that site. After going through the free registration, girls can use manual filters to check members in the area or the area they want to visit next.
That makes traveling more authentic because having a local guide you can also hook up with makes visiting LGBT-friendly cities even better. On that note, here are the top European cities to visit if you’re gay.
LGBT-Friendly Travel Destinations in Europe
The cities below are ideal if you have a person to go with, plan to meet someone there, or want to feel the atmosphere of an LGBT-friendly city.
Spain
Spain is known for its LGBTQA+ scene, especially in Madrid and Barcelona. Must-visit places include Chueca in Madrid and Eixample in Barcelona, where you’ll find numerous LGBTQA+ bars, clubs, and cafes. Avoid areas with conservative populations, especially in rural areas.
Prices in Spain are generally lower than in other Western European countries, offering great value for travelers. The best time to visit is during the Pride season in June. Madrid Pride is one of the largest and most celebrated events of the LGBT season. Other good events include Sitges Pride in July and Circuit Festival in August.
Netherlands
The Netherlands, especially Amsterdam, is known for its open and accepting attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community. Reguliersdwarsstraat and Amstel area are popular LGBTQ+ hotspots in Amsterdam. Prices in the Netherlands are moderate to high, especially in tourist areas.
The best time to visit is during Amsterdam Pride in August. It’s one of the most colorful LGBTQ+ in Europe. Rotterdam Pride in September and Utrecht Canal Pride in June are also great.
Portugal
Portugal, especially Lisbon and Porto, has a growing LGBTQA+ scene. The Principe Real district in Lisbon and Rua da Galeria de Paris in Porto are known for LGBTQ+ nightlife. Avoid small towns where attitudes may be less accepting.
Prices in Portugal are lower compared to other Western European countries. The best time to visit is during Lisbon Pride in June, followed by Porto Pride in July. Lisbon also hosts the Arraial Lisboa Pride.
Sweden
Sweden is known for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, with Stockholm being a very welcoming city. Södermalm and Gamla Stan in Stockholm are hot LGBTQ+ areas. It’s still possible to stumble upon rural areas with conservative populations, although Sweden is generally accepting.
Prices in Sweden are among the highest in Europe, especially in major cities. The best time to visit is during Stockholm Pride in July, one of the largest Pride festivals in Scandinavia. Gothenburg also hosts West Pride in June, and Malmö hosts its Pride festival in July.
Iceland
Iceland is known for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity and progressive attitudes. Reykjavik has a small but thriving LGBTQ+ scene, with Laugavegur Street being a popular area. Prices in Iceland are higher than in most other European countries.
The best time to visit is at Reykjavik Pride in August, a colorful and festive event celebrating diversity. Additionally, Iceland Airwaves in November often features LGBTQ+ performers and events, making it a great time to visit for music lovers.
As you can see, the best part of the year to visit places from our list of LGBTQ-friendly places is summer. But with decent planning and compromise, you can have fun whenever you decide to visit Europe. And the overall experience might be even better if you learn to anticipate and avoid accidents while traveling.
