Top 10 LGBTQ+ Friendly Destinations Around The World

OT Staff

Toronto, Canada

Toronto is known for its inclusive LGBTQ+ community, centred in the Church-Wellesley Village. The city hosts various events, including Pride Toronto, and Canada's progressive laws and welcoming populace make it appealing to LGBTQ+ travellers.

Aerial View of Pride Parade at Yonge-Dundas Square | Shutterstock

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001. The city has vibrant Pride celebrations, numerous gay bars and clubs, and a generally welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ travellers.

A colourful gay bar seen on Reguliersdwarsstraat, Amsterdam, the Netherlands | Shutterstock

San Francisco, United States

San Francisco is known as the LGBTQ+ capital of the world. The city's Castro District is a focal point of LGBTQ+ culture and historically significant in the fight for gay rights.

People watching Pride Parade on Market Street, San Francisco | Shutterstock

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is known for its diverse LGBTQ+ scene, offering queer-friendly events and vibrant clubs and bars, making it a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Famous Brandenburger Tor, one of the best-known landmarks and national symbols of Germany | Shutterstock

Sydney, Australia

Sydney hosts the world-famous Mardi Gras Parade, one of the largest and most vibrant LGBTQ+ celebrations globally. The city's inclusive policies, supportive community, and picturesque beaches like Bondi make it a top destination for LGBTQ+ visitors seeking both celebration and relaxation.

Snap shots at the crowd of people on their balconies, cheering for the Sydney Mardi Gras 2019 Festival | Shutterstock

Madrid, Spain

Madrid's LGBTQ+ friendliness is showcased in its lively Chueca neighbourhood, known for its gay bars, clubs, and cultural events. The city's annual Pride celebration, one of the largest in Europe, illustrates Madrid's commitment to equality and diversity, drawing millions of visitors each year.

Drag queen in gay pride day in front of the Madrid city hall building carrying the flag of Venezuela | Shutterstock

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, the first country to recognise same-sex partnerships in 1989, is a beacon of LGBTQ+ rights. The city hosts Copenhagen Pride and offers gay-friendly bars, events, and historical sites, making it a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ visitors.

Building in Centre Copenhagen with the pride flag celebrate Pride Festival | Shutterstock

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is Africa's most LGBTQ+ friendly city, with a vibrant Cape Town Pride and a thriving queer nightlife. Progressive anti-discrimination laws and an active LGBTQ+ community make it a safe and welcoming destination.

Cafe Heaven is a restaurant popular with both tourists and locals | Shutterstock

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is known for its progressive LGBTQ+ rights, including same-sex marriage and adoption. The city hosts Reykjavik Pride and offers a friendly, inclusive environment, making it a top choice for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Main pedestrian street coloured with pride colours after gay parade | Shutterstock

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is renowned for its LGBTQ+ friendliness. It hosts an annual Pride Festival and is home to the iconic RainbowHouse, which organises events and provides year-round support. Belgium's progressive laws, including the early legalisation of same-sex marriage, contribute to an inclusive atmosphere in the capital.

Belgian Pride Festival, 2018 | Shutterstock

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