
Top 10 Most LGBTQ+ Friendly Travel Destinations Around the World
Canada, Netherlands, Sweden, New Zealand, Germany, Spain, United States, Australia, France & Uruguay are our top LGBTQ+ friendly travel destinations around the world and here is why…
Canada
- Why it ranks high: Legal same-sex marriage since 2005, strong anti-discrimination laws, and a deeply inclusive society.
- Where to go: Toronto and Vancouver have world-famous Pride festivals. Montreal boasts a dynamic queer nightlife.
- Tip: Check out Church-Wellesley Village in Toronto for LGBTQ+ culture and events.
Netherlands
- Why it ranks high: The first country to legalize same-sex marriage (2001), with a long history of LGBTQ+ rights and liberal values.
- Where to go: Amsterdam is iconic for its open-mindedness, gay bars, and the annual Canal Pride parade.
- Tip: Visit the Homomonument, a tribute to persecuted LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.
Sweden
- Why it ranks high: Strong LGBTQ+ protections, inclusive education, and a progressive social climate.
- Where to go: Stockholm and Gothenburg both host colourful Pride events and have a lively queer scene.
- Tip: The country is known for its gender-neutral approach and safe travel conditions.
New Zealand
- Why it ranks high: Consistently ranked one of the safest countries for LGBTQ+ travellers. Same-sex marriage is legal, and public support is high.
- Where to go: Wellington and Auckland for LGBTQ+ festivals, Queenstown for adventure tourism and inclusivity.
- Tip: Don’t miss the Out in the Park festival in Wellington.
Germany
- Why it ranks high: Diverse and vibrant LGBTQ+ community, strong legal protections, and history of queer culture.
- Where to go: Berlin is a queer capital of Europe, with decades of LGBTQ+ activism and nightlife.
- Tip: Visit during Christopher Street Day (Berlin Pride) for a city-wide celebration of love and rights.
Spain
- Why it ranks high: Same-sex marriage since 2005, open attitudes, and some of the world’s best Pride events.
- Where to go: Madrid’s Pride is one of Europe’s largest; Barcelona and Sitges are also top queer hot spots.
- Tip: Sitges, just outside Barcelona, is a beach side haven for LGBTQ+ travelers year-round.
United States
- Why it ranks high: LGBTQ+ rights vary by state, but many cities are incredibly inclusive and vibrant.
- Where to go: San Francisco, New York City, Los Angeles, and Portland have deeply rooted queer communities and activism.
- Tip: Celebrate Pride in NYC in June or check out queer history at the Stonewall National Monument.
Australia
- Why it ranks high: Legal same-sex marriage, public support for LGBTQ+ rights, and world-famous Pride events.
- Where to go: Sydney is home to Mardi Gras, one of the biggest LGBTQ+ festivals in the world. Melbourne and Brisbane also have strong queer scenes.
- Tip: Sydney WorldPride drew global attention to Australia’s queer culture — and it’s only growing.
France
- Why it ranks high: A leader in LGBTQ+ rights in Europe with anti-discrimination laws and vibrant cities.
- Where to go: Paris has a strong queer history and plenty of gay-friendly neighbourhoods. Lyon and Marseille are also increasingly inclusive.
- Tip: Visit the Marais in Paris — the city’s historic and cultural LGBTQ+ hub.
Uruguay
- Why it ranks high: One of Latin America’s most progressive nations for LGBTQ+ rights.
- Where to go: Montevideo is calm, queer-friendly, and hosts an annual Pride March.
- Tip: Uruguay is also a leader in transgender rights and healthcare inclusivity.
These countries don’t just tolerate LGBTQ+ travelers — they welcome and celebrate them. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, cultural history, or peaceful escapes, these destinations offer freedom, respect, and pride in every step of your journey.