Happy Pride! Since June is a month dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the LGBTQIA+ community, we want to highlight some of the best cities around the world known for their queer-friendly atmosphere and fun Pride celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation spot, want to explore a new culture, or want to take part in the Pride celebrations yourself, these cities all have something special to offer.
Here are some incredible places to visit Summer vacation feel welcome, inspired and free.
1) New York City, USA
New York City is often referred to as the queer capital of the world. The West Village is the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement at the Stonewall Inn. Technically, it started on Christopher Street, which you may already know from the Pride Parade name “Christopher Street Day” used here.
The New York Pride Parade, held every June, attracts millions of participants and spectators, making it one of the largest and most joyful Pride events in the world. Beyond Pride, NYC is a melting pot of cultures and identities. The city has everything to offer, from museums and cultural institutions to LGBTQIA+-friendly neighborhoods like Hell’s Kitchen and Chelsea.
2) London, England
London is an inclusive place where everyone is welcome – from the historic LGBTQIA+ district of Soho to the eclectic vibes of Camden. Soho is still the center of the queer community with numerous shops, restaurants and bars. The city’s Pride event is one of the largest in Europe and includes a parade in central London, culminating in a festival in the iconic Trafalgar Square.
3) St Julian’s, Malta
Despite being one of the smallest countries in Europe, Malta is known for its inclusivity, cultural heritage and beautiful beaches. Malta has been ranked number 1 in Europe by the Rainbow Index for the 8th consecutive year for its equal rights and policies towards the queer community.
St. Julian’s in Malta could be a hidden gem for LGBTQIA+ travelers. This Mediterranean island offers breathtaking views, beautiful beaches and a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and inclusive spirit of this charming destination.
4) Berlin, Germany
Berlin has a long and fascinating LGBTQIA+ history. From its unique culture to its vibrant nightlife, the city is home to an eclectic and modern scene that attracts visitors from all over the world. With several queer-friendly districts, Schöneberg offers a range of bars, clubs and cultural institutions worth visiting. Berlin is also celebrating Pride for a whole month – the march in July is taking place for the 40th time.
5) Los Angeles, USA
Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world and, with its vibrant queer scene, is a great place to discover local creativity and diversity. West Hollywood or WeHo is the epicenter of LGBTQIA+ life in LA, where there are countless places to explore. For a truly unforgettable experience, don’t miss the annual Latin-flavored LA Pride weeks. The event offers numerous cultural events, concerts, parties and a large parade.
6) Barcelona, Spain
Spain has long been a leader in LGBTQIA+ rights. The country has numerous laws that ensure equal rights and protections for the queer community, including those who identify as non-binary and trans. Barcelona’s warm and vibrant queer scene is centered in the Eixample – a historic district that is one of the largest LGBTQIA+ districts in Europe. There you will find a variety of queer-friendly bars, cafes, shops and restaurants.
7) Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is known for its historic charm and progressive stance on LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusivity. The city’s annual pride celebration, Amsterdam Pride, is unique for its canal parade, where beautifully decorated boats cruise the city’s canals. Bike through the Reguliersdwarsstraat neighborhood to get a taste of Amsterdam’s vibrant queer culture and nightlife.
8) Copenhagen, Denmark
Denmark is known for its queer-friendly, inclusive culture and was the first country in the world to recognize same-sex relationships. Copenhagen has been called the most accepting city in the world and was home to the first openly gay bar in Europe in 1950.
The diverse cultural scene, beautiful architecture and friendly locals make the city a worthwhile destination. Copenhagen Pride Week takes place in August and features parades, lectures and parties. Be sure to visit Studiumstræde on Indre By, a street known for its LGBTQIA+ bars and cafes.
9) Brighton, England
Brighton is known for its bohemian atmosphere and is home to a dynamic LGBTQIA+ scene. The city by the sea has a lot to offer – relax on the beach, stroll through the colorful streets and let yourself be carried away by the welcoming atmosphere of the city. Brighton is full of queer-friendly bars, cafes and shops, particularly in the Kemptown district. Although the city is famous for its Pride celebrations in August, Brighton is a wonderful place to explore and celebrate diversity all year round.
10) Toronto, Canada
Canada is the most liberal country in North America, and Toronto is known for its inclusivity and friendly atmosphere. Church and Wellesley Village, Toronto’s famous LGBTQIA+ neighborhood, is full of lively bars, cool cafes and chic boutiques. The city is home to numerous events celebrating the queer community, such as the famous Pride Week and March. Toronto’s charm combined with its great diversity and multicultural arts scene makes the city an excellent choice for your list.
11) Sydney, Australia
Australia has long been a welcoming place for the queer community, and Sydney in particular has gained a global reputation for its inclusivity. Take advantage of summer in the southern hemisphere and visit the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras in Sydney in February – a world-renowned celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride and diversity. The city’s vibrant queer neighborhoods, like the city center’s dazzling Darlinghurst, combine nightlife, art, food and shopping.
12) Mexico City, Mexico
Over the years, Mexico has become increasingly LGBTQIA+ friendly and has taken measures to protect and support the community. As one of the country’s largest and most progressive cities, Mexico City combines a rich history with modern culture and exciting cuisine. The Zona Rosa district is the heart of queer nightlife with its numerous clubs, bars and cultural institutions. The Mexico City Pride parade takes place every June. It is one of the largest in the world and attracts over a million people to take part in the fiesta every year.
13) Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is celebrated not only as one of Africa’s most queer-friendly cities, but also for its stunning natural beauty, sunny weather and magnificent beaches. There are a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants in the city, especially in the De Waterkant district, the center of LGBTQIA+ life. The city’s picturesque landscapes and diverse cultural offerings make it a popular and accepting haven for LGBTQIA+ visitors.
