Greece: Sun-Soaked Freedom
From the bustling nightlife of
Mykonos to the romantic quiet of Santorini, Greece continues to top the list for LGBT Mediterranean holidays. Its islands offer a mix of party and peace, ancient culture and cutting-edge cool.
How Gay Friendly is Greece?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1951
- Same-sex civil partnerships are recognised (since 2015)
- Discrimination based on sexuality is illegal
- Employment protections exist for LGBT workers
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion is improving, especially in tourist areas like Athens, Mykonos, and Thessaloniki
Where to Stay
Elysium Hotel, Mykonos – This exclusively gay hotel offers stunning sunset views, a lively atmosphere, and a famed sunset cocktail hour that draws travellers from across the globe.
Ask us about current offers at Elysium Hotel – we may have a package that suits your travel dates.
Spain: Celebration and Community
Spain combines a rich cultural heritage with a fun-loving spirit. Cities like
Barcelona,
Sitges, and
Ibiza are staples for LGBT travellers, and for good reason – they’ve perfected the art of inclusivity.
How Gay Friendly is Spain?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1979
- Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005
- Anti-discrimination laws are strong and well enforced
- Workplace protections are in place
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion is overwhelmingly supportive
Where to Stay
Axel Hotel Barcelona – Often referred to as “hetero-friendly,” Axel Hotels are designed with LGBT guests in mind, offering stylish comfort in the heart of the gay district.
We can personalise a city break to Barcelona that includes Axel Hotel and tailored excursions.
Italy: Romance with Pride
Italy is a feast for the senses – and increasingly, a destination for proud LGBT travellers. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples are growing in visibility, while coastlines such as Puglia welcome holidaymakers with charm and hospitality.
How Gay Friendly is Italy?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1890
- Same-sex civil unions have been recognised since 2016
- Anti-discrimination protections apply to employment
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion is improving, though varies by region
Where to Stay
Gallipoli’s gay beach clubs – While not exclusive hotels, Gallipoli in Puglia boasts some of the best gay beach clubs in Europe, with inclusive vibes and summer-long parties.
Let us arrange your perfect Gallipoli escape, with beachfront hotels and all transfers included.
France: Culture, Cuisine, and Queer History
France’s Riviera is legendary – and its capital is even more so. From Nice and Cannes to the backstreets of Le Marais in Paris, France offers LGBT travellers a mix of elegance and expression.
How Gay Friendly is France?
- Homosexuality decriminalised in 1791
- Same-sex marriage legal since 2013
- Comprehensive anti-discrimination laws
- Strong workplace protections for LGBT employees
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion is broadly positive, particularly in urban and tourist areas
Where to Stay
Hotel Amour, Paris – Stylish and known for its inclusive ethos, this boutique hotel attracts artists, lovers, and LGBT travellers looking for flair and fun.
We offer packages that include Hotel Amour with direct Eurostar travel and transfers.
Croatia: Emerging Pride on the Adriatic
Croatia might not be the first name that springs to mind, but it’s gaining momentum. Dubrovnik and Split are welcoming more LGBT tourists each year, especially during Pride season.
How Gay Friendly is Croatia?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1977
- Civil partnerships are recognised (since 2014)
- Discrimination based on sexuality is illegal
- Employment protections exist
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion is improving, especially among younger generations
Where to Stay
Split’s old town guesthouses – While Croatia lacks many dedicated gay-only hotels, several boutique guesthouses in Split proudly advertise LGBT-friendly policies.
Speak to us about tailor-made Croatian escapes with all your accommodation and activities arranged.
Malta: Small but Mighty
Malta has consistently ranked as one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world. Don’t be fooled by its size – Malta is a beacon of equality, pride, and island charm.
How Gay Friendly is Malta?
- Homosexuality legal since 1973
- Same-sex marriage legal since 2017
- Some of the world’s strongest anti-discrimination laws
- Comprehensive workplace protections
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion is very supportive
Where to Stay
AX The Palace, Sliema – This luxurious hotel is gay-welcoming, stylish, and close to Malta’s nightlife.
Ask us about current AX The Palace packages including flights and transfers.
LGBT Travel Protection with Wide Awake Holidays
We understand that LGBT travellers don’t just want safety – they want reassurance at every stage of the journey. When you book your LGBT Mediterranean holidays with Wide Awake Holidays, you’re not just choosing sunshine. You’re choosing protection and peace of mind.
Here’s what we include as standard:
- We’re a UK-based gay-owned travel company
- Members of Protected Trust Services for complete financial protection
- ATOL licensed for package holidays including flights
- All tailor-made holidays include Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance
- Personal travel service with one point of contact
- Access to over 200 suppliers so we can match the best options to your needs
It’s one more reason why many LGBT travellers trust us to plan their perfect escape.
What Makes a Gay Holiday Special?
A gay holiday isn’t just about where you go. It’s about how you feel when you get there. Do you feel safe holding your partner’s hand? Are you greeted with warmth, not confusion? Is the entertainment, the community, and the vibe right for you?
With Wide Awake Holidays, we ask those questions so you don’t have to. That’s why we say sometimes "gay-friendly" just isn’t friendly enough.
LGBT Mediterranean holidays should meet you with comfort, celebration, and care. You deserve to feel free.
Final Thoughts: The Mediterranean is Waiting
From the whitewashed walls of Santorini to the buzzing streets of Barcelona, LGBT Mediterranean holidays create space for joy, exploration, and connection. Whether you’re booking a romantic getaway or your first Pride abroad, the destinations above offer something memorable and meaningful.
And you never have to do it alone.
Wide Awake Holidays is here to make every part of your journey easier and safer. From your first quote to the final flight home, we take care of the details so you can focus on the experience.
Let us help you design a Mediterranean holiday that matches who you are.
Call us today on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form to start planning your perfect trip.
