What makes a city feel like home when you're far away? For many LGBT+ travellers, it's about more than sights and sunshine. It's about feeling safe, welcomed, and free to be yourself. That's why we’ve created this guide to the best LGBT
cities—places where pride isn't confined to one weekend and diversity lives on every street.
At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe that sometimes "gay-friendly" just isn’t friendly enough. As a gay-owned UK travel company and proud member of
Protected Trust Services with ATOL protection, we tailor-make every holiday to suit you. Whether you’re heading out for the first time or you’re a seasoned rainbow traveller, we’ve handpicked these five cities because they don’t just tolerate LGBT+ visitors—they celebrate them.
Let’s get started with the cities that truly shine.
1. London: Bold, Diverse, and Always Moving
From Soho’s historic gay pubs to Vauxhall’s after-hours dance floors, London pulses with queer life. It’s one of the best LGBT cities because it offers history, culture, and community in every borough. You can find drag brunches, queer theatre, and trans-inclusive wellness spaces all within the same weekend.
Walk through the streets of Shoreditch. Spend an afternoon at the Bishopsgate Institute browsing its queer archive. Then step into Heaven or Dalston Superstore for an unforgettable night.
How Gay Friendly is London?
- Homosexuality was decriminalised in England and Wales in 1967.
- Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2014.
- Discrimination based on sexuality is banned under the Equality Act 2010.
- LGBT+ employees have full protection at work.
- The age of consent has been equal since 2001.
- Public support is high, particularly in cities like London.
We’ve got some excellent central hotels perfect for Pride weekends and beyond. Speak to us to see what offers we currently have available.
2. Berlin: Where Expression Reigns
Berlin has always been one of Europe’s queer capitals. Even before the 1920s, it had a reputation for sexual freedom. Today, the city’s LGBT+ scene is electrifying. Schöneberg is where you’ll find traditional gay bars and rainbow crossings. Kreuzberg offers art, community events, and queer feminist spaces.
This city never judges. Whether you’re in fetish gear at Folsom or sipping wine by the Spree, Berlin meets you as you are.
How Gay Friendly is Berlin?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1969.
- Germany legalised same-sex marriage in 2017.
- Anti-discrimination laws include sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Strong protections exist for LGBT+ workers.
- Equal age of consent is enforced.
- Berlin's public opinion is progressive and inclusive.
Ask us about packages that include central accommodation near Berlin’s most iconic LGBT+ districts.
3. Barcelona: Sun, Style, and a Whole Lot of Pride
Barcelona wears its rainbow with style. It’s one of the best LGBT cities because of its natural blend of beach life, nightlife, and open-minded energy. The Gayxample district is the heart of the city’s queer culture. You'll find boutique hotels, drag shows, and bars that spill into the street with laughter and music.
Pride Barcelona in July draws huge crowds, but every season has its charm. Tapas, art, sunshine—what more could you need?
How Gay Friendly is Barcelona?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1979.
- Spain legalised same-sex marriage in 2005.
- Discrimination based on sexuality or gender identity is illegal.
- Strong workplace protections for LGBT+ people exist.
- The age of consent is equal.
- Urban areas like Barcelona are highly supportive and inclusive.
We often run deals on beachside hotels near Gayxample. Contact us to find the best match for your travel style.
4. Amsterdam: Classic, Cool, and Deeply Inclusive
Amsterdam has always led the way. It was the first country to legalise same-sex marriage and has long stood as a beacon of tolerance. But the Dutch don’t do showy—Amsterdam’s inclusivity is quiet, confident, and deeply rooted.
Wander through Reguliersdwarsstraat for bars and clubs. Take a canal cruise. Visit the Homomonument near the Anne Frank House. There’s a calm pride here that makes the city unforgettable.
How Gay Friendly is Amsterdam?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1811.
- Same-sex marriage was legalised in 2001.
- Anti-discrimination laws are some of the strongest in Europe.
- Employment rights for LGBT+ staff are well protected.
- Equal age of consent is standard.
- Dutch public opinion is overwhelmingly supportive.
Let us find you a canal-side hotel that’s close to both history and nightlife. Ask about current Amsterdam deals.
5. Ibiza: Where You Can Be Wild or Still
Ibiza is more than just a party island. Yes, you’ll find clubs with laser lights until sunrise. But you’ll also find boutique hotels, yoga retreats, and quiet coves for early morning swims.
The island’s queer spirit is strong in Ibiza Town and San Antonio. You'll find sunset bars, gay beaches, and legendary nights. But you can also find peace. It’s this balance that makes Ibiza one of the best LGBT cities to visit.
How Gay Friendly is Ibiza?
- Spain's laws apply—homosexuality has been legal since 1979.
- Same-sex marriage is legal nationwide since 2005.
- Anti-discrimination protections are in place.
- LGBT+ workers have legal equality.
- The age of consent is equal.
- Ibiza’s local culture is laid-back and accepting, especially toward LGBT visitors.
Speak to us about tailored packages that include clubs, beaches, and boutique stays.
Jamie Says: “The best LGBT cities offer more than nightlife. They give you the space to be yourself—whether that’s dancing at 2am or relaxing at 2pm. That’s why we love planning holidays that match your vibe.”
Why Travel with Wide Awake Holidays?
At Wide Awake Holidays, we understand the details that matter. We know you want more than just a holiday. You want safety, authenticity, and spaces where being LGBT+ is normal, not notable.
Here’s what you get when you book with us:
- Personal travel service from a gay-owned UK company
- ATOL protection on flight-inclusive holidays
- Membership of Protected Trust Services, keeping your money in a secure trust account
- Supplier Failure Insurance (SFI)
- Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance (SAFI)
- Tailor-made holidays with access to over 200 trusted suppliers
You don’t just book a trip. You book peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Ready to Explore the Best LGBT Cities?
Whether you're drawn to Ibiza's sunsets or Berlin's underground beats, there's a city that matches your mood. Travel is about freedom—freedom to discover, dance, and feel completely at ease. And when you travel with Wide Awake Holidays, you do it on your terms.
So, where will you go next?
Call us on
01495 400947 or use our online holiday enquiry form. Let’s craft your perfect escape together.
From the UK to anywhere the rainbow touches, we’re here to help you feel at home.
