Pride weekends are more than parties. They're powerful celebrations of identity, visibility, and community. Whether you've danced your way through multiple parades or are thinking about attending your first ever Pride event abroad, there's a whole world of vibrant destinations waiting for you.
At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe that sometimes “gay friendly” simply isn’t friendly enough. As a gay-owned UK travel company, we create personal and inclusive travel experiences where you're not just welcomed—you belong. From curated Pride weekends to fully tailor-made holidays that align with your values, we’re here to ensure your next adventure is filled with pride, joy, and peace of mind.
Let’s explore the top LGBT+ destinations for Pride season—and why your next gay holiday could be the most affirming one yet.
What Makes Pride Weekends So Special?
Pride weekends aren't just about rainbow flags and music (though there's plenty of that). They’re about reclaiming space, amplifying queer voices, and embracing unapologetic joy.
These events create a global heartbeat of solidarity. You'll meet people from every walk of life—dancing in the streets, marching for progress, and celebrating how far we’ve come. It’s powerful, it’s emotional, and it’s unforgettable.
If you’ve never been to a Pride abroad before, now’s the time.
London Pride: Big, Bold, and Beautiful
Every summer, London transforms into a sea of colour. Pride in London is one of the biggest in Europe, attracting around 1.5 million attendees. The parade starts near Hyde Park and winds its way through the capital, with festivities stretching from Soho to the South Bank.
Expect major stage acts, inclusive spaces for all identities, and a programme that reflects the rich diversity of the UK’s LGBT+ community.
Where to stay:
The W London – Leicester Square places you right in the heart of the action. Glamorous, stylish, and proudly inclusive, it’s the perfect base for your Pride weekend in the capital.
Ask us about exclusive offers at W London.
How Gay Friendly is London?
- Homosexuality legal since: 1967
- Same-sex marriage legal: 2014
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes, across public services, housing, and goods
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes, 16
- Public opinion: Overwhelmingly supportive, especially in urban areas
Madrid Pride: Europe’s Largest LGBT+ Party
Madrid’s “Orgullo” is world-famous. Over a million people flood the streets for a week-long celebration in the historic Chueca neighbourhood. The parade is just the beginning—expect rooftop parties, live music, and plenty of Spanish flair.
Madrid is also home to cultural Pride events like the MADO Festival, so there’s something for everyone whether you’re there to party or explore Spain’s LGBT+ heritage.
Where to stay:
Axel Hotel Madrid is located in the Chueca district and proudly markets itself as “hetero-friendly”—but make no mistake, this is a haven for LGBT+ travellers.
Ask us about current Pride packages for Axel Hotel.
How Gay Friendly is Madrid?
- Homosexuality legal since: 1979
- Same-sex marriage legal: 2005
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes, 16
- Public opinion: Extremely positive, especially in cities like Madrid and Barcelona
Amsterdam Pride: Boats, Beats, and Bold Visibility
Forget roads. In Amsterdam, the parade floats along the canals. Amsterdam Pride’s famous boat parade is like nothing else—over 80 boats cruise through the city centre, turning the entire area into a floating rainbow.
Parties and cultural events continue throughout the week, with plenty of safe spaces for trans, non-binary, and queer people of all identities.
Where to stay:
The Hoxton, Amsterdam offers modern luxury in the heart of the city, and its inclusive atmosphere makes it a favourite among queer travellers.
Enquire now for our special Pride weekend package deals.
How Gay Friendly is Amsterdam?
- Homosexuality legal since: 1811
- Same-sex marriage legal: 2001 (first country in the world)
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes, 16
- Public opinion: Very accepting—Amsterdam is one of the world’s most gay-friendly cities
Berlin Pride: Where History Meets Activism
Also known as Christopher Street Day (CSD), Berlin’s Pride weekend is both political and celebratory. It honours the legacy of protest that birthed the Pride movement while throwing one of Europe’s most energetic parades.
Berlin is a place where queer culture thrives—clubs, art spaces, and community events blend into a city that truly embraces everyone.
Where to stay:
25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin is hip, fun, and centrally located with easy access to the parade route.
Speak to us about available Pride weekend offers at 25hours Hotel.
How Gay Friendly is Berlin?
- Homosexuality legal since: 1969
- Same-sex marriage legal: 2017
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes, 14 (with peer exemptions)
- Public opinion: Strongly supportive, especially in Berlin
New York City Pride: The Heart of the Movement
New York Pride is a must. It commemorates the Stonewall Uprising of 1969—the birth of the modern LGBT+ rights movement. The parade, which attracts millions, is just the headline event in a week filled with rallies, parties, art exhibitions, and cultural programming.
There’s something deeply moving about celebrating Pride in the city where it all began.
Where to stay:
The Standard, High Line sits right in the middle of Manhattan’s Meatpacking District and is known for its high-end inclusivity.
Let us know if you want to take advantage of our Pride travel packages for NYC.
How Gay Friendly is New York?
- Homosexuality legal since: 2003 (state protections earlier)
- Same-sex marriage legal: 2011
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes, 17
- Public opinion: Widely positive, especially in urban areas like NYC
Sydney Mardi Gras: Pride with a Summer Twist
While most of the world celebrates Pride in June or July, Sydney throws its epic Mardi Gras in February. Expect vibrant costumes, beach parties, and a spectacular parade through Oxford Street.
Australia’s Pride scene is joyful, welcoming, and filled with heart. It’s also a great escape from the British winter.
Where to stay:
QT Sydney is a stylish, inclusive hotel with a cheeky personality—perfect for a playful Pride stay.
Ask us about available Mardi Gras packages and early booking perks.
How Gay Friendly is Sydney?
- Homosexuality legal since: 1997
- Same-sex marriage legal: 2017
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes, 16
- Public opinion: Very supportive, particularly in urban centres
Why Choose Wide Awake Holidays?
We don’t just book trips. We help you travel with confidence, safety, and joy.
Here’s what makes us different:
- LGBT+ Owned & Operated: We know what real inclusion looks like
- Personal Travel Service: We tailor everything to your needs, style, and budget
- Over 200 Suppliers: Access to a wide network of hotels, tour operators, and packages
- Peace of Mind: All tailor-made holidays include Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance
- Fully Protected: We're members of Protected Trust Services and hold an ATOL licence, so your money is always safe
Jamie Says:
“Pride isn’t just a weekend—it’s a reminder that you deserve joy, freedom, and celebration every day. That’s why every holiday we create is designed to let you show up as your full self.”
Not Sure Where to Start?
You don’t have to plan it alone. Whether you're looking for a buzzing Pride parade in Europe or a tropical celebration across the globe, we’ll make it easy and stress-free.
From booking your flights to reserving inclusive hotels in the heart of the action, we’ve got every detail covered. And if you’re new to Pride weekends, we’ll help you choose a destination that matches your vibe—whether that’s full-on party or something more relaxed.
So, where will you go this Pride season?
Let’s make your Pride weekend unforgettable. Call us on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form on the website to start planning today.
