Why You Should Visit Scandinavia for Your Next LGBT Holiday

From rainbow-painted streets to serene fjords, gay holidays to Scandinavia offer more than just postcard views. They give you freedom, safety, and a real sense of belonging. If you’ve been chasing that feeling where “gay friendly” finally means genuinely welcoming, you’ll find it here. Scandinavia gets it right — and it’s time you experienced that for yourself.

Whether you’re planning your first LGBT trip or you’ve danced under the northern lights a dozen times, this guide breaks it down country by country. We’ll highlight must-see places, LGBT+ legal protections, and exclusive tour experiences tailored to queer travellers who want something more.

Let’s get you inspired.

Why Choose Scandinavia for Your Next Getaway?

Scandinavia has built a solid reputation as one of the most progressive, inclusive, and socially responsible regions in the world.

And it’s not just about policies. It’s about the people.

You’ll notice it in the way staff greet you at hotels, how easily same-sex couples blend into everyday life, and the comfort of travelling without looking over your shoulder.

Here’s why Scandinavia should top your LGBT+ travel wish list:

• Strong LGBT+ legal rights and social acceptance
• Rich culture balanced with modern design
• Stunning landscapes — think fjords, forests, and Arctic light
• Stylish, inclusive nightlife and Pride events
• Safe public transport and low crime rates
• Direct flights from the UK to major cities

Now, let’s dive into each country.

Gay Holidays to Scandinavia: Sweden

Sweden consistently ranks among the best destinations in the world for LGBT travellers — and for good reason. This is a place where inclusivity is not just tolerated, it’s actively celebrated.

Where to Go in Sweden

• Stockholm – A clean, open-minded capital with cosy cafés, chic bars, and Stockholm Pride — one of the largest in Europe.
• Gothenburg – The west coast’s answer to Stockholm, with relaxed vibes, great food, and rainbow-painted trams.
• Malmö – A youthful city that blends sustainability with open attitudes and great nightlife.

Planning your trip around Stockholm Pride in August? You’ll be in good company. With events spread over an entire week, it’s the kind of celebration that puts joy and protest in perfect balance.

Consider booking a few nights at the Berns Hotel – a luxurious, LGBTQ+ friendly choice in the heart of Stockholm’s city centre. It’s stylish, central, and perfect for couples or groups.

Speak to us about our current offers for Berns Hotel stays when booking your gay holiday to Sweden.

How Gay Friendly is Sweden?

• Homosexuality legal since: 1944
• Same-sex marriage recognised: 2009
• Anti-discrimination laws: Yes, strong protections in employment, goods, and services
• LGBT employment protections: Fully protected under Swedish law
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Hugely positive; Swedes are known for being progressive and accepting

Gay Holidays to Scandinavia: Denmark

When Denmark became the first country in the world to legally recognise same-sex partnerships in 1989, it made a statement that still echoes today. And Copenhagen, the capital, is a living symbol of that history — fun, creative, and proud.

Where to Go in Denmark

• Copenhagen – Denmark’s crown jewel for queer travellers. It’s friendly, energetic, and full of places to connect.
• Aarhus – A quieter option, ideal if you’re after culture, art, and an authentic Danish pace.

In Copenhagen, you’ll find places like Centralhjørnet — one of the oldest gay bars in Europe — side by side with floating saunas and cool design hotels.

Hotel SP34 is a fabulous base for exploring the city. It has a boutique feel with warm service and a modern aesthetic that fits the city’s vibe perfectly.

Ask us about current promotions at Hotel SP34 when booking your Danish getaway.

How Gay Friendly is Denmark?

• Homosexuality legal since: 1933
• Same-sex marriage recognised: 2012
• Anti-discrimination laws: Yes, covering all major areas
• LGBT employment protections: Yes
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Widely accepting; Danes are famously tolerant and relaxed

Jamie Says:

“Scandinavia is where inclusive travel feels natural. It’s not about ticking boxes — it’s about being free to enjoy your holiday exactly how you want to. That’s why our tailored trips here are so popular.”

Gay Holidays to Scandinavia: Norway

Norway isn’t just breathtaking – it’s bold, welcoming, and effortlessly cool. Whether you’re cruising the fjords or strolling through Oslo, you’ll feel like you belong.

And that’s exactly the point.

Where to Go in Norway

• Oslo – Norway’s capital is modern and progressive. Pride events light up the city each June, with strong community support.
• Bergen – Surrounded by mountains and fjords, this artsy city blends dramatic scenery with a growing LGBT+ scene.
• Tromsø – Ideal for chasing the northern lights in winter or experiencing the midnight sun in summer.

Pride in Oslo is one of Scandinavia’s best-kept secrets. It’s vibrant and full of heart, with cultural events as much as parties. You’ll also find inclusive spas and friendly cafés tucked into the city’s beautiful neighbourhoods.

Amerikalinjen is a top choice for LGBT travellers. Located right by the central station, it combines historic architecture with sleek interiors.

Let us know if you’d like to include an Amerikalinjen stay in your next Norway escape — we may have an offer available.

How Gay Friendly is Norway?

• Homosexuality legal since: 1972
• Same-sex marriage recognised: 2009
• Anti-discrimination laws: Yes – strong protections in law and daily life
• LGBT employment protections: Comprehensive
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Supportive and affirming – Norway is often ranked among the top countries for LGBT+ rights

Gay Holidays to Scandinavia: Finland

Finland is often overlooked — and that’s a mistake. For travellers who want authenticity, peace, and a chance to slow down, this is the one.

And yes, it's proudly queer-friendly too.

Where to Go in Finland

• Helsinki – Finland’s capital is clean, stylish, and LGBTQ+ inclusive. Don’t miss Helsinki Pride in late June.
• Rovaniemi – Fancy a winter wonderland experience? This Lapland town is the “official” home of Santa Claus — and same-sex couples are just as welcome.

You’ll find quirky design hotels, open-air saunas, and cafes where you can relax without any second guessing.

Lilla Roberts in Helsinki is a warm, art deco-inspired hotel with a reputation for treating all guests equally and kindly.

If Lilla Roberts is your vibe, let’s check if we can include it in a holiday package for you.

How Gay Friendly is Finland?

• Homosexuality legal since: 1971
• Same-sex marriage recognised: 2017
• Anti-discrimination laws: Yes – protected in employment and services
• LGBT employment protections: Strong
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Growing acceptance — younger generations in particular are highly supportive

Gay Holidays to Scandinavia: Iceland

Iceland punches well above its weight when it comes to LGBT+ equality. It’s a small island with a big heart — and a fearless sense of identity.

This is a place where Pride means pride in community, culture, and care for each other.

Where to Go in Iceland

• Reykjavík – The capital city feels more like a village. Expect open attitudes, cosy bars, and a welcoming energy that wraps around you.
• Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle – Iconic attractions that remain inclusive to all travellers.

Reykjavík Pride, held each August, is a city-wide celebration. It's inclusive, family-friendly, and set against the stunning natural backdrop Iceland is known for.

Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre is a favourite among our LGBT+ travellers — combining comfort, design, and location in one.

Enquire with us to see if we’ve got a special rate for Canopy by Hilton in your preferred dates.

How Gay Friendly is Iceland?

• Homosexuality legal since: 1940
• Same-sex marriage recognised: 2010
• Anti-discrimination laws: Yes – robust and enforced
• LGBT employment protections: Yes
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Exceptionally high support – Icelanders are known for their warmth and openness

Discover Our Gay Scandinavia Tour

If you’d rather skip the planning and enjoy a journey crafted by LGBT+ travel specialists, our Gay Scandinavia Tour might be just what you need.

This curated adventure combines the best of Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Oslo with local guides, handpicked hotels, and experiences that connect you with the LGBT+ heartbeat of each city.

Highlights include:

• Sunset canal cruise in Copenhagen
• LGBT history walking tour in Stockholm
• Rainbow Night Dinner Party in Oslo
• Optional fjord extension in Norway
• Boutique hotel stays with breakfast
• Transfers, support, and an experienced LGBT+ tour leader

It’s social without being overwhelming. Structured but flexible. And designed to feel like a safe, enriching holiday — not just a checklist of sights.

This tour is open to solo travellers, couples, and small groups of friends. Everyone is welcome, and everyone is respected.

Want to know more about this unforgettable experience? Let’s talk dates and availability that work for you.

Book with Confidence: The Wide Awake Holidays Difference

Planning a holiday should be exciting, not stressful. At Wide Awake Holidays, we do more than just tick the boxes of a typical travel agency. We create holidays that feel personal, safe, and joyful from start to finish — and we back that up with robust financial and consumer protection.

When you book a tailor-made holiday through us, you benefit from the following safeguards:

• Protected Trust Services (PTS) membership
  Your money is fully protected in a trust account, meaning it’s only used to pay for your holiday. We follow strict rules that put you, the customer, first.
• ATOL Protection
  If your holiday includes flights, you’ll receive an ATOL certificate. This protects your money and ensures that, should anything happen, you’re either refunded or flown home without added cost.
• Supplier Failure Insurance (SFI)
  If any supplier we use ceases trading before your departure, you’re covered. Your holiday plans stay intact.
• Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance (SAFI)
  In the unlikely event that an airline fails, this protection means your flights will be rebooked or refunded without the drama.

You can rest easy knowing that your money, your itinerary, and your wellbeing are all in safe hands.

We understand the added importance of trust when planning LGBT+ travel. That’s why everything we do is designed to offer security and peace of mind.

Why Gay Holidays to Scandinavia Are Different

Travelling in Scandinavia isn’t just about seeing new places — it’s about how those places make you feel.

There’s a quiet confidence in being able to hold hands with your partner in public. A sense of calm in not having to come out at every hotel check-in. A warmth that comes from feeling truly welcome, not just tolerated.

These countries aren’t perfect — no place is. But the baseline is high. You won’t need to second-guess the look from the concierge. Or wonder if you can be yourself at breakfast. And that’s the kind of holiday everyone deserves.

You don’t need to settle for “friendly enough.” Choose a destination — and a travel company — that’s genuinely on your side.

Ready to Start Your Scandinavian Story?

At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe that LGBT+ travel should be safe, personal, and unforgettable. Whether you're joining our Gay Scandinavia Tour, planning your honeymoon in Oslo, or just fancy a long weekend exploring Copenhagen’s art scene, we’re here to make it happen.

You won’t find generic package deals or cookie-cutter itineraries. What you’ll get instead is:

• Real advice from people who understand LGBT+ travel
• Honest recommendations that suit you
• A trip you’ll talk about for years

Call us on 01495 400947 to speak to someone who genuinely cares about getting it right. Or use our simple holiday enquiry form on the Wide Awake Holidays website to get started.

Your next great adventure is waiting. Let’s make it extraordinary — together.