Pride festivals in Europe are among the best in the world, though true acceptance requires more than a parade. The best LGBTQ+ destinations in Europe foster diverse communities where visitors, residents, and allies can all feel safe in their own skin.
European society is increasingly welcoming, accepting, and advocating for the members and allies of the LGBTQ+ community.
While each country has its own history of inequality to reconcile with, many nations across the continent are making great political and practical strides to foster safe spaces for both locals and international visitors.
From big cities with thriving LGBT districts to small progressive countries that lead the world in gay rights, the best LGBTQ+ destinations in Europe are more accessible than you realize.
Best LGBTQ+ Destinations in Europe
England
For many years, Britain was ranked as one of the friendliest places in Europe for the LGBTQ+ community, according to the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map. Though its ranking may have slipped in recent years, the UK still strongly celebrates its growing LGBT+ community throughout the year, particularly during Pride.
London Pride 2023
London Pride continues to be the largest and most diverse Pride event in the United Kingdom. A half-century old, this summer festival and parade will take place on July 1, 2023 then continue with 40+ community events throughout the month.
Brighton Pride 2023
While London Pride is the largest, Brighton & Hove Pride comes hot on its heels as the most popular. Taking place between August 5th and 6th when the capital’s celebrations cease, Brighton & Hove Pride showcases over 170 artists across 12 stages for every member of the rainbow family.
Spain
LGBT and Spain go hand-in-hand. While some smaller villages and towns might look twice at a same-sex couple, the majority of Spain’s cities are very open-minded and accepting of the LGBT+ community. For instant proof, look no farther than Madrid Pride, one of the world’s largest pride festivals. Barcelona, Málaga, Valencia, and Torremolinos are also great examples of this country’s capacity for love without judgment.
Sweden
Swedish society has a great rep around the world when it comes to inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community. Considered a “freezone” where you can walk down the street as you are with whomever you love, Sweden hosts more Pride festivals per capita each year than the rest of the globe. This progressive nation’s cities lack strictly “gay” parts of town and instead invite travelers to be themselves everywhere they visit.
Malta: Host Country for EuroPride 2023
Valletta may not be in the same conversation as Berlin and Madrid when it comes to the well-known gay-friendly cities in Europe, but it’s about to be. Malta’s capital will host EuroPride 2023, an annual event that chooses cities based on their strong LGBTIQ+ community and established events.
Malta is one of the most progressive countries on the planet in terms of gay and transgender rights (including being the first Euro country to ban gay conversion therapy). We can’t get you to this island nation by train, but we can send you on a coach to the nearest European airport where you can fly to Malta for an island getaway during your mainland vacation.
FAQs for LGBTQ+ Travelers in Europe
Are there many gay-friendly cities in Europe?
Yes, dozens of cities across Europe not only welcome LGBTQ+ visitors but also have thriving communities of locals and allies. Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Ghent each have substantial gay scenes that talk-the-talk with LGBTQ+-focused establishments and walk-the-walk with community advocacy programs and initiatives.
Where is the biggest Pride in Europe?
Madrid Pride is the biggest Pride parade in Europe and its week of festivities draws one of the largest crowds in the world. June 28th starts the celebration and the first Saturday of July hosts the huge Madrid Pride Parade which stretches from the lovely Atocha train station to Plaza de Colón.
What are the most LGBT-friendly cities in Italy?
Milan does fancy itself the “gay capital” but it’s far from the only gay-friendly city in Italy. Florence has been a very inclusive city for centuries; Rome also has a strong and accepted LGBT presence, despite the Vatican being right next door.
Is it safe to take overnight trains as an LGBTQ+ traveler?
Yes, many overnight trains throughout Europe are safe for travelers, no matter their sexual preference or gender identity. However, all travelers should take certain precautions, especially when traveling alone or with a partner. Keep your valuables with you at all times, don’t wait around an empty train platform alone before your train arrives, and consider booking a private sleeper car.
Need help navigating your trip to one of Europe’s best Pride festivals? We can help. Download the Trainline app and get assistance from our team whenever you need it.