13 LGBTQIA+-friendly cities to explore this summer

Happy Pride! With June being a month dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community, we want to highlight some of the best cities around the world known for their queer-friendly atmosphere and fun Pride celebrations. Whether you're looking for a relaxing vacation spot, a city to explore a new culture, or a place to join the Pride festivities — these cities all have something special to offer.

Here are some incredible spots to explore this summer where you can feel welcomed, inspired, and free to be yourself.

1) New York City, USA

New York City is often called the queer capital of the world. The West Village is the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement at the Stonewall Inn. NYC's Pride Parade, held every June, draws millions of participants and spectators, making it one of the largest and most joyful displays of Pride globally. Beyond Pride, NYC is a melting pot of cultures and identities. The city has it all, from museums and cultural institutions to LGBTQIA+-friendly neighborhoods, such as Hell's Kitchen and Chelsea.

2) London, England

London is an inclusive place where everyone is welcome — from the historic LGBTQIA+ district of Soho to the eclectic vibes of Camden. Soho remains the epicenter of the queer community today with many shops, restaurants and bars. The city's Pride event is one of the largest in Europe, featuring a parade in central London, culminating in a festival in the iconic Trafalgar Square. 

3) St. Julian’s, Malta

Despite being one of Europe's smallest countries, Malta is renowned for its inclusivity, heritage sites, and beautiful beaches. Malta has been ranked number 1 in Europe by the Rainbow Index for the 8th year running, due to its equality and policies around the queer community. St. Julian’s in Malta may be a hidden gem for LGBTQIA+ travelers. This Mediterranean island offers stunning views, beautiful beaches, and a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy the laid-back vibe and inclusive spirit of this charming destination.

4) Berlin, Germany

Berlin has a long and fascinating LGBTQIA+ history. From its unique culture to the buzzing nightlife, the city is home to an eclectic and contemporary scene that draws visitors from all over the world. With several queer-friendly districts, Schöneberg offers a number of bars, clubs, and cultural venues worth visiting. Berlin also celebrates pride for a whole month — the march in July will celebrate the event’s 40th year. 

5) Los Angeles, USA

Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, and its lively queer scene makes it a great place to discover local creativity and diversity. West Hollywood, or WeHo, is the epicenter of LGBTQIA+ life in LA, where you’ll find endless spots to explore. For a truly unforgettable experience Don't miss the annual LA Pride weeks with a Latin flair. The event features many cultural events, concerts, parties, and a big parade.

6) Barcelona, Spain

Spain has long been at the forefront of LGBTQIA+ rights. The country has numerous laws that ensure equality and protection for the queer community, including those who identify as nonbinary and trans. Barcelona’s warm and vibrant queer scene is centered around Eixample — a historic district that is one of the biggest LGBTQIA+ neighborhoods in Europe. There you'll find a variety of queer-friendly bars, cafes, shops, and restaurants.

7) Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is known for its historic charm and progressive attitude towards LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusivity. The city's annual Pride celebration, Amsterdam Pride, is unique for its canal parade, where beautifully decorated boats sail through the city canals. Bike through the Reguliersdwarsstraat neighborhood for a taste of Amsterdam's vibrant queer culture and nightlife.

8) Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark is celebrated for its queer-friendly, inclusive culture and was the first country in the world to recognize same-sex unions. Copenhagen has been dubbed the most accepting city in the world, home to the first openly gay bar in Europe back in 1950. The city's diverse cultural scene, beautiful architecture, and friendly locals make it well worth a visit. Copenhagen’s Pride Week takes place in August and features parades, talks, and parties. Make sure to check out Studiestræde in the Indre By, a street known for its LGBTQIA+ bars and cafes.

9) Brighton, England

Known for its bohemian atmosphere, Brighton is home to a dynamic LGBTQIA+ scene, The seaside city has a lot to offer — relax on the beach, tour the lanes, and immerse yourself in the city's welcoming vibe. Brighton is packed with queer-friendly bars, cafes, and shops, particularly in the Kemptown area. While the city is famed for its August Pride festivities, Brighton is a wonderful place to explore and celebrate diversity year-round.

10) Toronto, Canada

Canada is the most liberal country in North America, with Toronto being known for its inclusivity, and friendly atmosphere. Church and Wellesley Village, Toronto’s iconic LGBTQIA+ district, is filled with spirited bars, cool cafes, and chic boutiques. The city has several events celebrating the queer community such as their famous Pride Week and march. Toronto’s charm, combined with its rich diversity and multicultural arts scene, makes it an excellent city to add to your list.

11) Sydney, Australia

Australia has long been a welcoming place for the queer community, with Sydney in particular earning a global reputation for its inclusivity. Take advantage of the southern hemisphere summer and visit Sydney's Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras in February — a world-renowned celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride and diversity. The city's lively queer neighborhoods such as dazzling Darlinghurst in the center of the city combine nightlife, art, food, and shopping.

12) Mexico City, Mexico

Over the years, Mexico has become increasingly LGBTQIA+-friendly, implementing policies to protect and support the community. As one of the country’s biggest and most progressive cities, Mexico City blends rich history, modern culture, and exciting cuisine. The city's Zona Rosa neighborhood is the heart of queer nightlife, featuring many clubs, bars, and cultural venues. Mexico City's Pride parade takes place every June. It’s one of the largest in the world and draws over a million people yearly to join the fiesta.

13) Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is not only celebrated as one of Africa's most queer-friendly cities, but also for its breathtaking natural beauty, sunny weather, and stunning beaches. The city hosts an array of bars, clubs, and restaurants, particularly in the De Waterkant neighborhood, which is the hub of LGBTQIA+ life. The city's picturesque landscapes and diverse cultural offerings make it a popular and accepting haven for LGBTQIA+ visitors.