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Best LGBTQ+ friendly city breaks
Discover the best LGBTQ-friendly city breaks.
Planning an LGBTQ+ friendly city break? Look no further. Whether you want to see the sights, party well into the night – or both – we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up the best LGBTQ+ city breaks spots, and we’ve got the info on everything from where to stay and what to do while you’re there. That’s not all though, we’ve been in touch with our LGBTQ+ Employee Network Group to get their personal recommendations from their recent trips, look out for them as you’re reading…
Once you’ve finished, check out our city break deals.
Once you’ve finished, check out our city break deals.
Sitges, Spain
Like the sound of sights by day, and bars at night? Say hello to Sitges. This Spanish city does the double, with its narrow cobblestone streets delivering the goods for your Insta posts during the day, and lively gay-friendly bars and clubs putting big nights out on the cards. Plus, city breaks here come with a side dish of sand – the city centre is fringed by a long beach, and there are plenty more where that came from on the outskirts. Plus, you’re only a 30-minute train ride from Barcelona, which plays host to its own host of LGBTQ+ venues in ‘Gaixample’ – a play on the neighbourhood they’re in, Eixample.
What to do?
Staying in Barcelona, but fancy a slice of Sitges? The Tarragona and Sitges day tour from Barcelona has you covered. On this full-day tour, you’ll spend the morning exploring in Tarragona, ticking off UNESCO-rated sites like the 2,000-year-old Roman Aqueduct and the Roman Forum. You’ll arrive in Sitges in time for lunch, where you can relax on one of the city’s beaches, or stop for a drink in one of the LGBTQ+ friendly bars.
Where to stay?
If you ask us, staying central is best when you’re on a city break – sights, bars and restaurants right on your doorstep, what more can you ask for? With that in mind, let’s introduce you to the Medium Sitges Park, located in Sitges’ centre spot. Location’s not the only thing it’s got going for it – there’s an outdoor pool and a waterside snack bar on hand for when you’re not out and about exploring.
Check out more things to do in Barcelona.
What to do?
Staying in Barcelona, but fancy a slice of Sitges? The Tarragona and Sitges day tour from Barcelona has you covered. On this full-day tour, you’ll spend the morning exploring in Tarragona, ticking off UNESCO-rated sites like the 2,000-year-old Roman Aqueduct and the Roman Forum. You’ll arrive in Sitges in time for lunch, where you can relax on one of the city’s beaches, or stop for a drink in one of the LGBTQ+ friendly bars.
Where to stay?
If you ask us, staying central is best when you’re on a city break – sights, bars and restaurants right on your doorstep, what more can you ask for? With that in mind, let’s introduce you to the Medium Sitges Park, located in Sitges’ centre spot. Location’s not the only thing it’s got going for it – there’s an outdoor pool and a waterside snack bar on hand for when you’re not out and about exploring.
Check out more things to do in Barcelona.
Oslo, Norway
Norway’s capital doesn’t have a huge collection of LGBTQ+ bars, but everybody’s welcome here. Ella – a member of our LGBTQ+ employee network – said “Oslo has absolutely stunning views, great food and activities. Norway was one of the first countries in the world to introduce laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexuality. On my trip, I loved how friendly the locals were and the unique attractions, such as the Ski Museum.”
What to do?
Tick off the city’s top sights in one go on the Highlights of Oslo Walking Tour, including a panoramic view of the city from the roof of the Opera Theatre and a photo stop outside the Royal Palace. Or, see the city from the water on the 2-hour fjord sightseeing tour in Oslo, where you’ll cruise around a maze of pretty islands lined with small summer houses.
Where to stay?
Radisson Blue Plaza Oslo is pitched in the city centre, steps away from the main train station, so it’s perfect if you’re taking a train to the city from the airport. Plus, it’s sky bar hits the mark for cocktails on special occasions – or just because, as if you need an excuse.
See more things to do in Oslo.
What to do?
Tick off the city’s top sights in one go on the Highlights of Oslo Walking Tour, including a panoramic view of the city from the roof of the Opera Theatre and a photo stop outside the Royal Palace. Or, see the city from the water on the 2-hour fjord sightseeing tour in Oslo, where you’ll cruise around a maze of pretty islands lined with small summer houses.
Where to stay?
Radisson Blue Plaza Oslo is pitched in the city centre, steps away from the main train station, so it’s perfect if you’re taking a train to the city from the airport. Plus, it’s sky bar hits the mark for cocktails on special occasions – or just because, as if you need an excuse.
See more things to do in Oslo.
New York, USA
A city break in the Big Apple is a top pick for an LGBTQ+ city break. You don’t just have to take our word for it though. Dexter, from our LGBTQ+ Employee Network said “It truly is the ‘City That Never Sleeps’. New York is great for the LGBTQ+ community and is accepting of everyone. The number of sights we got to see was unbelievable, from the view from the top of the Empire State Building to walks through Central Park. The city is booming at night with a huge choice of LGBTQ+ bars, clubs and shows, so it really has something for everyone.”
What to do?
Get a 360-degree view of New York with a SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ticket. You can see for up to 80 miles from up here, plus you get a good look at iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. Plus, there’s a sky bar that serves curated cocktails. If history is more your thing, get an insight into the history of Central Park with a National Geographic-trained guide on the Nat Geo Day Tour: The Untold Story of Central Park.
Where to stay?
Arlo SoHo puts you in the heart of Manhattan – home to some of the city’s big-name landmarks such as Wall Street, Chelsea Market and One World Trade Center. Plus, you’re only an 18-minute subway ride from Hell’s Kitchen – New York’s LGBTQ+ neighbourhood.
See more things to do in New York.
What to do?
Get a 360-degree view of New York with a SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Ticket. You can see for up to 80 miles from up here, plus you get a good look at iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. Plus, there’s a sky bar that serves curated cocktails. If history is more your thing, get an insight into the history of Central Park with a National Geographic-trained guide on the Nat Geo Day Tour: The Untold Story of Central Park.
Where to stay?
Arlo SoHo puts you in the heart of Manhattan – home to some of the city’s big-name landmarks such as Wall Street, Chelsea Market and One World Trade Center. Plus, you’re only an 18-minute subway ride from Hell’s Kitchen – New York’s LGBTQ+ neighbourhood.
See more things to do in New York.
Madrid, Spain
Madrid – Spain’s capital – is next on our list, and with good reason. It hosts Europe’s biggest Pride event, with more than a million visitors heading to the city to wave their rainbow-coloured flags each year. The celebrations usually spill well over a week, with the main event taking place on the first Saturday of July. Don’t sweat it if you can’t make Pride, though, the city’s gay-friendly district – Chueca – stays lively throughout the year. Expect LGBTQ+ bars, shops and clubs in the mix. Aside from that, you’ve got a world-class art scene and plenty of museums to stroll around, including the Thyssen-Bornemisma Museum, which includes works from LGBTQ+ artists.
What to do?
Get the inside scoop on one of Madrid’s best-rated museums on the Reina Sofia Museum Tour With a Local Expert Guide. Or, if white-knuckle rides are more your thing, a Parque Warner Madrid skip-the-line ticket has got you covered. This theme park is home to 34 attractions, 10 shops and 28 bars and restaurants. It’s only around a 30-minute taxi ride from the centre of the city.
Where to stay?
Axel Hotels are well known for having some of the best LGBTQ+ hotels across Europe, and their spot in Madrid is no different. The adults-only Axel Hotel Madrid puts you around a 20-minute stroll from the centre of Cheuca, plus you’re only an eight-minute walk from Plaza Mayor – the city’s main square. Once you’ve finished exploring, you can head back to the hotel for a drink on the rooftop terrace, or cool off with a dip in the outdoor pool.
Find more things to do in Madrid.
What to do?
Get the inside scoop on one of Madrid’s best-rated museums on the Reina Sofia Museum Tour With a Local Expert Guide. Or, if white-knuckle rides are more your thing, a Parque Warner Madrid skip-the-line ticket has got you covered. This theme park is home to 34 attractions, 10 shops and 28 bars and restaurants. It’s only around a 30-minute taxi ride from the centre of the city.
Where to stay?
Axel Hotels are well known for having some of the best LGBTQ+ hotels across Europe, and their spot in Madrid is no different. The adults-only Axel Hotel Madrid puts you around a 20-minute stroll from the centre of Cheuca, plus you’re only an eight-minute walk from Plaza Mayor – the city’s main square. Once you’ve finished exploring, you can head back to the hotel for a drink on the rooftop terrace, or cool off with a dip in the outdoor pool.
Find more things to do in Madrid.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
With around a 90-minute flight time from the UK, Amsterdam is a top pick for a short LGBTQ+ friendly city break. The scene here is one of the biggest of Europe, with more than 100 gay venues spread out across the city. The main hub of spots is located around a 10-minute walk from the centre of the city, in an area called Reguliersdwarsstraat – kudos if you can say that correctly. It’s easy to spot – just look out for the bumper collection of rainbow flags hanging above each bar.
What to do?
If you ask us, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without a cruise on the city’s iconic canals. On the Amsterdam’s Highlights and Local Insights Canal Cruise, you’ll tick of everything from the City Hall to China Town. Plus, you’ll be joined by a local guide, who will give you all the info on the city’s hidden gems and top sights as you pass by. Or, if a beer is your go-to beverage, this next one’s for you. With a Heineken® Experience Ticket, you’ll discover the secrets of how the beer is made, and take part in a beer-tasting session, too.
Where to stay?
Eden Hotel Amsterdam puts you on the waterfront in the centre of the city – Rembrandt Square’s right on your doorstep. If you fancy heading off the beaten track, you can head to the underground station just a couple of minutes’ walk away to explore outside the city’s centre spot.
Check out more things to do in Amsterdam.
What to do?
If you ask us, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without a cruise on the city’s iconic canals. On the Amsterdam’s Highlights and Local Insights Canal Cruise, you’ll tick of everything from the City Hall to China Town. Plus, you’ll be joined by a local guide, who will give you all the info on the city’s hidden gems and top sights as you pass by. Or, if a beer is your go-to beverage, this next one’s for you. With a Heineken® Experience Ticket, you’ll discover the secrets of how the beer is made, and take part in a beer-tasting session, too.
Where to stay?
Eden Hotel Amsterdam puts you on the waterfront in the centre of the city – Rembrandt Square’s right on your doorstep. If you fancy heading off the beaten track, you can head to the underground station just a couple of minutes’ walk away to explore outside the city’s centre spot.
Check out more things to do in Amsterdam.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s LGBTQ+ history goes way back – even in the 1920s, gay and lesbian people settled here from all over the world. It’s paved the way for a bumper scene, with more than 170 clubs, bars and pubs to its name. The lion’s share are in Schoneberg, but you’ll be able to find an LGBTQ+ friendly spot to have a coffee, a drink or dinner in wherever you’re staying in the city.
What to do?
Check out the city’s sights from the water on the One-Hour Historical Sightseeing Cruise in Berlin, which ticks off Victory Column, Bellevue Palace and the Government Quarter. Or, see them from the sky with a Berlin TV Tower Skip-The-Line and Restaurant Ticket. The tower’s restaurant sits at more than 200 metres above the city, and the revolving tables on the tower’s exterior serve up a 360° view of the city. The best bit? There’ll be no hanging around waiting for your table, all thanks to your skip-the-line ticket.
Where to stay?
Hotel Riu Plaza Berlin puts you right at the heart of the city’s shopping district – perfect for picking up a new fit before you head out for the evening. Plus, it’s only an eight-minute taxi ride from Shoneberg. Back at base, there’s a restaurant that dishes up a buffet breakfast, a lobby bar and gym with all the equipment you need for a holiday workout.
Take a look at more things to do in Berlin.
What to do?
Check out the city’s sights from the water on the One-Hour Historical Sightseeing Cruise in Berlin, which ticks off Victory Column, Bellevue Palace and the Government Quarter. Or, see them from the sky with a Berlin TV Tower Skip-The-Line and Restaurant Ticket. The tower’s restaurant sits at more than 200 metres above the city, and the revolving tables on the tower’s exterior serve up a 360° view of the city. The best bit? There’ll be no hanging around waiting for your table, all thanks to your skip-the-line ticket.
Where to stay?
Hotel Riu Plaza Berlin puts you right at the heart of the city’s shopping district – perfect for picking up a new fit before you head out for the evening. Plus, it’s only an eight-minute taxi ride from Shoneberg. Back at base, there’s a restaurant that dishes up a buffet breakfast, a lobby bar and gym with all the equipment you need for a holiday workout.
Take a look at more things to do in Berlin.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Last but not least, here’s why Denmark’s capital should be on your radar for an LGBTQ+ city break. Ed Williams, who is part of our LGBTQ+ network, said “Copenhagen is an amazingly open and friendly city, with a big LGBTQ+ community and some great bars and restaurants to explore. This city comes alive in the summer, where everyone relaxes on the river by soaking up the sun on the wooden decks, or by taking a dip.”
What to do?
If you’re a foodie, the Copenhagen Food Walking Tour has got your name written all over it. On this guided tour, you’ll tick off restaurants, shops and markets, sampling the locals’ favourite dishes as you wander around the city’s streets. The Grand Tour of Copenhagen is another great option to get a feel for the city – you’ll hop onboard a boat and cruise along the Nyhavn River, ticking off The Old Stock Exchange, Amalienborg Palace and the Deconstructed Diva – a modern take of The Little Mermaid Statue.
Where to stay?
Skt Petri started out life as a department store, but these days it’s a stylish hotel. It’s in the centre of the city, within a few minutes’ walk of the main shopping street. There’s a restaurant and bar in the lobby, plus another dining spot that dishes up an Italian menu.
Check out more things to do in Copenhagen.
What to do?
If you’re a foodie, the Copenhagen Food Walking Tour has got your name written all over it. On this guided tour, you’ll tick off restaurants, shops and markets, sampling the locals’ favourite dishes as you wander around the city’s streets. The Grand Tour of Copenhagen is another great option to get a feel for the city – you’ll hop onboard a boat and cruise along the Nyhavn River, ticking off The Old Stock Exchange, Amalienborg Palace and the Deconstructed Diva – a modern take of The Little Mermaid Statue.
Where to stay?
Skt Petri started out life as a department store, but these days it’s a stylish hotel. It’s in the centre of the city, within a few minutes’ walk of the main shopping street. There’s a restaurant and bar in the lobby, plus another dining spot that dishes up an Italian menu.
Check out more things to do in Copenhagen.
Ready to take-off?
Browse our city break deals for more inspiration.
Or, read about the best LGBTQ+ friendly holidays, best destinations for Pride and the best LGBTQ+ friendly honeymoon destinations.
Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.
Author: Karl Taylor
Last updated: 07.06.2024
Browse our city break deals for more inspiration.
Or, read about the best LGBTQ+ friendly holidays, best destinations for Pride and the best LGBTQ+ friendly honeymoon destinations.
Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.
Author: Karl Taylor
Last updated: 07.06.2024