With an alarming number of countries still criminalising homosexuality, looking for safe places for luxury LGBTQIA+ vacations can be challenging. Luckily, a growing number of incredible destinations are welcoming LGBTQIA+ travellers with open arms. These places understand that life is meant for celebrating, regardless of your sexual preferences.
So, if you’re planning your next luxury holiday and looking for ideas on where to go, here are some incredible destinations perfect for luxury LGBTQIA+ vacations.
1. Santorini, Greece
With its glistening coast, iconic white-washed villages, romantic sunsets, and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no surprise that Santorini has become a hotspot for luxury travel in Greece. What’s great is that the island has a welcoming and liberal scene, perfect for LGBTQIA+ travellers. Santorini has a vibrant gay community, and you’ll find numerous gay-friendly hangout spots across the island.
While you could be spending most of your time at the beaches, bars, and clubs of Santorini, take the time to explore the island and discover its cultural attractions. Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, with artefacts derived from a Minoan site. The Megaron Gyzi is another museum worth exploring to learn more about the local culture.
When it’s time to relax at the beach, hit up Red Beach, renowned for its distinct red sand resulting from the volcanic activity on the island. Getting to the beach requires hiking, so wear a pair of comfy shoes. The Perissa Black Sand Beach is another beautiful beach to hang out in Santorini, offering opportunities for fun water sports, such as snorkelling.
A boat tour to the caldera is a fun activity when travelling in groups in Santorini. You’ll find plenty of incredible travel experiences around Santorini and cool places to stay with A Small World, one of the popular luxury travel clubs that are currently trending. For the luxury experience you can always book those with BBQ lunches and refreshing cocktails for more enjoyable experiences to match the stunning views.
2. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is one of Germany’s most open and tolerant cities, making it a safe destination for luxury LGBTQIA+ vacations. The highlight of your trip will be meeting fellow LGBTQIA+ travellers who can become your lifelong friends! In Berlin, you can try travel networking and meet other like-minded people through different events in the city.
Berlin hosts Pride Month, attracting thousands of LGBTQIA+ members attending fun parades and other events across the city. But even when it’s not Pride Month, Berlin offers plenty of queer fun to delight LGBTQIA+ visitors, from the gay parties at Berghain to the gay-friendly bars and clubs in the city centre.
For art lovers, consider booking a street art tour of Berlin. It’s a guided tour to see some of the city’s most colourful street art and murals created by local artists. You will visit Berlin’s hippest neighbourhoods, such as the Kreuzberg district, while the local guide shares insights into the street arts and murals.
One of the reasons Berlin has become a favourite of LGBTQ+ travellers is the bustling nightlife scene. Berlin’s nightlife is very diverse, and you’ll find numerous spots that offer a welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ to socialise. Be sure to visit these nightlife spots on your luxury trip to Berlin.
3. London, United Kingdom
London often tops the list of the world’s LGBTQIA+ destinations, making it an incredible destination for luxury LGBTQIA+ vacations. From the bustling restaurants and bars of Soho to Vauxhall’s infamous party scene and the East End’s hip hangouts, you will find endless possibilities of gay-friendly entertainment in London.
London is a wonderfully forward-thinking city, and PDA among LGBTQIA+ members is not frowned upon. So, if you’re travelling to London with a partner, don’t hesitate to show your love and explore the city hand in hand.
When getting around London, check out the city’s highlights, such as the Tower of London and the Buckingham Palace. Visit the Westminster Abbey and marvel at the magnificent spires and gothic architecture.
If you are a Harry Potter fan, you should not miss the chance to tour the Warner Brothers Studio. It offers a fascinating insight into the making of this film. Ride the Harry Potter-themed bus from Victoria or Baker Street Station to get started with the tour.
Treat your partner to a scenic ride of the London Eye, a 135-meter observation wheel along the South Bank of the River Thames. The views of London from the top are incredibly stunning, allowing for a truly romantic experience.
4. Rome, Italy
Like most cities in Italy, Rome is LGBTQIA+ friendly. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of gay-friendly bars and clubs. When planning your luxury gay travel adventure to Rome, consider booking tailor-made breaks for the gay community. It’s an ideal option for those who want to meet other like-minded people. With a tailor-made holiday, you won’t have to worry about planning your itinerary.
One of the most popular gay-friendly spots in Rome is the Trastevere neighbourhood. It’s a hip and bohemian area, home to artisan shops and craft beer pubs. Here, you will find numerous gay-friendly hangout spots, including more upscale cocktail bars, perfect for those seeking a luxury travel experience in Rome.
If you want to immerse in the local culture, try local experiences such as soaking in a traditional sauna. Visit the historical centre to try the local saunas. Here, you’ll find Apollion Sauna, a popular local sauna offering a Roman-style bathhouse only a short walk from Gay Street.
5. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of the main hubs of gay life in Spain, making it an ideal destination for luxury LGBTQIA+ vacations. The city has a vibrant gay scene, renowned for its gay-friendly bars, saunas, cruise clubs, nightclubs, and dance parties.
Most gay-friendly bars and clubs in Barcelona are in the Gaixample district, a three-block area home to the city’s most famous gay venues, such as the Arena Madre and Pervert Club. Aside from the bustling nightlife scene, Barcelona has numerous gay saunas. Many are open 24/7 and are the best places to relax on your luxury vacation.
Barcelona’s beaches are also the best places to hang out. It’s home to some LGTBIQ+ beachfront bars to hang out and meet with other LGTBIQ+ members. You’ll also find beaches outside the city offering nude bathing and a lively gay scene.
