Bucket List Destinations for Queer Women Travelers
Looking for your next adventure? Our curated list of bucket-list destinations for queer women travelers highlights the best LGBTQ+ friendly spots around the world! Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape in Santorini, a vibrant Pride celebration in Amsterdam, or an adventure in Cape Town, these destinations are perfect for LGBTQ+ women who love to travel.
Traveling as a queer woman is about more than just seeing new places—it’s about discovering destinations where you can feel safe, celebrated, and inspired. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or vibrant LGBTQ+ communities, there are incredible destinations around the world that offer all this and more. From historic cities with rich queer histories to tropical escapes with inclusive vibes, this bucket list is designed to fuel your wanderlust while ensuring an affirming experience.
Ready to explore? Here’s a curated list of must-visit destinations with an LGBTQ+ friendly twist.
1. Amsterdam, Netherlands – A City of Queer Liberation
Why It’s a Must: Amsterdam is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the world, known for its open-minded culture, vibrant Pride celebrations, and rich queer history.
Highlights:
Walk along Reguliersdwarsstraat, Amsterdam’s queer nightlife hub.
Visit the Homomonument, a moving tribute to LGBTQ+ people throughout history.
Experience Amsterdam Pride, featuring the famous Canal Parade.
Pro Tip: Visit during Pride in August or King’s Day in April for an extra festive atmosphere!
2. Santorini, Greece – A Romantic Escape
Why It’s a Must: With its white-washed buildings, stunning sunsets, and dreamy blue waters, Santorini is a picture-perfect destination for a romantic getaway.
Highlights:
Watch the sunset in Oia, one of the most breathtaking views in the world.
Enjoy a private catamaran cruise around the island.
Explore queer-friendly beach bars and resorts that welcome LGBTQ+ travelers.
Pro Tip: Combine your Santorini trip with a visit to Athens, where the LGBTQ+ scene is growing!
3. Buenos Aires, Argentina – A Cultural Hotspot
Why It’s a Must: Argentina is one of the most progressive LGBTQ+ countries in South America, and Buenos Aires is its lively, culture-packed heart.
Highlights:
Attend Milonga Queer, a same-sex tango night that celebrates queer culture.
Explore the Palermo district, home to LGBTQ+ bars and cafes.
Visit Casa Brandon, a queer feminist cultural space with performances and events.
Pro Tip: Travel in November for Buenos Aires Pride, one of the biggest LGBTQ+ celebrations in Latin America!
4. Reykjavik, Iceland – The Land of Fire, Ice, and Inclusivity
Why It’s a Must: Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the safest and most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world, with stunning landscapes that make it a dream for outdoor lovers.
Highlights:
Relax in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s iconic geothermal spa.
Chase the Northern Lights in the winter months.
Celebrate at Reykjavik Pride, one of Europe’s most welcoming Pride events.
Pro Tip: Book a Golden Circle tour to see waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic landscapes in one epic day trip!
5. Mexico City, Mexico – A Hidden LGBTQ+ Gem
Why It’s a Must: Mexico City is a buzzing metropolis filled with history, incredible food, and a thriving queer scene.
Highlights:
Explore Zona Rosa, the LGBTQ+ hub with queer-friendly bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum to connect with queer art history.
Experience Mexico City Pride, one of the largest Pride celebrations in Latin America.
Pro Tip: Mexico City is also a foodie paradise—don’t miss out on street tacos and mezcal tastings!
6. Cape Town, South Africa – Where Nature Meets Queer Culture
Why It’s a Must: South Africa is the most LGBTQ+ friendly country in Africa, and Cape Town is its queer capital, offering breathtaking landscapes and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene.
Highlights:
Hike up Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city.
Visit Clifton 3rd Beach, an unofficial LGBTQ+ beach hotspot.
Explore De Waterkant, Cape Town’s LGBTQ+ district with queer-owned restaurants and shops.
Pro Tip: Pair your Cape Town visit with a safari adventure for the ultimate South African experience!
7. Thailand – Queer-Friendly Beaches and Bustling Cities
Why It’s a Must: Thailand is known for its warm hospitality, stunning beaches, and queer-friendly culture.
Highlights:
Enjoy the vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife in Bangkok’s Silom district.
Relax on Koh Samui or Phuket, where queer travelers are welcomed with open arms.
Visit Chiang Mai, a laid-back, LGBTQ+-friendly city known for temples and cultural experiences.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss Songkran Festival in April—it’s a nationwide water fight and one of the most fun experiences you’ll ever have!
8. Montreal, Canada – A European-Style LGBTQ+ Haven
Why It’s a Must: Montreal combines European charm with North American progressiveness, making it a perfect LGBTQ+ friendly destination.
Highlights:
Explore Le Village, one of the largest LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in North America.
Attend Montreal Pride, which lasts over a week and includes an epic parade.
Enjoy the city’s famous jazz and food festivals throughout the year.
Pro Tip: Take a day trip to Quebec City for stunning winter wonderland vibes during the colder months.
9. Bali, Indonesia – A Soulful and Serene Escape
Why It’s a Must: Bali is a paradise for queer women seeking relaxation, adventure, and self-discovery.
Highlights:
Experience a wellness retreat in Ubud, surrounded by lush jungles.
Surf or chill on the queer-friendly beaches of Canggu.
Visit LGBTQ+ inclusive restaurants and bars, like Vault Bali and Cosmic Diner.
Pro Tip: Book a balinese massage at a luxury spa for the ultimate relaxation experience.
Final Thoughts: Where Will Your Next Adventure Take You?
Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, romance, or cultural immersion, these bucket-list destinations offer something special for queer women travelers. Each of these places provides an inclusive environment where you can explore freely, connect with LGBTQ+ communities, and create lifelong memories.
Ready to Tick Off Your Bucket List?
Join Ladies Touch Travel’s LGBTQ+ Women’s Group Trips and explore the world with a community of like-minded queer women. Book your next adventure today and experience the best of LGBTQ+ travel!
Lesbian-Favorite Places: A Guide to Iconic Spots for Queer Women Travelers
Find your home away from home with this guide to iconic LGBTQ+ friendly places for lesbian travelers. From beaches and bars to cultural landmarks, these spots offer safe, welcoming environments for queer women.
Traveling as a queer woman is more than just visiting a destination; it’s about connecting with spaces where we feel safe, celebrated, and part of a community. Across the world, certain spots have become iconic favorites for lesbians and queer women, offering inclusive vibes, historical significance, and plenty of opportunities to connect with others. Here’s our guide to some of the most beloved destinations—from sunny beaches to cozy bookstores—where lesbian travelers can feel at home.
1. Mar Bella Beach – Barcelona, Spain
Located in Barcelona’s “Gaixample” district, Mar Bella Beach is a well-known LGBTQ+ friendly spot that attracts locals and travelers alike. With its laid-back vibe and open-minded community, Mar Bella is one of the most popular beach destinations for queer women in Europe. The beach is not only LGBTQ+ friendly but is also welcoming of people from all backgrounds, making it a truly inclusive haven.
Why It’s a Favorite:
Inclusive Atmosphere: Known for being LGBTQ+ friendly, Mar Bella is welcoming to queer women looking to sunbathe, swim, and relax.
Vibrant Summer Scene: During summer months, the beach attracts a lively crowd and hosts pop-up bars, beach volleyball, and social events.
Nearby LGBTQ+ Bars: Head to the nearby neighborhood of Gaixample for lesbian-owned bars and queer-friendly cafes after a day on the sand.
2. The Lexington Club Legacy – San Francisco, California, USA
Although The Lexington Club officially closed its doors in 2015, this historic San Francisco lesbian bar has left a lasting legacy. Once a staple of the city’s queer nightlife, The Lex was beloved by generations of queer women, creating a vibrant social space in the heart of the Mission District. Today, the memory of The Lex lives on through pop-up events, and many visitors honor its legacy by exploring other lesbian-friendly venues in the city.
Why It’s a Favorite:
Iconic History: The Lex represented a pivotal space for queer women, and its influence still resonates in the city’s LGBTQ+ scene.
Pop-Up Events: Former owners and patrons occasionally organize pop-up events, celebrating the spirit of The Lex.
LGBTQ+ Scene in The Mission: The Mission District remains a queer-friendly area with bars, cafes, and art spaces that cater to LGBTQ+ women.
3. Olivia Cruises – Global Destinations
Since the 1970s, Olivia Cruises has been providing lesbian travelers with safe, inclusive, and community-oriented travel experiences. Known for its welcoming vibe and exciting itineraries, Olivia Cruises offers all-lesbian cruises to stunning destinations around the world. It’s more than just a vacation; it’s a community where travelers form deep connections, enjoy fantastic entertainment, and celebrate in a safe space.
Why It’s a Favorite:
All-Lesbian Environment: Olivia Cruises creates a unique space where queer women can feel completely at ease.
Diverse Itineraries: With trips to Europe, the Caribbean, and Alaska, there’s something for every traveler.
Community Spirit: From onboard concerts to beach parties, Olivia Cruises offers opportunities to bond with like-minded women.
4. Café de Flore – Paris, France
Paris has long been known for its rich LGBTQ+ history, and Café de Flore is a timeless destination beloved by queer women. This historic café, located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, was frequented by notable LGBTQ+ icons, such as author and activist Simone de Beauvoir. Today, queer women travelers flock to Café de Flore to enjoy a coffee or glass of wine while soaking in its vibrant, literary atmosphere.
Why It’s a Favorite:
Historical Significance: This café has been a meeting place for LGBTQ+ intellectuals and artists for decades.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Vibe: Saint-Germain-des-Prés remains one of Paris’s most inclusive neighborhoods.
Perfect for People-Watching: Grab a seat outside and enjoy the local scene at one of Paris’s most iconic spots.
5. Provincetown – Massachusetts, USA
Provincetown, or P-Town, is one of the most popular LGBTQ+ destinations in the United States. This charming coastal town has a welcoming and vibrant queer community, making it a go-to spot for lesbian travelers seeking relaxation, nightlife, and queer-friendly events. From Women’s Week to LGBTQ+ Pride, Provincetown hosts events throughout the year that draw queer women from all over the world.
Why It’s a Favorite:
LGBTQ+ Festivals: P-Town’s Women’s Week and LGBTQ+ Pride bring together queer women for a week of fun and community.
Stunning Beaches: Visit Herring Cove and Race Point for a scenic beach day with fellow LGBTQ+ travelers.
Art and Nightlife: Provincetown’s galleries, theaters, and clubs create a lively and inclusive atmosphere year-round.
6. The Wildrose – Seattle, Washington, USA
One of the oldest lesbian bars in the United States, The Wildrose has been a fixture of Seattle’s LGBTQ+ community since 1984. Known for its welcoming vibe, friendly patrons, and diverse events, this bar is a must-visit for queer women in Seattle. The Wildrose regularly hosts themed nights, karaoke, and Pride events, making it a popular gathering place for locals and travelers alike.
Why It’s a Favorite:
Historical Significance: The Wildrose has been a safe haven for queer women for nearly four decades.
Regular Events: Enjoy a variety of events from trivia nights to live music, all in a laid-back, LGBTQ+ friendly environment.
Iconic Atmosphere: Known as Seattle’s “Lesbian Cheers,” The Wildrose is a welcoming spot for everyone.
7. Takarazuka Revue – Tokyo, Japan
The Takarazuka Revue is an all-female theater troupe in Tokyo that’s celebrated for its inclusive performances and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere. Known for its gender-bending roles and captivating musicals, the Revue has developed a devoted following of queer women in Japan and beyond. It’s a unique space where LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy a dazzling performance while embracing Japanese culture and creativity.
Why It’s a Favorite:
LGBTQ+ Friendly Performances: The Revue features gender-blurring roles, appealing to queer women and gender-diverse audiences.
Cultural Significance: As one of Japan’s most famous theaters, the Takarazuka Revue offers a fascinating look into Japanese performance art.
Dedicated Fan Base: Many LGBTQ+ travelers bond with fellow fans over a shared love for the troupe’s artistry.
8. Book Club – London, UK
Book Club in Shoreditch is a queer-friendly bar and creative space known for its inclusive environment and LGBTQ+ themed events. The bar hosts drag shows, DJ nights, and spoken word performances, making it a go-to spot for queer women in London. It’s a welcoming venue where travelers can enjoy a mix of art, music, and community in one of London’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Why It’s a Favorite:
Inclusive Events: Book Club offers regular LGBTQ+ themed events, including poetry readings, art shows, and queer dance parties.
Creative Vibe: Known for its artsy, laid-back atmosphere, it’s a favorite among queer creatives and travelers alike.
Central Location: Situated in the trendy Shoreditch neighborhood, it’s close to other LGBTQ+ friendly venues and attractions.
Final Thoughts: Finding Home Away from Home
For LGBTQ+ women, finding places that feel like home when traveling is priceless. These lesbian-favorite spots offer more than just good food or a beautiful view—they’re safe havens and spaces of connection. Whether you’re looking to relax on a beach, enjoy queer nightlife, or explore LGBTQ+ history, these destinations welcome queer women with open arms and an inclusive spirit.
Ready to Discover Lesbian-Favorite Spots?
Travel with a group of like-minded queer women on one of Ladies Touch Travel’s LGBTQ+ Women’s Group Trips. Experience the world’s most iconic spots with friends who understand the importance of safe, inclusive spaces. Book your next adventure today!