The Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Countries for Women Travelers
Traveling as an LGBTQ+ woman should be an exciting and liberating experience, but safety and inclusivity can be major concerns when choosing a destination. While the world is becoming more accepting, some countries stand out as true havens for queer women, offering legal protections, vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes, and welcoming cultural experiences. Whether you're looking for a wild nightlife scene, peaceful nature retreats, or rich history and culture, these destinations provide an empowering travel experience for LGBTQ+ women.
1. Spain: A Queer Woman’s Paradise
Spain is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world, with strong anti-discrimination laws, same-sex marriage rights, and a thriving queer culture.
Why It’s Great:
Barcelona’s Eixample district (Gaixample) is a hub for LGBTQ+ nightlife, with queer women-focused bars and clubs.
Madrid hosts WorldPride, one of the biggest Pride celebrations globally.
The coastal town of Sitges is a must-visit LGBTQ+ getaway with beach parties and a welcoming atmosphere.
Same-sex couples are widely accepted, and queer travelers report feeling safe exploring the country.
Top Experience: Visit Ellas Festival in Madrid, an annual event celebrating LGBTQ+ women in music, art, and culture.
2. Canada: Safe, Inclusive, and Diverse
Canada consistently ranks as one of the safest and most LGBTQ+ friendly countries, making it a top choice for queer women travelers.
Why It’s Great:
Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village is a lively LGBTQ+ neighborhood packed with queer bars, cafés, and events.
Montreal’s Fierté Canada Pride is one of the biggest and most inclusive pride festivals in North America.
Vancouver offers stunning outdoor adventures with a welcoming and diverse LGBTQ+ scene.
LGBTQ+ rights are legally protected, and homophobia is widely condemned in Canadian society.
Top Experience: Take a scenic road trip through the Canadian Rockies and visit LGBTQ+ inclusive retreats along the way.
3. The Netherlands: The Birthplace of LGBTQ+ Rights
The Netherlands has a long history of LGBTQ+ inclusion—it was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001.
Why It’s Great:
Amsterdam’s Reguliersdwarsstraat is home to a variety of LGBTQ+ bars, many of which cater to queer women.
The country has some of the most progressive gender identity and anti-discrimination laws in the world.
Rotterdam and Utrecht have growing LGBTQ+ communities with inclusive events and cultural festivals.
Queer travelers report feeling safe and accepted in public spaces.
Top Experience: Join Amsterdam Pride, where the iconic canal parade turns the entire city into a celebration of diversity and inclusion.
4. Sweden: LGBTQ+ Rights & Feminist Culture
Sweden is one of the most progressive countries when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, making it an ideal destination for queer women.
Why It’s Great:
Stockholm’s Mälarpaviljongen, a floating LGBTQ+ bar, is a summer hotspot for queer travelers.
Gothenburg and Malmö have growing LGBTQ+ nightlife and arts scenes.
LGBTQ+ women enjoy full legal protections, and gender equality is a key part of Swedish culture.
Sweden is home to West Pride, a festival known for its inclusivity and focus on social change.
Top Experience: Explore Lapland for an Arctic adventure, where LGBTQ+ travelers can experience the Northern Lights in a safe and inclusive environment.
5. New Zealand: A Natural Haven for Queer Travelers
New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes, adventure activities, and inclusive culture, making it a fantastic destination for LGBTQ+ women.
Why It’s Great:
Auckland’s Ponsonby district is the center of LGBTQ+ nightlife, featuring queer-friendly bars and clubs.
Wellington hosts Out in the Park, a long-running LGBTQ+ festival with performances, art, and community gatherings.
New Zealand consistently ranks among the safest countries for solo female travelers.
The country’s indigenous Māori culture has long recognized diverse gender identities and relationships.
Top Experience: Take a road trip through Queenstown and the South Island, stopping at LGBTQ+ friendly eco-lodges and wineries.
6. Portugal: Europe’s Rising LGBTQ+ Hotspot
Portugal has quickly become one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Europe, thanks to progressive laws and an increasingly visible queer scene.
Why It’s Great:
Lisbon’s Príncipe Real neighborhood is the heart of the LGBTQ+ community, filled with queer-friendly bars and shops.
Porto is home to Pride March and Queer Lisboa, Portugal’s biggest LGBTQ+ film festival.
Portugal is known for its warm hospitality, and LGBTQ+ travelers report feeling welcomed across the country.
The Algarve region offers stunning, secluded beaches perfect for a queer-friendly romantic getaway.
Top Experience: Visit Torel Avantgarde, an LGBTQ+ friendly luxury hotel with breathtaking views over Porto.
7. Iceland: A Small Country with a Big Heart for LGBTQ+ Travelers
Iceland is one of the safest and most progressive countries in the world, making it an excellent destination for LGBTQ+ women seeking adventure and community.
Why It’s Great:
Reykjavik’s Kiki Queer Bar is a must-visit for LGBTQ+ nightlife.
The country ranks high for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights, with strong legal protections.
Icelanders are known for their openness and acceptance of diverse identities.
The country hosts Reykjavik Pride, one of the most unique and community-focused pride events in the world.
Top Experience: Relax in the Blue Lagoon, an LGBTQ+ friendly geothermal spa perfect for unwinding after exploring Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes.
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Go Next?
Whether you’re looking for nightlife, nature, or cultural experiences, these LGBTQ+ friendly countries offer safety, inclusivity, and unforgettable adventures for queer women. No matter where you go, choosing destinations that embrace diversity allows you to travel with confidence and authenticity.
Ready to explore the world with like-minded LGBTQ+ women?
Join a group trip or plan your dream getaway with Ladies Touch Travel. Safe, inclusive, and full of unforgettable moments—let’s create new travel stories together!
