There are many cities around the world that are welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community. These destinations offer legal protection, social acceptance, and LGBT nightlife and economic opportunities. According to expat members of Nomad List, the five cities that top the list have a history of promoting LGBT rights and activism as well as supporting queer-friendly establishments and activities.
Starting in the 1920’s, Berlin was known for having the most lively and abundant gay subculture in Europe. Today, Berlin still remains one of the most welcoming cities to the LGBTQ+ community. If you are looking for the best time to visit, the Folsom Europe fair takes place in September and the Lesbian and Gay City Festival every June, Europe’s largest street party of its kind, being held in the traditional gay area around Nollendorfplatz in Schöneberg since 1993.
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“Toronto’s gay community offers a world of arts, culture and vivacious nightlife, with a vibrant gay village at the city’s core. The Village, located in Church-Wellesley, is the cultural hub of the city, bursting with galleries, theatres and gay-friendly businesses,” says Wow Travel. Today, you can find queer-friendly establishments across the entire city. Toronto’s Pride Parade every June is a colossal celebration and a great time to visit the city.
Old Compton Street and its surrounding area in SoHo is London’s gay epicenter. But the entire city is known for being incredibly welcoming, accepting, and open-minded to the LGBTQ+ community. Looking for some other areas to explore in the city? Check out Soho, found to the west of the West End, and Vauxhall Village, which are popular spots to find many gay-owned clubs, restaurants, and stores.
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The LGBT community in San Francisco is one of the largest and most prominent LGBT communities in the world and is one of the most important in the history of LGBT rights and activism. The Castro was one of the first gay neighborhoods in the United States and still remains a destination for tourists and locals. The entire city boats a vibrant LGBT nightlife and has been dubbed a “queer Disneyland” by many.
Tel Aviv is a stunning coastal city located in the heart of the Middle East and one of the most liberal, gay-friendly cities in the world. Every June, Tel Aviv celebrates Gay Pride week with celebrations and happenings throughout the city, including Pride Expo (Gay Culture Fair), LGBT Theater festival, LGBT Film Festival and the famous Pride Parade which is one of the most colorful gay parades in the world.
