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LGBTQ+ Friendly Destinations in Europe background image

LGBTQ+ Friendly Destinations in Europe

Homosexuality is part of human nature. Relationships between men in Ancient Greece were no secret, and were described colourfully. The Romans blamed their behaviour on “too much exercise and not enough clothing”.

The history of LGBTQ+ is long, and unsteady. But in recent years, most western countries have made great strides in equality and acceptance.

We've partnered with Pride Expeditions

Pride Expeditions offers overseas trekking and rafting expeditions and UK based hill and mountain walking skills courses, scrambling and rock climbing days, and day walks. All these UK-based activities are run from their home in the mountains of Snowdonia. Their guides are qualified and highly experienced mountain practitioners.

How we rate countries

Using our criteria, we rate each country out of five. A score of four or above warrants a 'recommended' status. We look at five key areas; rights, track record, stance, lifestyle and experience. 

  • We research equal rights and anti-discrimination laws in place to protect.
  • We look at the track record, whether a country is ahead of the curve, lagging behind or simply not taking action.
  • We assess the government’s stance on the issue, as well as society’s acceptance.
  • We study lifestyle within each country, including variety of venues and events.
  • We draw from the experience of LGBTQ+ travellers and our partner organisation.

Human Rights

All countries in Europe are bound by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which states:

Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.

EU member states are bound by Article 21 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights which states:

Any discrimination based on any ground such as sex, race, colour, ethnic or social origin, genetic features, language, religion or belief, political or any other opinion, membership of a national minority, property, birth, disability, age or sexual orientation shall be prohibited.

To find out more, view and download our miniguide to LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Europe

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