Mapping out the top queer-friendly cities globally (spoiler: SA isn't on the list)
"Safety is an important criterion for every tourist but especially for the LGBTQ+ community."
Emisil.com experts recently undertook a study to rank the leading destinations for LGBTQ+ travellers worldwide.
This comprehensive research delves into factors such as same-sex marriage laws, gender recognition regulations, safety measures, and the Global Trans Index of 2023.
Moreover, it presents data on the number of LGBTQ+ clubs and bars listed on Google Maps, offering insights into broader nightlife trends.
1. LISBON, PORTUGAL
The findings highlight Lisbon, Portugal, as the top choice for queer tourists, boasting a remarkable score of 9.26.
This score reflects the city's exceptional safety standards and its welcoming stance toward the LGBTQ+ community.
Portugal emerges as a frontrunner in LGBTQ+ inclusivity, with the highest Global Trans Index score of 248 among all nations surveyed.
This index encompasses various metrics, including gender recognition policies, anti-discrimination legislation, and low incidences of hate crimes.
Lisbon stands out as a vibrant hub for queer culture, hosting a plethora of events such as Lisbon Bear Pride, Europride 2025, and Lisbon Gay Pride.
Additionally, the city offers a diverse array of 14 LGBTQ+ clubs and bars, underscoring its status as a premier destination for LGBTQ+ travellers.
2. COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
Securing the second position is Copenhagen, Denmark, with an impressive score of 9.22.
Despite boasting a higher safety index compared to Lisbon, Copenhagen has a smaller queer scene, with only 12 queer bars and clubs.
3. NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
Up next, New York, United States, follows closely with a third-place score of 9.19.
The city has the most queer bars and clubs, and 65 out of all the destinations in the ranking of them are featured on Google Maps.
Interestingly, the safety index for New York is the third lowest, but tourists can enjoy the vibrant queer scene of the city with The NYC Pride March and annual Stonewall Riots Anniversaries.
4. AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Securing the fourth position is Amsterdam, Netherlands, with a commendable score of 9.18.
The Netherlands holds the distinction of being the first country on this ranking to legalise same-sex marriage back in 2001, while gender recognition legislation was introduced in 2014.
Amsterdam further boasts a robust safety index and an extensive queer nightlife scene, with over 20 LGBTQ+ bars and clubs listed on Google Maps within the city.
5. TAIPEI, TAIWAN
Taipei, Taiwan, secures the remarkable fifth position in the prestigious ranking of top queer tourist destinations, boasting an impressive score of 8.84.
Taipei dazzles with the highest safety score among all cities surveyed, setting a new standard for LGBTQ+ inclusivity and security.
What's more, Taipei beckons travellers with an astonishing array of 30 vibrant queer nightlife venues, promising an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
6. BARCELONA, SPAIN
Barcelona, Spain, makes an electrifying entrance into sixth place, boasting a thrilling score of 8.83.
Spain shines brightly in the Global Trans Index of 2023, setting the stage for an exhilarating LGBTQ+ adventure.
With a staggering selection of over 30 queer bars and clubs, Barcelona beckons travellers to immerse themselves in its vibrant nightlife scene.
And the excitement doesn't end there – the city pulsates with energy during iconic events like the Barcelona Circuit Festival and Barcelona Gay Pride, drawing crowds from far and wide to revel in its inclusive and celebratory atmosphere.
7. REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Nestled closely behind in seventh place is Reykjavik, Iceland, boasting an impressive score of 8.80.
While Reykjavik may be smaller in size, it radiates with warmth and inclusivity, showcasing just 5 queer nightlife venues on Google Maps.
However, what it lacks in quantity, it more than makes up for in quality, with a reputation for exceptional safety standards and a vibrant calendar of LGBTQ+ events.
8. TORONTO, CANADA
Seizing the eighth spot is Toronto, Canada, with an impressive score of 8.77.
Within the city, tourists can discover a diverse selection of over 10 queer bars and clubs showcased on Google Maps, although this count is notably smaller than that of New York.
Despite this difference, Toronto shines with a higher safety index when compared to its bustling counterpart, New York City.
Moreover, on a national scale, Canada emerges as a powerhouse of LGBTQ+ inclusivity, ranking second only to Portugal in the esteemed Global Trans Index featured in this list.
9. TOKYO, JAPAN
Securing the ninth position is Tokyo, Japan, with an impressive score of 8.67.
Despite being the only country in this ranking where same-sex marriage is not legally recognised, Tokyo dazzles with a staggering array of over 40 queer nightlife venues.
Among its captivating offerings, the Tokyo Rainbow Pride stands out as a must-see LGBTQ+ event, promising an enriching experience for curious tourists and locals alike.
10. PARIS, FRANCE
Paris, France, gracefully rounds off the prestigious ranking of top queer tourist destinations, claiming the illustrious tenth place with an impressive score of 8.57.
While Paris may have a safety index that falls below that of its counterparts, it more than makes up for it with an abundance of over 30 lively queer clubs and bars, ensuring an unparalleled nightlife experience.
But the excitement doesn't stop there – Paris proudly showcases its vibrant LGBTQ+ community through a plethora of captivating events, including the Festival des Cultures LGBT, the Marche des Fiertés LGBT (Gay Pride parade), and the Paris International Lesbian & Feminist Film Festival, cementing its status as a beacon of inclusivity and celebration.
"Safety is an important criterion for every tourist but especially for the LGBTQ+ community."
- Emisil.com spokesperson