As part of the LGBT+ community, when you go interrailing, it’s good to find places that are LGBT+ friendly. Europe, in particular, is known for its wide variety of activities that are suited to the community. But with so many cities to choose from along the interrail route, it can be hard to know which ones are really worth a visit.
So to help you to narrow down the options, here is a list of the top 5 most LGBT+ friendly interrail destinations in Europe, along with some fun activities that you can do in each city.
Amsterdam
For anyone that hasn’t been to Amsterdam – you’re missing out! An incredible city, it’s located on the edge of The Netherlands. But this magical city isn’t only renowned for its picturesque landscapes and fascinating landmarks. It’s also notorious for cannabis, sex and its large LGBT+ community. Host to dozens of events throughout the year, you’re bound to find one to enjoy during your trip.
From their yearly gay canal pride floating celebration, which consists of parade floats that travel down the Amstel to the Roze Filmgaden Film Festival, that thousands of tourists and locals attend – there is something for everyone.
In terms of their nightlife, you also won’t be disappointed! Mainly centred around one street, Reguliersdwarsstraat, you will be met with a wide variety of bars from the exotic Lion Noir which was designed with chic fabrics and boasts a welcoming atmosphere, to the sensual Roses that services delicious cocktails with the atmosphere of a bustling Cuban street.
Alongside the bars, throughout the street, you will be met with LGBT+ friendly coffee shops, hairdressers and tantalising restaurants. Alternatively, you can head over to Cafe t Mandje. Located on Zeedijk street, this is the oldest gay bar in Amsterdam and has been open since 1927. Offering an extraordinary interior and a fabulous vibe, it’s well worth a stop in after a day of exploring.
Barcelona
Barcelona draws in millions of tourists every year. Boasting a warm climate, delicious food and a smorgasbord of cultural offerings, it’s a wonderful place to visit no matter what the time of year. A worthy stop on your interrail trip, it has a well-established LGBT+ community – making Barcelona a great choice for an LGBT+ destination.
From the annual Bear Pride event in March to the International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in October, there are so many events to enjoy throughout the year. Alongside events, similarly to Amsterdam, Barcelona has a district in which the majority of its LGBT+ friendly bars, shops and restaurants are located – the Eixample district.
Examples of which being, Plata Bar which is a fin and lively cocktail bar in the heart of the district. Boasting a stylish interior and a sun terrace, it’s the ideal place to stop off for a refreshing drink. If you fancy a quick bite to eat, then head over to the Eixampeling Brunch Café & Bar. Offering a delicious selection of brunch delights (as well as cocktails) it will make the perfect start to your day in this fascinating city.
Berlin
Berlin is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s most popular LGBT+ friendly destinations to visit. From bars to restaurants, street events and pride festivals held throughout the year, you won’t be lost for things to enjoy in this extraordinary city. Berlin is also known for its fascinating LGBT history, recognising it through a number of museums – including the Schwules Museum.
In terms of events, there are two that stand out in particular – the Lesbian and Gay Festival Park that’s held in Friendrichschain every August and the XPOSED International Queer Film Festival which is held every May. These incredible events are a must for anyone travelling to Berlin throughout these months.
If you’re looking for LGBT+ friendly bars and restaurants – the options are endless. But there are two in particular that we want to mention – SilverFuture and Kurhaus Korsakow. SilverFuture is a friendly and welcoming bad with an open-door policy. Cosy yet bustling, it’s the perfect introduction to the community in Berlin.
Kurhaus Korsakow is a long-established restaurant which serves a wide range of local dishes. Set within a rustic interior, it makes for a charming visited no matter what the season.
Rome
Interestingly, Rome has only recently become a prominent LGBT+ friendly destination in Europe. Perhaps one of the most underrated, it’s filled with bustling bars, clubs and events for you to check out during your interrailing holiday.
If you’re visiting Rome in the summer, check out the aptly named Gay Village. A huge party that takes over one of the cities parks, it has numerous dance floors, live music, food trucks and events. If you’re looking for a more casual activity, then maybe head to Coming Out. A cafe, bar and restaurant, it offers a scrumptious menu and an awe-inspiring view of the Colosseum.
If romance is more your thing, then grab your partner and head out on a Vespa tour with a local, take a peaceful stroll along the Spanish Steps or make your way over to the Trevi Fountain.
Lisbon
The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is popular because of its picturesque buildings, breath-taking sea views and its remarkable history. But it’s also one of Europe’s most LGBT+ friendly destinations. Holding host to the annual Arrail Lisboa Pride, the Queer Lisboa International Film Festival and other events, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable trip when you opt to include Lisbon in your schedule.
As well as hosting LGBT+ events every year, Lisbon is known for its hundreds of restaurants, bars and attractions that are popular among the trans, gay and lesbian communities. From Portas Largas, a popular bar that plays a combination of live and electronic music to Construction that’s a hetero-friendly club that’s located in Principe Real, there’s something for all tastes.
If you’re looking to relax on your Lisbon getaway, then make your way to Beach 19. A naturist beach, it’s by far the most popular LGBT+ friendly beach in Portugal. Situated in Caparica, it takes approximately 25 minutes to get there by bus from the centre of the city. The ideal place to have a drink and go swimming in the spring and summer, it’s favoured amongst many that go interrailing around Portugal.
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