What Are the Best LGBTQ Wedding Destinations in Europe? Find Out Here!

Couples around the world choose Europe as the setting for their weddings because of its beauty, romance, fascinating culture, and rich history. These couples enjoy everything from city life to country life, castles to beachfront locations, and elegant venues to intimate alpine chateaus. Europe is a beautiful continent that offers plenty of opportunities for romantic getaways. Whether you’re looking for a traditional European wedding or something more exotic, there’s a place for everyone.

For LGBTQ couples who want to make their wedding as unique and intimate as possible, there are lots of locations that are perfect for a celebration. Here are our top 10 suggestions for LGBTQ wedding destinations in Europe.

Ireland

Ireland legalized gay marriage by popular vote, ​​making them the first country to do so. Dublin is an ideal place for hosting a gay wedding, as there are many places to host weddings with different budget options available. 

For a truly unique experience, consider spending your big day at Ashford Castle. The castle was once home to a wealthy shipping magnate, and today it offers a wide variety of amenities. You can also consider Belle Isle Castle, in County Fermanagh, or Ballygally Castle in County Antrim, for your wedding. 

An Irish castle is a great choice for any LGBTQ wedding in Ireland. You’ll get to see some stunning scenery as you enjoy the party!

Iceland

In 2010, Iceland legalized same-sex marriages. Among the first couples to tie the knot were the prime minister, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, and her partner. Iceland is a land of stunning natural wonders. You’ll find snow-capped mountains, glistening fjords, and crystal clear lakes surrounded by lush greenery. 

Many visitors head to its rugged interior for hiking and rafting adventures. Others enjoy visiting geysers and hot springs, soaking up some of the country’s famous mineral spa treatments. For those seeking a more sedate experience, many lodgings offer Icelandic horseback riding tours and whale watching excursions.

There are many locations to choose from, such as Reykjavik, Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, the Blue Lagoon, and the Golden Circle. For couples looking to tie the knot while basking in the glow of such gorgeous scenery, Iceland is a perfect choice.

Spain

Same-sex couples should consider getting married in Spain because it’s one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world. It is also known as a model nation for LGBTQ rights because it promotes equality, with laws in place protecting same-sex marriage, adoption, and transgender rights.

In the Spanish region of Catalonia, there are several beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean coast that make excellent wedding locations. These include Cala Majorca, Cala Salada, Cala Figuera, and Cala Bona.

 With a vibrant arts scene and plenty of outdoor activities, the coastal province of Valencia also makes a great destination for gay weddings. And if you’re looking for a slightly less crowded option, the mountain towns of Andalusia offer unique experiences and stunning scenery.

Sitges, on the other hand, is a beautiful resort city located near Barcelona. It’s known for being a center for visual arts, music, literature, theater, and other forms of expression. Couples can get married here in a number of different ways, but the most popular option is going straight to the courthouse after having a civil ceremony. 

England

In England, Manchester is a great destination for a wedding or honeymoon. For couples looking to tie the knot in a unique setting, Hope Mill Theatre is a perfect choice. It is located in the center of Manchester and surrounded by a large park that offers a variety of activities for guests, as well as a beautiful venue for the ceremony and reception.

Brighton is also a favorite destination for LGBTQ weddings. There are many beautiful wedding venues in Brighton, including the Royal Pavilion and the Brighton Racecourse. The Brighton Palace Pier is also an attractive venue for weddings, as well as a great place to watch the sunset. Finally, the British Airways i360 is a landmark building in Brighton that is perfect for couples looking for a unique wedding venue.

Italy

Despite Italy remaining one of Western Europe’s most conservative countries with regard to gay rights and having a ban on same-sex marriage, steps are slowly being made in the right direction. In particular, civil union was introduced in June 2016. As a result, the country is becoming a popular destination for weddings for LGBTQ couples.

Many towns in Puglia offer gay-friendly beaches and fun activities. The town hall, Palace Cavalli, is a beautiful venue for a wedding ceremony and is located in central Venice. You could also have your  ceremony while floating down the canals in a gondola.

Tuscany is often described as being part of Italy’s wine country, but there are many other things to do besides drinking wine. There are plenty of romantic destinations all within easy reach of Florence, including beautiful cities such as Siena, San Gimignano, and Volterra and smaller towns like Lucca, and even the hilltop village of Montepulciano.

Lake Como and Lake Garda are located along the Italian Riviera. They are among the most beautiful spots in Italy. Their shores are dotted by medieval castles and palaces dating back to the Middle Ages. These lakes feature many ancient villas and rich palaces. You can get married here and enjoy your honeymoon in style.

Sweden

There are plenty of reasons why you might choose to hold your wedding in Sweden. From the gorgeous scenery to the world-class museums, there are endless possibilities for a memorable wedding day in Stockholm. 

However, if you’re looking for something truly unique, think about booking a stay at the Ice Hotel. Located near the Arctic Circle, the Ice Hotel has a variety of rooms available for your big day, including deluxe suites, standard rooms, and even “ice rooms.” They also offer a number of incredible perks, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and an excellent location overlooking the Torne River. 

Plus, once you’ve got your dress picked out, you’ll be ready for some serious sightseeing — the Ice hotel is located right next door to the ABBA museum.

France

In 2013, France legalized gay marriages, but it was far from a smooth road. Since then, the number of weddings has risen dramatically. Many couples prefer to get married in a romantic setting, such as the sea or river. Couples can also choose to go on a cruise along the Rhone river.

In addition to being a great romantic destination, France has some amazing vineyards and delicious wines. Couples could enjoy a trip along the coast, including a stay aboard a cruise ship, and then spend time exploring this wonderful country. 

If you’re working with a generous budget, consider having a fairytale-like wedding in a French chateau or castle. Some are available with private swimming pools, tennis courts, hot tubs, and other amenities. You’ll also find a wide range of chalets, villas, and cottages to choose from.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is historically known for being one of the most culturally liberal cities in the world, as well as having a large gay community. Gay marriage was legalized in 2001 and today the city is a popular tourist destination for LGBT travelers.

Reguliersdwarstraat is the main Gay Street with upscale, gay-owned boutiques, cafes, restaurants. Quentin Golden Bear Hotel is a small, cozy hotel with a history dating back to just after WWII. 

In honor of the LGBT community, the Netherlands erected a monument in the city center, which commemorates all the gay people persecuted because of their sexuality during World War II. Most of the dance parties/clubs are located near Halve Maastraat and Rembrandt Square.

Mykonos, Greece

The gay-friendly island of Mykonos in Greece has attracted LGBTQ tourists since the 1980s. Its white stucco buildings and crystal blue waters make it a popular destination.

There are many great places to stay here, including award-winning resorts and small villas, scattered throughout the island. As part of the gay beach scene, Paraga Beach in Mykonos attracts many visitors. Although clothing-optional Elia Beach is considered a “gay beach”, the crowds are smaller than at Paraga.

Malta

Malta is a popular destination for LGBT tourists due to its welcoming attitude towards LGBT culture. Malta doesn’t have as  many gay-friendly establishments as some other European spots, but there are still several LGBTQ-friendly places in Malta such as hotels, restaurants, and beaches. They also host an annual pride march in Valletta every year featuring local politicians.

Malta is considered to be a perfect location for a destination wedding because of the strong LGBTQ community. Couples of any sexual orientation can adopt children. Lesbians may access IVF treatments. Gays are allowed to donate blood. Transgender people are given full legal recognition. Intersex people may legally change their gender.

Destination weddings have become more popular than ever. Couples often choose a location with a special meaning to them, whether it’s a city where they met, a place where they fell in love, or even the site of their first date. A destination wedding gives couples the opportunity to create special memories that last a lifetime. 

In which European city/country would you most like to be married? Share and send them with us to [email protected]