Cultures of Queerness - 6 Travel Destinations With Rich LGBTQ+ History

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, your infatuation with the global history of your community is a powerful motivation for your travels. The vibrant past, whimsical cultures, and beautiful traditions of LGBTQ+ folks across the globe is a beautiful thing to learn. If you’re looking to travel somewhere rich in LGBTQ+ history, consider these destinations - they could be your perfect vacation waiting to happen.

Here are six travel destinations abundant with LGBTQ+ history ready for your next adventures.

Sicily, Italy

As one of the most famous islands in the Mediterranean, Sicily is known for its dazzling waters, lush cuisine, and astounding architecture. The rich history of this enchanting island motivates many travelers, but temples and theaters are not the only significant sites here. Grotta dell’Addaura, translated to Addaura Cave, has what is theorized to be the first recordings of homosexuality in history. In these caves, you will find depictions of homosexual behavior left behind by the cavemen anywhere between 9,600 and 5,000. The drawings show these men dancing, hunting, and potentially engaging in sexual behavior with each other. It is a fascinating site for any traveler wishing to uncover the homosexuality of the past.

Additionally, Sicily is home to various other historical attractions. The Valley of the Temples is one of the most striking Greek architectures (and we all know how gay they were). Cathedrals, museums, gardens, and more can make your trip more invigorating. If a beachfront town with endless culture enchants you, consider Sicily when planning your next escape.

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, Mexico, was once a prominent home of the Mayans: an indigenous group of Mesoamericans known for their scientific advancements, towering pyramids, and stunning crafts. The Mayans practiced detailed religious ceremonies, which often included sexual practices among two or more men. Homosexual relations were also portrayed in many of their arts, such as cave paintings, statues, writings, and more. Witnessing these monuments is a wonderful way to pay tribute to the LGBTQ+ traditions of the past.

Now, Tulum is home to many ruins left behind by the people. Tulum also provides activities for adventurous types of travelers, such as vast caves, thrilling snorkeling tours, breathtaking zipline tracks, and more. If a city filled with ancient ruins and exciting experiences sounds like your ideal vacation, Tulum is an excellent choice.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Known as the LGBTQ+ Neighborhood of Scandinavia, Copenhagen, Denmark, is not a site to dismiss. Copenhagen has always been one of the safest places for the queer community, with one of the oldest organizations of LGBTQ+ individuals, the National Associations for Gays and Lesbians, being established here in 1948. The oldest gay bar in the world, Centralhjørnet, was created in 1917 and still stands as a globally famous bar.

Now, Copenhagen stands as a great city to visit as an LGBTQ+ traveler. Visit the Gay House for a fantastic show, one of their many saunas for a relaxing soak, and their endless LGBTQ+ friendly clubs and bars for late-night partying. No matter what you are hoping to do, Copenhagen has an attraction for you.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The Netherlands is famous for being the first country to legalize same-sex marriage on April 1st, 2001, but its involvement with the LGBTQ+ community extends further beyond that. Amsterdam is home to the first gay rights association, the Center for Culture and Recreation, founded in 1946. This organization and several other prevalent movements led to Amsterdam’s heavy involvement with the LGBTQ+ community. Landmarks like the Homomonument, Living By Numbers, and the IHLIA LGBT Heritage Collection pay tribute to the several historical significances of our community.

Now with countless restaurants, coffee shops, clubs, bars, and resorts specially made for the LGBTQ+ community, Amsterdam is one of the safest cities in the world for our community. There is so much this charming city offers, so be sure to plan a vacation there soon.

Stockholm, Sweden

If you are looking for regal and luxurious LGBTQ+ history, look no further than Stockholm, Sweden. Tre Kronor, also known as The Kronor Castle, was the birthplace of one of the most significant LGBTQ+ figures in history: Queen Christina. Queen Christina was not merely a queen due to her title. She was an openly bisexual woman, with her most prominent lover being Ebba Sparre, her lady-in-waiting.

Attractions outside the castle’s walls include the Vasa Museum, the town of Gamla Stan, the paths of Marabouparken, and more. No matter your royal status (or lack thereof), Stockholm can give your trip the dignity it deserves.

New York City, New York

A collection of LGBTQ+ history is incomplete without mentioning New York City and the figures that sacrificed their lives for our freedom. The infamous Stonewall Riots, which occurred on June 28th, 1969, launched the United States into a wave of protests and rebellions that led to our modern rights. Today, Stonewall Inn is a national monument created to honor the sacrifices of the rioters.

Other attractions, such as the Gay Liberation Monument and the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art, contributing to the modern LGBTQ+ citizens and visitors. Now as the city with the largest number of LGBTQ+ citizens in the United States and with countless gay monuments and attractions, New York City truly has it all.

Do one of these locations call your name? Are you wondering how you can start planning your travels now? Rainbow Getaways, a travel agency specially made with LGBTQ+ identities in mind, can help you start your next adventures. Schedule a consultation to start building the trip of your dreams.

Rainbow Getaways proudly help travelers of the LGBTQ community (and our allies) research, plan, and book incredible vacations where you feel confident and comfortable enjoying and exploring your destination. We plan each vacation to meet your specific needs, so you'll have an experience just as unique as you.