7 must‑visit LGBTQ+ friendly destinations with direct flights from Manchester Airport
Travel proud, travel bold!
More than just travel hotspots
From culture-packed cities to sun-soaked beaches, these vibrant destinations are LGBTQ+ havens where freedom, identity, and celebration take centre stage. At Manchester Airport, we welcome people from all walks of life because travel should be joyful and inclusive. Our experts have designed this guide to spotlight seven standout destinations with full LGBTQ+ support, which can be reached via our expanding route network. Whether you're craving nightlife, cultural Pride events, scenic getaways, or queer‑history museums, here’s where to land next!
Berlin, Germany
A historic heartland of queer pride and reinvention, Berlin has long been a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ communities, from its thriving Weimar-era queer scene to today’s electric club culture. Dive into Schöneberg’s legendary bars like Hafen or Prinzknecht, or lose yourself in a wild night at Berghain. For history buffs, the Schwules Museum and Memorial to LGBTQ+ victims of the Holocaust offer powerful insight. Don’t miss Christopher Street Day (Berlin’s version of Pride) which draws over half a million people in a bold celebration of equality and expression.
Sitges, Spain
Sun, sea, and one of the most welcoming LGBTQ+ scenes in Europe! Located just 40 minutes from Barcelona, Sitges is a charming seaside town with a big heart. Its whitewashed old town, rainbow-flag-flying promenade, and bustling gay beach (Platja de la Bassa Rodona) make it an idyllic escape. The town hosts fabulous annual events like Sitges Gay Carnival and the International Bear Week. Whether you’re sipping sangria at Parrots Pub or dancing until sunrise at Organic Club, the vibe is open, joyful, and inclusive.
New York, USA
The birthplace of Pride, and a must-see LGBTQ+ cultural capital! New York is more than just a city, it’s a symbol of LGBTQ+ liberation. Visit the iconic Stonewall Inn and enjoy queer history walks through Greenwich Village. For nightlife, head to Brooklyn’s House of Yes or drag nights in Hell’s Kitchen. The city’s Pride Month in June includes the dazzling NYC Pride march, Drag March, Youth Pride, and more. LGBTQ+ museums, inclusive wellness events, and a huge queer arts scene make this a trip worth taking again and again.
Iceland
Cool on the outside, warm and inclusive on the inside. Iceland consistently ranks as one of the world’s most LGBTQ+-friendly countries. Reykjavík is a compact capital bursting with culture, colour, and charm. Grab a drink at Kiki Queer Bar, relax in one of the city’s public thermal baths, or join the Reykjavík Pride Parade every August. The country also offers the stunning Rainbow Road in Seyðisfjörður and unique rural Pride events. Iceland’s open-minded spirit makes it a wonderful (and peaceful) LGBTQ+ travel option.
Even more direct LGBTQ+‑friendly breaks
Thanks to our growing connections, Manchester Airport now offers direct routes to 200+ worldwide destinations. These noteworthy additions bring warmth, nightlife, and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ travellers:
Malaga & Barcelona: tapas, architecture, and beach culture with strong LGBTQ+ scenes and Pride festivals.
Toulouse, France: the “Pink City” lives up to its name with queer cafés, art culture, and inclusive energy.
Gran Canaria: Maspalomas is legendary for its LGBTQ+ nightlife, drag shows, and beach parties all year-round.
Toronto, Canada: Canada’s queer capital, featuring Church-Wellesley Village, inclusive arts, and one of the biggest Pride festivals globally.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Known for canal cruises, coffee shops, and a famously progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights.
Why Manchester Airport is your perfect Pride travel launchpad
At Manchester Airport, we don’t just connect people to places, we help connect identities, stories, and celebrations across the globe. Here's why LGBTQ+ travellers love flying with us:
Flights of fancy - wherever you fancy!
With direct flights to over 200 international destinations, including LGBTQ+ hotspots like New York, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Barcelona, planning your next Pride adventure has never been easier. Our partnerships with major airlines like Virgin Atlantic, Aer Lingus, Emirates, and Delta mean your journey is smooth, stylish, and secure.
Boarding passes? More like all-access passes to inclusivity
Manchester has long been a city of inclusion, diversity, and LGBTQ+ pride, and our airport is no exception. We support our passengers’ identities and aim to provide an accessible, welcoming travel environment for everyone. Our staff are trained in inclusive service, and we work closely with LGBTQ+ community groups to keep improving the experience.
From runway to rainbow way
We’re proud sponsors of Manchester Pride, Superbia, Sparkle (Trans Pride), and other events that spotlight LGBTQ+ voices. Whether you're travelling to celebrate Pride in another city or returning home from an incredible queer experience abroad, we’re with you every step of the way.
Fly high, fly proud, fly you
From pre-departure lounges to fast-track security and inclusive signage, Manchester Airport is here to support every type of traveller. Need help choosing your next LGBTQ+ friendly destination? We’re full of fresh ideas for LGBTQ+ travellers just like you.
Ready to take off?
From Amsterdam to Orlando, LGBTQ+ travellers have never had more global and inclusive options departing straight from Manchester Airport. Whether you're flying out for Pride, planning a romantic beach break, or looking to explore queer culture in a new city, Manchester Airport is your trusted departure point. Fly direct, travel safe and celebrate loud!
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