Sweden is widely recognised as one of the world’s most progressive, open and welcoming countries.
It consistently ranks among the safest destinations for LGBTQ+ travellers, including in the 2023 LGBTQ+ Danger Index. Here, diversity and inclusion are part of everyday life, making Sweden a confident, safe and enjoyable place to visit.
Sweden decriminalised homosexuality in 1944 and has continued to lead the way in LGBTQ+ rights ever since. Same-sex couples have been able to adopt since 2003, and same-sex marriage has been legal since 2009. Sweden was also the first country to allow legal gender transition and provide free hormone therapy. In 2013, legislation was updated to allow gender changes without the need for surgery or hormone treatment.
A warm welcome – wherever you go
Wherever visitors travel in Sweden – from large cities to small towns – they can expect to be treated with respect and warmth. All guests are welcome here.
However, we know some travellers may appreciate additional information on LGBTQ+-owned businesses and events, or those that identify as particularly LGBTQ+ inclusive. We've gathered some helpful suggestions below – and your incoming agent or DMC will be happy to assist with tailored recommendations.
You can also visit our Find your local partner pages for details on regional tourism organisations offering up-to-date, localised LGBTQ+ travel information.
Stockholm: an open, creative city
Stockholm is one of the world’s most open cities – a vibrant, welcoming capital with a proud LGBTQ+ scene.
No matter the season, visitors can enjoy everything from cutting-edge food and fashion to inspiring art and design. Music lovers can explore the ever-popular ABBA Museum, while cultural highlights include the Vasa Museum, Fotografiska, Artipelag and the Nationalmuseum.
For shopping with a personal touch, don’t miss the jewellery and design boutiques of former pop star and LGBTQ+ icon Efva Attling.
By night, the city comes alive with LGBTQ+ friendly restaurants, bars and weekly events. One much-loved local gem is Patricia – a floating restaurant and bar with a legendary Sunday night party. Just know it doesn’t really get going until after midnight!
LGBTQ+ friendly accommodation
Many of Stockholm’s leading hotels actively promote themselves as LGBTQ+ inclusive. These include:
- Berns
- Diplomat
- Villa Dagmar
- Hellstens Glashus
- At Six
- Hobo
- Rival
- Nobis
- Blique
- Miss Clara
- Pop House
- Hasselbacken
- Skeppsholmen
For more tips, head to Stockholm LGBTQ – a dedicated resource for inclusive travel experiences in the city.
