Sweden has a reputation for being one of the most open-minded, progressive and welcoming countries in the world.
Sweden indexed as one of the safest countries in the world for LGBTQ+ travel in 2023 LGBTQ+ Danger Index. It’s a place where diversity and inclusion are woven into the fabric of society, making it a fantastic travel destination for LGBTQ+ people from all over the world.
People often say Sweden has been “gay since 1944”, as this is when homosexuality was decriminalised in the country. Gay and lesbian 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 people with gender dysphoria to legally reassign themselves to their desired gender and to provide free hormone therapy. By 2013, laws were passed to allow legal gender changes without reassignment surgery or hormone replacement therapy. All are welcome here.
No matter where visitors travel to; no matter where they stay, eat or explore they are sure to be treated with the same service and respect as any guest should expect on a visit to Sweden. However, we wanted to provide you, with some more information on businesses and events, which are LGBTQ+ owned or go out of their way to identify as LGBTQ+ friendly, in case you get questions about this topic.
Of course, your incoming agent or DMC will be all too happy to help you with an LGBTQ+ request. Head to the Find your local partner pages for even more information on regional destinations who’ll be able to give you up to date localised LGBTQ+ information.
Stockholm is regarded as one of the world’s most ‘Open Cities’ – a beautiful and sophisticated place with an inclusive LGBTQ+ scene. Whatever time of year you visit, urban adventurers will also revel in Stockholm’s delicious foodie scene and its passion for art, architecture, design and fashion including lesbian icon and former popstar Efva Attling, whose boutiquea are full of gorgeous items. Your clients can of course immerse themselves in the fabulousness of the ABBA Museum or find many inspiring cultural moments at places like the Vasa Museum, Fotografiska, Artipelag or the Nationalmuseum before heading to a wealth of LGBTQ+ friendly bars, restaurants or weekly events. Perhaps the city’s best kept secret is Sunday night event onboard floating restaurant and bar, Patricia, but be warned that the lively party atmosphere often doesn’t begin until after midnight. Hotels such as Berns, Diplomat, Villa Dagmar, Hellstens Glashus, AtSix, Hobo, Rival, Nobis, Blique, Miss Clara, Pop House, Hasselbacken and Skeppsholmen all actively promote themselves as LGBTQ+ friendly, if your clients are looking for additional reassurance. You or your clients could also visit Stockholm LGBTQ for additional information.
