LGBTQ+ Iceland Guide

With socially progressive legislation, an open-minded and friendly population, and a thriving gay scene, Iceland is the ideal destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. On a trip to Iceland, visitors will discover one of the most welcoming countries in the world.  

In this guide, explore 3 reasons why Iceland is a great destination for LGBTQ+ individuals. Plus, learn 3 things not to miss in gay-friendly Iceland. 

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Why Iceland is a great destination for LGBTQ+ travelers

There are countless reasons for all adventurous travelers to visit Iceland. For instance, it’s one of the world’s best places to glimpse the magical northern lights or to explore sublime volcanic landscapes. 

For queer people in particular, it’s a welcoming, safe, and beautiful country with plenty of exciting things to experience. Here are 3 reasons why the Land of Fire and Ice is the ideal destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.

1. Progressive LGBTQ+ rights

Is Iceland LGBTQ-friendly? Absolutely! It’s no exaggeration to say that, when it comes to gay rights and gender equality, Iceland is world-leading. Look at any list of the world’s most progressive nations and you’ll see Iceland close to (or at) the top. 

For instance, in 2021, Iceland topped the Global Acceptance Index, a report measuring each country’s level of social acceptance of LGBTQ+ people and rights. In 2024, Spartacus’ Gay Travel Index placed Iceland in the top 10 destinations worldwide. 

Over the years, the Icelandic Parliament has continued to pass laws for greater equality of sexuality and gender. The country enshrined the right to same-sex marriage in 2010. And, in 2019, the Gender Autonomy law affirmed the right for everyone to define their own gender identity.

Iceland was also the first country in the world to have an openly gay prime minister. Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir led the nation for 4 years from 2009. She and her partner were some of the first people to take advantage of the new right to same-sex marriage.

Recent steps by the government, including the 2023 law banning conversion therapy, show Iceland’s commitment to progress. And a symbol of Iceland’s support for diversity can be seen at Bergstaðastræti, or “Rainbow Street”. Every year, its colors are repainted in solidarity with queer people.

2. Safety and security

Iceland is not just known as a progressive country. It’s also recognised as an incredibly safe place to live and visit, for anyone, regardless of their gender expression or sexuality. 

Every year, the Institute for Economics and Peace compiles the Global Peace Index, a measure of the safest countries on Earth. Over the 16 years since it started, Iceland has claimed the top spot of this list every time, thanks to its peaceful population, low crime, and social cohesion. 

This should give every visitor the confidence that they can safely travel around Iceland. Even outside larger towns, locals are generally accepting.

Of course, the Global Peace Index does not measure all kinds of safety. So, travelers should still watch for the occasional volcanic eruption or seasonal blizzard. But Icelanders are used to managing these natural hazards, and they’re very rarely a danger to visitors.

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3. Welcoming and friendly locals

So far, you’ve seen how Iceland compares to other countries for its peacefulness and social acceptance. But all that can feel a little abstract. When travelers visit for themselves, they experience just how open, laid-back, and hospitable Icelandic people are.

In fact, Iceland is recognised as one of the happiest nations on earth by the World Happiness Report. The report ranks countries based on 6 aspects of wellbeing: income, freedom, trust, healthy life expectancy, social support, and generosity.

As the country performs highly in all these areas, it’s no wonder that Icelanders are among the happiest people in the world. But this is also great news for all visitors, who can expect a very warm welcome. 

Tips for LGBTQ+ travel in Iceland

So, what should LGBTQ+ people do in Iceland? To end this guide, we share 3 ideas for what not to miss when visiting Iceland.

1. Explore incredible sights across Iceland

There are countless things to see and do in the Land of Fire and Ice. 

For instance, visitors can indulge in the luxurious and therapeutic waters of the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon. They’re ideal places to unwind for solo travelers, same-sex couples, or larger groups alike. 

For more adventurous travelers, there are active experiences too, including horseback riding, helicopter tours, and glacier hikes. On day trips, travelers can explore landscapes on snowmobiles or off-road buggies.

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• Explore unique things to do in Iceland. 

2. Join locals at Reykjavík Pride 

Every year,  Reykjavík hosts Reykjavík Pride, a multi-day event supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in Iceland and across the globe.

While most pride festivals take place in June, in Iceland’s capital, Pride is held in August. Since it began in 1999, the event has grown from about 1,500 participants to become one of the best-known gay pride parades in the world. 

Over a week, Reykjavík Pride welcomes more than 100,000 people to the city. That is no small feat for a country with a population of just over 380,000. People of all genders come together along with their families and allies, for one of Iceland’s most exciting cultural events.

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3. Visit Reykjavík’s gay bars and LGBTQ+ events

While Reykjavík Pride might be the biggest, it’s far from the only event in Iceland’s LGBTQ+ calendar. Throughout the year, visitors to the Land of Fire and Ice will find a diverse range of events organized by and for queer people. 

These include the Reykjavík Bear festival, held every September, and Rainbow Reykjavík, typically held in March. You can also find smaller gay-friendly events, including club nights and parties, at venues across the capital. 

Many of these are hosted at Kíkí, Reykjavík’s legendary queer bar. Find out more about LGBTQ+ events at GayIce.is.

Explore Iceland with Nine Worlds

In 2023, Nine Worlds took part in PROUD Experiences, a trade show connecting the travel and lifestyle sectors to expand LGBTQ+ understanding and connect with like-minded peers.

As a trusted destination management company, we create unforgettable experiences for travelers of all sexualities and genders. Our private tours are fully customizable to each client’s preferences. Based in Reykjavík, our team of local experts can help you build the perfect escape.

Contact us to find out more about Iceland LGBTQ+ travel and the experiences we offer.