Amsterdam happens to be the most hospitable city in the world when it comes to gay and lesbian people. It is the one place on earth where you can be open about your orientation, without attracting any unwanted attention or being met with raised eyebrows. By legitimising gay marriages in April 2001, Amsterdam was the first to embrace its LGBT community. The Dutch are known for their liberal views on otherwise taboo issues, and sex or sexual orientation happens to be one of them. The city is packed with gay bars, pubs, discos, bookshops, video stores, gay hotels and restaurants, ensuring that you are met with a warm welcome and stick around for a comfortable stay.

Accommodation

Amsterdam has almost 351 hotels to choose from with some 40,000 beds. With an equal outlook towards heterosexual as well as homosexual couples you will be more than welcome at any of the accommodation. Amsterdam boasts of some of the finest gay-friendly hotels in Europe, Reguliersdwarsstraat happens to be a haven for the LGBT community and is a good starting point when looking for accommodation in Amsterdam.

Bars, Clubs and Nightlife

Amsterdam’s gay scene comes to life in the Reguliersdwarsstraat area. You can find a plethora of night clubs and discotheques and be assured of some of the most memorable moments of your journey being spent here. The next place to visit includes the Warmoesstraat in Amsterdam’s Red Light District. With a 1980s feel, most of the cruising bars and gay leather can be found here. In Amstel Street, you will find plenty of gay bars that feature the traditional Dutch ambience.

Places To Visit

A must visit is the Homomonument close to the Westerkerk just west of Dam Square. This famous monument was created to pay respect to all gay men and lesbians who have been persecuted because of their homosexuality. Vondelpark can be a great place for gay and lesbian couples, as this urban park doubles up as a cruising spot by night and hangout place by day. The Zandvoort beach buzzes with the local gay scene during the summers, as it is a clothing-optional beach located at the far south side, giving you ample freedom and privacy. ‘The Other Side’ happens to be the only official gay coffeeshop in Amsterdam. It is a cozy place with friendly and informative staff and seating for around 25 people. Situated in the Center on the Reguliersdwarsstraat, it happens to be a great place to begin your tour of Amsterdam's coffeeshops.

Gay Pride Parade

A trip to Amsterdam cannot be complete for any gay or lesbian couple without participating in the city’s . It happens to be one of the most colorful events that the city experiences. It is organised in the month of July and August. You can be part of the carnival for free and party till you drop with weeklong street parties, club parties, and the celebrated Canal Parade, which is a floating parade down the city’s canals. The Gay pride week is one of the busiest weekends of the year and it only makes sense to confirm your bookings beforehand.

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