For a lot of queer couples, eloping abroad isn’t just about the adventure (though that part is pretty great). It can also be about finding a place that feels more affirming, more private, or just… easier. Maybe you’re dreaming of a country where your love is legally recognized, or where you can just be yourselves without the side-eyes. Whatever your reason, choosing to elope somewhere LGBTQIA+-friendly (and affirming) can make the whole experience feel that much more meaningful. In this article, I’m sharing some of the top LGBTQ+ elopement destinations around the world, plus tips to help you choose the right spot and travel safely.

What Makes a Country LGBTQ+-Friendly and Affirming?

An LGBTQ+-friendly country goes beyond just legal protections. It’s about feeling seen, safe, and respected while you’re there.

Some things that can make a destination more affirming include:

• Legal recognition of same-sex marriage or partnerships, as well as gender diversity
• Anti-discrimination laws that protect LGBTQ+ folks
• Visible queer communities and events
• Cultural attitudes that are inclusive and welcoming
• A general sense that you don’t have to constantly be on guard or tone down for the sake of your safety

Of course, no place is perfect, and experiences can vary, so doing a little research ahead of time can go a long way.

Can You Get Legally Married Abroad?

Technically, yes—there are some instances where you can legally marry abroad. But in most cases, it’s way easier to do the paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony while you’re traveling (and this is the option I’m a huge advocate for). That way, you can skip the red tape and still celebrate your love in a super cool location. 

Keep in mind that you can’t get legally married everywhere. This is because of various reasons (and it’s important to do thorough research beforehand):

• Some countries don’t even recognize same-sex marriage
• Some countries only allow residents or citizens to legally marry, regardless of sexual orientation.
• Even if you can legally marry abroad, your home country may not recognize the marriage, depending on its own laws.

So, unless your marriage is tied to citizenship, visas, or legal status in another country, a symbolic ceremony is the way to go.

Top 18 LGBTQ+-Friendly Countries for Eloping Couples

I put this list together using the LGBTQ+ Equality Index from Equaldex, which takes into account both legal protections and real-world experiences and attitudes to help highlight truly affirming places to elope for LGBTQ+ couples. The overall scores of each country are based on:

• Legal Index (LI): How strong a country’s legal protections are (marriage equality, anti-discrimination laws, trans rights, etc.)
• Public Opinion Index (POI): Public opinion and social acceptance of LGBTQ+ people
• Overall EI: A combined score that reflects both the legal landscape and how queer folks are actually treated day-to-day

1. Iceland

With an Equality Index of 94, it tops the global charts for both legal protections and public acceptance. Same-sex partnerships became legal in 1996, and by 2010, Iceland legalized same-sex marriage with unanimous parliamentary support. That same year, Prime Minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir made history by marrying her partner, Jónína Leósdóttir, becoming one of the first openly gay world leaders to marry while in office.

But Iceland’s commitment to equality doesn’t stop at marriage. In 2023, the country passed a historic, trans-inclusive ban on conversion therapy, reinforcing its position as a global leader in LGBTQ+ rights.

Beyond the legal framework, Iceland’s public opinion is equally supportive, with a Public Opinion Index of 90. This widespread acceptance is evident in everyday life, from rainbow-painted streets in Reykjavík to the inclusive atmosphere at local establishments.

Quick Look Into Iceland as an Elopement Destination

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect when eloping in Iceland:

• Expect a good mix of glaciers, volcanic lava fields, waterfalls, black sand beaches, rugged mountains, and geothermal hot springs (depending on where you are, of course)
• The best time to elope is summer (June–August) to take advantage of the Midnight Sun and longer daylight hours.
• Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable; layering and waterproof gear are essential.
• Reykjavík offers welcoming queer-friendly venues and vibrant nightlife if you want to celebrate after your ceremony.
• Flights and accommodations can be pricier and book up fast during peak season, so plan ahead.

2. Norway

With an Equality Index score of 87, Norway consistently ranks as one of the world’s most LGBTQ+-friendly countries. Its Legal Index is equally strong at 87, reflecting comprehensive protections that include marriage equality since 2009, adoption rights for same-sex couples, and anti-discrimination laws. Public opinion is overwhelmingly supportive too, with a score of 87, making Norway a genuinely welcoming place for queer couples to elope.

Quick Look Into Norway as an Elopement Destination

• You’ll find landscapes ranging from fjords and towering mountains to deep forests and islands.
• Summer months bring long daylight hours, with the Midnight Sun lighting up northern regions for up to 24 hours straight.
• The weather can be cool and wet even in summer, so packing layers and waterproof gear is a must.
• Norway’s excellent infrastructure makes many spots easily accessible, though some remote locations may require hiking or boat rides.
• Cities like Oslo and Bergen offer vibrant queer scenes, inclusive venues, and welcoming LGBTQ+ communities.
• Because Norway can be expensive, especially during peak season, booking flights and accommodations well in advance is a smart move.

3. Uruguay

This little country has been quietly leading the way in LGBTQ+ rights in Latin America for decades. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013, and folks here are generally very supportive: Around 70% of Uruguayans back marriage equality, which is pretty awesome. Plus, Uruguay was ahead of the curve on adoption rights for queer couples and provides legal protections for trans folks to update their legal gender and receive gender-affirming care.

Quick Look Into Uruguay as an Elopement Destination

• You can expect everything from quiet beaches with golden sand to rolling green hills and charming towns that feel like stepping back in time.
• The summer months (December through February) are perfect for an elopement if you don’t mind a bit of heat. These months are full of local energy with festivals and great food. 
• Montevideo, the capital, has a fun artsy scene, historic streets, and some cozy LGBTQ+-friendly cafés and bars to celebrate afterward.

4. Spain

One thing I want to note: Some parts of Spain—especially popular tourist hotspots like Barcelona—have seen rising anti-tourism sentiments in recent years. This mostly comes from locals feeling overwhelmed by crowds and rising costs. It’s a good reminder to be respectful, support local businesses, and consider exploring less touristy spots (or look into a different country altogether).

That said, Spain still takes the fourth spot on the equality index, with an overall score of 84. With a perfect 100 on legal rights, this makes it one of the most progressive countries in Europe for queer folks. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005, and the country is known for its vibrant, lively LGBTQ+ scene. Beyond the laws, Spanish culture is generally warm and accepting, with many cities and towns embracing queer travelers with open arms.

Quick Look Into Spain as an Elopement Destination

• You’ll find a stunning mix of landscapes—from Mediterranean beaches to historic villages, rolling vineyards, and mountain ranges.
• The best time for an elopement is spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October) to enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Getting around is easy, with great public transport and road networks connecting cities and countryside alike.

5. Denmark

Scoring an 81 on the Equality Index, with a strong Legal Index of 93, Denmark was actually the first country to legally recognize same-sex unions back in 1989 and legalized same-sex marriage in 2012. The public opinion is also solid, sitting at 69, reflecting a generally welcoming and open-minded culture.

Quick Look Into Denmark as an Elopement Destination

• You’ll find a lovely mix of coastal towns, green countryside, historic castles, and urban spots perfect for intimate ceremonies.
• Spring and summer offer the best weather, with long days and plenty of sunshine for outdoor celebrations.
• Denmark’s compact size means you can easily combine city vibes with scenic nature spots without long travel times.
• Copenhagen boasts a vibrant queer scene with plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly cafes, bars, and events to celebrate your marriage.
• Traveling around is easy thanks to excellent public transport and bike-friendly cities.
• Since Denmark can be pricier than some other European destinations, planning and booking ahead will help you get the best deals.

6. Germany

Germany scores a solid 81 on the Equality Index and nails a perfect 100 on legal protections, which means the laws here have your back—same-sex marriage has been legal since 2017, and discrimination protections are strong. Public opinion clocks in at 62, so while most places are really welcoming, some areas can feel a bit more traditional. But overall? It’s a place where queer love is definitely celebrated.

Quick Look Into Germany as an Elopement Destination

• You’ll find everything from buzzing city streets and iconic landmarks to quiet forests and rolling vineyards.
• Spring and early fall are the sweet spots for weather. It’s nice and mild, plus fewer tourists to dodge.
• Getting around is easy, thanks to Germany’s top-notch trains and roads.
• Berlin is very LGBTQ+-friendly with creative, offbeat spots perfect for your ceremony and celebration.
• A heads-up: attitudes can vary by region, so it’s smart to do a little local digging to find the best spots for your vibe.

7. Chile

Chile scores a strong 81 on the Equality Index, with a perfect 100 on legal protections—meaning the laws really support LGBTQ+ folks. Same-sex marriage became legal there in 2022, and anti-discrimination laws are solid. Public opinion is a bit lower at 61, showing that while acceptance is growing, it can still feel a bit mixed depending on where you are. That said, Chile’s big cities and progressive pockets are pretty queer-friendly and welcoming.

Quick Look Into Chile as an Elopement Destination

• Chile’s landscapes are seriously impressive, from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia’s dramatic glaciers and fjords.
• Spring and fall (September to November and March to May) are great times for milder weather and fewer crowds.
• Big cities like Santiago and Valparaíso offer vibrant queer communities and cool, artsy vibes.
• Traveling between regions can mean some long drives or flights, so plan accordingly if you want to explore different spots.
• Chile is generally safe, but like anywhere, it’s good to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in more rural or conservative areas.

8. Malta

Malta is small but has made big strides in LGBTQ+ rights. It scores 80 on the Equality Index with a perfect 100 on legal protections. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2017, and there are solid laws protecting trans folks, too. Public opinion sits around 61, showing it’s generally accepting and getting more so.

Quick Look Into Malta as an Elopement Destination

• You’ll find beautiful coastlines, clear blue waters, and historic towns (and they’re all pretty close together since Malta is small).
• Spring and fall offer nice weather without the summer crowds or heat.
• Getting around is easy with good public transport and car rental options.
• Malta is generally safe and friendly, with a growing LGBTQ+ community, especially in spots like Valletta and St. Julian’s.
• The mix of history and seaside views gives you some solid photo backdrops.

9. Andorra

Andorra might be small and often overlooked, but it scores an 80 on the Equality Index, with pretty strong legal protections (86 on the Legal Index) and good public acceptance (74). Gay marriage has been legal there since 2014, and the country has made solid progress on LGBTQ+ rights in recent years.

Quick Look Into Andorra as an Elopement Destination

• Expect mountain landscapes, like alpine forests, peaks, and charming villages with that cozy mountain-town feel.
• Summers are mild and great for outdoor ceremonies, while winters bring snow if you’re into that vibe for your elopement.
• The country is easy to get around despite its mountainous terrain, with good roads and public transport options.
• Andorra is generally safe and friendly, though it’s a small place, so it feels intimate and low-key.
• It’s not a big tourist destination, which means fewer crowds and more privacy for your elopement.

10. Canada

Canada scores a strong 79 on the Equality Index, with a Legal Index of 95. Same-sex marriage has been legal nationwide since 2005, and there are comprehensive anti-discrimination laws in place. Public opinion sits at 62, showing generally good acceptance across the country. However, social acceptance countrywide still varies, depending on where you go. Larger cities tend to be more welcoming, while small towns lean a lot more socially conservative.

Quick Look Into Canada as an Elopement Destination

• Canada offers a range of landscapes, from city vibrancy and small, charming towns to mountains, boreal forests, and lakes.
• Canada is huge. So, getting around can mean long drives or flights, depending on where you want to go. Flying within the country can be quite expensive, too, depending on how far you’re going.
• The best time to elope depends on what you’re after, but late spring through early fall is popular for nicer weather. Winter can get pretty cold and snowy (and not in a cute way)
• Big cities have thriving queer scenes and lots of event options
• If you want something outdoorsy, spots like Banff, Whistler, or Prince Edward Island offer stunning natural backdrops.

Other LGBTQ+-Friendly Countries for Queer Couples Eloping

These destinations didn’t quite make the top ten on the Equality Index, but they’re still great options for queer couples looking to elope somewhere welcoming and beautiful:

• Argentina
• Netherlands
• Nepal
• Brazil
• Australia
• Portugal
• New Zealand
• Finland

How to Choose LGBTQ+-Friendly Elopement Destinations 

Even when you do all the research and planning, there’s no way to guarantee 100% comfort and safety everywhere you go. Unfortunately, there can be awkward or unsafe encounters in any country, even the most “friendly” ones. But doing your homework up front can go a long way when finding a destination that feels good, safe, and affirming for you and your partner.

Listen: Tips for LGBTQ+ Couples Travelling Abroad

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Destination Elopement

Know the Difference Between Friendly, Accepting, and Risky

Not all places fall neatly into “safe” or “unsafe” boxes. Some countries are openly celebratory of LGBTQIA+ people—with Pride flags flying all year and visible community support. Others may not be as loud in their support but still feel fine to exist and travel in as a queer couple. And of course, there are still places where being out is dangerous due to laws or cultural attitudes. Understanding where a place falls on that spectrum helps set realistic expectations.

Use Trusted Resources to Kick Off Your Search

A quick online search like “most LGBTQ+-friendly countries to travel” can be a great starting point, but dig a little deeper. Some helpful resources include:

• Equaldex’s Equality Index (the one I used in this blog!)
• Pew Research Center studies
• Movement Advancement Project’s Equality Maps (for US-specific information)
• Everywhere is Queer map, which highlights queer-owned businesses and can give you a feel for community visibility in a place

Blogs and travel stories written by other LGBTQIA+ travelers are also helpful—personal experiences can give insight you won’t get from stats alone.

Take a Closer Look at the Details

Once you’ve got a shortlist, go beyond surface-level info. Look into:

• Local laws that protect (or don’t protect) LGBTQ+ people
• Whether there’s a visible queer community or social scene
• LGBTQ+-owned businesses, bars, or gathering spaces
• Local or national political leadership and their track record on queer rights
• Whether the area hosts Pride events or LGBTQ+ celebrations

These things can tell you a lot about how you’ll be received once you’re actually there.

Ask People Who’ve Been There

One of the most helpful things you can do? Ask people who’ve already traveled to the places you’re considering. If you don’t know anyone personally, online communities or social media can be great for this. You can also lean on LGBTQIA+ travel pros—queer travel agents, photographers (like me!), or wedding planners who can offer firsthand knowledge of what destinations actually feel like on the ground.

Traveling for Your Elopement: Safety Tips

It’s frustrating that this even has to be a part of the planning process (trust me, I know), but for many queer couples, safety isn’t a given when traveling abroad. The reality is that some places simply aren’t as accepting as others, and even in LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, you might still encounter uncomfortable moments during your elopement or other travels.

So, while you absolutely deserve to have a joyful, love-filled elopement experience, here are a few things to keep in mind to help make that happen safely:

Share Your Location

This is just good travel sense in general. Make sure your partner always knows where you are, and consider sharing your location with a trusted friend or family member back home, especially if you’re splitting up to run errands or do activities solo.

Talk Boundaries with Your Partner Ahead of Time

Have a quick heart-to-heart before you go about what you’re both comfortable with while traveling. Some good questions to chat through:

• How open do you want to be with strangers about your relationship?
• If someone assumes you’re “just friends” or “siblings,” how will you respond?
• Are you okay with holding hands or kissing in public in this specific destination?

Getting on the same page early helps you avoid confusion or hurt feelings in the moment if something weird comes up.

And on a personal note from me: I understand how hard it can be when experiencing uncomfortable encounters. As your photographer, one of the things I make a point of doing before your elopement day is asking you all about your comfort levels and boundaries. I’m in your corner, so if we encounter someone being weird around us, I can move us or say something to them, all depending on what would make you feel the safest.

Be Thoughtful About Where You Stay

Even in LGBTQ+-friendly countries, not every hotel or rental host will be on the same page. Big hotel chains are often the safest bet since they follow global policies and standards. With private rentals (like Airbnbs or boutique stays), check the listing carefully. Look for inclusive language, browse the reviews, or even reach out to the host directly if you’re unsure.

Choose Queer-Friendly Guides for Activities

If your elopement includes activities like hiking, kayaking, or city tours, take a few minutes to look into your guide or tour operator. If you’re unsure about their stance, don’t be afraid to ask. Group tours can also be a great option—they often offer safety in numbers and attract a mix of people from all walks of life.

Take Care of Yourself During the Planning Process

I also want to remind you that doing this kind of research as a queer couple can bring up some heavy stuff. It’s easy to fall into a spiral when you come across discriminatory laws or upsetting stories. If that happens, take a break. Breathe and do something that fills your soul, whether it’s an activity by yourself, time with your partner, or a simple nap. If you have this experience, I also want to remind you that your love and joy are sacred, and there are SO many people—myself included—who are rooting for you.

Need Help Choosing the Right Destination?

As a queer elopement photographer who works with LGBTQIA+ couples all over, I know how overwhelming it can feel to pick the “right” place, especially when safety and inclusivity are part of the mix. If you’re thinking about eloping abroad and want someone in your corner to help you figure out where to go and how to make it happen, I’d love to help. Reach out anytime and let’s start dreaming up your day together.

Other Related Reading: LGBTQ+-Friendly States in the USA for Your Elopement