Back in 2018 we spoke to six-two’s LGBTQA+ ambassador, Meg Cale, about what it’s like to travel the world as part of a gay couple. And she said something really insightful.
“I’m so tired of hearing people say LGBT people shouldn’t travel to countries with anti-LGBT policies in place. People are not their governments. There are places that have amazing attitudes but their policies lag behind.”
Preach, Meg. But while a destination’s more archaic politics shouldn’t put anyone off seeing as much as the world as possible, we know that sometimes our travellers are looking for the places that are Out and Proud. Where they can feel at home with other LGBTQIA+ travellers and get to celebrate love in a safe space.
So…we put together our pride trips: joyous proclamations of inclusivity and freedom, with plenty of amazing music, costumes and travel destinations to boot.
From Berlin to Ibiza, Barcelona to Amsterdam, these epic celebrations bring you to the best Pride parties in the world, hooking you up with exclusive reserved party space so you have plenty of room to dance the night away, as well as tickets to the official after-parties. It’s not just about the parades, either. From canal cruises in Amsterdam to refugee walking tours in Berlin, our Pride trips are packed with cultural travel experiences you’ve come to expect with Contiki.
Here’s a little breakdown:
Pride 2022
The big one. Starting off in the party capital of Europe, Berlin, this one hooks you up with a 3 day pass to explore the city, as well as tickets to its epic Pride celebration (and the after party). Then, deep breath – it’s onto Frankfurt, Reims, and Bruges, where you’ll get your fill of beauty, culture and medieval history before letting loose once more at Amsterdam’s one-of-a-kind Pride canal parade. It’s the perfect balance of culture, history, food – and, of course, partying till dawn.
Amsterdam pride
This one is a fascinating exploration of Amsterdam, including dinner in the luxurious 1st Klass restaurant, a Q&A with a sex worker, and an opportunity to captain your own boat down the winding canals. Then, once you’ve had your fill of culture, it’s time to finish on a high, with one of the world’s most unique Pride parades – taking place upon the water. And the party doesn’t stop there, as we’ve hooked you up with after party tickets, too.
Berlin Pride
When you think of letting loose in Europe, it’s hard not to think of Berlin. This countercultural capital has some of the most iconic nightlife in the world, as well as one of the biggest Pride parties. That’s why this Pride Trip hooks you up with a 3 day pass with unlimited public transport, so you can explore the city your way, as well as a reserved space at the Pride parade, so you’ll have plenty of room to boogie. Did we sort you afterparty tickets? What kind of question is that?
Barcelona pride
This one dives deep into the baroque beauty and beachside charms of Barcelona, including the Sagrada Familia, flamenco shows and more. But it doesn’t skimp on the pride celebrations, either, don’t worry. On day 2 we’ve got tickets to the hottest celebration in Europe, as we let loose at the Barcelona Pride parade.
Madrid Pride
This Pride Trip explores the opulent beauty of Madrid, from the Grand Palace to the Prado. Take bike tours, enjoy tapas feasts, and explore the local nightlife, guided by your expert Trip Manager. Once you’ve had your fill of culture, it’s time to get your Pride on, as you enjoy the colourful parade under the Spanish sun – followed by an epic afterparty, naturally.
Spain pride
Take Barcelona pride. Take Madrid pride. Add a sprinkle of Ibiza, and what do you get? One sizzling fiesta. This non-stop party takes you from Barca to the shimmering island of Ibiza where the celebrations don’t stop. Then we’ll whizz you to Madrid where we have one more Pride party in Spain’s gilded capital. 3 dreamy destinations, 2 Pride parades – but this trip isn’t just about letting loose. Along the way we have a feast of cultural adventures to sink your teeth into – including flamenco shows, tapas feasts, bike tours and more.
Pride Croatia Island Escape
And last, but certainly not least: this trip takes gives you the perfect combination of chill time and party time, letting you uncover Croatia’s spectacular beauty on-board your very own sailboat. You and your Contiki crew-mates will glide from Hvar to Korcula, Dubrovnik to Trstenik, exploring historic towns and making room for plenty of swim stops along the way. Then it’s time to end on a high in Split, as we take you to its epic Pride festival, with included after party tickets!
