How Lesbian Friendly is Germany

What We Want to Know

When we’re travelling to a new destination as a lesbian couple, there are a few things we take into consideration to figure out how lesbian friendly it is. We like to know what the LGBTQ+ laws are in that country, as well as what the social climate is. In some places the laws and the feelings of the local people don’t necessarily match. We also like to know if there are any “gaybourhoods” or areas that are especially lesbian friendly. This blog series is meant to inform other lesbian travellers about different destinations around the world, and help empower them to travel more openly when it is safe to do so. We will be sharing our experiences in each country as well as our recommendations, but as always we encourage everyone to do their own research. We can only speak to our own experiences, and everyone has a different comfort level when it comes to being out and open while travelling. The travel destinations that an LGBTQ+ person chooses, and the way in which they travel is a very personal decision, and we encourage everyone to only do what feels right to them.

Keep reading to find out how lesbian friendly Germany is!

LGBTQ+ Laws

The LGBTQ+ laws in Germany are very progressive, despite the country’s complicated past. Same sex sexual activity has been legal since 1969, and the country has recognized same sex registered partnerships since 2001. In 2017 same sex marriage was legalized, and along with marriage equality, came adoption rights. There have been anti-discrimination laws in place since 2006, and hate speech on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity is banned. Germany has come a long way in their legal recognition of the LGBTQ+ community!

Social Climate

The public opinion in Germany certainly seems to be in favour of the LGBTQ+ community. A 2015 Eurobarometer Poll showed that 66% of Germans believe that same sex marriage should be legalized throughout Europe, and the country ranks #14 on the Gay Happiness Index. There is a long list of politicians who have served openly as gay and lesbian, and there are numerous large LGBTQ+ organizations in the country. Pride celebrations happen every year in six major cities, and overall Germany is regarded as a very LGBTQ+ friendly country.

Gaybourhoods

The best known gay scene in Germany is in the city of Berlin, scattered all over the city as well as in the Schoneberg neighbourhood. There are establishments that cater to women specifically, as well as regular lesbian nights and lesbian parties. A popular spot for women is Himmelreich. Outside of Berlin, other major cities in Germany also have notable gaybourhoods. Cologne being the most popular, as well as Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Munich.

Our Experience

Our time in Germany was spent entirely in Berlin, and we had a really great experience. Germany is definitely a lesbian friendly travel destination, and people in Berlin are extremely open minded. We were completely comfortable exploring the city holding hands and showing affection in public. We didn’t receive any negative attention, and felt safe all over the city. We would love to explore more of Germany and would like to check out the gay scenes in the other major cities. We would highly recommend Germany as a great lesbian friendly destination in Europe.

Have you been to Germany? Share your experience in the comments below!