Brussels has been named among the best cities in Europe for LGBTQ+ dating, according to a study by Australian price comparison website Comparethemarket.
The Belgian capital ranked fifth in Europe (and sixth in the world) for friendliness for LGBTQ+ dating, with a total score of 2,749 and an impressive anti-discrimination score of 100/100. Brussels is the country's only city to feature in the ranking.
"Brussels is stepping up its queer appeal, notably with the recent Queer Destinations certification of the Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place, a first in Belgium," the study said. "With its LGBTQ+ bars and clubs, inclusive politics and open-mindedness, the city seems to offer an ideal setting for dating and relationships."
Researchers analysed the percentage of the population that is single, the number of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs, LGBTQ+ events, anti-discrimination scores, and safety scores.
Belgian Pride 2022. Credit: Ugo Realfonzo / The Brussels Times
The best city for LGBTQ+ dating in Europe is Berlin with a score of 3,377, followed closely by Amsterdam (3,271) in second place. "Both of these European cities present welcoming LGBTQ+ communities."
Berlin’s queer nightlife scene thrives with as many as 14 clubs and bars listed on TripAdvisor, while Amsterdam is a pioneer in LGBTQ+ history and is home to 16 queer bars.
In third and fourth place are Helsinki (3,161) and London (2,784) – two cities recognised for their cultures of acceptance and commendable anti-discrimination scores. London boasts the second-highest number of LGBTQ+ clubs among the 50 countries analysed globally, with an impressive count of 24 gay clubs and bars sprawled across the city – not even taking into account the exciting club nights happening all over the UK capital.
The Big Apple
Globally, New York is the best city for LGBTQ+ singles, boasting an impressive count of 27 queer bars and clubs. Among these establishments, The Stonewall Inn holds a special place as an iconic symbol of queer history.
The city also hosts numerous LGBTQ+ festivals throughout the year, catering to diverse interests, including the highly anticipated LGBTQ+ Film Festival that's held every October.
