LGBT+ travel
LGBT+ France: where to go
France is welcoming for LGBT+ travellers. Same-sex marriage and adoption have been legal since 2013, discrimination is against the law, and the big cities have open, established scenes.
- Legal and broadly accepted
- Legal, but conservative attitudes
- Illegal or prosecuted
- Illegal; death penalty possible
Paris is the obvious starting point, with the Marais at the heart of its scene. On the Mediterranean, Nice, Cannes and Montpellier mix beaches and nightlife. Attitudes are more conservative in some rural areas, but open hostility is rare.
Where to go
- Paris: Le MaraisLegal and broadly accepted
Bars, cafés and shops in the old medieval quarter, and the city's pride in June.
- Nice and CannesLegal and broadly accepted
A relaxed scene, with gay-friendly beach clubs in summer.
- MontpellierLegal and broadly accepted
A young university city, often called France's most gay-friendly, near good beaches.
- LyonLegal and broadly accepted
A friendly scene in the Presqu'île and old town.
- MarseilleLegal and broadly accepted
A growing scene, with a lively pride in summer.
Dates for the diary
- Late June (TBC)Paris Pride (Marche des Fiertés)
Usually the last Saturday of June, ending near Place de la République.
- Summer (TBC)Marseille Pride
Usually in early July.
- Summer (TBC)Pride Nice Côte d'Azur
A parade along the seafront, usually in summer.
Dates marked TBC have not been announced yet. Check the organiser before booking.
Before you go
- Public affection is fine in big cities. In small villages, people may stare, but trouble is rare.
- Watch out for GHB spiking at clubs. Buy your own drinks and keep them in sight.
- Emergency: 112.
Official advice: FCDO travel advice for France: Paris, Nice & Montpellier
Stay and do
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