Gay thessaloniki

Being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community is not easy. That’s a truth. Right now, in the 21st century, there are still 69 countries that have laws that criminalise homosexuality. In four countries being gay can even mean death on a completely legal basis (Mauritania, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Afghanistan).
Still, there are places in the world which are safer for this community than others. Generally European and American countries have the reputation of being more gay-friendly.

Greece between homophobia and acceptance

In my article I would like to focus on what it’s like to be gay in Greece, especially in Thessaloniki. Having only 48% of Greece’s population who say that homosexuality should be accepted by society, Greece is not the leader of the gay-friendly countries. Still, Greece is ahead of a lot of other countries like Turkey, Lithuania or Bulgaria.

”I used to work as a musician in an orchestra. Because of the fact that I am a part of the LGBT-CommunityI own been turned down from jobs. I had purple hair. They said that I ruined the image of the orchestra.”

-Nikos



Thessaloniki Pride

Thessaloniki Pride

Thessaloniki hosts the second largest pride event in Greece and is a secret treasure, waiting to be discovered

  • Visiting for Pride? Rest close to the city&#;s top attractions and pride celebrations at the No 15 Ermou Hotel, rated &#;Superb&#; by guests with spacious rooms and a modern fitness centre.

The Event

  • Next Edition: Awaiting dates &#; Typically held over 7 days in mid June.
  • Thessaloniki is one of the major cities in Greece and has a diverse and vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
  • Known for its tolerant and open-minded atmosphere, the city&#;s gay scene has gradually grown and gained visibility over the years.
  • Thessaloniki Pride is an annual event held in June.
  • Events involve a series of stay concerts on outdoor stages, a sunset parade, street parties, queer tours and cultural activities.
  • Upgrade your Europride stay at the Mediterranean Palace, steps from the city&#;s gay bars and rated &#;Fabulous&#; by guests with stunning views, high-end amenities and delicious breakfasts. 

Pride Parade and concert.

  • Saturday 21st Jun

    Jack Kenworthy( Queer Travel Maestro )

    Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns + noun adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.

    Gay Thessaloniki is quietly developing as the newest LGBT-welcoming destination in Greece. It is vibrant, wild, and stunning all at once. This shouldn’t come as a surprise given the city’s coastal setting, enormous student population, and vibrant arts and culture scene.

    And it all goes into overdrive every June; Thessaloniki Pride takes place in the country’s second-largest city. 

    It features a massive procession, all-day street celebrations, and unrestrained art installations. Since it began more than 20 years ago, the Thessaloniki International LGBTIQ Film Festival has wowed moviegoers by exhibiting dozens of films from cover to 20 nations and attracting movie fans from all over the world.

    Book in advance for this event, which is held towards the finish of September. After the event is over, head over to Halkidiki, with its secluded area and soft-sand beaches. 


    Gay City Breaks in Thessaloniki, Greece

    Thessaloniki's level of Gay and Lesbian acceptance is quite similar to Athens’. There is a very good and organized gay life with many gay entertainment options. The habitats aren't really open-minded, that's why it is recommended to keep a discrete behavior. Extreme looks are usually discriminated!

    Thessaloniki is a beautiful town that everyone should call on at least once in their life! Particularly the reasons why a homosexual tourist should prefer Thessaloniki are:

    • It has organized gay life.
    • There are various options of entertainment.
    • A good value-for-money destination.
    • The locals of the city are very friendly.
    • There are many events focused on the LGBT community.
    • It has powerful artistic character.
    • It is very close to excellent ski resorts such as pigadia.
    • It is very close to many excellent beaches.

    THESSALONIKI GAY SCENE

    Gay Hotspots

    Thessaloniki doesn't own any particular gay areas and the gay life is spread through the whole city! In Valaoritou neighborhood, you will locate numerous bars, clubs and cafes w