Shoulder season or off peak travel can be so great for many reasons. Availability of accommodation is greater. Pricing across the board tends to be lower. In most destinations during these times there are less people visit to have experiences. That is why we created this LGBTQ+ Off Peak Travel Calendar.
We have worked with our suppliers to capture the best times of year to visit their destinations in the off peak travel seasons, sprinkled with some special festivals in favorite destinations.
We have starting itineraries to tailor to your individual wishes for each destination.
It’s a different way of thinking about planning your vacation, I know, and hopefully it will provide some inspiration for your upcoming travel planning.
Clicking on the destination link will take you to a page talking about that off peak travel experience, so check them out to see which one resonates and fits your vacation bucket list.
Winter Breaks
Winter travel offers unique opportunities for LGBTQ+ travelers to experience destinations in their most enchanting state, often with fewer crowds and more authentic local interactions.
European Christmas Markets: A Festive Embrace
Cities like Copenhagen, Berlin, and Amsterdam combine magical Christmas markets with strong LGBTQ+ communities. These progressive destinations offer winter visitors the chance to experience traditional holiday charm while feeling completely welcome and accepted.
- Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens welcomes same-sex couples with special romantic winter packages
- Berlin’s Christmas markets often feature LGBTQ+ specific events and vendor spaces
- Amsterdam’s Winter Pride coincides with seasonal festivities
Northern Lights Adventures: Inclusive Arctic Experiences
The quest for the Aurora Borealis takes travelers to some of the world’s most LGBTQ+ friendly countries. Iceland, Norway, and Finland lead the way in combining natural wonder with social progression. Closer to home you can have similar experiences in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Winter travel often means more intimate experiences and closer interaction with local communities. Choosing destinations known for LGBTQ+ acceptance ensures these meaningful encounters are comfortable and authentic for all travelers.
Spring Getaways
| MARCH | APRIL | MAY |
| Morocco | Vietnam | Vietnam |
| Australia | Thailand | Thailand |
| New Zealand | Portugal | Portugal |
| Fairbanks, Alaska – Northern Lights | Italy | Italy |
| Peru | France | |
| Ecuador – Galapagos | Greece | |
| Buenos Aires | Fiji | |
| Tahiti | Peru | |
| Australia | Ecuador – Galapagos | |
| New Zealand | Buenos Aires | |
| Fairbanks, Alaska – Northern Lights | Tahiti | |
| Kentucky (Derby 1st Saturday) |
Summer Vacations
| JUNE | JULY | AUGUST |
| Vietnam | Fiji | Fiji |
| Thailand | Virgin Voyage – Athens Cruise | Virgin Voyage – Greece |
| Greece | Virgin Voyage – Comedy Festival | |
| Fiji | Costa Rica | |
| Buenos Aires | North Queensland, Australia | |
| Valencia, Spain (Gay Games) | ||
| Ireland Pride | ||
| Costa Rica |
Fall Adventures
| SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER | NOVEMBER |
| Vietnam | Australia | Morocco |
| Thailand | New Zealand | Peru |
| Portugal | Costa Rica | Ecuador – Galapagos |
| Italy | Tahiti | Fairbanks, Alaska – Northern Lights |
| Norway Cruise | Vietnam | Norway Cruise |
| Morocco | Thailand | |
| Greece | Portugal | |
| Buenos Aires | Peru | |
| Tahiti | France | |
| Australia | Italy | |
| Costa Rica | Ecuador – Galapagos | |
| New Zealand | Norway Cruise |
Off-peak travel offers significant advantages for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking both value and comfort. During shoulder and low seasons, destinations typically see fewer tourists, resulting in more affordable accommodations, flights, and activities. This can make luxury experiences more accessible and allow for longer stays within the same budget. Additionally, popular LGBTQ+-friendly destinations often provide the same welcoming atmosphere year-round, but with more intimate and relaxed environments during quieter periods.
Beyond the financial benefits, traveling during off-peak times can enhance the overall experience. With fewer crowds, travelers can enjoy more authentic interactions with local communities, easier access to popular attractions, and a more relaxed pace of exploration. This can be particularly appealing for LGBTQ+ couples or groups who may feel more comfortable expressing themselves in less crowded environments. Many destinations also offer unique seasonal experiences during their quieter months, from cultural festivals to natural phenomena, providing opportunities for memorable and distinctive travel experiences.
We are here to help you plan one or more of these escapes whether they are local or international in 2025 or beyond.