brussels gay tours

8 Fabulously Gay-Friendly & Gay Hotels In Brussels To Try On Your Next Gaycation!

Posted on Last updated: December 3, 2023

Categories Gay Accomodation , Belgium

Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.

Not quite French, not quite Dutch, and not quite German, Brussels fully embraces the variety and flavor of cultures from around itself and about the entire world – blending them with a special taste of its uniqueness into one of the best queer travel destinations on the planet.

Aside from its historical and cultural status as one of the most important cities in Europe, Brussels is both the capital of Belgium and the European Union. This international travel hub has long been cemented as one of the most progressive and gay-friendly cities on the continent and continues to contend strongly with other queer metropolises like Berlin , Stockholm , and London . 

All of the above makes perfect sense when one notes that over thirty percent of the city’s population comprises foreigners and that Brussels alone receives nearly four million visitors annually. The native culture and food are amazing, the tourist hotspots and sites are breathtaking, and – of course – the gay scene is alive, welcoming, and freer than ever before.

Some of the most important locations for visitors to Brussels to check out include the Grand Palace and its attached plaza, the Parc du Cinquantenaire Park and Garden, and – of course – the historic expanse of the city’s old center and its amazing period skyline.

Suppose you’re looking for something more queer-specific. In that case, however, you’ll want to head down to Saint Jacques in the center of the city, where an amazing collection of gay bars, clubs, and general hangout spots serve Brussels’ colorful gay community. 

When it comes to events and other special attractions, Brussels is home to one of the biggest pride marches in Europe, the Belgian Lesbian and Gay Pride in May, and also hosts its very own gay film festival in January if cinematography and queer achievements in the creative industry are your pot of tea.

Even though there are more than a few gay-targeted businesses in Brussels, and even given the fact that the city is one of the most popular queer travel destinations in Europe for a very good reason, things that appeal to gay travelers aren’t always necessarily marketed towards them, and we know that.

Therefore, we’d like to note that the hotels on this list follow the same logic and reach out to include the best of all the fusion tastes, mixed cultures, and amazing international lifestyles that Brussels is home to. Most of these wonderful hotels have been listed as accommodating, friendly, and unjudgmental to and by queer people in general, as well as highly rated by previous guests and critics.

So, with that last bit done with, if you’ve heard enough talk about the city and its merits, and you’d rather pack your bags and focus on your goal of enjoying an amazing queer-centered holiday experience, then allow us to blow your mind away with eight of the very best gay hotels in Brussels.

In this article we will cover...

ibis Brussels Expo Atomium

Hôtel la légende cloche, hotel nhow brussels bloom, yooma urban lodge, la vieille lanterne, the augustin, art de séjour bed & breakfast, gay hotel map of brussels.

Although Ibis hotels aren’t exactly known for being the most exciting accommodation locations to stay at while traveling abroad, this particular establishment stands out all the same when it comes to serving as a perfect starter hotel for this list.

The Ibis Brussels Expo Atomium has a strong three stars to its name and a prime position in the middle of the city that puts it within a minute’s walk of the famous Brussels Expo convention center and the Atomium tourist attraction. 

There’s one thing to note, however. The ibis Brussels isn’t particularly nearby when it comes to the Saint Jacques gay neighborhood, which may be a killer for some queer travelers, but it has amazing connections to the city’s public transport system and a great region of its very own to explore, so if getting hands-on with Brussels’ nightlife can wait just a little bit, then this is the perfect place for you.

Besides, suppose the public is important to your plans of getting around the city. In that case, you’ll be happy to learn that the central Heysel metro station is only around ten minutes walk away and that from there, the entire metropolitan scape of Brussels is opened up to you in all of its culture and queerness.

Some helpful on-paper notes about the services provided by the ibis Brussels Expo Atomium include the wonderful breakfast that it serves to guests every morning, its wide variety of much-coveted parking spots for those who have hired cars as their way of navigating the city, laundry service to make your life just that one bit easier, and – perhaps most importantly of all – its very own restaurant and bar to make sure that you’re always well-fed and presented with plenty of opportunities to socialize with fellow travelers and visitors to the city. 

If being central to Brussel’s Saint Jacques district and the heart of the local gay community it houses is important to your holiday plans in the city, then you’ll find relief and convenience beyond belief in this classy, unique location.

The Hôtel La Légende is built up within a well-aged 19th-century townhouse and zooms directly in on the target with perfect precision – sitting comfortably between the larger span of the city and the heart of the Saint Jacques district and embracing both halves of the city with equal enthusiasm. 

That isn’t to say that this location is all about practicality without any fun and thrills, however. In truth, this could not be less of an accurate way to describe it. The Hôtel La Légende Cloche is the very spitting image of a small-scale yet indubitably luxurious and intoxicatingly unique European hotel, and as such, guests here can expect only the best service and the most calming atmosphere.

This establishment may not have a flood of commercial service stars to its name, and it may not have the largest building and common spaces out of the other hotels on this list, but the touch it has instead is priceless, especially when it comes to a gay hotel.

When it comes to on-paper benefits outside of its rooms and location, the Hôtel La Légende continues to deliver strong with an in-house restaurant for your daily culinary and drink needs, breakfast every morning in a classy dining room to get your exploration of the day off to an energetic start, and plenty of terraces to enjoy excellent views of the city and its surrounding nature from. The Manneken Pis is just a few minutes walk away, and much excitement awaits beyond and around it.

Taking a steep step up in official quality rating and price when compared to the two locations that came before it on this list, the Hotel Nhow Brussels Bloom is a trendy, well-designed hotel that maintains a sterling-clean service reputation and an even shinier commitment to LGBTQ+-friendly business practices and its welcoming atmosphere.

The Hotel Nhow has the highest official rank out of all of the hotels on this list at four stars, and this status isn’t all show, either, as is proved by the almost immaculate service reputation it also holds. Both of these positive aspects should be more than strong enough to make you certain of Hotel Nhow’s prowess in accommodation and its dedication to queer guests from around the world.

Some of the most highly regaled aspects of the Hotel Nhow include its daily and completely complimentary breakfast offerings, which are served in the hotel’s stylish and up-to-date dining room, and its in-house restaurant and bar.

The individual suites and rooms of this establishment are also top-tier and fully deserving of every word of praise that they have received – boasting floor-to-ceiling windows that look out over every beautiful inch of the city around it and comfortable furniture that is sure to make your time staying here just that bit more pleasant and amicable.

When it comes to location, the Hotel Nhow may not be as centrally located as some of the other hotels on this list, but its slightly more northward surroundings include the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium and the Grand Place Square, both of which are more than fair trades for a few extra minutes walking or a couple of stops on the city’s regularly-running and more than convenient metro line web. 

Everything about this location is classy and angled towards satisfying and enriching its visitors, from its style and construction to its larger rooms and exquisite customer service mentality.

Sitting strong as yet another amazing gay hotel in Brussels and another four-star location that is locked and loaded to blow your socks off, the Zoom Hotel may not belong to any major franchise – which it has in common with many of the other hotels on this list – but it is an absolute beacon of high-quality accommodation and luxury all the same.

The hotel is famous for catering to its guests with an undeniable and intoxicating air of style, comfort, and modern atmosphere, and if that isn’t enough to convince you of its merit, wait until we get started on its location.

The Royal Palace of Brussels is only an easy two-minute walk away from this hotel’s standing, and you can be sure that this aristocratic atmosphere extends out to the surrounding neighborhood. There’s more than the district’s fair share of exquisite eateries and upmarket hangout locations.

However, although this hotel joins the ibis Brussels Expo Atomium at the beginning of this list in being not exactly close to the Saint Jacques gay village in terms of the size of the city in general, it is well-connected to the rest of Brussels by public transport and walkable city ways anyway.

The hotel’s in-house amenities include its very own bar and lounge for casual conversation and embracing the calm atmosphere of the city, as well as an open garden terrace and an attached restaurant. The Zoom Hotel serves a more than competent breakfast in the mornings and gives the comforting feeling of being there to support you throughout the day if you need anything.

Although the word ‘lodge’ may conjure images of wood-paneled cabins more than a practical, stylish, and gay-friendly hotel in the middle of one of Europe’s most important and busy cities, we promise that there’s a lot more to this gem than you may think.

This hotel is cool, stylish, and just about the opposite of what you expect. The Yooma Urban Lodge is undoubtedly the highest-rated hotel on this list regarding public appeal, and the location’s hot streak of customer satisfaction doesn’t show a single hint of stopping soon.

Suppose you’re looking for a fusion location that mixes modern and contemporary aspects and methods of accommodation into an entirely new experience that leans wonderfully into the larger scene of Brussels. In that case, this is the perfect place for you. Guests to this hotel are invited to stretch out their wings into the deepest crevices of the city, including but not limited to its thriving queer area and close surroundings.

The Yooma Urban Lodge isn’t just known for its atmosphere and design, however. It’s also positively influenced by its amazing in-house dining experience, daily breakfast spreads, available parking, and in-house bar for those looking for a more casual socialization experience than that found on the street.

The Yooma Urban Lodge is also pet-friendly, making it one of the only hotels in the city to invite those with four-legged companions to bring their furry roommates into their suite with them. No matter your needs and your budget, the Yooma Urban Lodge is here to fulfill them all in elegant style without forcing you to dig too deep into your wallet or strain yourself trying to make travel ends meet during your Brussels stay.

You may not expect to find an excellent, top-shelf gay hotel down a small cobbled lane just off the city’s main queer district, but that’s exactly where the bizarre but wonderful La Vieille Lanterne is hiding away.

A good way to begin talking about the La Vieille Lanterne is by showcasing its perfect, spot-on location for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Saint Jacques gay neighborhood, but from there on, things get a lot less conventional and a lot more interesting.

This hotel may not be what people expect, but there’s no denying that it is highly rated, more than competent at what it does, and a unique experience that seems almost impossible to pass up. 

The La Vieille Lanterne is quirky, eccentric, and simply ‘different’ in a way that even the Yooma Urban Lodge before it cannot hope to properly capture, and as such, its general accommodation experience is one of the most unique that we’ve ever had the pleasure of including in one of these lists.

The design and interior of the La Vieille Lanterne could be seen as a little rustic by some, but if immersing yourself in local culture and the historical atmosphere is your thing, then you will love the eclectic feel that this hotel brings.

Although this particular gay hotel may seem like a period establishment about the edges and therefore set a few decades in the past at the very least, it is still as modern as the majority of other hotels on this list and is sure to include advantages such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning into its accommodation amenities, as well as an incredibly central location to the very best pits of the Brussels gay village and a bed and breakfast-style kitchen.

We’ve been going through the budget and practical gay hotels for a while now, and although that in no way means that they haven’t been just as stylish as those with larger price tags, it’s about time we take on a big fish once more.

And, of course, what better way to do that than with the regal Augustin? This amazing hotel is set in a long, tree-lined residential street, perfectly capturing the relaxed yet cosmopolitan vibe that its city is famous for. If you’re looking for a taste of that classic European charm mixed with a healthy dose of modern design and convenient service, then this might be the location you’re looking for to streamline your Brussels visit with style.

Some of the on-paper benefits of staying at The Augustin include its easily-available wheelchair-accessible rooms for those with special mobility requirements – which is a rarity in the city – its daily breakfast buffet, and – of course – its on-site gym and bar.

There’s a healthy amount of general-appeal points of interest nearby, such as several daytime coffee bars and restaurants, but if you’re set on checking out the city’s gay center and its queer heart, then you need only take a few steps to the East, and you’ll find yourself directly in the middle of it all.

The Augustin’s location is a perfect mix between both worlds and affords a degree of access to the best of the best that Brussels offers that very few other hotels in the city can hope to match. The nearby area is also well known for the iconic Manneken Pis fountain and a mural dedicated to the comic character Tintin and his creator Hergé which is another plus if it interests you.

We’ve spoken highly about a lot of the locations on this amazing list of gay hotels in Brussels, and while this mainly goes to show just how high-quality and inspiring the vast majority of establishments are in this city, it remains to be said that there is still one-star player left to mention.

The Art de Séjour Bed & Breakfast is nothing short of a celebrity in the Brussels accommodation scene, and the satisfaction it has provided customers in the past shows clearly through its impressive repertoire of reviews from both travelers in general and queer guests in particular.

If you’re looking for a truly top-shelf stay that keeps you covered on just about every angle that you could expect with no extra cost or stress to deal with as a result, then leap and book yourself in at the Art de Séjour Bed & Breakfast for as many nights as you think you need to fully experience the wonderful city of Brussels and its strongly-beating gay heart.

The individual suites at the Art de Séjour Bed and Breakfast are spacious, well-designed, comfortable, and relaxing – separated from one another and the hotel’s common spaces by excellent soundproofing and catered to exclusively thanks to its room and laundry services.

The Saint Jacques district is this wonderful hotel’s home, and the establishment itself lives and breathes the unique, powerful energy of the area and its queer influences. There’s breakfast served every morning in the Art de Séjour’s excellent dining room, as one may expect from its nature as a bed and breakfast, and the views from both the public and private areas of this hotel are sure to make sure that the simplest experiences that you have from within are enhanced to the utmost, most queer degree possible.

Feeling a bit lost while planning your journey to Brussels? No worries, darling! Our detailed LGBTQ+ tailored map is here to guide you. We’ve pinpointed all the vibrant gay-friendly bars, exhilarating clubs, extravagant parties, cozy hotels, relaxing saunas, and soothing massage parlors to ensure you find the perfect spot.

And these aren’t just any spots; we’re talking about the creme de la creme of locations in the heart of the city’s vibrant gay scene. Think panoramic views, easy access to nightlife, and all the amenities to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

But hold on to your feather boas! These hot spots are fabulous; they vanish quicker than a drag queen’s five o’clock shadow. Don’t delay; book now to secure the best deals and locations. Remember, the early bird catches the best deals in Brussels! So, pack your rainbow flag, and get ready to experience the ultimate gay-friendly holiday in Brussels.

Gay Grand Tour in Belgium & Luxembourg • Brussels - Antwerp - Ghent - Bruges - Luxembourg

• Individual & Small Group suggested tour
• Featuring: Brussels - Antwerp - Ghent - Bruges - Damme - Knokke - Zeebrugge - De Haan - Ostende - De Haan - Luxembourg
• LGBT Friendly Tour Guide for Gaily Tours and Excursions
• Discover Flanders and its numerous art cities, all of which are hidden gems
• Become a beer connaisseur after visiting a real authetic brewery in Bruges
• Taste the delicious Belgian chocolates
• Discover the Belgian coast with its various coastal cities
• Get to know Luxembourg city 

Included Features

Day 1: brussels.

Arrival transfer from airport to hotel. Accommodation. Overnight. Meals: no

Day 2: BRUSSELS - GAY TOUR

Buffet Breakfast and meeting with your LGBT Friendly Tour Guide to enjoy a special walking tour of Brussels.  Discover the spectacular landmarks and monuments of Brussels with our Gay/Lesbian Guide. Start your walking tour from the Park of Brussels, where you’ll find the Royal Palace. Continue to the Place Royale, an historic square with a beautiful statue. Walk to the Meeting Center and Mont des Arts with its gigantic clock (or carillon) and bells. The clock is surrounded by twelve historical figures from Belgian history and perched above it is a bourgeois figure, the Jacquemart, who rings a large bell. Explore the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. Then reach and observe the medieval majesty of the Market Square and take a look to the remarkable façade of the City Hall. Enjoy a fantastic chocolate tasting before finally arriving at the small, bronze statue/fountain of a little boy peeing, Mannequin Pis, which has become a national landmark. Lunch on your own. Afternoon free for individual visits and shopping. Dinner on your own.  Overnight. Meals: B

Day 3: BRUSSELS - LEUVEN - MECHELEN - ANTWERP

Buffet Breakfast and departure to Leuven. Explore the city of Leuven on your own. This is the oldest university city in Belgium and is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities (KU Leuven), founded in 1425. The university, one of the most important in Europe, has its roots in the center of Leuven, and its historic college buildings dominate many of the squares and streets. Admire the Town Hall which is one of the best-known Gothic town halls worldwide. Lunch on your own. Continue to Mechelen. Once arrived visit this small and picturesque city that has a rich history. Walk around and visit the Market Square, the Saint Rumbold’s Tower (outside) and walk through the peaceful beguinage. Continue to Antwerp. Dinner on your own.  Overnight. Meals: B

Day 4: ANTWERP - GAY TOUR

Buffet Breakfast and be ready for an amazing LGBT Friendly Tour of Antwerp. Explore the historical center of Antwerp, starting from the ‘Vlaeykensgang’, a medieval quarter full of narrow streets and blind alleys. Next we visit the main square, the old Market Place ( the Grote Markt) . The Brabo fountain, the Renaissance City Hall and the 16th and 17th century guild houses catch the eye. Stop and visit of Saint Mary’s Cathedral. This magnificent Gothic church has great pieces of art by a.o. P.P. Rubens and other Flemish masters. Via the Groenplaats we walk towards the Meir (Antwerp’s main shopping street) and pass some landmarks put on the international fashion map by the Antwerp Six. On our way we pass by at the ‘Rubenshuis', for twenty five years the house and atelier of the Baroque painter Pieter Paul Rubens. Continue your walking tour over the Keyserlei towards the Central Train. Due to its late 19th century eclectic style the building is dubbed ‘The Railway Cathedral’ by Antwerp’s inhabitants. Lunch on your own. Afternoon free for individual visits and shopping. Dinner on your own.  Overnight. Meals: B

Day 5: ANTWERP - GHENT - GAY TOUR - BRUGES

Buffet Breakfast and departure to Ghent. Once arrived enjoy a LGBT Friendly walking tour along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei. The gables of their guild houses turn them undoubtedly into two of Ghent’s most beautiful historical streets. From one of the flanking bridges, one can see the postcard panorama of the three towers: the belfry and the steeples of the St. Nicolas church and the St Bavo’s cathedral. A stroll over the Korenmarkt , a stop at a.o. the St Nicolas church, the impressive belfry and its cloth hall ( both on the World Heritage list) brings us to the cathedral. There the famous altarpiece The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb ( 1432) by the van Eyck brothers, a milestone in art history, is not to be missed ! On our way to the Vrijdagsmarkt we elaborate the City Hall with its mixture of styles from flamboyant Gothic to sober Renaissance. In the middle of the Vrijdagsmarkt Square we stop at the statue of Jacob Van Artevelde. He sees to it that Ghent thrives again like it did in the 14th century when Jacob ended the English boycott on wool imports. A little further we encounter Dulle Griet (“ Evil woman”), a 15th century cast iron cannon, weighing more than twelve tons. Once we have crossed the Lys we enter the inner courtyard of the House of Alijn. This former almshouse is now the Museum of Folklore. The exquisite complex is part of the Paterhol. The only neighborhood in Ghent where the original medieval street plan is still intact. Through winding alleys and cobbled streets with numerous restaurants we reach the Castle of the Counts. This imposing fortress used to be the residence of the count of Flanders. Later on it was used as a courthouse, a jail and even a textile factory. We return to the Korenlei passing the St-Veerle square and the Old Fish Market.  Lunch on your own. Afternoon free time in Ghent for individual visits and shopping. Then continue to Bruges. Dinner on your own.  Overnight. Meals: B

Day 6: BRUGES - GAY TOUR

Buffet Breakfast and enjoy a very special LGBT guided Tour of the romantic city of Bruges. With its almost intact medieval street plan Bruges is certainly an evocative open air museum. But having survived the two World Wars unscathed it luckily preserved all its art treasures and museums. During this half day city tour we discover the main highlights of Bruges. The city is also proud to be called the “chocolate capital of Belgium”. Since the 16th century chocolate is produced in Bruges.  Nowadays the city center counts more than 50 chocolate manufacturers, every year a Chocolate Festival takes place in the city  and on top of that the city has its own  chocolate museum ‘Chocostory’ which attracts many visitors. During our discovery walk we will pass by at some of the finest chocolate shops where you will assist to a c hocolate demonstration and have a delicious chocolate tasting . Our guide will show your clients the most important and most beautiful  buildings and places such as the Market Square with the Belfry, the Burg Square with Town Hall, the fish market, the Dijver, Our Lady Church and the beguinage. At the end of the morning we will visit the brewery De Halve Maan where the Brugse Zot beer is being brewed. A local guide will tell your clients everything about hops and malt.  Lunch on your own. Afternoon free time in Bruges for individual visits and shopping. Dinner on your own.  Overnight. Meals: B

Day 7: BRUGES - DAMME - KNOKKE - ZEEBRUGGE - DE HAAN - OOSTENDE - BRUSSELS

Buffet Breakfast and departure to Damme, driving along the historical canal Damse vaart, which was digged by order of Napoleon. We make stroll through the lovely center of the historical village of Damme known for the legend of Tijl Uilenspigel and a popular nowadays due to its many charming restaurants and its antique and book shops. After Damme we proceed to the coast and visit Knokke and by coach we drive along the numerous villas of Belgium's most mundane beach town. Passing by at Zeebrugge, together with Antwerp one of the most important container harbours in Europe. Brief stop in the seaside resort De Haan where we discover famous for its numerous buildings in Belle Epoque Style (late 19th, early 20th century). The Belgian king Leopold II was also closely involved in the growth of this seaside resort and famous people such as Einstein stayed there. Lunch on your own. Then continue to Oostende, the most popular beach town along the Belgian coast. The beautiful sandy beaches, the fish and yacht harbour and the fish market are some of its major attractions. After a stroll along the harbour and the diken, transfer to Brussels. Accommodation, dinner on your own and overnight. Meals: B

Day 8: BRUSSELS - LUXEMBOURG - GAY TOUR - BRUSSELS

Buffet Breakfast and excursion to Luxembourg. Explore this amazing city together with our LGBT Tour Guide, a Unesco world heritage city, by the upper part of the town by walking along the Place des Armes, the Place Guillaume II, the Cathedral and the monument in honor of the Grand-Duchesse Charlotte, and the palace of the Grand-Duke. Along the famous 3 Towers gate we reach the casemates of the Bock, an impressive system of tunnels made in the rocks. After visiting the casemates, we descend toward the lower city and visit the plateau of Kirchberg with its European Buildings and institutions, the abbey of Neumünster, the Wenceslas Wall. Lunch on your own. Transfer back to Brussels. D inner on your own. Overnight. Meals: B

Day 9: BRUSSELS

Breakfast in the hotel and transfer to the Brussels airport. Meals: B

• Accommodation in LGBT selected Hotels
• Private Transfer by Car or Minibus from Brussels Airport to Brussels  Hotel
• Half Day – Gaily Tour with LGBT Friendly Tour Guide of  Brussels (3 h)
• Belgian Chocolate Tasting (2 Tastes)
• Private Transfer by Car or Minibus from Brussels to Leuven - Mechelen - Antwerp
• Half Day – Gaily Tour with LGBT Friendly Tour Guide of  Antwerp (2 h)
• Private Transfer by Car or Minibus from  Antwerp  to Ghent
• Half Day – Gaily Tour with LGBT Friendly Tour Guide of  Ghent (2 h)
• Private Transfer by Car or Minibus from Ghent to Bruges
• Half Day – Gaily Tour with LGBT Friendly Tour Guide of  Bruges (3 h)
• Entrance Fee – Chocolate Museum
• Visit to a local B rewery in Bruges
• Private Transfer by Car or Minibus from Bruges to Damme, Knokke, Zeebrugge, De Haan, Oostende and arrival in Brussels
• Half Day Private Excursion from Brussels to Luxembourg
• Half Day – Gaily Tour with LGBT Friendly Tour Guide of Luxembourg  (3 h)
• Private Transfer by Car or Minibus from Brussels Hotel - Brussels Airport

Not Included

• Tips, City Taxes and everything not listed under “Included features”

LGBT Hotel Collection

• Hotel Floris Arlequin Grand Place 3 *  or similar Address: Rue de la Fourche 17-19, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Tel. +32 2 514 16 15 www.florishotelarlequin.be
• Century Hotel 3 *  or similar Address: Pelikaanstraat 20, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium Tel. +32 3 232 58 70 www.hotel-century-antwerpen.be
• Hotel Maraboe 3 *  or similar Address: Hoefijzerlaan 9, 8000 Brugge, Belgium Tel. +32 50 33 81 55 www.hotelmaraboe.be/maraboe

* Price per person sharing a double/twin room:

Rates are Commissionable

*The itinerary is on request and rates are subject to the availability of the hotels at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change if travel occur during trade shows, bank holidays or special events and supplements may be applied.

SEASONS Low Season: Jan – Feb – Nov – Dec Mid Season: Mar – Jul – Aug High Season: Apr – May – Jun – Sep – Oct

Largo Cesare Battisti, 28 39044 Egna (BZ) - ITALY VAT N° - IT01652670215

Personal Details

Additional accounting data of the main person for the booking, tour request, search result.

Gay Brussels

Simply put, Brussels is a gay travel natural. The Belgian capital shines at those time-honored gay-beloved pastimes of shopping (especially in the trendy Dansaert area and along upscale Avenue Louise), dining (particularly in the realm of yummy national staples like mussels, fries and chocolate, and drinking (at the city's scores of queer and friendly bars and brasseries). In fact, this multicultural hub of the European Union has one of the continent's liveliest and friendliest LGBT scenes, e...

Bars & Clubs

La demence @ fuse, rainbow house, restaurants, plattesteen, le fontainas, la cantina cubana, mystical restaurant, resto henri, downtown-bxl, sofitel brussels le louise, best western hotel royal centre, brussels @ heart, the residence les ecrins, hotel bloom, hilton brussles grand place, you need to be logged in to go any further..

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• Who are we ?

Guided tours

• In the media
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LGBTQI+ Guiding Tours

L-tour organizes lesbian and rainbow tours and events to promote the history (herstory and history) of brussels’ lgbtqi+ communities starting from brussels, via lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people and associations..

The guided tour covers the achievements and thoughts that evolved from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries to the present day, and includes certain information that date back to the 17th century. Cosmopolitan Brussels thus serves as a springboard for our local, national and international history.

Library visits

Library visits enable us to access reading materials to complement widely-available literature and sociological research.

By organizing events (exhibitions, meetings,…) and setting up information booths, we aim to make our LGBTQI+ communities more visible and create the opportunity to share experiences.

Conferences and Trainings

Conferences – accompanied by  debates – allow us to explore the themes we touch upon during the guided tours in further depth. During trainings we go deeper still.

Bars & cabarets

A Brussels institution since the mid-eighties, Le Belgica is a compact, lively bar in the heart of Brussels just a few steps from the Grand-Place. Under the same ownership for the past 21 years, the bar is one of Brussels’ most popular hangouts attracting an international and diverse crowd... everyone is welcome! Le Belgica is famous for its house drink, the Belgica, a home-made secret recipe served semi-frozen. With its celebrated distressed interior, Le Belgica is a warm and welcoming place that guarantees a fun night with excellent music played by live DJs. A great hangout for post-dinner or pre-clubbing.

The Crazy Circle

The Crazy Circle is a tiny cosy bar located in Ixelles that was taken over in 2019 by Laïla and Axelle, a lesbian couple, with the purpose of transforming it into a lesbian, feminist bar open to the LGBTQI+ community and their allies. The Crazy Circle is a safe space that embraces diversity and a place of expression for women and queer artists. It’s a bar where you can have a beer or a delicious cocktail at a reasonable price and a place where you can have fun: concerts, DJ sets, karaoke, cabaret, comedy shows, board games, table football, etc. The Crazy Circle co-organises many events with LGBTQI+ associations (Rainbowhouse, L-Tour, EGOW, Activ'elles, MATCH, ...) and is the creator of the weekly "Femme Jam" event, the only jam in Brussels with a 100% women's scene.

Cafe Charbon

Whether you want to enjoy a drink, aperitif or a good meal, on the sundrenched terrace or sitting comfortably inside, Café Charbon - a café, wine bar and bistro - has become a firm favourite of the Saint-Jacques district. In the heart of Brussel’s central gay district, people come to Café Charbon for the great industrial setting, the quality and freshness of their home-made cuisine, the welcoming team and the smiling table service. It always has a warm and cosy atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation, meetings and exchanges...

Baroque Café

This bear bar is located in Brussels’ gay neighbourhood and has been around for 11 years. It has been a gay bar since at least the 1980s, under different names such as, Big Noise or Zoom café. Hospitality is paramount and that is partly thanks to the host Tarek and his team. The bar links East and West and represents the cosmopolitan Brussels we know and love.

Cabaret Mademoiselle

The recently opened Cabaret Mademoiselle, is a multidisciplinary venue at the crossroads between the burlesque, the 1930s, a circus and freak show, featuring glamourous drag-queens and stand-up comedians who will guarantee a fun night. You will find an assortment of mainly Belgian beverages: Belgian beers on tap, as well a fine selection of Brussels microbreweries, Belgian wines and spirits distilled in our region.

Castro is a classic Belgian café in a quiet and car-free part of the very centre of Brussels. The staff will address you in English, as the owner is an Irishman who has fallen in love with our capital. The menu includes a good range of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, beers, liquors, coffees (or tea’s) and wines. If you’re feeling peckish then some healthy and some less healthy snacks are available too. The atmosphere is relaxed on the large outdoor terrace and the staff is open-minded and ultra-friendly. Everybody’s welcome in this bar, even dogs!

La cave à vin

Over the years, Dolores has become one of our favourite bars. We love its joyful electronic music and its cosmopolitan and eclectic clientele. We also love the friendly and smiling staff... After a hard day or week, what better way to get a smile back on your face and have some fun with your friends than with a drink (or two) at Dolores.

Open since 3 December 1994, “Chez Maman” has become the drag cabaret par excellence in Brussels. Every weekend, Maman and her girls would perform on this mythical stage. When we talk about stage, we mean bar, because at “Chez Maman”, the bar of the main room is the stage. It’s true when they say that size doesn’t matter! Thanks to this tiny marble bar, hundreds of people can come and enjoy the magical experiences that happen at Chez Maman. Many things have changed since, Maman is no longer there, but Sugar Love has taken over. Every Friday and every Saturday, she puts on her make-up and high heels and there she is, alongside her fabulous girls, performing all night long in front of many admirers. So what are you waiting for? Take a walk on the wild side. Get in and brace yourself for a fabulous drag show and an unforgettable night in one of the most famous gay bars in Brussels.

Amalgame Bar is located right next to Grand-Place, on Rue des Pierres. Having opened 5 years ago, the bar is a place where people from all walks of life can meet. That’s also where the name actually comes from: AMALGAME. Try their cocktails while listening to their varied musical programme.

Station BXL

This bar located near the Grand-Place welcomes you with friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere. It has a large choice of beers, a nice selection of shooters and cocktails. The bar is animated in the afternoon by video clips from the 80s and 90s and later in the evening by urban music and dance. Every Friday and Saturday night, the bar welcomes a DJ.

C’est Ma Tournée

Homoerectus by Spit It Out

"One of the oldest Bar LGBTQIA+ Of Brussels ! queer and fetish , where everyone is welcome ( from our community + Allies) . A safe space where you can be fetish or not , young or older , without any discrimination about origins , religion etc.. we are committed to our community ! Visit us asap !"

La Réserve, a charming haven nestled in the heart of Brussels, proudly stands as the city's oldest gay bar, exuding a vibrant blend of history and modernity. Step into this one-of-a-kind locale and immerse yourself in a lively tapestry of ages, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. The uniquely adorned surroundings add an extra layer of character, making every visit to La Reserve a delightful journey through time and diversity. The new owners Sebastian and Benji welcome you to come enjoy a great little bar daily from 14.00 until late into the night (except Wednesday when we are closed)

Stammbar is the meeting place for partygoers, freaks, adventurers, creative personalities and people who shape the night. This bar, a real melting pot for night owls in search of fun, offers a relaxed atmosphere in an immaculate, modern setting. Both a daytime bar and a cruising spot, Stammbar hosts exhibitions and themed nights in addition to music shows. Present on the Brussels scene for several years now, every night its doors open to friends and strangers looking for a memorable experience. Open 7 nights a week, with an additional daytime session from 3pm on Sundays.

Rainbowhouse

The Rainbowhouse Brussels is home to various French and Dutch speaking LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, etc.) associations in the Brussels area. Member associations - also non LBGTQIA - meet there and organise meetings at the bar. They are at your disposal to help you find your way to legal, social, psychological or medical assistance. The RainbowHouse is also a café open in the evening, where LGBTQIA+ people and their friends can receive information, enjoy a warm welcome or simply meet each other. Every Friday, starting at 10pm, the RainbowHouse invites a DJ to make you dance.

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Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels In Brussels

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The charming capital of Belgium, Brussels is famously the birthplace of the Belgium Waffle and the French fry. However, it also packs a big punch one of Europe’s fiercely progressive capitals. Brussels is historic yet hip, by-the-book and yet unorthodox, and Brussels is multicultural to its roots. To that end, it’s this forward-thinking attitude that has propelled its fame as one of the world’s most LGBTQ friendly cities. You’ll be endeared by not only the city’s welcoming atmosphere but also the many gay friendly hotels in Brussels. With snazzy, contemporary digs, modern hostels, and heritage hotels, you have no dearth of choices for gay friendly hotels in Brussels.

With Belgium being only the second country worldwide to legalize gay marriage, there’s no doubt that LGBTQ travelers not just accepted but warmly welcomed across the city. Thus, it’s no surprise that Brussels has a sprawling Gay Village in the heart of the city, Saint Jacques. It’s bursting with gay bars and is home to some of Europe’s biggest and wildest gay dance parties. In fact, there’s even the Rainbow House, which is your event organizer, LGBT information center, and bar rolled into one. What’s more, Brussels also hosts the Belgian Pride and the Brussels LGBT Film Festival. That said, Brussels is more than the diverse gay nightlife, especially if you’re one for exploring. Firstly, it’s home to the Grand Place, one of the 15 Most Beautiful Squares in Europe . Moreover, it’s brimming with palaces, parks, museums, and iconic sculptures.

Plus, if you’re one for road trips, then there are as many as 12 Charming Town In Belgium Worth Visiting which are day trips from Brussels. So, here are the top 11 gay friendly hotels in Brussels for your next trip to the city famous as the ‘Crossroads of Europe!’

NH Brussels Bloom

The NH Brussels Bloom is one of the most offbeat and unique gay hotels in Brussels. Armed with the motto ‘Stay away from the ordinary,’ the hotel shakes up the tired hotel formula. It features design and service touches that are sure to leave discerning gays smiling from ear to ear. The gay friendly hotel’s location is equally amazing, as both Grand Place and Brussels Gay Village are a 20-minute walk. In fact, the Grand Sablon Branch of the NH Brand is also one of the 11 Best Hotels in Brussels !

Don’t be fooled by the nondescript exterior, for on the inside, the hotel is fun and dynamic to boot. This is evident the minute you step into the spacious foyer, complete with stylish seating and street art. In fact, the hotel’s theme is “contemporary art,” with a resident artist in the Penthouse Art Space. Besides a young and efficient staff, the place even has a fitness center with stunning views of the city. Moreover, it has parking too, which is a blessing if you have your own vehicle. Breakfast in the OO! room is a grand affair, as are lunches and dinners eclectic bar-restaurant. Rounding up the amenities is the range of ‘Grab & Go’ snacks at the reception.

Although rooms differ in the category, they’re all very spacious, airy, and light with ‘bloom’ as the inspiration. The rooms all feature standard mod-cons, including basic self-catering facilities. The highlight is the sleek grey-and-white bathrooms, all with bathtubs.

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The Dominican

If you want to explore the Brussels by day and its wild gay nightlife later on, then stay at The Dominican . The hotel is built on the site of a Dominican Abbey on a quiet pedestrian street in the historic city center. Not only is the hotel swanky and stylish, but it’s also within walking distance to all shopping, museums, and sights in Brussels. Staying centrally doesn’t get any better than this.

The Dominican has swagger, a tone only emboldened by the courtyard setting and the flaming torches at the entrance. In fact, the site didn’t hold just a Dominican Abbey, but also the home of Jacques-Louis David, Napoleon’s painter in the early-19th century. The hotel’s design pays homage to this legacy with the courtyard’s high arches and the Dominican symbol woven into the carpets. Overall, the hotel’s amenities and polish exceed its four-star rating. Whether it’s the cardio gym or the hammam and sauna, you’ll love everything about this place. The highlight is the sumptuous buffet breakfast with English-style fare, French and Belgian charcuterie, waffles, pastries, pancakes, and more. It’s served in the sun-kissed courtyard in the summer and the Grand Lounge at the other times.

Although rooms vary in sizes, they’re all richly decked-out with plush fabrics and white, red, and brown hues. The furnishings are both modern and of the Napolean era, couple with modern renditions of Jacques-Louis David paintings. besides all the usual four-star amenities, the black-marble bathrooms are sexy with huge rain showers and bathtubs in some.

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Brussels

The celebrated institution that is the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Brussels has everything. Think eye-popping mini-versions of Hanging Gardens of Babylon in its atrium, an envious location, and one of the best restaurants in town. It’s no surprise that this stylish hotel is one of the best gay hotels in Brussels. With some of Brussels best bay bars like La Reserve in the next block, you know you’re going to have a rollicking gaycation staying here!

The 1990s-built Ancient Mesopotamia and Art Deco structure is innately contemporary on the inside. Unsurprisingly, the atrium with tiered greenery, water features, and indoor gardens is the showstopper here. Despite being a modern hotel, it brings in a rare chunk of history – the early 12th-century old city walls next to the carp pond. The chain hotel is famed for its professional and polished service, with facilities and amenities to match. Three glass-walled lifts, a 24-hour gym, sauna, concierge, and room services are just some of them. The highlight is the extra-late check-out time of 6 p.m. So, you can sleep in till late after a night of Brussels revelry. Besides an excellent restaurant, the hotel serves a “Super Breakfast Buffet” featuring just about every breakfast item under the sun.

Three categories of rooms in four different styles (At Home, Maritime, NYC Mansion, and Urban Style) give you lots of room choices. Although all have the usual set of mod-cons, including minibars, we’d recommend the suites with bathtubs for some intimate time.

Aloft Brussels Schuman

The Aloft brand is known for its gay friendliness, and it’s no surprise that Aloft Brussels Schuman is one of the most gay friendly hotels in Brussels. A buzzing bar, spacious rooms, and design panache are what sets this outpost of the Starwood chain apart. Moreover, it sits in a lovely neighborhood right at Schuman roundabout and subway station in the Leopold Quarter. So, the historic center and the Gay Village are a merely 10-minute ride.

The hotel might be a budget one with an “Easy Breezy” motto, but it’s one efficiently-run place. The entire hotel has a bright, zing to it. The hotel oozes a club-like vibe with its snazzy, well-equipped gym, paid parking, and knowledgeable staff. The huge, open-plan lounge with a large bar is the beating heart of the hotel and a great place to meet and vibe with people. Since it’s a budget establishment, food is in the form of a snack-attack menu, where you use your swipe-card and buy items.

The rooms are fashioned after lofts, and are spacious, comfy, and quiet, given the location. Oversized spa showers, ultra-comfy beds, and mod-cons make staying here a breeze.

9Hotel Central

The 9Hotel Central is one of the best design-centric gay hotels in Brussels. The first Belgian outpost of the Paris-based 9Hotel chain, the hotel is unfussy and distinctive with polished service. The fact that it’s close to the glittering Grand Place and the Gay Village is only a bonus in its favor. If you’re looking for an offbeat place to stay in town, then this would be it.

The design hotel blends antique and vintage with modern, with a dash of industrial-chic and exotic design. The 19th-century brick walls and simple wooden Rajasthani furniture from India are mainstays everywhere. The hotel radiates casual, loft-style elegance, right from the breakfast room to the low-lit lobby lounge. Besides serving a hearty breakfast, the hotel even provides an “Express Breakfast” in a bag. This includes orange juice, a hot drink, and small pastries, which is ideal if you’re leaving the hotel early. The lounge also serves complimentary coffee and tea, apart from drinks in the evening.

Maroon hall landings open onto contrasting, crisp-white rooms, which range from single ones to junior suites. The place is all about repurposed furniture – think open hangings rails as cupboards and bare-wood, rustic Indian buffet tables as desks. The cloud-like beds are particularly soft, while the bathrooms either walk-in showers large enough for two or bathtubs. What’s more, some rooms even have patios or balconies with alfresco seating.

Train Hostel

Not every day do you see a railway carriage sticking out of the rooftop of a building, but that’s what makes the gay friendly Train Hostel so different. The idea of the place is to fuse hostel traditions and contemporary hotel standards. So, it’s no surprise that it sits right next to the Train World railway museum. It’s a short ride to the city center, 20 minutes to be precise. Moreover, the lodgings are in the form of restored train cars! If you’re game for innovation, then you’re in for one enthralling ride – pun intended.

The 19th-century facade holds a modern, industrial-chic courtyard. The decor throughout the hostel is train-themed and is peppered with authentic railway memorabilia. The staff comprises a bunch of enthu-cutlets who possess superb knowledge of the city and will help you with travel tips around the city. The beating heart is the relaxed lounge, which also has a dream of a “take one, leave one” library. A computer corner allows you to check emails and catch up on work. Right next to the shared kitchen is a large dining room where the hostel serves an excellent, complimentary hot and cold breakfast. Later on, this transforms into the Train Bistro and bar. Rounding up the amenities is free Wi-Fi and a lovely courtyard with seating.

Two-and-a-half historic railway carriages comprise 15 low-cost ‘cabines.’ They feature single beds, double beds, and even six-bed bunks, as well as communal bathroom facilities. But, you do need to bring your own towel and sleeping bag here or rent them. The third-floor, half-carriage is an exclusive, retro-style suite, with its own rooftop terrace and bathroom.

Hotel des Galeries

History and style come together at the Hotel des Galeries , one of the best boutique gay hotels in Brussels. It occupies an enviable location right in the historic heart of the city. In fact, all the Top 12 Things To Do In Brussels are within walking distance. What’s more, Brussels Gay Village is a hop, skip, and jump from this gay friendly hotel.

The contemporary hotel retains original, antique touches of the heritage structure, notably the massive medal-press in the restaurant that dates back to 1845. Even then, there’s a personable feel to the place, making it more of a home-away-from-home. Besides the 24-hour reception, the place has a lovely courtyard garden where you can relax on hot Belgian afternoons. The restaurant serves, among other lip-smacking meals, a hearty breakfast that includes cooked-to-order eggs, smoked salmon, cheese, and charcuterie. All-in-all, it’s a great way to begin a day of exploring the city.

With just 20 rooms, staying here is one intimate affair. High ceilings and retro-contemporary furniture lend an interesting style to the rooms, all of which are spacious. The best part? All bathrooms feature double freestanding bathtubs, which is perfect if you’re traveling with your partner. Enjoy some cozy moments in the bathtubs, complete with bespoke products, while enjoying views of the historic center.

If you want to delve into the glittering gay nightlife of Brussels, then there’s no place better to stay than Hotel Be Manos . It’s one of the most glamorous gay friendly hotels in Brussels, with psychedelic black-and-silver color schemes and striking black-and-white photography. If you don’t feel like a fabulous gay celebrity like Janelle Monae or Billy Porter, then you’ll feel like one here. The cherry on top is that some of the city’s best gay bars and saunas are less than a 10-minute stroll away. So, the gay friendly hotel is the perfect base for letting your hair down on a wild night in Brussels and crashing into a blissful sleep.

A striking 1920s Art Deco exterior is a prelude to all the razzle-dazzle inside. Think post-modern furniture and all silver, white, and black glass and mirrors, sprinkled with vibrant spots of color. Even though it’s a 60-room hotel, the ambiance is more intimate, thanks to the warm and inviting staff. Besides the 24-hour reception and superb concierge and room service, the highlight is the “Wellness Room” has a massage room, steam bath, and sauna. Begin your day with a superb and hearty breakfast of bacon, eggs, cheese, croissants, and more in the breakfast room. The atmospheric Black Lounge, complete with a rooftop terrace, is the perfect place for a cocktail before heading into the hedonistic gay nightlife of Brussels.

If the hotel is dazzle, then the rooms are sensuous to boot. Think glamorous and sexy black-and-white photography, metallic drapes, and stainless-steel fittings. Even though rooms are spread across four categories, they all feature a slew of mod-cons. Black-stone bathrooms come with bathtubs and peekaboo glass doors for sexy times.

Le Berger Hotel

There’s only one way to describe the history of Le Berge – it’s a “hot-sheets hotel!” The zenith of sexy gay hotels in Brussels, Le Berger Hotel was a discreet “Maison de rendezvous,” a place where lovers used to meet illicitly. Today, it’s a romantic boutique hotel that continues to believe the hotel’s original idea – to make love and enjoy life. For a sexy gaycation in Brussels, there cannot be a better hotel than this.

There’s just a large sign that makes this Art-Deco hotel stand out from the rest. A little lift takes you to your room after you’ve collected your large brass key. The narrow, dark corridors remind you of the hotel’s sexy, sexy past. There’s even a delightful Italian restaurant-bar off the lobby that serves excellent antipasti and Italian wines. Breakfast is absolutely top drawer and a sumptuous spread of eggs, ham, jam, bread, omelets, pancakes, and freshly-made coffee.

Make no mistake, the rooms are the highlight here, for this hotel was designed for seduction. So, the bedrooms are all about lots and lots of velvet, rich hues, arched doorways, and silky sensuous wallpaper. Wonderful touches like sculptures of sinuous dancers and marbled columns add to the hedonistic ambiance. The marbled bathrooms are the standout, with just drapes separating them from the bedroom.

Maison Flagey

If you’re looking for some tranquility and romantic time away from the bustle, then Maison Flagey is your gay getaway. It’s one of the most intimate gay friendly hotels in Brussels and lies in the charming suburb of Ixelles which is a 10-minute drive to the city center. This Art-Nouveau b&b is a rare gem sitting in an authentic mansion overlooking the ponds of Ixelles. If that isn’t romantic, then what is?

Every inch of the 1904-built mansion breathes elegance and history. The showstopper of the spacious interiors is the mesmerizing spiral staircase. But, the first-floor breakfast room is also a real beauty. It has a terrace and overlooks the ponds or rather the lakes of Ixelles. Dg into an organic breakfast with yogurt, homemade croissants, cheese, ham, and more as you take in the morning sunshine. During the day it’s a reading room, where you can enjoy a drink or a cuppa. If you’re one for talking, then you’ll love the stories that the attentive host has to share. Right from the mansion’s heritage to restaurant recommendations to travel tips on Brussels, he has them all.

All five rooms are different, but the detailing is the same – stained-glass, wallpaper, fireplaces, and Art Nouveau furniture. For instance, the boudoir-style Cambre Verte has wooden screens, while the sprawling Suite Royale has a huge shower room with a freestanding period bathtub. We’d recommend the latter if you’re looking to get cozy with your significant other. Besides, all rooms have modern comforts, and most even have seating areas and terraces or balconies.

Marivaux Hotel

The Marivaux Hotel is one of the most popular gay hotels in Brussels. The hotel lies right in Burssels’city center, a little north of Grand Place and the Gay Village. If you’re a gay traveler looking for a place that blends character, good location and amenities, and value, then the Marivaux Hotel is perfect.

Marivaux lived a former life as a movie theater, which is evident as you walk through the revolving glass doors into the lobby. Dark leather sofas, white walls, and a polished tiled floor all hark back to a glorious era of Brussels. The vibe continues to the on-site brasserie, which features intimate library-style bookcases and photographs from famous movie scenes. The sleek, minimalist breakfast room boasts a frosted glass atrium-style ceiling and serves a superb continental breakfast. There are even an on-site gym and paid parking available on-site. Before you head out in the evening, a cocktail at the atmospheric bar is a great idea.

You have the choice of both traditional and modern rooms here. The former is all about wooden furniture and floral flourishes, while the latter is sleek and minimalist. Nevertheless, they’re all spacious and pay homage to the buildings’ history with framed photos of movie stars. Plush beds, a slew of modern creature comforts, and even bathrobes are mainstays in all of them. If you want to sleep fitfully at night, then go for a room at the back.

Just So You Know:

• Belgium was the second country in the world to legalize gay marriage after Denmark.

Get Some Culture in Brussels:

• Gaily Tour in Brussels : Explore the spectacular landmarks and sights of Brussels with a gay/lesbian-friendly driver and/or tour guide.
• Belgian Pride: This vibrant festival is the biggest LGBT event in Belgium. It has everything from cultural events to parties and a humongous Pride parade.

Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Brussels:

• La Reserve  – One of Brussels’ oldest establishments and a true gay pub. It’s perfect to have a few beers before bar hopping.
• Le Bélgica  – Live DJs, dance floor, drinks, and cute bartenders – this gay bar has it all. One of the most popular gay bars in town, it’s been an institution since the 1980s.
• Le Baroque  – This popular Brussels Gay Village bar has plenty of bears, a friendly atmosphere, and often overflows onto the street outside.

Best Gay Saunas in Brussels:

• Macho Sauna  – This is Brussels’ most popular and biggest gay sauna. It’s legendary for 8 a.m. after-parties to keep the night’s revelry going. It has a mystery room, video area, a sauna, a pool, and a jacuzzi and bar, and lots of beautiful young men.
• Stamm Bar  – This popular cruise bar has everything from cruising spaces to a labyrinth to dark rooms. It’s very popular with otters, bears, and their admirers.

Author:  Jacko Martinez

As a gay travel blogger, I am passionate about exploring the world and sharing my experiences with readers. Through my travels, I aim to highlight destinations and experiences that are welcoming and to the LGBTQ+ community. Whether I'm exploring the vibrant nightlife of gay-friendly cities like Berlin and Barcelona, or relaxing on the beaches of Mykonos and Phuket, my blog offers insights into the best destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers. But my blog is more than just a travel guide - it's a celebration of diversity and inclusion. I believe that travel has the power to bring people together and break down barriers, and I strive to showcase the unique cultures, people, and perspectives that make each destination special. From queer history tours to LGBTQ+ events and festivals, I seek out the experiences that celebrate and embrace the diversity of the community. Through my blog, I hope to inspire others to explore the world and embrace their true selves, no matter where their travels take them. So whether you're a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, my blog is your guide to the best destinations, experiences, and perspectives in the world of gay travel. Join me on my journey as we explore the world, one inclusive adventure at a time.

THE 10 BEST Brussels Gay Clubs & Bars

Gay clubs & bars in brussels.

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Gay Belgium Travel Guide

Gay Belgium

Belgium is naturally a low-lying nation on the North Sea coast within the Benelux. With the largest portion of West European capitals within 1,000 km of the Belgian capital of Brussels, and associated with the long-standing international Benelux community, Belgium is at the crossroads of Western Europe. Its immediate neighbors are France towards the southwest, Luxembourg towards the southeast, Germany towards the east and the Netherlands towards the north.

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Belgian Pride Brussels

Start: Mont des Arts End: Rainbow Village

About Belgian Pride Brussels

Belgium had its first 'gay day' on March 18, 1978 in Ghent. It was organized by the Rooie Vlinder group, a very activist left-wing feminist group. A year later, on May 5, 1979 in Antwerp, gay men and lesbians were on the street for the 'International Day of Homosexuality'. The following year, Rooie Vlinder joined the Federatie Werkgroepen Homofilie (FWH) and the Brussels association CCL to organize Brussels' "National Homosexual and Lesbian Day".

In 1981, the demonstration took place in Antwerp again, and then disappeared for 10 years, following internal dissensions. Only a Lesbian Day was organized in 1983 and 1986, before being renamed L-day thereafter. Drawing inspiration from the Dutch Pink Saturday, a committee was finally created to organize a Pink Saturday in Antwerp on May 5, 1990, which was then organized every two years.

From 1996 on, the parade has taken place in Brussels every year in May, with dozens of organizations coming together to take part in the celebrations. In 1996, nearly 2,500 visitors attended the event, which then became the 'Belgian Lesbian and Gay Pride'. The purpose of this English name is to find a common denominator for the three Belgian linguistic communities. The name changed in 2010, and became The Belgian Pride. Since 2017, the iconic advent has been consistently referred to as 'Belgian Pride'.

The large, exuberant and colorful parade in the streets of Brussels is now the highlight of the Belgian Pride Festival. In May, on a date close to World Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (May 17), it brings together festive, political and cultural events, initiatives and activities, not only in Brussels, the Belgian and European capital, but also throughout Belgium.

Since 2014, Belgian Pride has attracted an average of nearly 100,000 visitors to each edition, cementing its place as one of the country's most festive and popular annual celebrations.

Program for Belgian Pride Brussels

For full details on Belgian Pride 2024, be sure to check out the official event  program . Happy Pride!   

Pictures of Belgian Pride Brussels

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Bruges Canal Tours: Everything You Need To Know

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

During our recent family trip to Europe, Abby and I took a  day trip from Brussels to Bruges , a beautiful town in Belgium. We both wanted to go on one of the legendary Bruges canal tours. I’m so glad we did! This fairytale European city needs to be on your bucket list! 

Where is Bruges?

Bruges is a serene small Flemish town just northwest of  Brussels . Visiting Bruges is a perfect day trip from Brussels and is easily accessible by train.

Bruges is known as an idyllic small European city steeped in historical charm. It’s home to gorgeous canals and many fascinating landmarks. Furthermore, The city also has many great restaurants, pubs, and street-side vendors.

Visiting Bruges, Belgium

If you are visiting Brussels for a few days, taking an extra day to go to Bruges is well worth the time. Its gorgeous canals winding along against ancient stone buildings have led Bruges to be called the “Venice of the North.” 

In this blog post, I want to provide information about taking a Bruges canal tour, highlight the city’s history, and discuss some landmarks you’ll likely see on these Bruges canal tours.

Getting to Bruges from Brussels

From Bruges, you just need to hop on the Belgium intercity train. You can board directly from one of the main Brussels train stations, including Bruxelles-Nord (Brussels North), Bruxelles-Central (Brussels Central), and Bruxelles-Midi (Brussels South).

The Brussels to Bruges train runs all day, and the ride is just over an hour.  

The Belgium train website has a  dedicated page for the Brussels to Bruges train route , which is a great resource. You can buy tickets from that page as well. 

The route trip Brussels to Bruges train tickets are a standard € 32.00 for adults. However, there are a lot of discounted ticket options listed as well, and most are € 17.50 or less. 

The Bruges Canal Tours

Once you arrive in Bruges, you should have a game plan for your canal tour. It’s helpful to know a little bit about the city's layout. 

Bruges rests within a mesh of several canals that penetrate and encircle the city. These canals ultimately allow boat access to the North Sea, located about 20 kilometers north of the city. The town’s access to the North Sea made Bruges a vital shipping hub for centuries. 

The canals lining the town are relatively inaccessible as they are flanked everywhere by houses and other structures. Because of this, there are only a few places, other than bridges, where you can see the canals.  

Therefore, the best way to see these picturesque canals is on a boat tour!

Planning Bruges Canal Tours

There are five landing stages along the canals. These are the only places you can embark on a canal tour. The routes and prices are generally the same across the different tour operators. There are several canal tour operators, each with their own open-air boats.  They pretty much all follow the same route, so in my opinion, the best Bruges canal tour is the one with the shortest line.

Bruges Canal Tour Boarding Locations

Boarding takes place at the following locations. Each tour operator will leave from a different location, so be sure to check their website.

•  Michielssens, Huidenvettersplein 13
•  Coudenys, Rozenhoedkaai
•  De Meulemeester, Wollestraat 32
•  Gruuthuse, Nieuwstraat 11
•  Stael, Katelijnestraat 4

Scroll around the above map of Bruges to get a lay of the land!

The Bruges Canal Tour boat trip takes around 30 minutes. The boats typically operate between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm, with 5:30 often being the last tour. Tours generally operate most of the year, except in January and early February.  

However, tour availability will vary by operator and may change based on events like municipal construction projects, canal restoration initiatives, and severe weather.

Bruges Canal Tours Tickets

Unlike the  canal tours in Amsterdam  and the  Seine River cruises in Paris , you cannot book Bruges canal tour tickets in advance. You buy your tickets directly from the tour companies at the landing stages. As of writing this, the Bruges Canal Tour price for adult tickets is € 12.00, and children’s tickets are € 7.00.

You may need to wait in line at the landing stages to purchase tickets. The canal tours are very popular and will get busy. Bruges has an active cruise ship industry (Norwegian, Holland America, Windstar, Celebrity), and the town will fill up with  cruise  passengers on day excursions.  

The extra traffic means lines for the canal tours will get longer after about 11 am. Before 11 am is the best time to ensure you have shorter lines. It also gives you the rest of the day to explore Bruges.  

TIP: Get in line for your canal tour as early as possible in Bruges. 

Private canal tours are also available. Several companies offer tours with different types of boats. Contact the companies directly to find out more.

There are a couple of great s mall-group Bruges canal tours available through Get Your Guide . They also include a Bruges walking tour. These are a great option if you want to be able to buy Bruges canal tour tickets in advance.

Other Things to Consider

During the canal tour, the boat guide will comment on the significant landmarks and history of the area. During our  day trip to Bruges , our canal tour guide did a great job narrating the tour and pointing out interesting areas, landmarks, and historical sights. Most guides can speak multiple languages and will do their best to tailor the language to the passengers’ needs. 

The boats are cash-only. Be sure to bring a few Euros to tip your tour guide.

If you want to take pictures, try to be at the front, back, or side of the boat. Most of the boats have a line of seats down the middle, but people may block your pictures if you sit there.  

The boats are open-air and uncovered, so be sure to wear your sunscreen! Also, the tours can get pretty chilly, depending on the time of year, so bring a jacket. We love the  Amazon Essentials packable jackets  for our travels.

It’s always helpful to know the history and significance of a city prior to visiting. So, I want to take some time here to talk more in-depth about Bruges and, of course, the canals. Then, I will share some of the incredible landmarks that you will see from your Bruges canal tour. 

The History Of Bruges And Its Canals

Bruges has witnessed a remarkable evolution over the centuries. Its history encapsulates the ebb and flow of urban development, from its Viking origins to a flourishing medieval center, economic decline, and eventual modern-day revival.  

The city’s tremendous ability to adapt to changing circumstances and preserve its cultural heritage is a testament to the strength and perseverance of the Danish people across time.

Origins of Bruges, Belgium

The origin of Bruges can be traced to the 9th century when Vikings established a fortress on the banks of the Reie River. The name “Bruges” is believed to be derived from the Old Dutch word “Burg,” meaning fortress. The city gradually developed into a bustling medieval trade center due to its strategic location and access to the North Sea.

The Golden Era of Bruges

Bruges experienced its golden era during the late medieval period, particularly in the 14th and 15th centuries. The city became a major commercial and cultural hub, attracting merchants, artists, and scholars across Europe.  

Bruges's thriving wool and textile industry and sophisticated network of canals contributed to its prosperity. It was home to the influential Bourse, one of the earliest stock exchanges in the world.

Bruges Economic Decline

Despite its flourishing period, Bruges faced economic challenges in the 16th century. The silting of the Zwin, a vital waterway for trade, led to a decline in maritime activity, impacting Bruges’ economy.  

Additionally, geopolitical shifts and the rise of other European trading centers contributed to the city's gradual decline in prominence.

Modern Times and Revival of Bruges

For several centuries, Bruges endured a period of relative obscurity. However, in the 19th century, efforts were made to preserve its medieval architecture, and the city gained recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.  

The 20th century saw a revival in Bruges’ fortunes, with tourism becoming a key driver of its economy. The city’s well-preserved medieval structures, including the Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, attract millions of visitors annually.

What Do You See on the Bruges Canal Tours?

During the Bruges canal tours, your tour guide will highlight many fascinating landmarks. Each place gives you a window into the long history of this amazing city.  

Like many European cities, it’s steeped in lore that spans epochs, and seemingly every bridge or building has a colorful and long legacy.  

Here is a list of many sites you will probably see on the Bruges canal tours. 

Founded in 1245, the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde boasts serene white-colored house fronts and a tranquil convent garden.  

This UNESCO World Heritage site was once the residence of beguines—emancipated laywomen leading pious and celibate lives. Today, the beguinage is home to the Order of St. Benedict nuns.

Saint John’s Hospital

With an eight-hundred-year history, Saint John’s Hospital has cared for pilgrims, travelers, the poor, and the sick. Explore the medieval wards where nuns and monks practiced mercy, the chapel, and a remarkable collection of archives, artworks, medical instruments, and six paintings by Hans Memling.  

Church of Our Lady

The Church of Our Lady showcases Bruges’ artisans’ craftsmanship through its 115.5 meters high brick tower. The church has valuable art, including Michelangelo’s renowned Madonna and Child, numerous paintings, 13th-century painted crypts, and the tombs of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold. Abby and I visited after our canal tour, and it was incredible! 

Groeninge Museum

Offering a diverse overview of Belgian plastic arts history, the Groeninge Museum features Flemish Primitives, 18th and 19th-century neoclassical pieces, Flemish Expressionism masterpieces, and post-war modern art.

Ambachtshuis Huidevetters

Built by hide tanners, this craft house near Rozenhoedkaai has two wings. The north wing, demolished in 1629, was replaced in 1630 under the guidance of Bruges architect Jan De Smet. The building was restored in 1912. It has been used as a fishmonger and stockfish farm since the mid-19th century.

Belfry & Carillon

Bruges’ tallest tower, the Belfry, standing 83 meters tall, houses a melodic carillon with 47 bells. Climbing its 366 steps rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of Bruges and its surroundings.

Fish Market

Originally located at Markt Square, the fish market was moved here in the 18th century due to complaints about the stench. Since the Middle Ages, buyers and sellers have come together at the Bruges fish market. Fresh saltwater fish, once a luxury, is still sold every morning from Wednesday to Saturday.

These small whitewashed almshouses, dating back to the 14th century, are scattered around Bruges. Wealthy townspeople or guilds established almshouses to house poor older adults or widows. Over 46 blocks have been preserved, with 43 still occupied.

Burghers’ Lodge

Situated on Jan Van Eyckplein, the Poortersloge (Burgher’s Lodge) served as a meeting spot for the Society of the White Bear in the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Later, it became the city’s Academy of Arts (1720-1890) and the State Archives (1912-2012).

Visiting Bruges: The “Venice of the North”

Visiting Bruges to take one of the Bruges canal tours is a fantastic way to add something special to your trip to Belgium. Its quaint stone houses, romantic canals, cobbled streets, cookies, waffles, and chocolate make it a bucket-list destination to take friends and family of any age.  

The iconic canals are a dream for photographers. Travel to and around the city is simple and inexpensive. And as you can tell by this post, Bruges canal tours should be on your list. I recommend this trip to everyone!  

Visit the European Travel section of my blog for more adventures in Europe, and you may also enjoy the related posts below.

Our Magical Brussels To Bruges Day Trip

2 Days in Brussels: What We Did

Hotel Indigo Brussels City

European Travel Essentials

How To Plan A Trip To Europe For Your Family 

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I Just Got Back From This Famous Island Nation That's Suddenly the Hottest LGBTQ Destination in the Caribbean

Long considered a no-go for gay travelers, Cuba is now one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic LGBTQ destinations.

From left: Brandon Rosenblum/Getty Images; Courtesy of Verano Forever Travel

It was late one night in Havana, and the popular queer party El Divino de Cuba was heating up. Audience members, all dressed to impress, were ascending stairs to the stage to pay homage to a performing drag queen with a dramatic beso on each cheek and a fistful of pesos folded into fake cleavage.

Truthfully, Cuba had never been high on my list. Friends had told me that the food was disappointing and the LGBTQ scene basically nonexistent. But when I finally visited the island, together with 12 other gay men, on an educational group tour organized by Verano Forever Travel , we found a place full of wonderful food and fun parties with drag queens.

That’s proof of how much has changed in recent years, explained Carlos Gonzalez, the founder of Travel the Artist Way and one of our guides for the week. Two decades ago, he continued, events like El Divino would have been held secretly to avoid police raids.

Today, El Divino is on Instagram — and LGBTQ Cubans can legally marry, adopt children, and access free gender-affirming care. Rather than deport LGBTQ foreigners, as Fidel Castro once did the American poet Allen Ginsberg, the government now operates two hotels specifically marketed to queer visitors. 

The country’s struggles are also driving change. In 2021, Cuba erupted in some of the largest protests since the revolution, as a result of persisting economic hardships. In response, the government relaxed rules on private enterprise, leading to the opening of more bars, clubs, and other small businesses, explained Alejandro Almaguer, Verano’s founder.

LGBTQ bars in Havana, including PaZillo and XY , regularly host queer parties that last until the wee hours. Then there are mixed venues such as King Bar , which on a crowded Friday night featured a saxophonist jumping on the tabletops while playing along with the DJ’s salsa tracks. 

Not that we were focused solely on nightlife. One afternoon we had a private viewing of work by Alejandro Cañer, an up-and-coming queer digital artist. “You won’t find his stuff at official galleries here,” Gonzalez told us. Entering the pop-up, in a small studio in a residential building, it became apparent why. 

“I’d describe my work as sexually deviant propaganda,” Cañer explained, as I admired a piece depicting a flexing Che Guevara wearing a harlequin-print thong. “I like to manipulate the history of my country, play with the symbols and concepts that accompany it, and make it scandalous.”

We also had a chance to explore beyond Havana. In Viñales, our group took a short horseback ride through the countryside before arriving at a private tobacco farm, where we learned to make fresh sugarcane juice and puffed on cigars. Lunch was a farm-to-table feast at Restaurante El Cuajaní , which serves dishes such as bruschetta and fresh pumpkin soup.

Toward the end of our week, Gonzalez surprised us with a pig roast in the countryside outside Havana. The ground still wet from rain, we danced barefoot in the mud alongside our hosts until a drag show began. During a Lady Gaga medley, a queen named Salma de Armas hoisted me in the air — an impressive feat considering all the pork, tostones, and yuca I’d just eaten. 

“Come with a sense of adventure,” Gonzalez said, “and you’ll have a good time.”

What to Know Before You Go

U.S. citizens can legally visit Cuba as long as they adhere to authorized travel categories, such as “educational activities” and “support for the Cuban people,” established by the Department of the Treasury. Tours such as those from Verano Forever Travel qualify, as do other organized programs that emphasize cultural exchange.

Americans also need to purchase a visa — available from airlines or Cuba Travel Services — and complete a digital form, D’Viajeros, within three days of arrival. Americans are prohibited from spending money at government-run establishments; the Department of State maintains a list of “restricted entities.” U.S. credit cards typically don’t work on the island, so bring plenty of cash.

A version of this story first appeared in the June 2024 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline "The New Frontier."

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Secretary of Defense, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs to Travel to Brussels and NATO for Ukraine Defense Contact Group and Defense Ministerial Meetings

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. will travel to Brussels, Belgium, June 12 to host an in-person meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on June 13. This will be the 23rd meeting of the UDCG since Secretary Austin formed the international group in April 2022. The Secretary and Chairman will join ministers of defense and senior military officials from nearly 50 nations to discuss the ongoing crisis in Ukraine and the continued support from the international community to provide the Ukrainian people with the means necessary to defend their sovereign territory.   While in Brussels, Secretary Austin will also participate in the NATO Defense Ministerial June 14 at NATO Headquarters.

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Rash of deadly motorcycle crashes in York County prompts share-the-road message

Motorcycle crashes have claimed the lives of at least nine people in the area in the past three months, and the Center for Traffic Safety along with law enforcement discussed ways motorists can share the road and to help prevent wrecks and deaths.

A news conference on motorcycle safety and awareness was held Tuesday morning at Eisenhauer's York Harley-Davidson along Route 30 in Manchester Township. It was called in response to the recent surge in motorcycle crashes throughout York County and surrounding areas.

The recommendations included free educational programs and tips to help prevent collisions.

"We want to have everyone have a safe riding experience while they're out there and to enjoy what they're doing while they're riding," said Heather Goodwin, controller for the motorcycle dealership.

2023 was one of the deadliest years for motorcycle deaths

York County Coroner Pam Gay said in an email that her office has investigated six motorcycle fatalities so far this year. One of the crashes happened just over the state line near York County, but the rider succumbed to his injuries at WellSpan York Hospital.

Another rider was injured in a wreck on Interstate 83 in northern York County, and he died at a hospital in Cumberland County. And a York County couple lost their lives after a motorcycle crash in Virginia last month.

Gay said 2023 was one of the worst years in York County for motorcycle deaths in the past 11 years. Her office investigated 17 cases.

In total, her office has investigated 23 motorcycle deaths in 2023 and so far this year. Three of the cases involved wrecks outside of the county, but the victims died in York County.

Tips for sharing the road and staying safe during travel

Local law enforcement, Northern York County Regional Police Sgt. Cody Becker and Pennsylvania State Police Trooper James Grothey, discussed the problems they see with distracted driving, aggressive driving, speed and intoxication.

"It's not just the motorcycle operator's fault or the vehicle operator's fault. It's the share the road mentality," Grothey said. "... It takes everybody to get past this problem and cut down on the fatalities that we're having."

Becker urged drivers to be vigilant and alert as more motorcycles are on the road at this time of the year.

One of the biggest problems Bob LeGore, state Operation Save A Life program coordinator for the Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education of Pennsylvania , sees is drivers following too closely. Motorcycle riders need the extra distance because the bikes can stop much quicker than a heavier automobile.

Drivers who are following too closely and don't see the bikers' turn signals are going to run into the back of them, he said.

Using turn signals are important, too, for drivers and motorcyclists to communicate with each other while on the road, he said.

Goodwin suggested taking a free motorcycle safety course through the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program . Even if individuals have ridden for a long time, they can still learn some new techniques to make them safer on the road, she said.

The free Operation Save A Life program is offered to schools, churches, civic organizations and others, LeGore said. It educates individuals how to share the road with motorcycle riders.

The program stresses looking twice to save a life, he said. When drivers are at an intersection, they should look to the left, look to the right and then look to the left again.

"Give it that extra time to make sure everybody gets home safely," LeGore said.

Fatal motorcycle crashes in 2024

Many of the fatal crashes happened in York County, but a few individuals died outside of the area:

March 14: Josiah Marrero, 18, of York Township died at the scene of a two-vehicle crash in the 3200 block of Cape Horn Road in the same municipality.

April 13: Vann Ashe II, 48, of Herndon, Va. died at WellSpan York Hospital after suffering injuries in a motorcycle crash in a construction zone on I-83 in northern Maryland.

April 28: Timothy Rymer, 60, of Newberry Township died when his motorcycle struck a piece of wood and he lost control of the bike in Carroll Township.

April 30: Christopher Day, 58, of Nocona, Texas died at the scene of a crash with a tractor-trailer in the 600 block of West Philadelphia Street in York.

May 19: Issaiha Seiders, 21, of Halifax died at the scene of the crash on I-83 near the Fishing Creek interchange (Exit 36) in Fairview Township. A passenger on the motorcycle suffered serious injuries and was flown to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, state police said.

May 22: Francisco Hernanez, 20, died at Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Cumberland County after suffering injuries in a crash on I-83 in Newberry Township, state police said.

June 5: Nicholas Street, 33, of Mohnton, Pa. died at WellSpan York Hospital a couple of days after he failed to negotiate a turn and his motorcycle struck a bridge in Manheim Township.

One York County couple — William and Jane Winemiller — died last month after they suffered life-threatening injuries in a two-vehicle crash in Virginia, according to Virginia State Police.

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This D-Day, Europe Needs to Resolve to Get Its Act Together

By Bret Stephens

Opinion Columnist

Thursday’s D-Day anniversary — the 80th — is occasioning somber and anxious reflections about the fate of the Atlantic alliance. Somber because the last of the Greatest Generation will soon no longer be with us. Anxious because Donald Trump, and his evident disdain for that alliance, may soon be with us again.

The anxiety is partly misplaced. Trump’s truculent brand of American nationalism is a terrible idea for many reasons, not least in the encouragement it gives to Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping to target weaker American allies. But Trump is also the messenger of a warning Europeans desperately need to heed.

In a nutshell: Shape up.

Europe today faces four great challenges that typically determine the fate of great powers. Take a brief look:

Growth and dynamism: In 1960 the E.U. 28 — the 27 countries currently in the European Union, plus Britain — accounted for 36.3 percent of global gross domestic product. By 2020 it had fallen to 22.4 percent . By the end of the century it is projected to fall to just under 10 percent. By contrast, the United States has maintained a roughly consistent share — around a quarter — of global G.D.P. since the Kennedy administration.

Think of any leading-edge industry — artificial intelligence, microchips, software, robotics, genomics — and ask yourself (with a few honorable exceptions), where’s the European Microsoft, Nvidia or OpenAI?

Military power: When the Cold War ended in 1990, the West German military fielded more than 500,000 troops and spent 2.5 percent of its G.D.P. on defense. As of last year, it was down to 181,000 troops and 1.57 percent. Britain’s Royal Navy, the most powerful in the world at the outset of World War II, can now deploy just 10 submarines and fewer than two dozen major surface warships, some of which are inactive .

In an all-out war, the British would exhaust their defense capabilities in about two months , according to a report to the House of Commons defense committee. The same would likely be true — if not much sooner — for every E.U. member-state apart from Poland, which aims to spend as much as 5 percent of its G.D.P. on defense next year.

Demographics: What do Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, his predecessor Angela Merkel, President Emmanuel Macron of France, Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands and the former British prime minister Theresa May have in common? They are childless. That’s their personal business (and far from representative of all E.U. leaders), but it’s symbolic of a continent where just under 3.9 million Europeans were born in 2022 and 5.15 million died . A shrinking and aging population typically correlates with low economic growth , not least because entrepreneurship is usually a young person’s game.

Europe has an additional challenge: a relatively high Muslim birthrate, along with the prospect of long-term Muslim migration. Under a “medium migration” scenario estimated by Pew , by 2050 Britain will be nearly 17 percent Muslim, France 17.4 percent and Sweden 20.5 percent. Those wondering about the ascendance of far-right European parties, who are heavily favored to sweep this week’s elections in the E.U. Parliament and who are often sympathetic to Vladimir Putin, know this is a factor. And they need to be honest that the values of depressingly notable segments of these Muslim populations are fundamentally at odds with European traditions of moral tolerance and political liberalism.

Purpose and will: Many of Europe’s current failings are explained (often by European leaders themselves) as a problem of political mechanics: insufficient coordination between states; inadequate power in Brussels; failures of transmission between declared goals and real-world results. But the problem isn’t just one of process. It’s also one of spirit. A few questions:

If Russia defeats Ukraine and decides in a few years’ time to attack one of the Baltic countries, is there a deep pool of young Germans, Belgians or Spaniards willing to die for Tallinn or Vilnius?

As Europe’s NATO members struggle to meet the bare minimum goal of spending 2 percent of their G.D.P. on defense, are they willing to come to grips with the fact that they probably need to spend twice as much?

How much state protection, in social welfare and economic regulation, are Europe’s aging voters willing to forgo for the sake of creating a more dynamic economy for a dwindling number of young people?

How forceful are European leaders willing to be in insisting that their values — including freedom of speech, women’s rights and gay rights — must be protected against the illiberal instincts of a growing share of their voters?

Trump’s ideas about NATO, his zero-sum attitudes about winning, his fondness for strongmen and his ignorance of and indifference to history are all, rightly, causes for European alarm. But people, and nations, succeed or fail to the extent that they refuse to hand over responsibility for their fates to others.

“The world is what it is; men who are nothing, who allow themselves to become nothing, have no place in it,” V.S. Naipaul once warned. It’s good advice for Europe on this solemn anniversary of their previous liberation.

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Bret Stephens is an Opinion columnist for The Times, writing about foreign policy, domestic politics and cultural issues. Facebook

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Europe’s far right won ground in the EU elections. Can they unite to wield power?

Ella Joyner

Associated Press

French far-right National Rally (RN) party leader Marine Le Pen speaks during an interview on French TV channel TF1, in Boulogne-Billancourt, outside Paris, Monday , June 10, 2024. President Emmanuel Macron dissolved the lower house of France's parliament in a surprise announcement sending voters back to the polls in the coming weeks to choose lawmakers, after his party was handed a humbling defeat by the far-right in the European elections Sunday. (Julien de Rosa, Pool via AP)

BRUSSELS – The next European Parliament will have more hard-right members than ever before, occupying close to a quarter of the 720 seats . But they will have to overcome differences if they want to maximize their influence on the EU policies that roil their constituents: migration, climate rules and farming.

The loose centrist coalition that has controlled the European Union’s only directly elected body for decades maintained a narrow majority in last week's voting. But stunning results by far-right parties in France , Germany and beyond have jolted the bloc, which was founded after the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

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Parties such as France’s National Rally, the Brothers of Italy, and Alternative for Germany (AfD) must work together to have a significant impact on EU policy.

Their members are currently spread across different groups in the European Parliament: the nationalist European Conservatives and Reformists, the Identity and Democracy Group — home to the most hard-right factions — plus a large number of unaligned parties.

Under the latest projections Tuesday, the European Conservatives and Reformists will have 73 lawmakers and Identity and Democracy will have 58. The currently unaligned AfD should have 15 members, and Hungary’s ultranationalist Fidesz will have 11.

AfD, which is under surveillance in Germany for suspected extremism, booted out controversial MEP Maximilian Krah this week in a bid to get back into the Identity and Democracy Group.

Russia vs. Ukraine — the far-right’s major schism

Bundling disparate forces across 27 EU countries won’t be simple, especially because of deep-set divisions over the war in Ukraine. European Conservatives and Reformists politicians closely back Kyiv, in line with mainstream EU policy, while Identity and Democracy Group members tend to be pro-Russian.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni , whose party has neo-fascist roots, has successfully courted mainstream conservatives with strong support for Ukraine and NATO, while repeatedly rallying the right to unite. She has presided over a broad right-wing coalition in Rome for almost two years and has emerged as the European far-right’s biggest power broker.

As well as deepening ties with center-right European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Meloni has reached out to Marine Le Pen of France's National Rally, the biggest face in the generally more radical Identity and Democracy Group.

Another key player is Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán — a close ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump and the closest EU ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin — who has put the brakes on numerous EU aid packages for Kyiv.

Orbán was forced out of von der Leyen’s European People’s Party in 2021 because of a clash of values. Identity and Democracy has invited Fidesz to join their ranks, though Orbán has expressed interest in joining European Conservatives and Reformists. His position on Ukraine makes that unlikely.

Le Pen and Meloni — an uneasy rapprochement

Le Pen, who is more staunchly anti-EU and anti-establishment, previously slammed Meloni for her proximity to von der Leyen. But she has softened, as part of a broader National Rally rebranding over the past decade to appeal to a wider public. Traditionally, the party has close ties to Russia.

The two grandes dames of the European far right differ on social issues. Meloni’s government has pursued policies supporting “traditional” family models that LGBTQ activists in Italy have slammed as discriminatory.

By contrast, Le Pen has tried to distance herself from the antisemitism, racism and homophobia of the party her father founded 50 years ago. In recent years, she dropped a pledge to revoke equal marriage rights and hired several top political advisors who are gay. She also backed France enshrining abortion as a constitutional right last year.

Unity tricky but not prerequisite for influence

Despite their differences, the far-right parties do share political goals, such as curbing immigration and further sealing the bloc’s borders. They also want to curb the EU’s more ambitious flagship climate policies, which the radical right has widely slammed for shunting unfair costs onto drivers and farmers.

Sophia Russack, a researcher from the Center for European Policy Studies think tank, believes the three camps will nevertheless probably stay divided rather than team up.

“Seat numbers are not everything. It matters a lot in the European Parliament how united you are,” Russack told the Associated Press.

“In a parliament you need 50% to make and to shape decisions. So they won’t decide. But of course, what they can do is to set a different tone, to change the narrative and to slowly kind of normalize their far-right thinking and far-right stances,” she said.

Associated Press reporter Lorne Cook contributed.

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