Hey there, fabulous folks! Summer is here, and so is Pride Month! This is the perfect time to honour those who paved the way for our vibrant community and to celebrate the diversity and inclusivity that make us who we are. If you’re ready to sashay your way across Europe’s glittering Pride scene, there’s no better way to do it than by train!
These fabulous iron queens of the rail are more than just a mode of transport—they’re a rolling runway, a party palace, and a front-row seat to the continent’s breathtaking scenery all rolled into one. So grab your finest sequins and your shiniest stilettos because we’re about to ride these tracks with style, speed, and sass!
Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to travelling to Pride festivities by train—comfortably, sustainably, and straight to the heart of the action!
Paris Pride: City of Love and Pride
Parade Date: June 29
Kick off your Pride adventure in Paris, the city of love—where love is love! The Marche des Fiertés, one of Europe’s oldest Pride festivals, takes you through iconic avenues like Place de la République and Place de la Bastille. The best part? You can revel in the colourful celebrations and then continue the party in the lively Le Marais district, famous for its LGBTQ+ bars and clubs.
Travel Tip: Hop on a Eurostar train to Paris and arrive at Gare du Nord. From there, you’re just a short metro ride away from the heart of the Pride festivities! Tickets or more info at Rail Europe’s Website here
Madrid Pride: Vibrant and Vivacious
Dates: June 28 – July 7 | Parade: July 6
Madrid transforms into a sea of rainbows during Pride, or MADO. The parade travels along Paseo del Prado, offering a scenic and festive route. With concerts, drag shows, and the famous Feathers and Paws parade, Madrid Pride is a spectacle you don’t want to miss. Most activities take place in Chueca, the city’s gay neighbourhood, known for its electrifying atmosphere. Tickets or more info at Rail Europe’s Website.
Travel Tip: Take a comfortable high-speed train from Paris or Barcelona to Madrid’s Atocha station, putting you right near the Pride action.
Berlin Pride: Dynamic and Diverse
Parade Date: June 27
Berlin Pride, or Christopher Street Day (CSD), is one of Europe’s largest celebrations. The parade passes iconic sites like the Brandenburg Gate, offering a mix of sightseeing and celebration. Berlin’s inclusive spirit shines with endless concerts, performances, and after-parties.
Travel Tip: Catch a train to Berlin Hauptbahnhof and find yourself in the midst of Pride activities. Berlin’s efficient public transport makes it easy to navigate the city. Tickets or more info @ Rail Europe.
Amsterdam Pride: Unique and Unforgettable
Dates: July 27 – August 4 | Canal Parade: July 27
For a unique Pride experience, don’t miss Amsterdam’s Canal Parade. Watch 80 fabulous floats glide through the city’s canals, creating a family-friendly spectacle. The celebrations continue in gay neighbourhoods with concerts and events.
Travel Tip: Travel by train to Amsterdam Centraal and take a short stroll to the canals for prime parade viewing spots. Tickets or more info @ Rail Europe.
Milan Pride: Chic and Celebratory
Pride March: June 29
Milan, Italy’s gay culture capital, hosts a Pride parade that starts at Central Station and ends at Arco Della Pace. Expect an inclusive celebration with events interpreted in Italian Sign Language and live-streamed.
Travel Tip: Arrive at Milano Centrale by train and join the parade right from the station! Tickets or more info @ Rail Europe.
London Pride: Historic and Happening
Pride March: June 29
London Pride began in 1972 with just 200 participants and has grown to attract 1.5 million people. The parade route covers iconic landmarks from Hyde Park Corner to Whitehall Place.
Travel Tip: Take a train to London St Pancras and enjoy seamless access to the parade route and numerous Pride events.
Reykjavik Pride: Small but Mighty
Dates: August 6 – 11
Reykjavik Pride, or Hinsegindagar, boasts one of the highest attendance rates per capita. This fundraiser event supports LGBTQ+ communities and promises a unique and heartfelt celebration.
Travel Tip: While trains don’t run to Iceland, consider this a special destination to cap off your European Pride tour with a flight to Reykjavik.
More European Pride Destinations:
– Antwerp Pride: August 7 – 11 (Parade: August 10)
– Prague Pride: August 5 – 11 (Parade: August 10)
– Helsinki Pride: June 24 – 30 (Parade: June 29)
Travel with Pride
Travelling by train is not only sustainable but also incredibly convenient, delivering you straight to the heart of Europe’s most vibrant Pride celebrations, you can enjoy all Europe destinations as Rail Europe sells tickets across Europe and their coverage is increasing all the time.
They’re official agents for rail and bus operators in the UK, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. With a stress free app and/or website they make booking train tickets to cities across Europe as easy as nipping up to London for the day.
So grab your rainbow flags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable summer of love, inclusivity, and joy. Happy Pride season, everyone! Where will your Pride journey take you? 🚂🌈✨
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