The famous Venetian masks - ©UCityGuides.com
There was a time when Venice was actually the gayest city on Earth. It was all about indulgence and pleasure, with artists and royals masking themselves during Carnival. Today you'll hear that there are few or no real gay hangouts in the city, but as one of the world's most visited destinations, you can be sure to find gay-friendly spots in every corner, from a romantic hotel to an historic café. Gay or straight, this magical city is now used to welcome all kinds of visitors, and after a full day of sightseeing, you can relax with a drink at one of the places below.
Gay-Friendly Restaurants
Ristoteca Oniga
Away from the touristy spots but not far from the Accademia Museum, this wine bar and restaurant is often a meeting point for gays and lesbians. It has outdoor seating but the interior is also welcoming. The specialty seems to be seafood, but vegetarians have a special menu for them.
Website: www.oniga.it
Gay Clubs
Trash & Chic
The only real gay dance club in Venice is outside the center in Mestre. It opens on Saturdays, usually with fun theme parties. The music ranges from pop to house, and it often welcomes guest DJs, professional dancers and local celebrities.
Facebook Page: TRASHeCHIC
Juiceberry
This cruising club attracts gay men from all over northern Italy. It has dark rooms and a bar serving snacks.
Website: www.juiceberry.info
Gay Sauna
Metro Sauna
Located in Mestre, just 10 minutes from central Venice, this sauna offers a Jacuzzi, Turkish bath, tanning, and a bar.
Website: www.clubmetrovenezia.it
Gay-Friendly Hotels
Hotel Alle Guglie
This gay-owned hotel is a budget choice in the Cannaregio district. Rated 3 stars, it's decorated in classic Venetian style.
Charming House DD724
Couples or those who prefer stylish contemporary design should choose this gay-friendly guesthouse. It's in a good location, by the Peggy Guggenheim Museum.
Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo
For the romantic, this good-value 2-star hotel has a charming classic Venetian look. It's in a quiet location away from the crowds, but just steps from the water taxis.
Fujiyama B&B
Connected to a charming tea house, this reasonably-priced bed & breakfast offers simple but comfortable rooms.
San Samuele Hotel
This budget hotel is lesbian-owned and centrally located. Every room is different, but all tastefully decorated (at some of them you have to share a bathroom)
Venice Accommodation
Look for the hotel or apartment that best matches your budget, type of trip or personality. You may guarantee your reservation but do NOT pay anything at the time of booking. Payments are only made at the property, and there are no booking fees. Most hotels and apartments allow cancellations with no penalty if done up to 24 or 48 hours in advance. You'll see that information at the time of booking and again in the confirmation email:
Search for Venice hotels or Venice apartments
