Venice — Weekend in the lagoon city

Gay Venice works differently than the big party metropolises. If you want to combine gay travel with lagoon, art and long walks over bridges and through alleys, this is the place for you. On the island city, you will look in vain for its own gay mile or large, firmly established clubs. The queer scene is small, and it lives mainly from individual events and gay-friendly bars. The Dorsoduro neighbourhood around Campo Santa Margherita is the most likely place to feel life, where students, locals and travellers mingle in the evenings and a few lively eateries can be found.

For real nightlife, it's worth taking a look at the mainland. In Mestre, just a short train or bus ride away, there is more choice, and Padua, Verona or Bologna are also feasible as excursions. In summer, many are drawn to the Lido, whose long Adriatic beach is considered relaxed and gay-friendly. During the day, everything in Venice revolves around the classics: St. Mark's Square and St. Mark's Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal and quiet corners in Cannaregio or Castello away from the tourist crowds. Spring and early autumn are recommended as a travel time, when the heat and crowds subside. If you want to experience the scene, it's best to plan a weekend and check in advance which queer parties are currently announced. Venice is basically safe and relaxed towards LGBT travelers.