It is widely believed that Michelangelo was gay, and a good look at his famous David statue pretty much confirms it. Florence is therefore a city with a long gay history, and that is not surprising considering the number of artists who've lived in it and turned it into one of the world's most important art centers. The current gay scene may be small, but you must remember that this is a city with less than half a million residents. What does exist, though, is quite attractive, from the bars and clubs to the people. Almost everything is within walking distance, and below are the places to look for:
Gay Bars
Piccolo Café
As the name suggest, this is a small café and bar, serving beer and other drinks to a mostly gay crowd. A resident DJ selects upbeat Italian and international tunes on weekends.
Facebook Page: piccolocafefirenze
Queer
Serving snacks and happy hours of beer and cocktails, this friendly bar is where you may also catch a drag show and special theme parties, usually to the sound of pop and dance hits.
Facebook Page: queerfirenze
Gay-Friendly Restaurants
Cantina Barbagianni
This restaurant has a romantic atmosphere, with its creative Tuscan food served in a medieval dining room. It’s beautifully lit and is ideal for a dinner for two.
Website: www.cantinabarbagianni.it
Dance Clubs
Tenax
Attracting the city's trendiest crowds for three decades, gay and straight mix at Tenax to dance to house music. Famous DJs are often invited to appear, making it one of the first places worth checking out if you're looking for a night of dancing.
Website: www.tenax.org
Cruising Clubs
Crisco Club
In business since the early 1980s, this place has been under different managements and changed concepts over the years, but is now back to its cruising club origins. There are different themes for different nights, including underwear and naked parties.
Facebook Page: crisco.club
Saunas
Florence Baths
This sauna has been open since 1991, offering a dark room, a jacuzzi, and, during the late spring and summer months, an outdoor pool.
Facebook Page: FlorenceBaths
Gay Hotels
Alfieri9
A friendly and welcoming staff greets you at this small boutique hotel. Each room features a tasteful décor of neutral colors, and is where guests may enjoy an Italian-style breakfast. It’s the perfect place for a romantic weekend for two.
Globus Hotel
Located close to many of the city’s attractions and the main train station, this 4-star hotel was completely renovated in 2016 and has since welcomed guests who prefer to stay at modern and contemporary spaces. Many of them are gay, and are welcomed by a friendly staff. The days start with a good healthy breakfast, which includes vegan and organic products.
Hotel Medici
On a budget? Stay at this gay-owned 2-star hotel with basic rooms. Some of them have a view of the Duomo, as does the rooftop lounge.
Residence Hilda
If you’re looking for privacy and a home away from home, choose this property made up of 12 spacious suites. Their comfort and design make it feel like a 5-star hotel but at a fraction of the price.
Florence 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:
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