Hot take: The world is sleeping on Milan as a queer destination.

Okay, I live here, so I’m obviously biased. And I know that Milan is no Berlin, but it’s still an extremely queer place, overflowing with cuties and clubs, waiting to be discovered.

Milan may only be Italy’s second biggest city, but I would argue it takes the top spot for gayest (sorry, Rome).

So, I’m here to give you the insider’s guide to LGBTQ+ Milan. Whether you want a serene stopover or a slutty sojourn, I’ve got you covered.

Disclaimer: These are just my opinions! I do not speak for all of queer Milan. I am but one American f*agg*t, doing his best to live a deliciously queer life in a foreign country.

😈 Where can I be naughty?

I’m so glad you asked! You don’t need to troll Grindr to find fun in Milan; in fact, I recommend you leave the apps at home and head out to one of Milan’s many cruising clubs. Here’s a (non-exhaustive) list of options:

  • Hot Dog Club: This is, in my humble opinion, the best cruising club in Milan. It’s clean, the staff is friendly, and the clientele is top-notch. I recommend going Thursday night for their weekly naked party. (Here’s what it was like the first time I went).

  • Company Club: This gay bar caters to bears, and it’s got a little dark room. Once a month, it also hosts a naked (and slightly sexy) dance party called Naked is Better. (I’m a regular, and I absolutely love it).

  • Depot: This is not my favorite spot, but it’s popular. Except a grungy, basement cruising labyrinth with zero frills; it’s not for the faint of heart. (In fact, for me it was a little disappointing).

  • Royal Hammam Sauna: My preferred bathhouse in Milan, this place is especially nice in the summer, as there’s an outdoor pool in the center of the complex. Inside, you’ll find a huge jacuzzi, a sauna, steamroom and, of course, a cruising labyrinth. (Plus, a nice living room/bar area where you can unwind between appointments).

  • Illumined: In the heart of the gayborhood, this is Milan’s classic cruising club. I haven’t yet been myself, but I’ve heard lots of good things.

🌈 Where’s the gayborhood?

The traditional “gayborhood” is a section of the city called Porta Venezia. I’ll be honest: I don’t spend a ton of time there! Mostly because I live in a different neighborhood, and most of my gay outings are to the aforementioned cruising clubs that are generally outside the gayborhood, on the periphery of the city.

All that said, it’s worth taking a stroll through Porta Venezia to peruse the concentration of queer bars and restaurants—just wander around and you’ll find most of ‘em! But here are some of the highlights:

  • Mono Bar: A classic gay bar in Porta Venezia where you can grab an aperitivo (cocktail + snack) and enjoy some good music.

  • Leccomilano: Just across the street, this is another queer cocktail bar with drag and karaoke.

  • Illumined: Also in the heart of the gayborhood, this is Milan’s classic cruising club. I haven’t yet been myself, but I’ve heard good things.

  • Euforia: Slightly outside Porta Venezia proper, this is a more laid-back queer cocktail spot.

Porta Venezia is also centrally located and close to all kinds of non-gay (but still wonderful) stuff you’ll want to check out:

👋 Hi! I’m Mike De Socio, the author of this post (and newsletter). I’m an American-born Italian citizen living my best queer life in Milan. Learn more about me here.

🍕 Where should I eat and drink?

My my, so many options! This part of the guide isn’t necessarily queer, but it includes lots of other bars, restaurants and cafes I’ve loved and where I’ve felt welcome (as a white, cis gay guy).

🍝 Restaurants

For most restaurants in Milan, I recommend trying to make a reservation ahead of time.

  • Antica Trattoria della Pesa: A fantastic (historic) place for a traditional Milanese dinner.

  • Pastamadre: A bit pricey, but a delightful spot nonetheless for a dish of pasta.

  • Pizzeria Cocciuto: Some of Milan’s best pizza with a low-key neighborhood vibe.

  • CREDA: A casual restaurant for absolutely delicious small plates.

  • Pepen Milano: Cute spot in the gayborhood for a panino or a cocktail.

  • Pizza AM: A no-frills option for some really delicious pizza.

  • Dongiò: Classic, excellent Italian menu in a comfortable setting.

  • Bettola Siciliana: Delicious, upscale Sicilian food (take it from me, a Sicilian!)

  • Poporoya: An historic sushi spot, if you’re getting sick of Italian food.

  • Ristorante Ratanà: She’s fancy, but she has a really interesting, delicious and inventive menu.

  • NoLoSo: A really cozy, laid-back gay pub that does a great aperitivo, which includes a cocktail and a buffet!

🥐 Cafes, Sweets and Treats

🍹 Drinks

🤓 Any other gay stuff I should know about?

Yeah! Queer life in Milan isn’t totally limited to the gayborhood. Here are some other interesting spots you might wanna check out when you’re in town:

  • Montenapoleone: If you’re a fashion gay, you can’t miss Milan’s iconic shopping street.

  • Antigone: Milan’s LGBTQ+ bookshop!

  • Dopotutto: A friendly neighborhood queer (from what I can tell, mostly lesbian) watering hole.

  • Naked is Better: Every month, Company Club hosts a naked dance party that is the perfect mix of wholesome and horny. (Read about my experience there).

  • Spiaggia naturista di Porto d’Adda: If you’ve got a car, journey outside the city to this queer and clothing-optional swim spot. (Full disclosure: I’ve not yet been myself, but I’ve heard it’s wonderful!)

👀 One more thing…

If you want to make your visit to Milan even more queer, check out my photography business, Finocchio Studio. Through joyful and intimate photo sessions, I use the power of nude portraiture to help LGBTQ+ cuties feel more free in their bodies.

Why not add a little “Eat, Pray, Love” energy to your vacation, and a book an unforgettable photo session?

Learn more here

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