The Gay Rome Guide (Italy 🇮🇹)

Oh bella, Roma! This may take the cake as one of our favorite cities in the world.

We stayed here for over a month for the longest time, and always get emotional every time we have to bid farewell. Maybe it is the leisurely pace of life (particularly in the summer when we were there), the morning routine of getting a pastry and espresso lungo on the daily from the local pasticerria, the commonplace evening aperitivo, the evening walks (that were often accompanied by gelato), the fact that Rome is literally like an open-air museum with ancient Roman artifacts at every corner, or, let's be real, maybe it's the charming and romantic Roman boys.

No matter how we put it, this city has something special. Whether you are chasing Rome's gay nightlife, are a major carbonara aficionado, or a lover of all things culture, history, and architecture, you'll find your place in Rome.

So without further ado, let's get into the Gay Rome Guide, where we will uncover all our favorite spots and more.

Gay Rome Map

FAQ for Rome, Italy

What Is It Like Being LGBTQ+ in Rome?

Aside from Milan, which is quite arguably the gay capital of Italy, Rome comes in very close.

We were surprised by how much the city had to offer for the LGBTQ+ crowd, at least in the form of bars, clubs, cruising spots, and beaches. Back when I came to Rome for the first time in 2017, I remember just the two bars on Gay Street near the Colosseum. The city seems to have come far in creating safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ crowd - including the Gay Village. On top of that, there is Rome Pride on the yearly.

Alas, like the rest of Italy, the city has its contrasts; where there is a high emphasis on tradition, but with modern attitudes existing. Quite a lot of locals we met were not out to family members or workplaces, illustrating that there is still a long road in front of the city and country until there is true equality. In Italy, same-sex relationships are legally recognized, and anti-discrimination laws provide protection. So while Rome is generally safe for LGBTQ+ individuals, it's wise to stay alert, especially in certain areas.

Loud and proud in Rome!

What is Rome famous for?

Rome, often referred to as the “Eternal City,” is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture that stretches back thousands of years. Walking through Rome is like stepping into a living museum, where ancient ruins stand side by side with Renaissance masterpieces and modern-day vibrancy. The city is known for its iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, where gladiators once fought for glory, and the Roman Forum, the epicenter of ancient Roman life. The Vatican City, nestled within Rome, is home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes leave visitors in awe.

Beyond its historical and cultural treasures, Rome is also renowned for its culinary delights. From the simplicity of a plate of cacio e pepe to the richness of carbonara and amatriciana, the city’s food scene is a testament to its love for tradition and quality. Rome is also famous for its bustling piazzas, like Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere and charming street life.

Is Rome worth visiting?

If you read our intro, you'll know that we will answer a solid 'yes' to this question! Even if the major tourist spots of Rome (i.e. the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain) are seeing more traction from tourists now than ever before, it is a city you have to see at least once in your life; crowds and all. Plus, if crowds are not your thing, and you (like us) prefer the off-the-beaten-path sides of major cities, Rome is a massive city with all of that; where just riding the metro a few stops out of the center will reward you with authentic local experiences and much cheaper prices.

So, yes, Rome is very much worth visiting.

Best Hotels to Stay in Rome

If it is your first time in Rome, staying in the center is ideal, but of course the prices can reach extortionate levels. Nonetheless, the public transportation system is quite reliable, so if you need to stay in districts a little out of the center, you will not be disconnected.

For easiest access to Gay Street (see below), it is best to stay near the Colosseum.

Luxury 💶💶💶:

• Fragrance Hotel St. Peter: Close to Saint Peter's Square, this gorgeous hotel features a garden and sky terrace and free breakfast.
• Navona Colors Hotel: As the name suggests, this place is colorful with quirky designs and is right by Piazza Navona.

Mid-Range 💶💶:

• Capo d'África: Hotel located right in the heart of Rome (nearby the colosseum). This place features contemporary art, modern decor, a beautiful outdoor terrace, and a gym.

• A.Roma Lifestyle Hotel: In Rome’s Gianicolense district, this hotel has lots of space to stretch out and has two swimming pools. The perfect summer getaway hotel.

• CasaBaleno: A luxury, eco-friendly, LGBTQ+-focused apartment very close to San Giovanni Station (Line A and Line C) sporting pop-art decor and a cozy interior, this is the ideal place and location to base yourself for your Rome adventures.

  

  The bright, friendly atmosphere of CasaBaleno

  

  The bright, friendly atmosphere of CasaBaleno

  

  The bright, friendly atmosphere of CasaBaleno

Budget 💶:

• A Vinicius Et Mita: A villa located near Lido Station (Metro Line C), this isn't exactly in the center, but you are close to the metro and will experience villa life in Rome. Plus you are close to Rome's bustling Pigneto district. Hotel owners are very friendly.

Nothing quite like those Rome window views.

Rome's LGBTQ+ Scene: Top Gay Bars, Gay Clubs, Gay Saunas, Gay Beaches

The gay scene for Rome is most famously centered around Gay Street (Via di San Giovanni), a lively bar street right next to the Colosseum for both locals and tourists alike. If you are headed to Rome for just a weekend, you will unlikely miss this area. However, for those looking for an alternative from the 2-3 bars, you'll find other gay-friendly bars, nightclubs and cruising clubs scattered around other parts of the city.

Gay Bars in Rome

We devoted an entire article to this, but we will cover a few of the options here.

• Coming Out and My Bar: These are the two main neighboring bars on Gay Street. During the day, they are restaurants, cafés, spots to get an apertivo. At night, they convert into bars where occupants buy their drinks and then tend to spill out onto Gay Street to mingle.

• Company Roma: Primarily a bear bar close to Rome Termini station, Company Roma is welcoming to all. The karaoke nights on Thursdays are a blast. You will need an ARCO card to enter, which you can get at the entrance.

• Malo Glitter Bar: Malo Glitter Bar is a vibrant and eclectic spot in the city's Pigneto district that’s quickly becoming a popular gay bar for those looking to enjoy a unique night out. With its colorful, glitter-infused decor and lively atmosphere, this bar offers an experience that goes beyond just drinks.

• Spiritall Lounge Bar: A chic and stylish new venue literally right next to Roma Tuscolano Station. The owner is a friendly, down-to-earth guy, and he puts on a mean spritz. There are karaoke nights, drag shows and plenty of outdoor seating to just relax, making it a standout spot for a memorable evening.

Tip: Pigneto is quite possibly the coolest of the bar districts we've been to. All the places feel LGBTQ+-friendly, and we feel it is quickly becoming the LGBTQ+ hotspot in all of Rome. It may not be directly in the center, but it is worth it. Head there for cheaper drinks (spritzes can get as low as €3.50) and local vibes.

Again, check out our post on The Best Gay Bars in Rome for more details on each of these and more bars.

We present to you, Gay Street!

The discrete entrance to Company Bar

Rome's Pigneto district is becoming very gay!

Gay Clubs in Rome

• 101 Club Rome: 101 Club is a hidden gem in Rome’s nightlife, known for its intimate and underground vibe (and a small darkroom 😈). This bar draws a diverse crowd with its eclectic music, strong drinks, and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. You will need an ARCO card to enter, which you can get at the entrance.

• Area Roma: An open-air summer festival for LGBTIs and friends in the south of Rome, featuring bars, parties, and shows.

• Frutta e Verdura: A weekly party with a bar, dance floor, cruising area, and outdoor terrace, with music ranging from House to Techno. Located far from the city center, it's difficult to reach without a car or taxi. You will need an ENTES card to enter, which you can get at the entrance.

• Glamorize: A weekly lesbian-gay-mixed evening, popular for socializing with friends. Check their Facebook page for the next date, venue, and address.

• Latte Fresco: A weekly queer-friendly event in the east of Rome with Pop, House, and Hip-hop music.

• Muccassassina: A large dance venue with multiple dance floors, bars, and lounges spread over three floors, playing mainly Pop, Commercial, and remixes. Very popular with both gay and straight crowds, often with long queues.

• Poppe: A bi-monthly LGBTQ-friendly Pop party with a mixed clientele.

Gay Cruising in Rome

• Censured: While there is a bar and hangout spot upstairs, the main purpose of this place is for cruising down at the bottom level. The cruising area is tight and intimate, but that is how cruising should be, right?!

• K GAY- BISEX - FTM CRUISING CLUB: A bit outside the center and focused on a leather crowd, but lots of fun to be had.

Gay Saunas in Rome

There are no shortage of gay saunas in Rome. These are some of the ones we recommend:

• Apollion Sauna: Located right by Gay Street in old Roman ruins, you can live out your ancient Rome fantasy here. It's been around since 1994. You will need an ARCO card to enter, which you can get at the entrance.

• Adam Sauna (Illumined Sauna): Complete with a Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, and jacuzzi pool and located in the heart of Rome. You will need an ENTES card to enter, which you can get at the entrance.

Gay Village in Rome (Village Roma)

Running from mid-June to mid-September every year, Rome, like quite a few Italian cities, puts on a Roma Gay Village. It is essentially a pretty spacious open-air venue with a DJ where many of the gays flock to on the weekends. Currently, it takes place right nearby EUR Magliana station.

Gay Beaches In Rome / Gay Beaches Nearby Rome

I know what you are thinking, Rome isn't exactly on the sea, but fortunately they aren't very far away. There are two main gay beaches nearby Rome at the moment:

• Santa Savera: A gorgeous, black sand beach north-west of Rome. It is a nudist beach, but don't feel obliged to get naked 😜. The surroundings are utterly stunning, and the water is serene.

  • How to get there: Take the regional train from Tuscolana or Termini to Santa Savera station and walk 20 minutes. When you hit the beach, walk left for about 10-15 minutes (away from the crowds) until the gay beach feeling has set in.
  • Cruising Bonus: As it starts to get a bit darker, if you wander further up the beach to the little shed, there is allegedly some cruising opportunities, although we didn't stay long enough to find out.
  

  On the way to Santa Severa!

• Capocotta Beach: This beach is like the fun, chaotic brother of Santa Savera and is located south-west of Rome. Also, a nudist-friendly beach, this one seems to be filled with many more people during the summer. It also has easy access to a bar/café for all your food/drink needs.

  • 🚨: Other directions we have followed has taken us in weird directions and well out of the way, as the spot where the gays hang out can change on an annual basis. These directions are valid as of 2024, but make sure to double-check with other sources.
  • How to get there: Take Metro B to Pyramide. Take the Metromare (Rome–Lido railway) from Porto San Paolo (Pyramide) to Cristoforo Colombo. Take Bus #7 and get off at Litoranea/Varco 3. Pass under the Zeta Beach sign. When you hit the bar/beach, go left for a few minutes and follow the gays to heaven.
  • The bonus of this one is that you don't have to pay any additional money for transportation. You can use you ATAC Rome transportation card.
  • Cruising: This beach is much more equipped for cruising than Santa Savera. All you have to go back into the dunes behind the beach and there are many paths to get lost on - as most places, it starts to get more crowded towards the later hours of the day.

Rome Pride

Rome Pride is held on the yearly (typically in June), so make sure to stay up to date with our gay pride calendar.

Food in Rome

What to Eat in Rome

Where to even begin! If you are an Italian-food lover (how could you not be?), Rome will be your mecca.

The most famous dishes of Rome are:

• Carbonara: Pasta with a creamy sauce made of egg, pecorino, pepper, and guanciale (a type of bacon). IT. IS. TO. DIE. FOR. (when you get it at the right place)
• Amatriciana: Like the cousin of Carbonara, but uses a tomato sauce instead of egg. It is less heavy than the carbonara, but still just as delish.
• Cacio e Pepe: Pasta whipped up with pepper and pecorino, it may seem simple but always hits the spot.
• Carciofi alla Giudia: Fried artichokes that date back to when the Jewish community was at about 50,000.
• Supplì: Rome's take on the arancini, a fried rice ball with different types of fillings.

Fabio becoming an expert at Pasta Carbonara:

Where to Eat in Rome

Let's start with where NOT TO EAT in Rome!

Unfortunately, there are tons of tourist traps in this city; restaurants where you have to pay a premium for mediocrity. Whenever Fabio and I walked by these restaurants, we just felt so much sadness and pity. People are traveling from far-flung corners of the Earth and are exposed to the worst of what Rome has to offer.

We won't name any names, but just be weary around touristy areas, particularly:

• Rome Termini Station
• Near the Colosseum

Tell-tale signs of a tourist trap are:

• A super eager person out front yelling at you in English to come in (or in Italian to try to make it seem more genuine)
• People eating very mediocre-looking pizza and pasta dishes and not smiling
• Italian/English on the menu. Okay, in most central places this is unavoidable, and it doesn't always mean the place will be bad, but bonus points for finding a restaurant with an entirely Italian menu.

Okay, now let's move on to our recommendations of where to eat in Rome

Honestly, if you are at any major central metro stop and take the metro 3-4 stops in any direction, you are going to likely find an osteria or trattoria with glorious food. Here are a few of our recommendations:

• Trattoria Luzzi: Although I mentioned that a lot of restaurants near the Colosseum are a bit tourist-trappy, this one is an exception and recommended fondly by local Italian friends for both flavors and reasonable prices.
• Trattoria da Teo: This is a staple of the Roman restaurant scene. The Carciofi alla Giudia and Carbonara are heaven on Earth. Try to book this place at least a week in advance, although you may be able to squeeze in last minute if you are lucky.
• Osteria Del Rione: We stumbled into this place unknowingly. A tiny little osteria, but the food and wine prices and quality will absolutely floor you. This is where Ryan had his first Roman carbonara and almost spontaneously orgasmed.
• Osteria La Sol Fa: Another osteria that just won't fail you in any possible way, shape, or form.
• Ginger
• La Salumeria: Self-serve space where you can get incredible value charcuterie boards and cheap bottles of wine. One of our favorite little places in Rome.

Falling into a little pork overdose at La Salumeria

Where to Eat Desserts in Rome

• Rivareno Gelato: Gorgeous gelatos. They have signature flavors and all of them will make you scream for ice cream!
• Pompi Tiramisu: About a million varieties of tiramisu, portioned nicely, so you can easily try others.

What to See in Rome

Generally we like to give off-the-beaten-path tips, but if you are coming to Rome for the first time, missing some of these iconic spots would be a tragedy (even though they sometimes suffer from a lot of crowds). If you are looking to accompany some of the following with non-touristy things to do in Rome, have a look at our other post devoted to this.

We go to all the tourist hot-spots in this video:

Make sure to book tickets before showing up at a lot of places. Apps like GetYourGuide are one stop shops for this.

The Colosseum: Oh, where to start with this one! The Colosseum isn’t just an ancient ruin—it’s a fabulous symbol of strength, drama, and spectacle, kinda like today's drag culture. Skip-the-line tickets are a lifesaver here, letting you dive into this gladiatorial playground without losing precious time. Seriously, you’ll be floored by the sheer scale and history packed into this place.

The Trevi Fountain: Ever dreamed of making a wish in one of the most iconic spots in Rome? Toss a coin at the stunning Trevi Fountain and cross your fingers for a bit of romance! This baroque beauty is perfect for a quick, magical stop, especially when it’s all lit up at night. Trust us, it’s pure enchantment.

Piazza Navona: This is where the energy of Rome truly comes alive! With its street artists, vibrant vibe, and gorgeous fountains, Piazza Navona is a must-see. It’s a fantastic spot for people-watching, soaking up some local culture, and feeling that inclusive, artsy atmosphere that just screams “welcome.”

Spanish Steps: Fashionistas, this one’s for you! The Spanish Steps are right in the heart of Rome’s chic shopping district, surrounded by stylish cafes and luxury stores. It’s the ideal place for a quick stroll, some serious people-watching, and to just bask in Rome’s glamorous spirit.

Pantheon: You can’t help but be awestruck by the Pantheon’s architecture. With its massive dome and open interior, it’s a quick but essential stop that speaks to anyone with a love for beauty, history, and dramatic design. Perfect for a little moment of awe.

Vatican City: A country inside a city?! Get a glimpse of how the pope does things in the Vatican.

I wonder what secrets are happening behind those Vatican City walls

Villa Borghese Gardens: For those who crave a bit of romance amidst nature, Villa Borghese Gardens is your go-to spot. Rent a boat and float around the Temple of Aesculapius or hop on a rickshaw to explore. It’s a serene, beautiful escape, ideal for those looking for a bit of art, greenery, and queer romance.

Via dei Coronari: Looking for that perfect, romantic stroll? Via dei Coronari is your street. Filled with antique shops, hidden boutiques, and charming cafes, it offers a quiet, intimate vibe that’s perfect for queer travelers on the hunt for unique finds and off-the-beaten-path charm.

Campo de' Fiori: Ready for some nightlife? Campo de' Fiori is where it’s at! Known for its lively market by day and buzzing bars by night, it’s a great spot to grab a drink and soak in the inclusive, lively atmosphere before hitting the clubs.

Non-Catholic Cemetery: For a peaceful, reflective space, check out the Non-Catholic Cemetery. It’s the resting place of some major LGBTQ+ icons and offers a tranquil escape for those who appreciate art, history, and queer heritage. A beautiful, quiet spot to reflect and connect.

MAXXI Museum: If contemporary art is your thing, the MAXXI Museum, designed by Zaha Hadid, is a must. This bold, fluid structure celebrates modern art and architecture with diverse exhibits that resonate with a forward-thinking, creative spirit. Perfect for a day of exploration and inspiration!

Not pictured. The hundreds of other tourists Villa Borghese Gardens watching the same sunset.

TL;DR: Plan Your Rome Trip (Logistics)

When is the Best Time to Visit Rome?

April, May, June, September, October, and early November. Avoid July and August since the temperatures will be soaring (we've done it 👇). Winter in Rome has its charm though and will never get as cold as Northern European countries.

Do I Need a Visa for Italy?

• EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens can travel freely.
• UK citizens can stay in the EU up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Non-EU travelers should check with the relevant authorities or iVisa for detailed visa requirements.

How to Get To Rome

• By plane: Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the main gateway, with regular flights all over the world. You can then get easily to the city thanks to regional trains. There is also Ciampino Airport (CIA), which is smaller and has flights around Europe.
• By train: High-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo connect Rome to cities like Napes, Florence, and Milan.
• By bus: Long-distance buses provide scenic routes from other Italian cities.

Internet in Italy/Mobile Internet in Italy

Consider using an eSIM from Airalo for affordable mobile data across Europe. Just ensure your phone is eSIM-compatible and set it up before your trip.

For Wi-Fi cafés in Rome, this guide might help.

Health and Safety in Rome

When visiting Rome, be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport, and keep your belongings secure. Avoid common scams, such as fake petitions and bracelet scams, and always check restaurant bills for unexpected charges. Stay in well-lit areas at night, use reputable transportation, and protect your personal information, especially when using public Wi-Fi or ATMs. Keep hydrated, wear sun protection, and know local emergency numbers and embassy contacts. Finally, respect local customs and laws, such as dressing modestly when visiting religious sites (you can wear a jockstap underneath 😜).

Also, always have travel insurance. We recommend SafetyWing.

How to Get Around Rome

Walking is fantastic, but here are other options:

• 🚍 Public Transportation: The atac system has a convenient network of metros, buses and trams. If you are staying in Rome for a longer period, consider getting a monthly ticket, which is ONLY €35.
• 🚲 Biking and e-scooters: E-bikes and scooters are all over Rome! The streets are honestly a bit hectic in some areas to zip around and there are very little in terms of bike lanes, but the chaos just works. Bird, Lime and Dott are the most popular.
• 🚖 Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are known to be quite scammy in Rome, but if you want to call a taxi, use an app like FREENOW, which will ensure you are paying directly through the app.

What is the Currency in Italy?

Rome uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small transactions.

How Much Do I Tip in Italy?

Tipping isn't mandatory but is appreciated for good service. Be aware of the coperto charge in restaurants, usually €1-2.

What Else Do I Need to Know about Rome?

• Pack a universal power adapter for Type C or F outlets.
• Siestas are a thing in Italy and Rome. Usually between 1 and 4 a lot of businesses will close.
• Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for crowds.
• Water is very potable! In fact, there are nasone (big nose) fountains all around the city that you can drink from. They are running non-stop:

Other Italy Resources

• The Gay Guide to Venice, Italy
• The Gay Guide to Naples, Italy
• The Gay Guide to Milan, Italy