Florence: when night club and cocktails meet Renaissance

Meet Ilker! One of our fabulous host, living in the last remaining Renaissance town, gives his best tips to enjoy this international treasure, as well as sharing best night life and pubs for gays. Everybody will fall in love with Florence!

What makes Florence a favorite gay destination?

Tuscany has long been a key destination for travelers looking for romance and a taste of authentic Italy, and has taken top honors three times as favorite destination by readers of Travel + Leisure. The charming medieval town of Florence is an ideal springboard for adventures deeper into the Tuscan region, home to wine, olives and simple farm fare. Today, the town is a flourishing cultural centre, capitalizing on the ancient architecture and creative arts that fuse past and present.

What is the best gay event that takes place in Florence?

There are also some other places that organize periodically gay parties like Flog, etc.

Monthly LGBT party by the organisation Azione Gay e Lesbica in Florence.

The Mamamia group from the beach holiday destination Torre del Lago organises fabulously fun parties that welcome everyone – gay, lesbian, friends.

Their famous shows and performances take place in Florence at Viper Theatre. 

FAIRY is a Popular weekly dance party for gays, lesbians and friends in central Florence. Music is pop, house and Italian hits. Mainly young crowd.

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

As far as I know there isn't gay establishment for eating. But plenty of nice eateries around, you'll be welcome anywhere. I'm sure you'll love food in Florence.

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

Piccolo Café is a small, intimate bar with a slightly old-fashioned feel in Florence historical centre. Piccolo Café serves a selection of drinks and beer at cheap price. On the weekend, resident DJ plays mainstream international and Italian tunes. A good place to meet up with your friends (gay or straight) and socialise.

Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

For those looking for quality cocktails and a bit more of a refined setting, the Art Bar manages to create a space where you would not feel out of place running into a famous artistic figure. The cocktails themselves are masterpieces, and between the fresh fruit that is always used and the coffee and tea options it is impossible not to find something that will appeal to you. Any cocktail you ever could want is here, and it's often made with a slight twist unique to this bar--make sure to ask if you have any questions or would like to try something a little out of the ordinary.

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

Viper, FAIRY.

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

Art Bar does happy hours. 6 pm to 9 pm every day except Monday. Normally cocktails are €9 but between them hours is €6.

Where to start a gay tour in Florence?

Piazza Signoria is one of the most important squares in Florence,You can start your tour from there. 

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

Piccolo Bar is a good place to meet up with your friends (gay or straight) and socialise.

Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?

Piccolo Bar.

How gay-friendly is Florence?

It is very gay friendly city,nobody bothers each other. One of the most popular city for gays since Renaissance.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Food is generally good in Florence so you don't really have to be too picky! Just explore your living area and stop by. Isn't it what brunch is about? :)

What is gay life like in Florence?

It is very gay friendly city, nobody bothers each other.

What are your favourite gay venues in Florence?

 Viper, FAIRY, Art Bar...