Gay Local Tips in Milan

Glam / Milan

Alessandro invites you to explore the capital of Fashion. He is an experienced host in Milan, and here are his tips for discovering the multi-facetedness of Italy: fashion, a European spirit, food and wine, a lively and diverse nightlife, her-story, architecture and an amazing gay scene. Explore Milan and experience your pride.

How gay-friendly is your city? What’s gay life like there?

Milan is certainly the most gay-friendly city in Italy, and it has always had a reputation for being very open-minded. The great thing is that there are many gay-friendly restaurants, bars, pubs, and lively clubs. The Porta Venezia neighbourhood has become the 'gay district' and is full of gay pubs and restaurants. Each weekend in summer the district's main street, Via Lecco, is crowded with people having a drink and talking with friends outside.

What are the best gay events that take place in your city each year?

Pride is a big event in Milan. Alogside Rome Pride, it is the biggest in Italy with thousands of participants joining in on all the fun each year. It takes place in the last part of June, and is always really lively and colorful. Another great event in June is the Mix Festival Milano, which is an international gay film festival. There are always cool premieres here.

View of the Duomo from the adjacent Museum of the XXth century © IG/museodel900

We only have 48 hours in your city. What can’t we miss?

The Duomo! The cathedral of Milan is a must-see landmark. It's one of the biggest and most ancient churches in the world. It's very impressive and it's located in the very heart of the city, so there's no excuse for not visiting it. You can even climb it, the view from up there will certainly have you in awe!

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and La Scala. Just a few steps from the Duomo, you can stroll through the XXth century glamor of Milan's Gallery, which is a very elegant passage full of classy shops and restaurants. If you walk all the way through it, you’ll reach Teatro La Scala, the most famous opera house in the world. Even non-opera goers are impressed by its atmosphere. The inside deco is also incredible, and well worth seeing. If you don't or can't attend a show you can just visit the museum and take a sneaky look at the interior.

Navigli. The ancient canals of Milan will somehow remind you of Venice or Amsterdam. This area is very typical and picturesque. Head here for an 'aperitivo' and don't miss the 'vicolo dei lavandai' where women used to wash their clothes when the washing machine was not yet available.

Porta Nuova. This is the fast-pace-growing financial district of Milan. Get off at Garibaldi metro station, and head towards Gae Aulenti Square. Here you will see the city's new skyscrapers, and all the new buildings that reflect Milan's constant innovation.

Brera. This is arguably the most magical area of the city. Get lost in its alleys, it will make you feel as though you are walking through a small medieval village. It was initially the bohemian and artists' neighborhood, and today, it has plenty of furniture and design shops as well as many appealing restaurants and bars. The Museum of Pinacoteca Brera is a must if you love art: all the Renaissance and Baroque Italian paintings will steal you away!

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite for lunch? A nice dinner?

Little Italy is my favorite gay restaurant for a nice dinner - it's a very friendly gay place. The food is excellent and cleverly mixes typical Italian dishes with healthy, modern recipes. The pizza is handmade and really tasty.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

I love Le Biciclette, which is located near the ancient Church of Sant'Ambrogio - another place worth visiting. The buffet is rich, and the price is affordable.

Best gay place and day for a cheap beer or happy hour?

The best place for a cheap beer or happy hour is Lecco Milano in the gay area.

We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

La Boum is absolutely the best Friday night party. The club is large and bold, but still very down-to-earth with a relaxed and funny ambiance. In terms of music here, you can expect pop alongside Italian revival. Saturday night is Toilet Club night. I like this place as it's really close to the gay area and the mood is very friendly. The space is rather small which makes it easy to run into friends or meet new ones :)

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

The best alternative gay bar is called Blanco, it's just a little outside the gay area but I like it and it's still worth the visit.

Are there any places related to LGBT history?

One of the first gay bars in Milan was Mono and it's still there. With its vintage-style and proximity to the city's gay district it's certainly worth stopping by for a drink.

Can you share a secret or little-known place to visit in your city?

A place I would recommend visiting is Villa Belgioioso, a royal palace with a romantic garden. It's a perfect escape to the 18th century, and offers a calm and elegant atmosphere

Any beaches, parks or best other places to chill-out?

The best park to chill out in is Parco Sempione. You can lay down on one of its lawns and appreciate some sun during the summer season. There are also people playing football or basketball, or reading or cycling. The view of the castle is also gorgeous.

Where you can we get the best view of Milan?

The best view of the city is from the Duomo. Nowadays it's not the highest point, but it's still the most charming to me. The terraces with the spires and the panoramic view of surrounding buildings is simply breathless. During a clear day you can even see as far as the Alps. ●

Thinking of visiting Milan? Check out our Local Tips and Travel Guide page for this great gay city!

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