Best gay destinations

Though the future feels uncertain for queer individuals across many U.S. states, there’s no shortage of top-tier vacation destinations that have embraced support for the LGBTQ+ community. If you prefer a more secluded retreat, Masseria San Domenico offers a quintessentially luxurious Apulian experience.

See where you should be traveling with our list of the 10 best gaycation destinations that just might surprise you. Public transport in the region can be lacking which is why we recommend hiring a car during your stay. Its elegant gardens and iconic terraces have been a magnet for high-society travellers for decades.

Set in the heart of the Apulian countryside, this whitewashed farmhouse is surrounded by olive groves and offers an hole golf course, a serene pool, and access to private beaches. This adults-only resort is perfect for those seeking total relaxation, with its own private beach, a thalassotherapy spa, and a restaurant serving locally sourced dishes.

With a mix of high-end hotels, chic beach clubs, and glamorous cocktail bars, these destinations deliver a taste of Italian elegance. Its luxurious suites, infinity pool, and Michelin-starred dining offer an extraordinary escape for sophisticated gay travellers. A hilltop coastal town in the otherwise conservative region of Sicily, Taormina will delight visitors with warm hospitality and fair weather amid protected natural surroundings that lay embedded with ancient ruins.

Dive into a world of luxury, inclusivity, and endless fun as we traverse the globe, exploring the best all-inclusive gay resorts known to man. These LGBTQ travel destinations cover it all, whether you’re craving indie art galleries, romantic river cruises, or rowdy Pride festivities.

Local businesses, from coffee shops to hotels, often fly rainbow flags to showcase a welcoming attitude. The best beaches in Puglia cater to all orientations and it can be hard to distinguish between gay and straight locals. Isola Bella meanwhile, a protected oasis with crystal-clear lake waters, offers a fun alternative swim spot at the foot of the town.

At night, the town becomes all the more gay-friendly, particularly at gay bars like Shatulle where both locals and international gather in good company. We've rounded up 12 of our favorite LGBTQIA+-friendly beach destinations. Connected to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge and walled in by fortifications built in the Middle Ages, Puglia is precious land holding both turquoise-lapped beaches and important national history.

For a lively yet luxurious experience, Borgo Egnazia blends traditional architecture with modern elegance. A bustling port city made famous by its proximity to Mount Etna and UNESCO-listed baroque architecture, Gay Catania attracts a young and dynamic crowd who breathe life into the old town with rainbow bunting and artsy community spaces.

Visit nearby Polignano a Mare for a taste of local culture and dramatic cliffside views. From the beachy, indoor/outdoor Mr Flamingo, to the comic book–inspired Blondies Loft + Slushbar and the sleek and trendy La Noche, there’s no shortage of places to find fun. Keep reading for our hand-picked destinations that will make your Italian getaway unforgettable.

On a privately guided journey that reveals Italy's splendours at their most compelling, enjoy a special early entrance to the Vatican, view the artistic treasures of Florence, learn about an art restoration project and sample Italian cuisine with tastings in Tuscany and a food tour in Venice.

Nearby, visit the stunning beaches of Torre Canne or explore the historic town of Ostuni. The LGBTQ Renaissance is blossoming in unlikely destinations all over the United States. Revert to a better, simpler time in the old town of Gallipoli. And that’s not to mention all the fantastic beaches, with Playa de los Muertos known as PV’s “gay beach.”.

Roman and Greek ruins attract many to the area but it is the laid-back atmosphere that keeps us here. Data scientists and researchers at Misterb&b, the world’s largest LGBTQ + travel community, have used the habits of its 1 million registered users to create an index ranking the gayest cities.

Join us as cover everything from the sun-soaked beaches of Puglia to the stunning Amalfi Coast, offering a perfect mix of romance, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Enjoy panoramic sea views from the infinity pool, or stroll to the bustling Corso Umberto for an evening of lively gay-friendly nightlife.

For your best chance at meeting like-minded people, venture to the southern part of Puglia known as Salento. Looking for a lesser-known beach for an inclusive and diverse getaway? For an unforgettable stay in Puglia, head to Rocco Forte Masseria Torre Maizza , a boutique haven that blends Italian charm with modern luxury.

Another excellent option is the Grand Hotel San Pietro Taormina , an intimate luxury hotel that blends Sicilian charm with modern amenities. From hidden cruising spots to luxury resorts, Italy invites you to experience its beauty through a truly inclusive lens.

Said to be one of the most gay-friendly cities in the region, Catania goes hand in hand with Taormina for gay travellers seeking culture, heritage and low-key partying.