Gay Paris

In this Gay Paris Guide, we will introduce you to this magnificent French capital. Additionally, we will show you what to see and what to do, with an emphasis on LGBT+ life in the city. So, if you want to know more, please stay with us.

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Why should you visit Gay Paris?

Paris is a very gay-friendly city with a thriving LGBTQ+ community and nightlife, particularly in the Marais district. The Marais is known for its lively atmosphere, with trendy restaurants, bars, boutiques, and bookstores catering to LGBTQ+ visitors. Beyond the Marais, other areas like Les Halles are also very welcoming. While generally safe, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in less central areas.

How to Plan Your Trip to Gay Paris?

To plan a trip to Gay Paris, research and book accommodations and flights in advance, especially if traveling during peak season or for special events. Explore the Marais district, Paris’s central LGBTQ+ neighborhood, known for its gay bars, cafés, and nightlife. Consider booking a gay-focused tour for an insider’s perspective on the city’s LGBTQ+ history and culture. Also, familiarize yourself with basic French phrases and local customs to enhance your experience.

The first section of our Paris guide will be pre-travel planning. Planning a trip to Paris can be exciting yet overwhelming. The city boasts numerous attractions, cafés, and markets to explore. If it’s your first time, plan to book a few months in advance for better prices on flights and hôtel. If you’re an experienced traveler, you might only need 2-3 months. Most visitors spend four to five days in Paris, seeing the main sights and exploring neighborhoods like Le Marais.

Start your trip mid-week to avoid closures on Mondays and Tuesdays. Get travel insurance for unexpected events. Consider getting a Paris Museum Pass for access to many museums and attractions. Learning some basic French phrases can also improve your experience. Use the Métro and buses to get around, as Paris has an efficient public transportation system.

Getting to Paris

Paris has excellent options for getting around within France and other countries. Firstly, the city has two main airports: Charles de Gaulle and Orly, about 10 km from the center. A smaller airport, Beauvais, is about 60 km away and mainly serves low-cost airlines. You can reach Charles de Gaulle and Orly by RER trains, which cost around 12€.

Paris has seven major train stations that connect it to many French and major European cities, including London, Amsterdam, and Barcelona. Train tickets are usually more expensive than those of low-cost airlines.

Bus travel is a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers. Paris offers numerous bus routes to and from the city, with affordable fares. Popular choices include BlaBlaBus/Ouibus and FlixBus, offering a budget-friendly way to explore the city and its surroundings. This affordability will give you a sense of reassurance and financial savvy, knowing you can explore Paris without breaking the bank.

Please note that taxis cannot pick you up directly from the airport. Look for designated taxi queues instead.

If you want to explore other parts of France, consider renting a car. However, parking in the city center is often challenging to find and expensive. Parking lots in Paris typically cost around 30 EUR per day.

How to Get Around in Paris

Paris has an easy-to-use public transport system. The Métro has many stops, making travel simple. You can buy a ParisVisite pass for unlimited travel on the Métro, buses, RER, and trams. This pass also gives discounts at popular places like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.

The RER runs above ground and uses the exact same tickets as the Métro. Keep your ticket until you exit. Buses and métro tickets cost the same, and there are 64 bus lines and four tram lines available.

For an eco-friendly choice, use Velib bike-sharing. A single trip costs 3 EUR. You can get a one-day pass for €5 or a three-day pass for €20. Electric scooters are popular too, and taxis start at 7.10 EUR. The métro is often the best way to get around because of heavy traffic.

When parking, follow the rules carefully. Street parking costs money from Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 8 pm, but it is free at night and on Sundays. Rates differ by area: €6 per hour in central Paris and €4 in other areas.

Do not park a camper van on the street; use designated camping spots instead. Sleeping in your vehicle is not allowed in Paris.

Tip: We recommend using the Paris Navigo card while staying in Paris. Let’s see why. For most tourists in Paris, the Navigo Découverte pass is generally more affordable and better value than the Paris Visite pass. The Paris Visite pass costs more and offers less value unless you are staying for a very short time or need to travel to specific places, like Disneyland or the airports, using public transport.

For more information about getting around Paris, please read our Paris guide.

Top Things to See and Do in Gay Paris

Firstly, the city boasts numerous attractions that it is impossible to list them all on your bucket list. That’s why we have selected only a few in our Paris guide. If you want to see more of them, please read our related article.

Let’s start with the most prominent building, built for the 1889 World’s Fair. The locals initially disliked the 300-meter tower, but it has now become the city’s most famous symbol.

Arrive early to avoid long lines. Consider paying extra for direct elevator access, especially during busy times. Joint tickets for the Eiffel Tower and a river cruise can save money, but purchasing in advance is wise.

Next on our list is the Louvre, the world’s largest museum, home to millions of antiques, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. For a complete experience, give at least two full days. Still, the Louvre Highlights Tour allows you to see the main attractions in an afternoon with skip-the-line entry. Tickets sell out quickly due to capacity limits; the Paris Pass includes skip-the-line tickets. Consider visiting if you are available on Wednesday night when it’s open until 11 pm.

Don’t miss Sainte-Chapelle, which showcases stunning 12-meter-high stained-glass windows, mostly original from the 12th century. Admission is included in the Paris City Pass, and a visit typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
The Latin Quarter, situated near Notre Dame, is a historic area characterized by winding streets that lead to charming, cafe-lined squares. It feels like stepping back in time. There are also many restaurants, bars, and jazz clubs to explore.

For a memorable experience, consider an in-depth walking tour with skip-the-line tickets to Sainte-Chapelle, our favorite church in Paris. Built in 1938 by Saint Louis, this small Gothic chapel houses exquisite stained glass and costs €11.50 for entry. Tickets sell out quickly, so book ahead!

The Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, stands 146 feet tall and symbolizes French military victories. It has witnessed historic events, including Napoleon’s funeral and the celebrations marking World War II.

Montmartre is a charming district known for its cobbled streets, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and vibrant bistros. Visit Place du Tertre for local artists and the famous “I love you” wall. The neighborhood can be easily reached via Métro or the Funicular, and it features attractions such as the Musée de Montmartre and popular brunch spots.

In the spring, Paris blooms with color, making it an ideal time to explore its gardens. Start at Monet’s Garden in Giverny, then visit the Tuileries Gardens, Palais Royal Gardens, and Luxembourg Gardens. Don’t miss Parc Monceau for a quiet stroll and the historic Place des Vosges. Finally, picnic at the Champs de Mars below the Eiffel Tower.

Embrace these experiences for a glimpse into the beauty of springtime in Paris!

For more information, please read our guide about Paris’s top attractions.

The best day trips from Paris

The odds of getting bored with Paris are slim to none, but if you want to pack in as much sightseeing as possible on your trip to the City of Lights, plan to venture outside the arrondissements—if only for a day. So, if you’re unsure about your ideal 24-hour excursion, we have some suggestions.

The Palace of Versailles is a stunning symbol of royal power. It attracts over 10 million visitors annually, making it France’s second most popular attraction after the Eiffel Tower. Initially built by Louis XIV in 1682, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases exquisite 17th-century French art.

To fully enjoy your visit, allocate a full day and consider spending time in the Gardens, which are free during certain months. Buy tickets online to avoid long lines and arrive early, as the Palace sees over 27,000 visitors daily. A Paris Museum Pass grants priority access but not to the security queue.

Next on our list is Giverny, located 74km from Paris. It is essential for impressionist fans. It was Claude Monet’s home until 1926 and features beautifully landscaped gardens. Though popular in summer, it’s worth a visit.

Furthermore, the Loire Valley is famed for its wines and castles. It is best visited in spring and autumn. You can explore it by car, train, or on guided tours, which include local wine sampling.

Colmar, the capital of the Alsace wine region, captivates with its fairy-tale scenery of cobbled streets and colorful houses. It offers a blend of dining, vineyards, cultural events, and shops selling local products.

Lastly, Disneyland Paris promises a fun-filled experience for all ages. To avoid crowds, plan your visits for Tuesday to Thursday during quieter periods. Tickets are available for one to four days, with dated ones typically cheaper.

Note: For more information on the best day trips from Paris, refer to our related article.

When to Go to Gay Paris

Summer is the busiest and most expensive time to visit Paris, so expect big crowds and long wait times at attractions. If you plan to stay in the summer, book your hôtel and activities well in advance.

The best times to visit are from May to early June and September to October. During these months, there are fewer crowds and lower prices. The weather remains pleasant, typically ranging from 20-23°C.

Winter is cold and dark, but it can be a good time to visit Paris. You can find cheap flights and hôtel deals. Although there are still tourists, the city is less crowded, making it an ideal destination for visiting museums and historic sites. Remember that winter is also the rainiest season, with daily highs around 7°C.

Where to stay in Gay Paris

This section of our Paris guide helps you choose where to stay. Think about your travel style and budget. Staying further from the center can save money, but it may cost more in transport. Safety is essential, so we check which areas are safe for visitors.

If you are an LGBT+ traveler, look for gay-friendly neighborhoods. Make sure to read reviews to ensure a good stay. For first-time visitors, central areas near landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe are best. The Marais is a favorite for the LGBT community, with many gay-friendly hôtel, bars, and cultural attractions.

Consider queer-owned places like Jules et Jim, which has a modern vibe, or Maison Proust and L’Hotel, where Oscar Wilde lived. Use websites like Expedia and Hotels.com to find LGBTQ+-welcoming options easily.

Note: You can also read our Paris Neighborhood guide if you want even more information.

We’ve partnered with misterb&b, a booking platform for LGBT+-friendly homestays. They have hosts in over 200 countries with 1 million listings. Home-sharing is a great way to explore the local gay scene with the help of a local. Mister B&B is our top choice for this.

Here are some delightful LGBTQ+-friendly hôtel that each offer a unique experience:

CitizenM Paris Gare de Lyon: This chic hôtel boasts a modern design and is ideally located just steps from the train station, making it perfect for travelers on the move.
CitizenM Paris Opera: Another stylish option from CitizenM, this hôtel features the same contemporary amenities and is situated in the vibrant Opera district, close to theaters and cultural attractions.
Hôtel Le Cardinal: Renowned for its warm hospitality, this charming hôtel provides cozy accommodations where guests can unwind and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere.
OKKO Hotels Paris Gare de l’Est: With a focus on comfort and convenience, this modern hôtel offers thoughtfully designed spaces ideal for both relaxation and work.

Jules & Jim: Nestled in the heart of the Marais, this boutique hôtel is celebrated for its chic décor and proximity to lively gay bars and nightlife, making it an excellent choice for social travelers.
La Villa Beaumarchais: A luxurious 4-star hôtel in the Marais district, La Villa Beaumarchais offers a sophisticated ambiance and elegant rooms, perfect for those looking to indulge in a lavish stay.
Hôtel Original: Just 2 km from Notre Dame, this delightful boutique hôtel immerses guests in a capricious world of poetry and fantasy. Don’t miss the stunning stone-arched spa featuring a saltwater flotarium and sauna during your stay.
Cosy’s Residence Cadet: Ideal for pet owners, this contemporary hôtel is just 200 meters from the Cadet Métro and comes highly rated for its service, cleanliness, and spacious rooms with charming kitchenettes for guests who wish to prepare their meals.

Hôtel Monmartre Amour: An intimate haven for romantics, Hôtel Amour features beautifully decorated rooms with large bathtubs. Guests can relax in the glass-enclosed courtyard or enjoy the rooftop pool, all while savoring breakfast or brunch at the hotel’shôtel’s on-site restaurant.
Hôtel Paris Louvre Saint Honore: This gay-owned hôtel, located at 21 rue de Penthièvre, offers simple yet comfortable accommodations just 300 meters from the Louvre Museum. Guests appreciate the straightforward amenities and complimentary buffet breakfast.

Note: For information on the safest areas in Paris, please refer to our related guide.

Restaurants & Cafes

Here are a few restaurants with gay or gay-friendly cafés in Paris, in the Marais neighborhood and the center of Paris. This list is not complete; every day, new restaurants are born in Paris.

Who’s: Nestled in the heart of Paris’s Le Marais, this LGBTQ+-friendly restaurant and bar demands attention with its upscale vibe. The international menu features pastas, burgers, and woks, all served in a stylish setting that combines sleek dining with a lively mezzanine bar. With late-night hours, expect drag shows, fresh cocktails, and pop music that create an unforgettable, inclusive atmosphere.

Titi Palacio: This urban greenhouse isn’t just trendy—it’s a culinary gem serving modern cuisine with a distinct French twist. It’s the perfect spot for cocktails and features a dynamic range of events, from concerts to drag shows.

Hémicycle: A quintessential three-floor establishment that exudes sophistication. Enjoy gourmet cuisine with Italian influences on the main floor, then unwind in the charming wine room or head to the top floor for a hidden speakeasy-style bar, ideal for a romantic nightcap.

Le Lobby, The Peninsula Paris: This iconic venue is the epitome of Parisian elegance, attracting celebrities for generations. Indulge in exquisite French cuisine amid grand paintings and magnificent chandeliers—it’s a dining experience that embodies luxury.

Restaurant 6 New York: For an authentic Parisian dining experience, this chic yet inviting restaurant offers spectacular Eiffel Tower views and delicious modern French cuisine created by renowned chef Jérôme Gangneux.

Au Diable des Lombards: This is your go-to spot in Les Halles for a casual yet satisfying lunch. With burgers and tapas at reasonable prices, it’s the perfect place to refuel while exploring the area.

The Little Red Door Paris: A must-visit cocktail bar, known for its playful sass and friendly bartenders who expertly craft delicious drinks and snacks.

Des Gars Dans La Cuisine: Prepare for a culinary adventure where every course is a delightful surprise. The stunning décor, with chic details and candlelight, sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience.

TATA Burger: Don’t underestimate this quirky burger place; it serves surprisingly exceptional food. Order the double cheeseburger, and enjoy it served on a unique bun that you won’t forget.

Gay Paris Bars and Clubs

Cox Café Bar: Discover a welcoming oasis in Paris where you can unwind with a cold beer amidst a relaxed atmosphere; it’s a must-visit spot!

Duplex Bar: Step into the charm of the oldest gay bar in the Marais, where affordable wine and beer blend seamlessly with captivating art shows, attracting a vibrant and diverse crowd.

Bears’ Den: Embrace the warmth of a friendly haven designed for bears and those curious about them. With its inviting lounge, disco bar, and an underground cave featuring a darkroom, there’s something for everyone.

WorkShoW Paris: Enter a world of inclusivity at this trendy bar/club. With a neon dance floor, vintage arcade, and a stunning rooftop terrace, it’s the ideal place to catch extravagant drag shows and dance to live DJs.

Les Souffleurs: Relax in this chic dive bar that marries modernity and comfort. Enjoy happy hour drinks in the cozy upstairs area while the energetic dance floor pulses with pop and techno beats.

FreedJ: Start your night in the laid-back lounge of FreedJ, then head to the basement where you can dance to the hottest Gaga and Rihanna tracks in a lively atmosphere, complete with a glassed-in smoking room.

Le Cud: Join the late-night revelry at this vibrant gay club that springs to life at 2 am. Experience the unique charm of the vaulted cellar that keeps the party going until the métro opens at 5:30 am.

La Boîte à Frissons: Don’t miss this diverse dance club that transforms into a welcoming space late into the night, featuring a creative mix of music (excluding techno) until 5 am. Fun theme nights enhance the experience!

Crazyvores/Folivores: Be part of the excitement at this popular monthly party at The Bataclan, where a spacious dance floor invites mingling and energy amidst a fantastic male crowd.

Raidd: Known affectionately as the “shower bar,” this legendary hotspot offers a lively atmosphere with flirtatious go-go boys. Arriving early is wise, as lines can get long!

Club Banana Café: Party like never before at this beloved venue where drag shows and go-go dancers keep the energy high. It’s the perfect destination for a younger crowd looking to have fun.

Le Bear’s Den: Find camaraderie in this inviting space tailored for “bears,” featuring karaoke and a small dance floor where the friendly atmosphere spills out onto the street, encouraging all to join in the fun.

Gay Tours in Paris

The Gay Locals: Meet Bryan and Craig, seasoned Paris expats and expert guides who specialize in LGBTQ+ tours. Their private and group tours take you through vibrant neighborhoods like the Marais, Canal St. Martin, Latin Quarter, Montmartre, and Les Halles, showcasing the best of local culture and gastronomy.

Paris Highlights with an LGBTQ Perspective Private Tour: Experience the iconic sights of Paris through an LGBTQ+ lens with Queer Tours France. In a compact two and a half hours, you’ll visit renowned locations and uncover hidden gems rich in queer history.

Louvre Museum Highlights and LGBTQ+ History Tour: Join Queer Tours France for an immersive three-hour exploration of the Louvre. Discover the queer identities of celebrated artists and the subtleties woven into their masterpieces.

Paris Gay Village: Dive deep into gay Paris with specialized guided tours that explore the Madeleine quarter and historic hubs like Saint-Germain-des-Prés, including visits to significant cemeteries where legendary couples rest.

Meeting the French: Unlock the secrets of the Marais with a gay-friendly guided visit that reveals its bustling bars, clubs, and profound LGBTQ+ heritage.

Queer Tours France: This premier company offers tailored private tours that cover both classic Paris landmarks and the rich histories of the LGBTQIA+ community. Our queer guides will captivate you with stories that highlight the community’s significant contributions throughout the city.

Paris to Versailles Private Tours: Customize your experience with tours focused on the vibrant history of gay Paris, particularly in the renowned Marais district, where stunning 17th-century architecture meets a lively modern culture.

Saunas and cruising bars

Paris has a vibrant gay scene with numerous saunas and cruising bars. Some popular options include Boxxman, Krash Bar, and Le Duplex, according to Yelp. It’s always a good idea to check online reviews and verify opening hours and specific offerings before visiting. Remember to prioritize safety and consent in any social setting, and be prepared with essentials like condoms and lube if desired, though most venues provide these.

Tips for Visiting Gay Saunas and Cruising Bars in Paris:

Research and Review:
Check online reviews and websites for the latest information on specific venues, including opening hours, services, and any special events.
Safety First:
Always prioritize your safety and consent. Be aware of your surroundings and communicate clearly with others.
Essentials:
Bring your condoms and lube if you prefer a particular brand or type, although most venues provide these.
Respect Boundaries:
Be mindful of other people’s space and boundaries. Some venues have designated areas for specific activities.
Have Fun:
Enjoy the atmosphere and social experience of these spaces, but always prioritize safety and respect.

Here are just a few of the most popular options for those seeking some lust in the City of Love.

IDM Sauna – this five-floored sauna is the most popular in the city. It has a dry sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, private (some themed) cabins, slings, gloryholes, a video room, a leather-themed darkroom, a cozy lounge with lockers, and more—everything you could ever need for a memorable time.
Euro Men’s Club – “The Most Ancient Sauna in Paris,” in their own words. So inside you’ll find statues of ancient Rome and a poetic water wall. But you probably aren’t there for the décor, and its facilities include the usual sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, pool bar, video room, darkrooms, and private cabins. The crowd tends toward a more mature – and very friendly – crowd.
Les Bains d’Odessa – This classic gay sauna, housed in a 19th-century bathhouse, is popular with bears. Inside, you’ll discover five levels of relaxation, including a vintage swimming pool, a giant steam hammam, and a traditional dry sauna. The décor mixes original tiling with modern touches, and there’s a marble-topped bar, smoking area, and massage rooms. You’ll also find private cabins, darkrooms, a maze, showers, and a lounge with lockers.

Sun City – A very popular and giant 100% gay sauna in Paris. There are three floors of saunas, wet rooms, and cruising areas. The décor is stunning, as are the men!
L’Impact – €16 entrance, or €10 if you’re under 30. The downstairs portion awaits you and, well, whatever you want to do. Check their website for special evenings, like 2×1 night or Tuesday’s “Horse Men” soirée.
Secteur X – Free entrance and friendly bartenders. Lots of surprises downstairs – condoms and lube are readily available. You can enter clothed, but you probably won’t stay that way.
Krash Bar – Both a club with a cruising venue, handily located in the Marais. The upper level operates as a bar, but the backroom is a massive, tunnel-like darkroom, with themed parties (e.g., Naked Party, Underwear Party) and facilities geared toward fetish play, including slings and private cabins.

Le Depot –This bar charges €15 for entrance. It may not be free, but it boasts Paris’s (and perhaps Europe’s) largest backroom. All sorts of naughty deeds happen in the rooms and halls of this labyrinth.

Gay Events in Paris

Paris has a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, highlighted by the annual Paris Pride parade, typically held in June. The event attracts a festive crowd and features a route that traditionally runs along Rue de Rivoli and ends at Place de la Nation.

The Marais district serves as the main gayborhood, filled with gay-friendly bars, clubs, and shops like Krash Bar and Boxxman, which is popular for cruising. Other cruising spots include Le Duplex, Le Keller, and Sun City.

The Marche des Fiertés LGBT, celebrated during the last week of June, features a grand parade starting at Michel Bizot station, culminating in lively street parties throughout the city.

Safety and health

Paris is generally safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ travelers, but it’s essential to be careful. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Learn about local laws and look for LGBTQ+-friendly places to stay.

France is known for being LGBTQ+ friendly. It legalized homosexuality in 1791 and same-sex marriage in 2013. While many areas are safe, avoid suburbs like Saint Denis, which have higher crime rates.

Check local news for strikes, as they can disrupt travel. If you face any problems, call 17 for the police or use the Flag! App to report any LGBTQ+ attacks.

The Gay Paris: Money-Saving Tips

Visiting Paris can be costly, but you can save money while enjoying the city’s beauty and charm. Here are some friendly tips to help you budget wisely:

Grab a Métro Card: Getting around is easy with over 300 subway stations! A day pass costs € 13.55, and a 10-ticket pass costs € 17.35, making it more affordable than purchasing single tickets.

Enjoy a Picnic: Take advantage of Paris’s lovely parks! For a delightful outdoor picnic, buy fresh bread, cheese, and meats from local shops. It’s fun and way cheaper than dining out.

Utilize the Paris Museum Pass to gain access to over 70 museums and monuments. A two-day pass costs €70, a four-day pass is €90, and a six-day pass is €110. It’s perfect for art lovers and lets you skip the lines!

Dine Out at Lunch: Many restaurants offer a pre-fixe menu for just 20 EUR during lunch. You’ll enjoy great meals at half the price!

Take a Free Walking Tour: Join a free walking tour with New Europe Tours to get an overview of the city and discover budget-friendly eats. Remember to tip your guide!

Bring a Water Bottle: Tap water is generally safe to drink, but consider bringing a reusable bottle for convenience. This is an eco-friendly option that can help you save money, too!

With these tips, you can fully enjoy Paris without overspending.

FAQs about the Gay Paris

Do you need a Visa or a Passport?

If you are an EU citizen planning a trip to Paris, you only need to bring your passport or ID.

For U.S. and U.K. citizens, a visa is optional for visits to France lasting less than 90 days. However, you must have a valid passport extending beyond your stay by at least six months. Additionally, immigration officers may request that you provide sufficient funds and return airline tickets as part of their screening process.

Is there an Uber in Paris?

Yes. The Uber app allows you to request a ride around Paris at any time, 24/7. What’s the most affordable way to travel in Paris? With Uber, you can choose the ride option that works best for your budget when you travel in Paris.

Should I book attractions in advance?

We highly recommend that you book popular attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Versailles, in advance, especially during peak season. Some attractions require reservations, while others do not. Check the specific attraction’s website for details.

Do Paris taxis only take cash?

Paris taxi drivers must accept payments via bank cards (and contactless). Nevertheless, they may claim to have a broken POS to avoid being paid with a card. Generally, cash payments are preferred.

“Ready to plan your next adventure? See how this city compares to the rest of the continent by checking our comprehensive overview of [The Most Prominent Gay Hubs in Europe].”

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References and sources:

Gay Paris – the best gay hôtel, bars, clubs & more Two Bad Tourists.