LGBT Milan

Milan lies at the heart of the LGBT rights movement in Italy—a welcoming sanctuary for LGBT travellers. Renowned globally as a hub for fashion, design, art, and creative endeavors, the city exudes an aura of sophistication and cultural richness. However, it's also one of the most expensive cities, catering to travelers with refined tastes, both in material and cultural pursuits. Milan's burgeoning tech scene adds another layer of dynamism, with a burgeoning array of startups vying for attention.

For those seeking destinations steeped in culture and supportive of the LGBT community, Milan undoubtedly tops the list. The city's century-long commitment to the movement has not only shaped its identity but has also imbued it with a unique and captivating charm.

Understand

Fondazione Prada's gold clad tower—an art centre

The Milan authorities are heavily involved in fostering a culture of inclusivity and protection within the LGBT community, making it one of the safest destinations worldwide for LGBT travellers, surpassing many other regions in the country. Italian law enforcement and various institutions are actively engaged and readily available to address any issues, demonstrating attentiveness and sensitivity to the needs of the community. Additionally, the older Italian population exhibits warmth, reserve, and a tolerant attitude towards diverse cultures.

The Fondazione Prada oversees the opening of elegant restaurants and bars, all of which warmly welcome LGBT patrons with quintessentially Italian hospitality and warmth.

Viale Bligny, Viale Sabotino, Via Ripamonti in the Corvetto District, and the luxurious area surrounding the Fondazione Prada district have emerged as the most sought-after and trendy neighborhoods among affluent LGBT individuals and the fashion industry in Milan. These areas represent a new and recent development in the city, offering a vibrant and dynamic environment for residents and visitors alike.

History

Viale Bligny and Viale Sabotino located in the heart of Milan and close to Bocconi University, have become new trendy destinations for the gay community, attracting international fashion professionals from around the world. These streets offer a fashionable and cosmopolitan environment, with a wide selection of venues, bars, and restaurants, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in Milan's gay-friendly culture.

See

• 1 Fondazione Prada, Largo Isarco, 2. Contemporary art museum and art exhibitions. The architectural style is inspired by the 1950s in a continuous syncretic comparison of architectural styles that perfectly dialogue between conservation and innovation. (updated Jul 2022)
• ViaFarini (VIAFARINI.WORK), Via Marco d'Agrate, 33. Avant-garde art gallery with exhibitions of international interest. (updated Jul 2022)
• Galleria Zero (Contemporary Art Gallery), via Carlo Boncompagni 44. Art gallery with spaces attentive to international experimentation, between emerging and established artists. (updated Jul 2022)

Do

Events

• White (Milano fashion week), via Calabiana 6. Fashion fair that attracts thousands of professionals and operators during the Milan fashion week. (updated Jul 2022)
• Corvetto Art Week, via Carlo Boncompagni 44. Vernisage opening of exhibitions in art galleries and new urban exhibition spaces, international experiments, between emerging and established artists. (updated Jul 2022)

Buy

• Francesco Maglia Ombrella dal 1854, via Giuseppe Ripamonti, 194. The tailor of luxury, personalised and bespoke hand-made umbrellas since 1864. (updated Jul 2022)

Eat

• Madama hotstel & Bistrot, Via Benaco, 1. (updated Jul 2022)
• Il Capestrano, Via Gian Francesco Pizzi, 14. (updated Jul 2022)
• Casottel, Via Fabio Massimo, 25. (updated Jul 2022)
• Trattoria Al Laghett, Via Sant'Arialdo, 126. (updated Jul 2022)

Drink

• 1 Plastic (Plastic Palace), Via Gargano, 15. A veritable icon of the worldwide gay community, not just Milano's. Established in 1980, Plastic is the most inclusive and historic gay-friendly club in the city of Milan, and still remains one of the most avant-garde clubs in all of Europe, compared to "Studio 54" in New York. Crossroads of art, fashion and music: you could find us from Keith Haring to Andy Warhol, passing through Fiorucci, to the most famous designers of Milanese history. There are no tables to book but the selection is very high. The place in absolute privacy, has had the frequentation of artists and personalities of international fame, including Madonna, Elton John, Freddy Mercury, Prince, Paul Young, Bruce Springsteen and Grace Jones. (updated Mar 2020)
• Patchouli café, Corso Lodi, 15. Gay-friendly club in the Corvetto district a few steps from the Prada Foundation. (updated Jul 2022)
• Bar Devoti, via Ripamonti, 93. (updated Jul 2022)
• Geko23, Via Brembo, 23. An inclusive gay-friendly venue a few steps from the Prada Foundation. From breakfast, to aperitifs to dinner with DJ sets with over 600 m² indoors and outdoors. Milanese fashion and design events are often hosted. (updated Jul 2022)
• Magazzini Generali, Via Pietrasanta, 16. An inclusive gay-friendly venue a few steps from the Prada Foundation. On Saturday evening the MaGAYzzini evening is trendy and elegant with performances on the stage of the gogo boys with dance music tending to pop. (updated Jul 2022)

Connect

• "What Are You Doing Tonight? Gay-Friendly App Will Tell You" - Official website of Bocconi University.

Stay safe

In Viale Bligny and Viale Sabotino, safety is paramount for the gay community. With strong support and protection from both residents and law enforcement, this area provides a secure environment for LGBTQ individuals. The local police presence is significant, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in the neighborhood. Moreover, the residents, business owners, and staff members are known for their kindness, helpfulness, and discretion, making it a welcoming and inclusive space for all.

Go next

• Lake Como— A huge, impressive, beautiful lake in the foothills of the Alps. See the villages of Lierna, Bellagio, Mandello del Lario & Varenna. Como can be reached by regular trains (50 minutes from Cadorna station; 40 minutes from Milano Centrale)