Nice is the French Riviera at its best. This quintessentially French coastal town with just a hint of Italian influences has shimmering, azure waters, charming cobblestone streets in the old town, and restaurant-filled squares that smell of lavender, fresh bread, and olives — all the better to drink wine and live out your romantic French getaway fantasies.
It is also perhaps the second most gay-friendly city in France, after Paris. While larger cities like Montpellier, Lyon, and Marseille have prominent LGBTQ+ communities, Nice now offers more gay-specific venues and perhaps a friendlier, more welcoming atmosphere. With numerous LGBTQ+ events, like the annual Gay Pride, the new Queernaval, LGBTQ+ film festivals, and more, Nice has become one of the hottest gay destinations on the Mediterranean.
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Table of Contents
1. General Tips
2. Transportation and Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Nice
4. Sightseeing and Activities in Nice
5. Gay Tours in Nice
6. Restaurants and Cafes
7. Nice Gay Bars and Clubs
8. Nice Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
9. Gay Beaches in Nice
10. Gay Events in Nice
11. Day Trips from Nice
General Tips
Nice is an amazing destination with plenty of interesting options for visitors. It has really come to the forefront, becoming not just a great destination for the average traveler, but also for LGBTQ+ visitors. The warm and friendly nature of the residents, along with the vibrant social scene, accommodations, nightlife, restaurants, and LGBTQ+ event options, positions Nice as an excellent place to visit. The city is unquestionably a hub of fantastic architecture and natural beauty, and its location on the Mediterranean ensures pleasant weather almost year-round. Taking a walk through the shaded, winding streets of Old Nice is one of the first things to do when visiting the city. You’ll find brightly colored façades that reflect the colors and style of Sardinian architecture. Rue de Bonaparte is now considered the gay neighborhood in Nice, but you’ll find gay-owned businesses throughout the city.
The best weather is of course in the summer season, but visiting in the shoulder seasons (April/May or September/October) avoids the tourists and means cheaper hotels.
Transportation & Air Transfer
Nice has good public transportation, including trams, buses, and regional trains. Another great option is to use the local bike sharing service called Velo Bleu, which is available to tourists. Most sites of interest in Nice are located near the city center and the old town, so staying in this area makes the most sense. The regional train is also available for travel to other cities within the Côte d’Azur. Taxis can be a bit expensive, typically costing 10-20€ per ride depending on which part of the city you're traveling to.
The Nice airport is close to the city, but the public bus can take about an hour to reach the city center. The most economical route is to take public bus numbers 98 or 99 from the airport to the central train station (Gare de Nice-Ville) for a price of 6€. A taxi will be quicker and should cost about 20-30€ from the airport to the center. A private transfer can be organized in advance for about 35€ per group.
Gay Hotels in Nice
There aren't may gay hotels in Nice specifically, but there are plenty of gay-friendly options.
Luxury
Le Negresco – Located on the seafront, this classical-style hotel is very popular among gay travelers. They are members of the IGLTA and boast an outstanding restaurant with gourmet food, a bar featuring a 1683 tapestry, walnut woodwork, and their own carousel from the 18th century.
Mid Range
Hotel Ellington – A charming hotel with a unique and friendly atmosphere, perfectly located in the heart of the city. It features a lavish bar with designer furnishings, rich wood floors, and an outdoor patio. Combine all of that with three room selections, plus shopping and a beach just a 5-minute walk away.
AC by Marriott – Located along the Promenade des Anglais, this hotel is gay-friendly and within walking distance of the city center. With a 91% recommendation rating, it's easy to see why ‘nice' may be an understatement. Marriott is also an IGLTA member and is one of the most gay-friendly large hotel chains worldwide.
Budget
Hotel Lido – Many guests have rated this hotel 5 out of 5 stars, thanks to its bar, restaurant, private pool, and beach access. If you prefer an English-speaking staff and a stunning sea view, Hotel Lido offers both. It provides the comfort of a hotel with the freedom of a rented apartment, including a kitchen in each room.
Ibis Budget Nice Californie Lenval – It's hard to beat the Ibis chain when it comes to unpretentious yet sleek budget hotels. The one in Nice is ideally located next to the tram, which connects to the airport, and just a few feet from both the beach and Promenade des Anglais. Prices include an all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast.
Blue Angels – A gay-owned bed and breakfast with three rooms for rent. The couple has been running the guest house in their own home for five years. Although small, it’s very popular with gay clientele. We met one of the owners at an event in town, and he seemed very nice and friendly.
We’ve partnered with misterb&b to help curate the most LGBT+ friendly homestays. misterb&b is not a hotel or chain, but rather a booking platform for rooms, apartments and homes and it allows you to book from gay and gay-friendly hosts around the world. They have hosts in more than 200 countries and territories with more than 1 million total listings. Understanding the gay scene is much more easily done with the help of a local and home-sharing is one of the best ways to meet someone living in the city who knows how things work, where and when are the best nights to go out, and what places to eat at and which to avoid. misterb&b is our top choice if your priority is exploring the local gay scene.
Special Offer! Sign up with misterb&b and you will receive a free $10 credit to use on your first booking!Sightseeing & Activities in Nice
Promenade de Anglais –This is a must-visit part of Nice and is well worth at least a 20-minute stroll. Not only can you enjoy breathtaking views for miles, but you can also walk for miles along the beach. With bars and eateries along the way, you'll have plenty of sustenance to fuel any length of journey. Book tour →
Castle Hill – A view like no other… yet, oddly, no castle—at least not anymore. A couple of cafés and a grassy children's park adorn the top. Whether you get there by lift, by climbing the stairs, or by car, just get there because it’s one of the most visited sites in Nice where you’ll find the best views in town. Book tour →
Place Garibaldi – Quaint, charming, and located just next to the gay district on Rue de Bonaparte. This large town square features a decorative pool, archways, statues, restaurants, bars, and markets that make up this impressive attraction. Book tour →
Chocolate degustation Paci – A small, gay-owned chocolate shop in the center of Nice. You’ll find an interesting combination of art and chocolate creations, including unique sweets like chocolate-filled ravioli—say what?!
Market in Cours Saleya – One of the liveliest neighborhoods in Nice and the main meeting point, animated by its cafés, restaurants, and shops. This market deals mostly with antiques, food, and flowers. In the mornings, you will find the flower and produce market, offering plenty of fresh goods from local farmers. Taste the good life and stroll around daily, except Mondays, from morning until early afternoon. You can also visit the market as part of a guided food tour. Book tour →
Avenue Jean Médecin – The main shopping area in central Nice. You’ll find a range of popular apparel stores here, plus plenty of boutique shops selling a variety of products. Luxury brands can be found in the “Golden Square” near Alphonse Karr Street and Avenue de Verdun. Or, just stroll through the streets of the old town to discover more than 600 small boutique shops offering local specialties, art galleries, and gift shops.
Gay Tours in Nice
Nice Greeters – Not sure where to start? Nice Greeters can help you discover the history, lifestyle, sites, attractions, and culture of Nice. This is a free service based on voluntary participation, with themes including city walks, biking, daily life, places to eat, wine, shopping, and neighborhood discovery. Book tour →
A Taste of Nice Food Tours – Submit your taste buds to the most intense experience of a lifetime. What's on the menu? Pissaladière, les Petits Farcies, Socca, candied fruit, Swiss chard, and more. It’s rated #1 among all gastronomy activities in Nice. Book tour →
Nice Cycle Tours – A great 3-hour introduction to the city and an alternative to a walking tour. You'll experience the city from a different perspective compared to pedestrians or tour buses. The ride is mostly flat and smooth, with just one hill to climb up to Castle Hill, where you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Nice. For the more adventurous, check out this 5 hour bike tour along the coastal routes of the French Riviera. Into wine? Another option is to take a bike tour of the vineyards near Nice. Book tour →
Restaurants and Cafes
Attimi – Simply put, a 5-star pizzeria and Italian restaurant. Traditional preparation with organically grown ingredients makes for a great Italian dining experience.
Acchiardo Restaurant – An institution in town and a reference for Niçoise cuisine, owned by the same family for four generations. If you're lucky, you’ll have a tall, handsome waiter who’s friendly, speaks good English, and just happens to be gay.
Chez Les Garcons – This gay couple-owned café/restaurant is a wonderful spot to eat or have a coffee. The vibe is undeniably hipster, with board games available to play and geeky toys displayed on the walls. The menu is full of vegan goodies.
La Route Du Miam – High ratings on Tripadvisor are usually a good sign, and this restaurant doesn’t disappoint. The food is exceptional, portions are generous, the service is great, and the decor makes you feel like you're in someone's kitchen. The duck is especially lauded here. It was once a hidden gem, but word has spread, so book in advance.
La Plage du Negresco -This gorgeous seafront restaurant is surrounded by greenery swaying in the summer breeze. The menu offers a blend of seafood and land dishes, all sourced locally. Their Rolls by Homer Lobster have been voted the best lobster roll in the world! Only open in season.
La Langouste – Despite being located in the city center, La Langouste avoids being an overpriced tourist trap. A lovely shaded garden makes it an ideal date spot. Menu highlights include truffle pasta and fresh octopus. At lunch, they offer a great value three-course menu.
Le Latitude – This romantic restaurant is located on the rooftop of the hotel of the same name, overlooking the beach. The menu is seafood-focused and pairs well with a glass of Champagne or their house cocktail. For those looking to up the romance factor, time your visit around sunset!
Gusto Slice – Here, you’ll find the best pizza in Nice—and maybe anywhere outside of Italy. The pizzas are also huge, so come hungry or share one with a friend.
Le Clin d'Oeil – This cozy establishment near the old town is both a bistronomic restaurant and a wine bar. The exquisite Mediterranean cuisine is inspired by classic French gastronomy techniques. In short, it's both authentic and classy.
Pain&Cie – Located next to the Cours Saleya market. For 20€, you can enjoy a hearty brunch that will help you tackle that hangover head-on.
Nice Gay Bars and Clubs
In recent years, a gay neighborhood has emerged just northeast of the old town. You’ll find the highest concentration of gay bars, cafés, shops, and gay-owned businesses on Rue Bonaparte. There’s also a square in the neighborhood called Place du Pin, one of the most popular hangout spots for the gay community in Nice.
Red Kafé – This bar in Nice has great online reviews and lives up to its hype. You’ll find special events, drag performances, and various themes each weekend. Open until 2 a.m. on weekends.
Le Couloir – A small but stylish—and somewhat iconic—27-year-old bar in the old town of Nice. Every evening from 6 p.m., they host an “Afterwork” event where regulars and tourists can meet and socialize.
La Cave Wilson – Make a spectacle of yourself at this gay wine and cabaret bar. Ostensibly, it’s a high-brow establishment with chandeliers, portraits of gay icons on the walls, and well-dressed clientele. However, expect lively—and often raunchy—entertainment in the form of burlesque, drag, live music, and, of course, cabaret.
Blitz Bar –The place to be in Nice right now is this fun, new gay bar. There's live music, DJs, drag shows, go-go boys, and great cocktails. How can you go wrong? The bar staff are also hot, which helps!
Ramdam Bar -A fairly new bar that doubles as a gallery for local artists, featuring an exhibition room. Located near Place du Pin, the atmosphere is laid-back, and they have a cute terrace. On weekends, they host DJs and Drag Race showings.
Coco Vin – This quaint gay bar is located in the Old Town. The outdoor tables are perfect for an intimate mojito or glass of wine while soaking up the vibe of Nice’s Old Town.
Le Glam – Probably the most popular gay club in town, complete with cute go-go dancers. This place is hopping on the weekends with a lively crowd. They tend to play Top 40 and pop music. It’s a medium-sized venue with a large bar and decent-sized dance floor. Recently, it has become an institution for many in Nice. You’ll find all sorts of guys, and they host different themed events throughout the month.
Le Six – This bar’s two floors of Belle Époque interiors are firm favorites with the in-crowd. It’s popular with some of the coolest people in Nice. It’s open very late, so you can have a great time if you make it in.
L’Omega Club – A fun club that does everything a club should: play good electro music, serve cheap drinks, and fill up with attractive local men. Different nights host international DJs and drag shows.
La Klubber – Sometimes, you just aren’t ready for the night to be over. In Nice, it doesn’t have to be! La Klubber is the city’s gay after-hours spot, opening at 4 a.m. and running until 11 a.m. Expect international DJs spinning techno and topless men who believe sleep is the enemy.
Le High Club – Located on the Promenade des Anglais, this is a straight club that occasionally hosts the biggest gay parties in Nice. These parties typically happen every weekend during summer and every second weekend in winter, usually on Sunday nights.
Nice Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
Les Bains Douche – This award-winning sauna (Têtu Magazine) is the most popular in the French Riviera. While the decor is rather plain, the staff is friendly, and it’s very clean.
Gay Beaches in Nice
Hi Beach – This is a private beach located in Nice. While not specifically gay, it’s popular among LGBT visitors and locals, so you’re likely to find a mixed crowd. The benefit of a private beach is the comfort and services. In addition to a bar and restaurant, you can reserve one of the comfortable loungers—much better than lying on the rocky beach.
Coco Beach – This beautiful but rocky public beach is a popular gay hangout. It’s located east of Nice’s port and requires either a bit of a walk or a short ride on bus No. 30. Like all Nice beaches, you’ll need to bring something soft to lie on, as the area is mostly large rocks without the pebbles common to other beaches. There are no services here, so bring your own food and drinks.
St. Laurent d’Eze – One of the most popular gay beaches on the Côte d’Azur. Take bus No. 100 from Nice toward Monaco and get off at the St. Laurent-Eze stop. This is a 100% gay and mostly nude beach. Be sure to bring your own drinks and snacks, as there are no services in the area.
Gay Events in Nice
Pink Parade – This is the annual gay pride parade in Nice, taking over the Promenade des Anglais along the seafront. This celebration takes place in mid-July, after most other pride events in France have wrapped up.
In & Out – The Nice film festival for the gay and lesbian community. Started in 2009, this festival offers 10 days of film screenings between Nice and Cannes. The programming covers themes of sexuality, homosexuality, and gender.
Zefestival – Another film festival, though not LGBTQ+-specific. It provides an opportunity for young or unknown filmmakers to showcase their work. It takes place from late September to early October.
Lou Queernaval – The first Queernaval took place in February 2015. Nice’s Carnival is the third largest in the world and spans 17 days, with Lou Queernaval happening during the final weekend. It has the vibrant energy of a Carnival parade, but with a sprinkling of glitter, drag queens, and shirtless men rocking six-packs.
Nice So Fetiche – This annual fetish event has been held in Nice since 2016. Leather, which in French happens to sound a bit like the word “queer” in English (“le cuir”), plays a big role. Roberto Campillo and his husband organize the event, creating a space for various fetishes like rubber, leather, sneakers, puppy play, and more. This isn’t exactly a sex party, but rather a weekend of social events where people can express themselves freely while mingling with others who share similar interests.
Day Trips from Nice
Monaco – The Principality of Monaco, a country in its own right, is located 20 kilometers from Nice, near the Italian border. With only 36,000 residents and an area of just 2 square kilometers, it’s the second smallest and most densely populated country in the world. You can visit landmarks like the Prince’s Palace and watch the changing of the guard, or explore the famous Oceanographic Museum and the old town. Don’t miss Monte Carlo, made famous by many movies—remember James Bond? Traveling from Nice to Monaco takes 35 minutes by bus or 25 minutes by train. Additional options: Enjoy a half day guided tour or a full day guided tour of Monaco. Book tour →
Cannes -Yes, the home of the famous Cannes Film Festival! Known for its luxury hotels and restaurants, Cannes is also the closest spot to Nice that offers sandy beaches. While the casinos and high-end restaurants give Cannes an exclusive feel, there are options for all budgets. Visit Le Suquet, with its cobbled streets and breathtaking views, or enjoy a meal at a street-side café while taking in the marina. Traveling by the Cannes Express (bus #210) offers a budget-friendly, nonstop trip. Book tour →
Eze-le-Village – A medieval village perched high above the Mediterranean, Eze is full of narrow streets lined with art studios. Enjoy spectacular views of the French Riviera or take a guided perfumery tour. Traveling by train from Nice takes just 15 minutes. Additional option: take a half day guided tour to Monaco and Eze. Book tour →
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