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If you’re wondering what Lisbon has to offer LGBTQ+ travellers, you’re in the right place. In this article, I provide a complete guide to gay Lisbon, including the best bars, clubs, events, and things to do around the city.
Lisbon is one of the most charming and picturesque cities in Europe. Picture breathtaking architecture, vibrant neighbourhoods and quaint cobbled streets hugged by a dazzling coastline.
Most importantly, Lisbon is super queer-friendly! I felt entirely comfortable strolling around the city with a fresh Pastel de nata in one hand and my partner in the other. And there’s also lots of fun to be had with Lisbon’s gay nightlife scene. So, with all that said, let’s jump into my guide.
Is Portugal LGBTQ+ friendly?
In short, yes! Portugal is a safe, tolerant, and progressive country. Especially in larger cities like Lisbon. You can look forward to being your authentic self without fear of discrimination.
In fact, Portugal has some of the most advanced LGBTQ+ rights in Europe. Gay marriage, changing gender, and gender-affirming care have all been legalised and the country has firm anti-discrimination laws in place.
While no destination is entirely exempt from homophobic people or attacks, I’d confidently say that Lisbon is one of the most gay-friendly cities in Europe.
Gay areas in Lisbon
While most venues in Lisbon are inclusive and welcome the LGBTQ+ community, there are two districts where most LGBTQ+ venues are based.
The first gay area in Lisbon is the Bairro Alto Quarter. Here you’ll find gay-friendly bars and restaurants as well as the renowned gay sauna Trombeta Bath. Most of the gay venues in this area are on Rue da Barroca. During busy periods, the party spills out onto the streets making for a fun festival atmosphere.
You will find more of Lisbon’s gay bars around the Principe Real area just west of Bairro Alto. Once a haunt for bohemian artists and writers, the neighbourhood is famous for its alternative nightlife, including gay cruise clubs.
Gay beaches in Lisbon
One of the reasons I love Lisbon is that it’s surrounded by beautiful beaches. So when the hustle of the city gets too much, you can sneak off to the coast for some R&R.
There’s even a gay beach near Lisbon called Praia 19 which forms a part of the Costa da Caparica coastline. The beach is raw, rugged, and clothing-optional so I know it’s going to be a hit with many of you. It’s complicated to get there by public transport but you can catch an Uber which takes about 40 minutes, or drive if you have a car rental.
Gay saunas in Lisbon
There are some gay saunas in Lisbon for when you’re looking to get steamy.
The first, Trombeta Bath, is located in the Barrio Altar Quarter. Close to many of the gay bars and open all day every day on weekends, it’s the perfect spot for continuing the party. With its modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s easily the most popular men’s sauna in Lisbon.
For a more inclusive atmosphere, there’s Sauna SaunApolo which welcomes gays, lesbians, trans, and any other member of the LGBTQ+ community. The vibe here is super boutique and upmarket providing a safe clean space to explore and have fun.
Gay events in Lisbon: EuroPride 2025
When it comes to gay events in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon Pride is the one to add to your annual calendar. The electrifying Pride celebrations take place in the middle of June and naturally, it’s the city’s most fabulous festival.
While every year is a fun-filled extravaganza, this year will be bigger and better than ever before! Lisbon is the host of EuroPride 2025 so you can expect the city to pull out all the stops for the festivities.
The celebrations will take place across the city from the 14th to the 22nd of June. Events will include queer movie screenings, workshops, a pride village, parties, and of course a magnificent parade.
Naturally, it will be a busy time of year to travel to Lisbon so be sure to book in advance.
Best Lisbon gay bars and clubs
There are dozens of gay bars,nightclubs and cruising clubs in Lisbon. It’s impossible to cover them all so here are my top five.
Friends Barrio Alto
The name says it all really. A warm and welcoming establishment where you can let your hair down amongst old friends and new. I loved that there was zero attitude here. Plus the drinks are comparably cheap which is always a nice bonus!
Address: Travessa da Água da Flor 17, 1200-339 Lisboa, Portugal
Purex
This next Lisbon gay bar offers the perfect warm up party on a Friday or Saturday night. It’s not a big establishment by any means but the drinks are good, the people are beautiful, and the music is awesome. I highly recommend this one.
Address: 1200 241, R. das Salgadeiras 28, Lisboa, Portugal
Trumps
Looking to dance into the early hours? Then Trumps is the place to be! An inclusive establishment for the hes shes and theys, expect a vibrant crowd and electrifying atmosphere. Not to mention the energy from the in-house drag queens which is unmatched.
Address: R. da Imprensa Nacional 104B, 1250-127 Lisboa, Portugal
Finalmente Club
Another bar serving up exceptional drag entertainment, Finalmente has been a staple of Lisbon’s gay nightlife since 1976. It’s another spot with amazing vibes. And even though the queens speak mostly portuguese, the performance can be enjoyed by anyone!
Address: R. da Palmeira 38 R/C, 1200-313 Lisboa, Portugal
Posh Club
Pop lovers rejoice! As that’s exactly what you can expect all night every night at this popular gay nightclub in Lisbon. Attracting a mixed LGBTQ+ vibe, the crowd is mostly on the younger side, but that didn’t stop me from having a great time!
Address: R. de São Bento 157, 1200-821 Lisboa, Portugal
Where to eat: Lisbon restaurants
Another highlight of my time in Lisbon was the exceptional food that’s on offer. Here are a few of my favourite foodie hotspots.
Time Out Market
If you enjoy street-food style dining, you’re going to love this place. A realm of vendors serving local and international cuisine, you’ll be spoilt for choice by all the tasty food. Plus the vibe here is great – it’s ideal for a pre-night-out meal.
Address: Mercado da Ribeira, Av. 24 de Julho, 1200-479 Lisboa, Portugal
Taberna do Bairro alto
Set in Lisbon’s gay area, this seemingly modest establishment serves some of the best Portuguese cuisine in the city. It has outdoor seating which is perfect in the summer, but it’s a popular spot so booking is recommended.
Address: Tv. da Boa Hora 27, 1200-063 Lisboa, Portugal
Pastéis de Belém
For exceptional pastries, including Pastel de natas, be sure to visit this popular Lisbon bakery. I tried the legendary egg tart in various establishments across Portugal and none quite compared to this one!
Address: R. de Belém 84 92, 1300-085 Lisboa, Portugal
Where to stay: LGBTQ+ friendly hotels
There is no shortage of LGBTQ+ friendly accommodation in Lisbon. Options range from budget hotels and hostels to premium luxury resorts and apartments. There are even specifically gay hotels in Lisbon which I will mention below along with some others.
The Latebirds Lisbon Guesthouse
Set in a traditional 18th century building, this relaxed boutique hotel caters specifically to gay men. The Latebirds Lisbon Guesthouse is in an excellent location close to many of the city’s gay bars and establishments. Plus it’s only a walking distance to the nearest metro station. Highlights at this gay hotel in Lisbon include a pool, a bar, and a delicious breakfast.
Brown’s Avenue Hotel
Located just a few minutes walk away from Lisbon’s iconic historic centre, this aesthetic boutique hotel is a real crowd-pleaser. From the charming library with an honesty bar to the classy rooftop pool area, Brown’s Avenue Hotel is the perfect place to wind down after exploring the city.
Moxy Lisbon City
I have stayed at many Moxy hotels in the past and they are always incredibly queer-friendly. Moxy Lisbon City is no different and it has a fun quirky vibe and social atmosphere. There’s a rooftop pool with incredible views and it’s in a perfect location for exploring the city. The beautiful Parque Eduardo VII is right around the corner and you can reach the gay district on foot in 25 minutes.
The One Palácio da Anunciada
If you are looking to splurge in Lisbon you will not be disappointed with The One Palácio da Anunciada. Everything from the aesthetics and the food to the facilities and the location make it well deserving of its 5-star status.
You’ll find some of Lisbon’s most prestigious landmarks within walking distance including Avenida da Liberdade – Lisbon’s most prestigious shopping avenue. A truly exceptional hotel for a truly exceptional city.
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