The local scene is relatively small when compared to other capital cities, but still very vibrant and most importantly β on the rise! In fact, Italy remains one of the few countries within the European Union that do not legally recognize same-sex couples despite the fact that several bills on civil unions or the recognition of rights to unregistered couples have been introduced into the Parliament in the past twenty years β yet none have been approved.
In fact, Rome and Italy in general are on a clear path of embracing the more liberal European values including a positive attitude towards the LGBT community.
The estimated one million people who attended the EuroPride which took place in Rome, together with the new generation of more open and self-confident gay man that fill the now well established Gay Village Summer Festival are a true testament of these changes.
So despite the fact that Rome does not possess the diversity or the high spirits of the LGBT scene like some other European cities β it is in fact a perfect LGBT travel destination as you get to witness first-hand the evolvement of a society and the final steps in accepting sexual and gender identities in all their diversity! The other venues are mostly scattered around the city, a concept that many people find refreshing as you get better acquainted with the city, exploring its different parts while doing your LGBT bar-hopping.
Keep in mind that on other nights this is a more straight although alternative club. Of course, there are quite a few gay saunas in Rome as well as dark-room clubs. II Diavolo Dentro and Frequency are the most popular dark-room venues, while Europa Multiclub, Apollion and Mediterraneo are the busiest gay saunas in town. Keep in mind that a membership card is required for all gay cruise bars and saunas in Rome. You can usually acquire the card at the entrance of the venues that require it by showing your photo ID.
