Gay Travel in The French Riviera - The Best Destinations to Visit

The French Riviera, also known as Côte d’Azur, is a gorgeous stretch of Mediterranean coastline in southern France. This idyllic region is famous for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts and inviting community. This inclusive paradise is one of the premier LGBTQ+ destinations in France, perfect for gay couples looking for a lavish getaway. 

In this article, we highlight five of the best destinations to visit on the French Riviera that are ideal for gay travellers. For each of these delightful destinations, we provide details about the local scene, top venues and the best attractions that will ensure you have a splendid experience.

Nice

One of the largest towns on the French Riviera is Nice, a historic city that has embraced LGBTQ+ culture and diversity. This cosmopolitan city attracts travellers from all backgrounds and is known for its vibrant cultural scene. 

The Old Town and port area have an array of gay bars and clubs. If you want to dive straight into the heart of the queer scene, be sure to visit the Nice Côte d’Azur LGBT Centre. This welcoming community centre often hosts classes and events, and is a great place to meet other gay travellers. This is also where you can get tips and advice about the best things to do in Nice. 

One of the best bars in Nice for gay travellers is La Cave Wilson, a trendy cabaret bar that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back into the 1930s. They host a variety of events from cabaret drag shows to live music, so it’s the perfect place to let your hair down. Another gay-friendly spot in Nice is Red Kafe, which is very popular for its amazing happy hour deals and also hosts a plethora of fun-filled events that will electrify your evenings.  

In the daytime, you can lounge on the golden beaches and explore the Promenade des Anglais. You can even take a trip up Castle Hill to see the ruins of the cathedral and the artificial waterfall. It also has some of the best panoramic views of Nice, with the port to the east and the Old Town to the west.  

Cannes

Another glamourous destination in the French Riviera that is perfect for gay travellers is Cannes. While it may not be as famous for its gay scene, this delightful city is a bonified hotspot for LGBTQ travellers. The sophisticated environment is very welcoming and relaxed, making it a great place to visit in the French Riviera for gay travellers. 

Cannes may not have as many designated spaces for gay travellers, but bars like La Belle Epoque and Bar°58 are major highlights of the evening scene. They offer an intimate space to share a drink with your partner and if you're a fan of jazz, Bar°58 will be right up your street. If you happen to be visiting Cannes during the prestigious film festival, there will be a variety of events to attend which will liven up your evenings. 

When looking for a place to dine in Cannes, there is no better choice than Cave Croisette. Though it’s a wine shop by day, it transforms into a stylish tapas restaurant and bar in the evening. The lounge-style dining space is especially inviting and made all the more delightful with fine-crafted cocktails.  

Cannes is known for its sensational beaches with soft golden sands. The beach culture is a large aspect of life in Cannes and an ideal way to spend a sunny day. You can wander along the La Croisette promenade and take in the glorious beach atmosphere. 

Monaco

Monaco is an independent city state situated on the French Riviera and is synonymous with wealth and glamour. There is a large international community which constitutes a more inclusive and tolerant atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for gay travellers. It’s the perfect place for those looking for a sophisticated getaway that is truly unforgettable. There are a few travel agencies that offer luxury gay vacations but Mr Hudson, are up there with the best in tailor made experiences in the area. 

This fabulous destination is characterised by gorgeous views and upscale beach clubs, making it the go to destination for travellers seeking luxury. Jimmy'z Monte-Carlo is an iconic nightclub venue that attracts celebrity clientele and hosts outrageous parties. It’s a major part of the nightlife in Monaco and perfect for gay travellers who want to party in style. 

The benefit of visiting Monaco is that it has some of the most luxurious restaurants in the region. For instance, Le Louis XV is a 3 star Michelin restaurant that provides an unparalleled dining experience and creates a very romantic ambience. As one of the most prestigious restaurants in Monaco, it’s perfect for couples who want to enjoy an unrivalled evening of flavour and glamour.  

Monaco also has some major attractions that will appeal to gay travellers. The Monte Carlo Casino is an iconic entertainment complex with a legendary legacy that will make you feel like one of the elite. For those who prefer historical immersion, you can explore ​​The Prince's Palace and marvel at the delightful interior of the official royal residence. 

Saint Tropez

Gay travellers looking for the best nightlife on the French Riviera will adore the offering of Saint Tropez. Like other destinations on this list, this town is brimming with glitz and glamour. While there isn’t a specific gay district, there are plenty of bars and venues which will appeal to LGBTQ+ travellers and plenty areas with high-end French Riviera villas with stunning views. 

Evenings in Saint Tropez are certain to be unforgettable, with clubs like VIP Room offering sensational nightlife. For a more relaxed evening, Brasserie des Arts is an ideal choice. This exclusive lounge is located right next to Place des Lices and has a terrace where you can enjoy the fresh Riviera air. 

If you’re looking to dine in Saint Tropez then Le Girelier is a great choice, although it is closed during the winter off season. This seafood restaurant is known for its sophisticated setting and gourmet dishes and is a popular haunt in the height of summer. With views of the port to compliment your meal and friendly staff, it's a great place for gay couples seeking culinary delights. 

Alongside the exquisite nightlife, there are also some stellar attractions in Saint Tropez. The most notable of them is Saint Tropez Citadel, perched on a hilltop and offering exceptional panoramic views of the town. 

Antibes 

Located between Nice and Cannes, Antibes is a cultural highlight of the French Riviera with its delightful Old Town and charming attractions. This is one of the more relaxed destinations on the Riviera and is ideal for gay travellers seeking a quiet and laidback trip. The gay scene isn't extensive but there is an inclusive atmosphere that promises to make you feel welcome. 

There are a variety of venues within the Old Town which are welcoming and gayfriendly. Le Safranier is one such area, known for its diverse crowds and picturesque atmosphere. The central square is a hub for locals and often the venue for many of the town's festivals. 

There is a diverse culinary scene in Antibes which makes it a haven for food lovers. Michelin stared restaurants like Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit serve delectable Provençal cuisine and showcase the very best flavours of the region. 

Antibes is also a great destination for gay travellers who want to experience the local culture. Cap d'Antibes is a scenic peninsula that is perfect for coastal walks and features secluded coves where couples can enjoy some privacy. Likewise, Musée Picasso is a top attraction in Antibes and has a fabulous collection of works by Pablo Picasso. 

Summary 

Overall, the French Riviera is a slice of paradise in the Mediterranean. It is an ideal destination for gay travellers as it is doused in glamour and celebrates diversity. Towns like Nice have a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and Monaco offers sophistication in abundance. Gay travellers seeking sensational nightlife will find all they need in Saint Tropez and those who prefer laidback evenings and cultural highlights will adore Antibes. 

The five destinations in this article stand as havens for acceptance and promise to provide the perfect setting for gay travellers. Whether you want to lounge on the lavish beaches or dance the night away, the stunning Côte d’Azur will inspire you with its blend of romance and excitement.