travel gay montreal

A Complete LGBTQ Travel Guide to Montreal

Montreal is well-known as an extraordinarily LGBTQ-friendly destination. With a population of almost 2 million, Quebec's biggest city (and the second largest in Canada) represents a delightful mash-up of cultures, with a proudly Quebecois identity of its own and rich LGBTQ history.

Reportedly, North America's first LGBT publication, "Les Mouches Fantastiques" (The Fantastic Files) was founded here in 1918; by the early 1970s a queer bohemian scene was flourishing (1974 indie film "Montreal Main" offered a glimpse); the first Montreal Pride march took place in 1979 (commemorating the 10th anniversary of NYC's Stonewall riots), and Montreal's famed "gay village" came to be in the 1980s, as gay bars, clubs, and residents overtook a formerly impoverished, decrepit section of the city's Centre-Sud district along Sainte-Catherine Street East.

Refreshingly, Montreal's gay village (which is closed to cars during warmer months) remains a lively and concentrated hub that's even more literally colorful and easy to spot thanks to its overhead, 1 kilometer long "18 Shades Of Gay" - comprised of 180,000 colored recycled plastic resin balls suspended overhead. Tourism Montreal's official website even dedicates a page to this now iconic installation , plus much more LGBT-related information and resources, and be sure to check out Quebec's LGBTQ magazine and website, Fugues , for what's ons and scene skinny.

The Best Things To Do

The gay-owned Spade & Palacio offers "non-touristy tours" by bike and by foot, which are perfect for both newcomers and those who know the city but would like a deeper dive. Book the four-hour, lunch-inclusive Beyond The Bike Lanes tour that covers both residential and popular tourist zones including the Gay Village, or consider the two-hour Beyond The Village one that spotlights the gayborhoood and its history and landmark sites.

Get your selfies on in the Gay Village during daylight while taking in its art installations and community spaces, including the Park of Hope (Parc L'espoir) and AIDS Memorial. Check out its LGBT businesses as well, notably the sexy apparel, leather, and accessories shop, Chez Priape .

Montreal-based graphic novel publisher Drawn & Quarterly has a fantastic store, Librarie Drawn & Quarterly , in the buzzy Mile End district, a favorite stomping ground of local, acclaimed gay filmmaker and actor, Xavier Dolan. It hosts book launches by queer creators (Diane Obomsawin's "On Loving Women" is a delightful must!), events, and a book club for discussing LGBTQ+ work.

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts presented the first retrospective exhibition dedicated to outrageous, visionary queer French fashion designer Thierry Mugler in Spring 2019 and includes work by LGBTQ artists in its permanent collections. Known as DHC/ART until 2019, Old Montreal's privately owned, non-profit Foundation Phi showcases cutting edge, contemporary work.

Bota Bota Spa , situated on a multi-level ship in the Old Port, is a friendly spot to unwind and get pampered (with kid-friendly hours), though some males might prefer one of Montreal's adults only gay saunas, which include the 24-hour Sauna Oasis and four-floor Sauna G.I. Joe .

Events & Festivals

Held in August, Montreal Pride (aka Fierté MTL) climaxes with a parade along René-Lévesque Boulevard headed up by a diverse selection of Grand Marshalls. The event in 2019 included Transgender Pride Flag creator Monica Helms, First Nations Two-Spirit activist and author Ma-Nee Chacaby, Montreal fetish historian Danny Godbout, local entrepreneur and athlete Val Desjardins, Wilson Cruz of "Star Trek: Discovery," and trailblazing Laotian LGBTQ activist Anan Bouapha). Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is also a regular fixture in the parade.

Image+Nation is Canada's oldest—and still very much thriving—LGBT film festival.

And if you're a dancing queen, the fall's annual Black & Blue entails a week's worth of unabashedly queer yet straight-friendly dances and parties, from circuit-style blowouts with benefits going to HIV/AIDS organizations.

The Best LGBTQ Bars and Clubs

You'll find most of Montreal's LGBTQ nightlife conveniently concentrated in its gay village along Ste. Catherine Street East. One of Canada's largest nightlife venues, Complexe Sky entails three floors of drinking, dancing, dining, and entertainment spaces (including a drag cabaret), plus a rooftop terrace, pool, and spa.

Also multi-level, Club Unity features two main dance and drinking spaces (each with different music), a VIP lounge, and spacious rooftop terrace. Admission is free on Thursdays, while Unity also hosts drag shows and performances by visiting "RuPaul's Drag Race" stars like Detox.

An enduring Montreal institution, beloved local drag queen Mado Lamotte (a.k.a. Luc Provost) — who's so well known that her wax likeness graces the city's Grevin Wax Museum along with Celine Dion and Katy Perry—opened another enduring institution in the village almost 20 years ago, Cabaret Mado . This is the place go get a diverse dose of Montreal's queens and kings, plus celebrity tributes and hipster drag (though do note that most shows are in French).

Another enduring village institution, Bar Aigle Noir (Black Eagle), has plenty of space for drinking, dancing, and socializing inside, while summertime allows lounging around an outdoor patio. Celebrating its 25th year in 2020, the unpretentious Le Stud is another bear and leather crowd favorite, with dancing, drinking, and pool tables.

A new kid on the block, opened in 2018, Renard offers an upscale craft cocktail and beer bar atmosphere, with tasty pub grub including cheddar cheeseburgers. If karaoke is your bag, or microphone, Le Date Karaoke is a must, as is the nearly 30-year-old Taverne Normandie , which also boasts a fantastic courtyard terrace and very mixed clientele.

Male strippers can go the full monty in Montreal, so if feeling frisky check out Stock Bar and Campus .

Outside the village, meanwhile, the Rosemont neighborhood's Bar Notre Dame Des Quilles is a jubilant, fabulously LGBTQ+ spot especially popular with hipster queers and lesbians: sing out during Sunday's Okie Dokie Karaoke, while the diverse events line-up includes speed dating, Drag Race viewing parties, and tarot readings.

Where to Eat

Straddling Little Italy and hipster Mile-Ex district, lesbian-owned micro-brewpub Brasserie Harricana keeps a fantastic selection of beer, cider, and kombucha on tap (both its own and from other regional producers), including unique, lip-smacking varieties finished in liquor barrels (e.g. a stout aged six months in Grand Marnier barrels). Culinary offerings range from Quebecois pub snacks (beef tartare, escargots, and cheese) to substantial plates (filet mignon, deluxe salads, and house-made sausages).

A game-changer thanks to its farm-to-table ethos and gorgeous (and photogenic) innovation, 27-year-old fine dining institution Toqué! launched many chefs and restaurateurs’ careers in its kitchen, including local superstars David McMillan and Frederic Morin of Joe Beef , and Charles-Antoine Crête and Cheryl Johnson of Montreal Plaza .

While the Gay Village's dining scene hasn't exactly proven as foodie-centric as other parts of Montreal (locals might feel that's putting it diplomatically), there has been some improvement in the past few years. A few blocks north, Antonin Mousseau-Rivard presents cutting-edge, modern Quebecois creations at the prix fixe-only Le Mousso and casual, a la carte younger sibling Le Petit Mousso. If vegan or vegetarian, good news: 2019 opening Tendresse (sibling to craft cocktail and beer spot Renard) specializes in tasty, meat-free eating.

Where to Stay

Downtown's iconic, 62-year-old Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth , where John Lennon and Yoko Ono staged their famed "bed-in" during 1969, received a stunningly fresh, modern update in 2017. Its 950 guest rooms now amalgamate crisp contemporary design schemes with a nod to the 1960s, while the lobby and public spaces were transformed with an incredible food hall, Marché Artisans .

A few blocks away, the chic 152-room gay-fave W Montreal  is posited just across from the Square-Victoria-OACI metro station (look for its art nouveau Paris-style entrance portico, a 1967 gift from the City of Lights) and received its own comprehensive, multimillion update in 2015. Decor is sophisticated and clubby, some rooms overlook Victoria Square Park, and the hotel's BARTIZEN cocktail lounge emphasizes Quebec-produced gins and botanical libations in a dramatically designed, 1940s-inspired cinematic setting.

Opened in 2016, the 121-room upscale boutique Hotel William Gray  is situated smack dab in Old Town along its lively and oft-Instagramed Place Jacques Cartier. A pair of historic buildings and eight-story glass tower fused and transformed with utterly modern decor and design. Each room is different, thanks to the repurposing of existing space. and the lobby's a buzzy hive of excellent shopping and dining, including locavore restaurant Maggie Oakes and an outpost of Montreal's European-style cafe and Italian coffee connoisseurs, Cafe Olimpico.

If you're keen to be based in the Gay Village in a gay-owned property, make reservations at the five-room Sir Montcalm Gite B&B. Hosts André and Yvon provide breakfast in this contemporary yet homey and distinctly Quebecois building, which also boasts a private terrace garden.

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A queer traveler's guide to Montreal

How to make the most of your next trip up north..

The first time you hear someone in Montreal greet you with a “Bonjour, hi” can be quite jarring—but in this city, seemingly opposite things can coexist at the same time. And it’s not just the bilingualism. Diversity is in Montreal’s DNA.

I first arrived in Montreal as a university student, and, as with most young adults who suddenly find themselves on their own in a big city, my surroundings profoundly shaped who I am today. The 514 is known for its history and architecture, its mind-boggling diversity of neighborhoods, and, above all else, being open to anyone and everyone.

Simply put, the queer scene here is one of the most vibrant and exciting I’ve ever seen. There’s a distinct “ Gay Village ” but, truly, you’ll find LGBTQ+ people and businesses all over this city. With a roster full of queer events and festivals throughout the year, the city also hosts one of North America’s most exciting Pride celebrations. And while it might be impossible to savor each perspective and offering that Montreal has to offer in a single visit, here’s a good roadmap to get you started.

Set your home base outside of the Gay Village…

If it’s your first time in Montréal, book a room downtown . It’s a controversial opinion, I know, but hear me out. This is one of the most queer-friendly cities in the world so while you might be tempted to find a hotel in the Gay Village, I find that a slightly more central location is best for exploring Montreal. It’s here that you’ll find the greatest variety of hotels, too—I recommend the Four Seasons Hotel Montreal (a splurge) or the Hôtel Espresso (a more budget-friendly option).

When you’re downtown—often referred to as the “ Golden Square Mile ” or “Centre-ville”—it’s a cinch to walk to all the major spots, including Mount Royal , most of the city’s museums, the Quartier des Spectacles , and multiple metro stations.

Tip: If you’re a return visitor, venture a bit further out into Plateau or Old Montreal , to get a better feel for the city’s more residential neighborhoods.

… but don’t skip visiting it

There’s a beautiful directness in calling your predominantly LGBTQ+ neighborhood “the Gay Village”—and it feels quintessentially Montreal. It all began in the 1970s when marginalized people began congregating around rue Sainte-Catherine Est , an area known for affordable housing (at the time), as well as its proximity to downtown. Since then, the Gay Village has become a largely residential neighborhood stacked with queer-owned businesses, bars, and orgs.

The majority of its businesses and shops can be found along rue Sainte-Catherine, between rue Berri and rue Papineau—be sure to check out La Graine Brûlée , a funky coffee shop with an outdoor patio, as well as Tendresse , one of the best vegan restaurants in the city. I love to walk up and down this stretch of the city, and I especially love it for the people-watching. On a warm night, this is one of the liveliest parts of the city.

By day, hit up the city’s queer-owned spots

One of the best parts about Montreal is how easy it is to get around and explore the city’s diversity of neighborhoods. I always pack good walking shoes because I inevitably find myself wandering from downtown to the Plateau to the Mile End, spending way longer exploring than I anticipated. Throughout the city, you’ll find tons of queer-friendly and queer-owned businesses. Here, a few of my favorites:

• Dispatch Café : A hip spot for a coffee in the upper-crust hipster Plateau neighborhood
• Brasserie Harricana : The perfect Parc-Ex pub for craft brews catching up on local gossip
• l’Euguélionne : A feminist queer bookshop in the Gay Village that hosts author talks and workshops
• Notre Dame des Quilles : A Mile End haunt complete with cocktails, burritos, and two bowling lanes

By night, take in drag, music, and more

Montreal takes on a whole new persona after dark. In my university years, it was a weekend ritual to walk down rue Sainte-Catherine with a group of friends to see where the night took us—and having been back many times as an adult, I’m happy to confirm that’s still an absolute must-do. You’ll find a lot of options in the Gay Village, including Complexe Sky , one of Canada’s largest nightclubs (don’t miss the rooftop terrace), as well as Club Unity , where the dancing continues until 3 a.m. If you’re a real night owl, check out Stereo , an after-hours club that is renowned for its killer sound system pumping out the deepest house beats.

Montreal’s queer scene is anchored by a thriving drag community. For me, it isn’t a proper night out until you’ve kicked things off with a performance at Cabaret Mado , named after the city’s drag icon, Mado Lamotte. If it’s too full, you’ll also find regular shows at the nearby Bar Le Cocktail .

Tip: For something more low-key, check Montreal Improv, which puts on a weekly LGBTQ+ comedy night , or the popular Mile End watering hole Bar Notre- Dame-des-Quilles , which regularly organizes queer open mic and trivia nights.

Where to celebrate Pride in Montreal

If you want to fit in with the locals, it’s best to refer to Montreal Pride by its Francophone name, Fierté. Whereas most cities devote a weekend to their Pride festivities, Fierté gets a whopping 10 days in August, culminating with a Pride Parade through downtown. Here’s what not to miss:

• The preceding week-plus of festivities includes Community Days , when the Gay Village’s thoroughfare is shut down for LGBTQ+ community orgs and businesses to set up booths for pedestrians.
• Thursday through Sunday of Fierté, there’s no better place to be than Olympic Park , where you’ll find a series of free outdoor shows, ranging from drag operas to DJ sets that have the entire crowd dancing for hours on end. Festivities usually kick off at 2 p.m. and wrap just before midnight, but it’s the kind of thing where you can come and go as you please. Grab dinner nearby (I love Hélicoptère ), and return when you’re ready to dance to your heart’s content.
• On the final Sunday of Fierté, the Pride Parade makes its way down Boulevard René-Lévesque from downtown through the Village. Community members and allies are encouraged to participate in the march, but it’s equally as fun to find a spot on the sidelines (downtown will have more sidewalk space, but the Village end has more energy) and watch the festivities roll by.

Things in Montreal

Click on a category to view the locations

When is gay pride in Montreal?

Fabulous news, darling! Montréal Pride is usually celebrated in mid-August, so mark your calendar and get ready to sparkle 🌈!

Are there any other annual or recurring gay events in Montreal?

Absolutely, sweetie! Montréal not only has Pride, but it also hosts the Image+Nation Film Festival in November, which showcases stellar LGBTQ+ films. And don't forget the Black & Blue Festival held in October, a dazzling electronic music event.

Is there a gay sauna in Montreal?

Oh, honey, Montréal has quite the selection! Some of the 🔥 saunas include G.I. Joe , Oasis , and Sauna Centre-Ville . Make sure to check them all out here .

Where are the gay bars in Montreal?

You'll find most of the gay bars in Montréal's fabulous Gay Village. Try out Cabaret Mado for phenomenal drag shows, and don't miss Complexe Sky for an amazing multi-floor experience. Explore more of Montréal's gay bars here .

Is there a gay district or area in Montreal?

Yes, darling! Montréal has a lively gay district known as the Gay Village (or Le Village). It is absolutely fabulous and packed with bars, clubs, cafés, boutiques, and art galleries catering to the LGBTQ+ community.

How do I get to the city from the airport when traveling to Montreal?

After landing at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, you can take the 747 Express Bus, which connects the airport to downtown Montréal. Other options include taxis, ride-hailing apps, or even renting a car. Choose whatever luxuriously suits your style, darling!

How do I best get around in Montreal?

Montréal offers a variety of convenient options, such as public transport (metro, bus), taxis, ride-hailing apps, and BIXI bikes. Public transit is affordable and can take you almost anywhere in the city, dear.

Is there a gay fetish community in Montreal?

Oh, absolutely, honey! Montréal has a variety of establishments catering to different tastes and interests. For example, you can find cruising bars like Bar Taboo and Stock Bar . Just be yourself and explore the fabulous variety Montréal has to offer!

Is there a gay or gay-friendly hotel in Montreal?

You bet, sweetie! Montréal has a plethora of gay-friendly accommodations to choose from. Dive into the magnificent options available here to make your stay extra fabulous.

What are the top attractions to see in Montreal?

Mont Royal: A beautiful and iconic park with a fantastic panoramic view of the city.

Old Montréal: Stroll through charming, cobblestone streets and admire historic architecture.

Museum of Fine Arts: Revel in a fabulous collection of art from various eras and cultures.

Can you suggest some LGBTQ+-themed landmarks or historical sites to visit in Montreal?

Aires Libres: A gorgeous pedestrian area in the heart of the Gay Village. Make a stop at the famous rainbow-coloured balls installation!

Monument to LGBT Rights: Pay your respects at Place Emilie-Gamelin, home to this important monument symbolizing the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.

What is the best time of year to visit Montreal for gay travelers?

Montréal is fabulous year-round, my dear! However, for the best weather and top LGBTQ+ events, visit between May and September. During this time, you can enjoy Montréal Pride, outdoor festivals, and exciting nightlife.

Are there any LGBTQ+ meetups or social groups that we can join during our stay?

Definitely! Montréal is a multicultural hub with various LGBTQ+ social and support groups. Check local listings and Facebook groups to find fabulous events and activities during your visit.

Are there popular dating apps or websites used more commonly by the LGBTQ+ community in Montreal?

Absolutely, darling! Aside from mainstream dating apps like Tinder and Bumble, you can find LGBTQ+-focused apps like Grindr, Scruff, HER, and OkCupid to connect with the community and make fabulous new friends!

Are there any LGBTQ+ friendly language courses or conversation groups in Montreal?

Yes, sweetheart! Montréal is an incredibly diverse city, so you can find LGBTQ+ friendly language institutes and conversation groups. Check local listings or inquire at LGBTQ+-friendly cafés to find a course or group to practice your language skills!

What are the laws and regulations regarding public displays of affection for LGBTQ+ couples in Montreal?

Canada is known for its progressive LGBTQ+ rights, so holding hands, kissing, and other PDA are perfectly legal and widely accepted in Montréal. Relax and enjoy your time with your loved one, sweetheart! 💖

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The best LGBTQ+ bars and clubs in Montreal

Grab a drink and live it up at the city's welcoming LGBTQ+ hangouts, bars, star-studded drag shows and more.

Montreal is one of the world’s great LGBTQ+ capitals and its queer bars and nightclubs are a pillar of local  nightlife . The city is home to one of the largest Gay Villages in North America, but queer nights and establishments can also be found outside the Village—a testament to the city’s all-embracing joie-de-vivre.

In 2023, for its 17 th year, the lively one-kilometre-long summertime pedestrian mall on Saint-Catherine Street in the Village stretches east from Place Émilie-Gamelin near Berri-UQAM metro station to Papineau Avenue, surrounded by some 40 outdoor terrasses .  Here is the ultimate guide to LGBTQ+ and queer-friendly establishments, including rooftop bars, karaoke, drag shows and more. 

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best bars in Montreal

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Best LGBTQ+ bars in Montreal

1.  Cabaret Mado

Named for beloved Montreal drag icon Mado Lamotte ,  Cabaret Mado  has been packing them in since it opened in 2002. The club is so well-known you can spot visiting celebrities, such as Charlize Theron, Jean-Paul Gaultier and the Pet Shop Boys. Mostly local, but also some national and international drag artists headline shows and sketch comedy nightly.

2.  Complexe Sky

One of the biggest gay clubs in Canada, Complexe Sky boasts three floors of entertainment topped by a popular summertime rooftop terrasse complete with outdoor pool and jacuzzi. Or enjoy a pitcher of ice-cold sangria on the street-level terrasse which is great for people-watching. Beginning May 11, Montreal drag legend Jimmy Moore hosts the free-admission Le Jimmy Moore Drag Show each Thursday at 10 p.m.

3.  Bar Renard

Bar Renard is popular with LGBTQ+ and straight young hipsters and has a wide selection of wines, microbrews and cocktails. Because of its floral décor, Renard’s unisex washroom has become an iconic selfie location.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BAR RENARD (@bar.renard)

4.  District Vidéo Lounge

Queer icon Lady Gaga and her entourage partied at  District Vidéo Lounge   when it opened in 2017. Patrons can also select music videos on the indoor screens.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by District Video Lounge (@districtvideolounge)

5.  Aigle Noir / Black Eagle

Montréal’s Black Eagle is called Aigle Noir, an old-school neighbourhood gay bar in the heart of the Village. While it serves the leather and denim communities, it is also popular with bears and the athletic crowd, young and older alike. Cheap drinks, happy hour specials and a cruisy summertime terrasse.

6.  Club Unity

Club Unity is one of the biggest nightclubs in the city, with two dance floors, a VIP lounge and legendary summertime rooftop terrasse with great views of the city.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Club Unity ★ Montréal (@clubunitymtl)

7.  Le Normandie

A Village institution since 1981, friendly sports bar Le Normandie on Atateken Street is a terrific local watering hole with cheap drinks and karaoke. Le Normandie also has two of the nicest summer terrasses in the Village.

8.  Bar Le Cocktail

The friendly and comfortable vibe of legendary Montreal female impersonator Michel Dorion’s Bar Le Cocktail has made the drag bar a popular Village hangout, with live shows by many of the best drag artists in the city, including Dorion.

9.  Le Date Karaoke

There are karaoke bars and then there is Club Date, a classic neighbourhood bar in the Village whose regulars could give Tom Jones and Barbra Streisand a run for their money! The song list features “hundreds of thousands” of titles, including Elvis tunes, 80s ballads and Québécois classics. Patrons can also upload a ​high-definition MP4 digital video document of their performance.

10.  Bar Le Stud

Le Stud’s motto is, “Stud is a men’s bar, where men love men.” Open since 1995, the labyrinthine nightclub is popular with the bear and leather communities, but has a diverse clientele. Couple dancefloors, nightly DJs, pool tables, video poker, two summertime terrasses, and theme events ranging from bear nights to leather kink.

11.  Bar Minéral

The beautifully designed Bar Minéral  on Atateken Street is a wine bar by day and nightclub after dark, with an excellent light food menu.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by MINĒRAL (@barmineral)

12.  Stock Bar

Montreal is famous for its gay male strip joints and none is bigger than Stock Bar in the Village. There's a Ladies Night every Wednesday, and Stock Bar is also home to Montreal’s Violet Hour queer reading series showcasing LGBTQ+ poets, writers and authors.

13.  Cabaret Berlin

Popular performance and event venue for those who love Post-Punk, New Wave, Alternative, Cold Wave and Dark Wave. 

14.  Motel Motel

The new kid on the block, opened in 2023 by the team behind Bar Renard and Bistro Tendresse, Motel Motel presents a new concept in the Village: enjoy a good meal and then party under the same roof. This kitchen offers small dishes designed to be shared, with a magnificent nightclub hidden out back.

15.  Café Cleopatre

Outside the Village, Café Cleopatre, whose building on The Main has been a showbar since the 1890s, is the last remnant of Montreal’s fabled red-light district. There is a female strip joint downstairs, while the upstairs cabaret is an historically queer-friendly space.

16.  Bar Notre-Dame-Des-Quilles

Rosemont neighbourhood bar NDQ is a legendary LGBTQ+ hangout outside the Village. An inclusive and safe space for all, NDQ regularly programs queer-themed events and parties, and is also home to a miniature bowling alley!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NOTRE DAME DES QUILLES 🎳 (@bar_notre_dame_des_quilles)

17.  Taverne Marion

Located just outside the Village, Taverne Marion was opened in 2022 by the team behind Taverne Midway on The Main. With its white-washed brick walls and large garage-style windows, the bright and cheery Taverne Marion has become a trendy hangout.

18.  Queer nights

There are many LGBTQ+ nights hosted by queer-friendly establishments, such as the  LuvHaus Soirée LGBTQ at Blockhaus Bar in east-end Hochelaga-Maisonneuve; uber-queer MPU  nights (formerly called Mec Plus Ultra) and Thirst Trap nights at Le Belmont nightclub in the Plateau district; and The L Nights , Queen & Queer dance parties and Homopop events are held at various venues, including at such queer-friendly and drag-friendly spaces as Bar Le Ritz PDB and The Diving Bell Social Club .

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Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers in Montreal

The province of Québec is a destination for international gay travelers. Gay life here is generally open and accepted (gay marriage is legal throughout the province), and gay travelers are heavily marketed to. Travelers will find the rainbow flag prominently displayed on the doors and websites of many hotels and restaurants in all the city's neighborhoods.

The Tourisme Montréal website, www.tourisme-montreal.org, has a "Gay and Lesbian" link under "Tourist" that lists gay-friendly accommodations, events, websites for queer meet-ups, and more. Of several local queer publications, the most thorough is Fugues (www.fugues.com), which lists events, as well as gay-friendly lodgings, clubs, saunas, and other resources. Free copies are available at tourist offices and in racks around the city. Gay Line (tel. 888/505-1010 or 514/866-5090; www.gayline.qc.ca) is a help line offering advice on over 550 accommodations, events, and services. In Montréal, many gay and lesbian travelers head straight to the Village (also known as "the Gay Village"), a neighborhood east of downtown located primarily along rue Ste-Catherine est between rue St-Hubert and rue Papineau. Here, there are antiques shops, bars, B&Bs, and clubs, clubs, clubs. The Beaudry Métro station is at the heart of the neighborhood and is marked by the rainbow flag. As the Tourisme Montréal website says, "Rainbow columns on a subway station entrance? I've got a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore!" The Village is action central on any night, but it especially picks up during the weeklong celebration of sexual diversity known as Divers/Cité (www.diverscite.org) in late July and early August and the Black & Blue Festival (www.bbcm.org), an October event that's one of the world's largest circuit parties, with a week of entertainment and club dancing. In 2006, Montréal added a pink feather to its cap by hosting the first World Outgames, attracting more than 16,000 athletes. When you're visiting the neighborhood, stop in at the Village Tourism Information Centre at 1307 rue Ste-Catherine est (tel. 888/595-8110 or 514/522-1885), open June to August from noon to 6pm (days vary; call in advance). There's information about everything from wine bars to yoga classes. It's operated by the Québec Gay Chamber of Commerce (www.ccgq.ca).

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Montreal Gay City Guide: A City of Fun, Festivals, and Friendly Neighbors

Located where the St. Lawrence and Ottawa rivers meet, Montreal is the largest city in Canada’s Quebec province. It is a dynamic, welcoming city with a hip, eclectic vibe. It's a city that's overflowing with culture, festivals, wonderful food, and plenty of outdoor activities, not to mention endless opportunity and a wide variety of warm and welcoming neighborhoods that will eagerly embrace anyone who wants to call it home.

A Bit of Montreal History

The French explorer Jacques Cartier initially reached the island of Montreal in 1635, followed by a group of French settlers in 1642. The settlement flourished as part of the fur trading industry and continued to grow. Various industries and businesses ventured into the city as it continued to grow, and along with that came a rich diversity that has always been a hallmark of life in Montreal. It eventually became the second biggest city in Canada and the principal city in Quebec. Today, Montreal is a city that celebrates its rich French history while also constantly looking forward toward the future. It is widely considered to be one of the most diverse and cosmopolitan cities in North America and is known for its great charm energy and vibrant spirit.

• Montreal is one of the five largest cities in the world where people speak French. Paris, of course, is the first.
• Montreal has the highest number of restaurants per capita in Canada and the second-highest number per capita in North America after New York City.
• No building in Montreal can be taller than the cross located on the Mount Royal Mountain.

Find more fun facts about Montreal here .

Montreal’s LGBTQ Community

Montreal has a rich, diverse, and thriving LGBTQ community that is well-supported by resources and community centers across the city, some of which include:

Centre Communautaire LGBTQ+

The Centre Communautaire is a popular community resource center offering a wide variety of educational programs, resources, legal, health, and support services, and opportunities for networking and engaging with other members of the LGBTQ community and the city at large.

West Island LGBTQ2 Centre

The West Island LGBTQ2 Centre is a community dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming space for the LGBTQ community and questioning individuals to feel welcomed with open arms. It is the only LGBTQ community center in the West Island area of Montreal and serves youth, seniors, and everyone in between.

Montreal Weather

Montreal has what’s known as a semi-continental climate. This means that it has warm, humid summers, and very cold winters while offering visitors and residents alike a pleasant spring and fall, one with beautiful blooms, and the other the colors of changing leaves. Winters can be quite snowy – on average, snow depths of greater than 1 cm are seen on about 109 days of the year. On the other side of the coin, there are also plenty of sunny days, and in summer the highs can reach up to around 90 °F. Truly, Montreal is a city of all seasons.

Can’t Miss Montreal Events

Fierte Montreal Pride

Montreal's annual gay pride festival is truly something that you won’t want to miss. The festival includes 10 amazing days of parties and events and culminates with a huge parade on the final day, that engulfs the entire city. Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, usually leads the parade. It’s an amazing celebration of all that the LGBTQ community adds to Montreal.

The Black and Blue Gay Festival

The Black and Blue Gay Festival is a highly popular 5-day event that takes place annually during the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend in October. Featuring electronica and techno music, the festival attracts around 70,000 people each year. In addition to being an amazing event, it’s also for a good cause – proceeds are donated to HIV/AIDS charities each year.  

A Look at the Best Montreal Neighborhoods

Some cities have gayborhoods – but Montreal has a village. Yes, it’s true – an entire gay village (one of the largest in North America!) that has an upbeat vibe, a fun, and lively club scene, and the main drag, the Rue Sainte-Catherine, which is a pedestrian-only avenue that is frequently strung with decorations and lights, and on which numerous bars, eateries, and cafes are located for all to enjoy. Its Rue Amherst street is known for its eclectic mix of boutique and antique shops, and the entire village is very walkable, warm, and welcoming. The village also includes the beautiful neoclassical Saint-Pierre-Apôtre Church, with its well-known Chapel of Hope, dedicated to AIDS victims. For those considering purchasing a home in Le Village Gai , there are a variety of housing options and price ranges available.

For those who are considering moving to Montreal, it is worth noting that bringing your own vehicle is not essential, and may not even be advised. Because of the density of the city, many businesses are within walking distance from the city’s metro stations throughout the city, and many residents choose to walk or bike.

Arts and Entertainment

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is the largest art museum in Canada by gallery space and is spread across five pavilions, showcasing a world-class collection of art from all eras and of all selection of art from all eras and of all styles for visitors to enjoy.

Place des Arts

The Place des Arts is Montreal’s major performing arts center and is the largest cultural and artistic complex in Canada. Whatever you enjoy – opera, Broadway, drama, musicals, stand-up, and more, you’re sure to find it here.

Parks and Recreation

Montreal Botanical Garden

The Montreal Botanical Garden is a stunning display of nature’s wonder that you don’t want to miss. The garden includes 75 hectares of thematic gardens and greenhouses and is widely considered one of the most important botanical gardens in the world due to the extent of its collections and facilities.

Olympic Park

Olympic Park is the district of the city that was home to many of the venues from the 1976 Summer Olympics, which were held in Montreal. Today, the Montreal Olympic Park Esplanade features outdoor events and activities year-round, as well as the Olympic Stadium which hosts sporting events and shows, along with Montreal Tower, a planetarium, and more. There is more than enough here for several days of activities, and something for everyone to enjoy.

Montreal Nightlife

Complexe Sky

Complexe Sky is the largest gay club in Canada and is one of the most popular gay bars in Montreal. It is a large building with a restaurant on the ground floor called Le Branche, and it has four floors each with different styles of music, including a rooftop terrace with a pool and a hot tub. There are regularly held drag shows, good drinks, and a great crowd. You won’t want to miss an evening out at this iconic Montreal spot.  

Although Le Stud is officially a bear bar, all are welcome. Le Stud has a really friendly atmosphere that includes an outdoor drinking area as well as a large dancing area inside. The bar is known for having fun themed nights and events like “Polar Bear Week” and “Full Moon” parties. It also has a connected restaurant - L'Antre BBQ + Grill which offers a fantastic selection of pub food.

Bar Le Cocktail

Bar Le Cocktail is Montreal’s most popular gay karaoke bar. Every evening a live DJ hosts the karaoke, and Happy Hour is every Friday before 10:30 pm. The bar has two levels and a beautiful terrace for enjoying summer evenings.

Contact a Montreal Realtor Today

If you are ready to find your next perfect home in a Montreal neighborhood that’s a great fit for your interests and lifestyle needs, today is the perfect day to get started. Contact a Montreal gay realtor for a free, no-obligation consultation today!

Every flag flies high in Montréal

Montréal has long been a gathering place for LGBTQ+ communities from across the globe and the city celebrates inclusivity and diversity all year long, reaching a fever pitch every August for Montréal Pride. The scene extends across the island, each borough with its own unique ven-ues and events. Join the hipsters of Hochelaga for LuvHaus and dance to Latinx rhythms at Dis-coño. Get up close and personal with the local drag community at Cabaret Mado, under the guiding hand of legendary queen Mado Lamotte. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails over a set of bowling at Notre-Dame-Des-Quilles or a tasty lunch at Dépanneur Le Pick Up. Leap into the pages of Lez Spread the Word magazine at one of their intimate soirées—after grabbing a copy at L’Euguélionne bookstore—or flirt across the epic dance floors at Stereo. Wherever your trav-els take you in queer Montréal, expect nothing less than the friendliest of proud welcomes.

On your marks, get set, go!

Montréal’s LGBTQ+ community is constantly changing, evolving and eternally vibrant. Here’s some of our latest favourite starting points for an unforgettable queer MTL itinerary.

• Introduce yourself to Montréal’s LGBTQ+ family in The Village , North America’s oldest and largest historically queer home base.
• Celebrate Montréal Pride at its performances, parties and outdoor dances you’ll remember for a lifetime.
• Enjoy a coffee or a glass of natural wine at Pastel Rita in the Mile End (and get that commemorative tattoo in their backroom studio).
• Meet Montréal’s drag king community at ManSpread , hosted by local leader Charli DeVille.
• Explore Montréal’s lesbian scene at parties hosted by BLUSH , Sweet Like Honey , Lust Cove and Ellelui (who also made us this handy guide of venues and events in the city).
• Chat up a fellow cinephile in line for a screening at the annual image+nation LGBTQueer film festival.
• Peruse the selection of feminist, queer titles at L’Euguélionne bookstore
• Encounter contemporary artworks by members of the 2-spirited indigenous community at daphne .

Great fares to Montréal

Air Canada offers the most daily non-stop flights to Montréal from many cities across Canada and the United States.

With its award-winning service and great fares, North America’s Best Airline can offer you an incredible travel experience.

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Gay Tours Montreal

Montreal is known as the most european city in north america, packed with culture, history and home to a big lgbt+ community, book a travel gay approved hotel.

Montréal Burlesque Walking Tour

Taverne Midway, 1219 Boul St-Laurent , Montreal , Canada

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Last updated on : 8-Aug-2023

Ultimate Montreal Afternoon Tour - English

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Exploring Gay Montreal

Related to:.

Pink Bubble Ornaments in Montreal's Gay Village District

Colorful pink bubble ornaments create a canopy along Sainte-Catherine Street in Montreal's Gay Village district.

Photo by: George Rose, Getty Images

George Rose, Getty Images

Few cities in the world embrace their LGBT communities with as much gusto as Montreal . Home to one of North America's most famous gay neighborhoods -- simply known as the Gay Village, or Le Village Gai to the city's predominantly francophone population -- Montreal even marks it as such on its official tourism maps. Canada's second biggest city also hosts a slew of gay-popular annual events and festivals, and was the site of the first-ever World Outgames (a preeminent global LGBT sporting event) in 2006. Montreal's long gay history dates all the way back to 1869, when one Moise Tellier ran a shop on what's now Saint Antoine Street selling apples and cakes -- but more legendarily was a place for gay gentlemen to rendezvous. A century later in the Stonewall era, most of Montreal's gay life was clustered at the city center along Saint Laurent Boulevard. The 1970s and '80s saw LGBT establishments move eastward en masse, creating today's Gay Village in the mile-or-so stretch of Saint Catherine Street (or Rue Sainte-Catherine) between Berri and Papineau Streets. Here, scores of bars, clubs, shops and restaurants catering to the city's large and diverse LGBT community have been thriving for decades. While it's active year-round, summertime brings the Village to full life. During the neighborhood's Aires Libres art event from May to September, a 12-block stretch of Saint Catherine between Saint Hubert and Papineau is closed to traffic and transformed into a pedestrian-only zone. Just to ensure ultimate gaiety, some 200,000 little pink balls are strung directly above the street, creating an ever-present pink explosion overhead. The Village prides itself on offering venues for every shade of the gay rainbow. At the top of Saint Catherine Street is Le Stud , perennially popular with the city's leather/Levi and bear (read: generally hairier and less image-conscious) crowds. At the bottom end of the Village are Circus and Stereo , both mixed gay/straight after-hours dance dens that rank on DJ Magazine's list of the Top 100 clubs in the world. Located along Saint Catherine Street are longtime Village favorites like Cabaret Mado , helmed by beloved local drag entertainer Mado; Sky , a sprawling 3-level complex that overflows on weekends, and during summer months sports its own rooftop terrace, pool and spa; and Stock Bar , one of Montreal's many popular male strip clubs, where -- as per the city's rather relaxed guidelines on such matters -- the performers disrobe completely.

Montreal Gay Village District

"Pink Balls" in Montreal Gay Village on Sainte-Catherine Street with a rainbow flag in the background

Photo by: Marc Bruxelle, Getty Images

Marc Bruxelle, Getty Images

Like any neighborhood, the Village is constantly evolving -- but the recent sudden closures of 2 longtime Village mainstays (lesbian club Drugstore and gay megastore Priape) still stunned the local LGBT community. "It's unfortunate to see these closures, but I remain confident that the Village will continue strong," says Tanya Churchmuch, Montreal's assistant director of tourism. "The opening of Appollon nightclub in the former Station C complex is an excellent and popular addition to the neighborhood, and newer restaurants like Steak Frites and De Farine et d’Eau Fraîche are also doing very well." Meanwhile, Montreal's spectrum of gay life continues to expand beyond the cozy confines of the Village, especially westward to the up-and-coming Mile End and adjacent Mile-Ex neighborhoods -- the latter formerly a desolate industrial area between Mile End and the Parc Extension district. Here a more alternative and self-identified "queer" scene has mingled with the area's already-established creative class. The blend makes for socializing that's anything but dull, at quirky establishments like Notre-Dame des Quilles , a dive bar with its own half-size bowling lanes; and Alexandraplatz , a hip German-like beer garden set in a working brewery complex. Mile End is also home to the always lively Royal Phoenix , now the city's main lesbian hangout -- which also attracts a wide variety of modern gays, and a fair number of straight folks, too.

Decorative pink balls and rainbow flags adorn Montreal's Gay Village district

Photo by: Pinkcandy, Shutterstock.com

Pinkcandy, Shutterstock.com

With such an active gay scene citywide, it's no surprise that Montreal's LGBT community plays a big part in its famed annual festival line-up. The city hosts not 1 but 2 major week-long gay-specific events: the Divers/Cité arts and music festival at the end of July, and the massive Montreal Pride (Fierté Montréal) just a few weeks later in mid-August. In late August comes the naughtier Montreal Fetish Weekend , while October brings the world famous Black & Blue party, and the Image+Nation LGBT film festival happens at the end of November. Many of the city's most popular mainstream events and festivals also have strong gay presences, including the dance- and theater-focused Festival TransAmériques in May and June, the Piknic Electronik summer Sunday daytime dance parties at Parc Jean-Drapeau, the Just for Laughs comedy festival in July, and the Osheaga music festival in early August. For the latest info on gay Montreal, check out the website of the long-running LGBT monthly magazine Fugues (in French only), and the dedicated LGBT section of Montreal's official tourism portal.

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Guide to Gay Friendly Hotels in Montreal Canada (2024 Updated)

Montréal is the largest city in Canada’s Québec province. It’s set on an island in the Saint Lawrence River and named after Mt. Royal, the triple-peaked hill at its heart. Its boroughs, many of which were once independent cities, include neighbourhoods ranging from cobblestoned, French colonial Vieux-Montréal – with the Gothic Revival Notre-Dame Basilica at its centre – to bohemian Plateau.

 Top attractions to visit in Montreal

Table of Contents

• Mount Royal Park
• Old Montreal
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• Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal
• Montreal Botanical Garden

Day Trips in Montreal

• Quebec City and Montmorency Falls Day Trip from Montreal
• Mont Tremblant Private Day Tour from Montreal
• Private day tour to wildlife Parc Omega and Montebello lodge from Montreal
• Sugar Shack Maple Syrup Private Day Tour with lunch from Montreal
• Ottawa Private Day Tour from Montreal

See all Day Trips in Montreal on GetYourGuide.

1. Hotel Chateau Versailles 4* – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal

The Chateau Versailles combines historic charm with modern amenities. This cosy hotel boasts marvellous architectural features and unique accommodation and on-site facilities. It is situated in the heart of downtown Montreal.

Guests can can take advantage of the hotel’s free yoga and jogging equipment. You can also admire the hotel’s many antique works and fireplaces, or stay in shape in the 24-hour fitness centre.

This hotel is a walk-up, all stairs, no elevators on 4 floors. You can explore the popular “Golden Mile” with its galleries, museums and much more. The antique shops of Sherbrooke Street and the scenic Mont Royal Park are also around the corner

If you’re looking for a romantic hotel in Montreal, look no further than Chateau Versailles.

Nearby landmarks such as AURA Basilique (1.4 mi) and Chinatown (1.4 mi) make Chateau Versailles Montreal a great place to stay when visiting Montreal.

Rooms at Chateau Versailles provide a flat screen TV, and guests can stay connected with free wifi.

In addition, while staying at Chateau Versailles Hotel guests have access to a concierge. You can also enjoy free breakfast.

During your visit, be sure to check out one of Montreal’s popular crab restaurants such as Au Pied de Cochon, Le Bremner, and Garde Manger, all a short distance from Chateau Versailles Montreal.

Should time allow, Mount Royal Park, Underground City, and Rue Ste.-Catherine are some popular attractions that are within walking distance.

The staff at Chateau Versailles looks forward to serving you during your upcoming visit.

Visited  Montreal and stayed in Chateau Versailles. Friends had recommended this hotel as they have stay here many, many times. Very reasonable rates for such a good hotel. Very good service, very clean rooms and great breakfast included. It is a beautiful, historic hotel. Would recommend staying here. We will be back.

The best of Montreal is but five minutes walk to the metro, a bus outside your door or, as one guest did, a quick hail of a taxi just has he stepped to the sidewalk.

The room we had was a queen and had a closet to put our bags away, making it much larger than needed. The bathroom was spotless and all white marble. The water gave hot a new meaning. The complimentary breakfast is worth it for the great coffee and chocolate croissants.

Chateau Versailles is a comfortable and well-furnished hotel housed in a pair of former mansions. The hotel is full of interesting art, sculpture, and antiques.

The location is excellent, just a few blocks from the Montreal Museum of Fine Art, McGill University, Concordia University’s downtown campus, and the Rue Sainte-Catherine shopping artery in Centre-Ville. The closest Metro Station, two blocks distant, is Guy-Concordia.

The best quality of Hotel Chateau Versailles, however, is its friendly and attentive staff. My first trip to Montreal would not have been the unqualified success that it was — it was a father-and-daughter weekend in a city neither of us had seen before — without the extensive advice offered freely by several members of the reception desk staff.

I will give Chateau Versailles top consideration for my next visit to Montreal. I’d be glad to return to this lovely lodging.

Let’s get one thing out of the way, however: It’s not for people with weak knees. The hotel is on several floors of the former mansions and there are no elevators. There is only a network of staircases, both broad and narrow. If you cannot handle that, this is not the hotel for you. Even the lobby is reached by walking up a set out tall outside stairs.

But if stairs charm you, then Chateau Versailles is an excellent choice.

It offers lovely rooms. The rooms with two queen beds are in the back of the hotel, in a more modern addition. But I compared the furnishings to one of the front rooms; the overall quality was identical. The front rooms just have more Victorian architectural features. Our room featured two lovely reading chairs — we used those chairs for, yes, reading, but also for talking, listening to music, watching a little TV. The pair of queen beds were luxurious to sleep in, and there was plenty of space around the beds. A nice desk and a bureau completed the furnishings, along with a table between the two chairs. The TV has all the ports in back for your streaming media box or gaming box, if you travel with those items.

The ensuite bathroom in our room (#303) was a bit small, but not tiny. It had an excellent full-length shelf for toiletries. I was annoyed that the towel rack was in the nicely tiled shower, as I had to remove the towels before taking a shower. Hot water was plentiful and water pressure was excellent.

The room also had a good-sized closet and plenty of clothes hangers. Two windows offered good ventilation. With the heat on in the winter, the room grew just a bit stuffy. Opening the windows on the opposite walls cleared the air and we quickly closed them.

The continental breakfast featured fruit, yoghurt, raisins, apricots, bagels, croissants, other pastries, cheeses, and an assortment of cereals, juices, tea, and coffee. The breakfast room is quite comfortable and did not have the blaring television many hotels have instituted.

How much does a room costs at Chateau Versailles Montreal  ?

Prices start 7 8 $/night for Standard Double Room . The Deluxe King Room with Fireplace is  104 $/room per night with breakfast included – if coming on a honeymoon this is the perfect choice for gay couples.

This room features custom-made furniture, a bathroom with a bath and shower and Canadian-made Crabtree & Evelyn spa products.

Where to book online – Chateau Versailles – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal   – you can find the best hotels deals in Montreal during Montréal Pride Festival  which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Montreal on Booking.com or  Trip.com  or Hotels.com  and see more reviews on TripAdvisor.

2. Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth 5* – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal Canada

Connected to Montreal’s underground city, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth offers access to more than 32.2 km of underground pedestrian walkways, shopping centres, entertainment venues and attractions. A wellness centre with an indoor pool is featured at the hotel.

The famous John Lennon and Yoko Ono suite, site of the 1969 “bed-in for peace” has been revamped and features a virtual reality experience.

The hotel boasts a lounge area, a business campus with an outdoor terrace, a mixology bar, a cosy coffee lounge, a lively bistro and a unique urban market. Innovative event lounges provide the latest technology. An art collection featuring work by established and emerging artists add a sense of community and flair to the property.

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth features a health club with a state-of-the-art fitness center. Guests can relax with a massage at the hotel’s full-service spa .

Under the watchful eye of the Mont Royal expands romantic and cosmopolitan Montreal, where English and French cultures meet in harmony. With stellar restaurant options and activities aplenty, you are sure to never go hungry or bored in our wonderful city. Perfectly located in the heart of downtown, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth has a fascinating history that unravels through a “for Montrealers, by Montrealers” concept featuring a restaurant, a bar, an urban market and a coffee shop where local products and talents take the center stage.

As you will definitely want to stay longer, our hotel offers accommodations perfectly elaborated to fit your stay. From couples’ retreats to action-packed family vacations, your stay with us means making memories that you will forever cherish.

The building is so unassuming, but wait until you get inside. We arrived with a lot of luggage and the doormen quickly helped us get inside out of the cold. The check-in process was quick and the agent convinced us to upgrade to a Gold room on the basis that it was $100 extra per night, while paying for breakfast would be $70. I suspect this works with a lot of guests.

There are very few benefits for Accor Platinum guests – while drink vouchers were given and there was water in the room, that’s where it ends. I really wish Accor would fix their programme and standardise the loyalty benefits across all of their properties and regions.

The room itself was wonderful – a decent size and I appreciated the recent renovations and modern design. The bed was big and pillow comfortable. The bathroom was great and included a big bath and separate shower. The LeLabo bath products are ace.

Being in a Gold room gave as access to the Fairmont Gold Lounge on the 21st floor which serves breakfast and then light snacks in the evening. We were frequent visitors! The staff were great and knew our names by the second visit.

We had a dinner at Roselys which was fantastic. Food and service were both excellent.

The gym and pool are worth a special mention – one of the best hotel gyms I’ve ever used. An inviting space with plenty of equipment and friendly staff.

The hotel is attached to the Montreal Central train station by lift. Even with a mountain of luggage it was easy getting to the train.

Room: We had a junior suite. Good sized living area with a couch, chair, a desk, and a large cabinet housing a minibar and a coffee set up. Bedroom had a king size mattress which was really comfortable. Also had a smallish full bath adjacent to the bedroom and a half bath off the living area. Room was very clean and well maintained. We had a large screen TV in each room.

Location: Superb location in downtown Montreal. There was direct access to the underground and there was a nice, upscale food court (several notches above the usual mall food court) right next to the hotel entrance. We also walked to the Bell Centre to watch the Canadien’s play, and we were similarly within walking distance to the main shopping areas and lots of restaurants.

Food : Ate a few times in the restaurant. Outstanding breakfast buffet with cooked to order omelettes, and decent French pastries (better than the usual buffet pastries). Dinner menu offered was what I might call, higher end bar food. Overall quality and service was very good and up to Fairmont standards. There is also a bar that opens after 5 – we went a few times before going to bed and it was buzzing and lively. Lobby also had a terrific coffee bar and a marketplace with lots of food options.

Amenities: outstanding 24 hour gym with an indoor pool, all kinds of free weights and machines, and lots of cardio equipment. They had a big room full of cycles, looks like they offered regular classes. On Valentines day (not sure if this is done regularly), there was a DJ playing music all afternoon in the lobby which created a festive vibe.

Service: outstanding and courteous, consistent with what I would expect from a Fairmont.

How much does a room costs at Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth  ?

Prices start 211  $/night for Fairmont King Room . The John Lennon/Yoko Ono Suite is  2376 $/room per night with breakfast included – if coming on a honeymoon this is the perfect choice for gay couples.

This suite is located on the 17th floor and features virtual reality technology. It has a living room with Bed-in memorabilia and history. Also provides a dining room for 6 people, a kitchenette and two over-sized bathrooms, 1 of them with a freestanding bath.

Where to book online – Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal   – you can find the best hotels deals in Montreal during Montréal Pride Festival  which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Montreal on Booking.com or  Trip.com  or Hotelscombined.com  and see more reviews on TripAdvisor.

3. BBV Bed and Breakfast du Village 3* – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal

Located in the heart of Montreal’s gay village, Bed and Breakfast du Village – BBV is within 5 minutes’ walk of restaurants, shops and public transportation.

A flat-screen TV and air conditioning are featured in each room. Select rooms offer a sink or a sofa. Free WiFi is available.

A terrace and breakfast area are among shared facilities at B&B du Village. Private parking is available with surcharge.

BBV is 4 minutes’ drive from the Notre-Dame Basilica and 5 minutes’ drive from the Old Port of Montreal. The Latin Quarter is 13 minutes’ walk away.

The BBV, situated in the heart of Montreal, in the Village, sets itself apart by its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Boasting its clean and comfortable rooms, covered parking, onsite laundry and a nice kitchen, you will feel right at home.

Proud of over 22 years experience in the hospitality, we know that our spacious and clean accommodations add to the quality of your stay. Please note that the prices listed are based on double occupancy and include continental breakfast for two, television, cable, wireless Internet and new central air conditioning. We look forward to acting as your hosts! Comfort and Warmth: our Bed and Breakfast. Philippe and Nicolas.

Great room (mine had it’s own bathroom)…wonderful location (easy to walk to  Gay Village and Old Montreal)…fabulous breakfast (bacon & eggs, fresh fruit, homemade yogurt, a really tasty breakfast sandwich, juices and coffee!)…but best of all …amazing owners, as they are caring, helpful and a joy to talk to.

The B&B is easy to find and right next to  gay  village. Superb breakfast provided. Rooms are comfortable although not large – but no complaints from us. We liked Montreal but the  gay village is a bit seedy and not really a great place to find good restaurants.

Philippe & Nicolas are amazing hosts and I hope that Ron and I will return again. Let me tell you the breakfast every morning was spectacular. These boys know how to cook! Check in was an absolute breeze. Philippe spent the time Giving us various ideas on what to do around Montreal. He gave us a map and a tour guide book.

The bed-and-breakfast is in the perfect location steps away from The gay village downtown Montreal. Please don’t think that you have to be gay to stay here! We met other couples around the breakfast table that were straight. This is the most suitable environment for anybody who really wants the Montreal experience. Beaudry Metro station Is literally steps away and very easy to get to you.

I highly recommend that you stay here than any other bed-and-breakfast in town because it certainly the best in my opinion.

The location was ideal too just off the main street running through the  gay village with many bars and restaurants but also close enough to a subway station for easy connections downtown.

The location is within the Gay Village and only a couple of blocks away from the Beaudry metro station, so it’s commutable from the airport and is accessible to other points in Montreal.

We had a room with a private bathroom, which we loved. It was on the first floor by the kitchen, which wasn’t bad since there was still privacy to the daily breakfast. There was a small bureau in the room and a collapsible table. The restroom was small, but it wasn’t shared. The rooms on the second floor share a bathroom, as well as a common area.

The setting is updated and pleasant, and the rooms are comparable to other more expensive hotels. Rooms with either private or shared bathrooms are available. There are two bathrooms available for those three rooms, where the bathrooms are shared, so the bathrooms are clean and there is usually no waiting in one or the other of the two bathrooms.

Three rooms have private bathrooms. Each room has its own contemporary air conditioner/heater which is electronically climate controlled to the needs of the guest. The hosts are friendly, and they serve a most outstanding breakfast, which is included in the reasonable price of the stay.

Sharing breakfast with other friendly guests from Europe, the US, and Canada is always an interesting experience! Outside terraces add to the comfortable ambiance. Free wifi and even a computer to use is available. Assistance is offered by the host in giving directions to get around Montreal and in giving suggestions for sightseeing. The B & B is only one short block from a subway station, and subways are a fast, efficient way of getting around Montreal.

The B & B is located in the heart of the gay village, which is very friendly and inclusive for all travelers. Travelers by car will be pleased to see that secured, inside parking is available for only $10 per night within the site of the B & B. The B & B is only a half block away from Ste Catherine’s, a major commercial street converted to a pedestrian mall with even restaurant patios stretching out into the edge of the street. Ste Catherine’s is pedestrian for the entire summer. What else could you want in comfort and convenience in a city as beautiful and interesting as Montreal? Book your rooms early, as this is the number one rated B & B in Montreal.

How much does a room costs at BBV Bed and Breakfast du Village  ?

Prices start 94 $/night for Queen Room . The One-Bedroom Suite is  110 $/room per night with breakfast included – if coming on a honeymoon this is the perfect choice for gay couples.

This suite has a seating area, bathrobe and air conditioning.

Where to book online – BBV Bed and Breakfast du Village – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal   – you can find the best hotels deals in Montreal during Montréal Pride Festival  which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Montreal on Booking.com or  Trip.com  or Hotelscombined.com  and see more reviews on TripAdvisor.

4. Maison Des Jardins B&B 4* – LGBT Friendly Hotels Montréal

Located in the Gay Village of Montreal, Maison Des Jardins B & B is 7 minutes’ walk from Beaudry Metro Station. It offers air-conditioned rooms.

A flat-screen TV is included in each room. Some rooms have a seating area to relax in after a busy day. A garden-terrace and outdoor hot tub are available for guests. Rooms are fitted with a private or shared bathroom.

You will find a shared kitchen at the property.

Latin Quarter is 900 m from Maison Des Jardins B & B, while University of Quebec in Montreal UQAM is 900 m away. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport is 17 km from the property.

The building appears to be a small apartment building that has been converted into a guest house . Typical Montreal construction with outside stairs.

They have parking for one vehicle – staff were very helpful in getting my rather large vehicle into and out of the garage. There are gates at the street so parking was fully secure.

The room was pleasant, if a touch small. Kitchenette and seating area and a private bath. Spotlessly clean and easy to access without disturbing the other guests. I was able to see some of the other rooms while there and all were quite suitable.

Breakfast is beside the kitchen. There’s an assortment of pastries and nibbles, and the main course is cooked to order. A nice way to start the day – good food and the pleasant company of the owners and other lodgers.

The resident dog is bonus – a total sweetheart.

We loved our stay at this small but lovely b&b. Would have no hesitation in recommending this place. We received a lovely warm welcome from Robert , Luc & their 2 dogs, and of course the amiable Stephane. This b&b is not in old Montreal but that is fine as everything is walking distance, and the b&b is situated in a very nice part of town.

Room was clean and tidy and small but had everything we needed. We had to share a bathroom it was along the corridor and near the kitchen. If privacy is an issue for you, then this might be a problem. Make sure you book an ensuite room. Although they are so nice it’s like home from home. Also if you don’t like animals or dogs this might not be your kind of place. For our part we were very happy to pet the dogs and have them around they were kind and friendly.

Parking is on the street and available in the parking at the back. We managed to find a parking spot on the street with the help of Robert. Breakfast was delicious both mornings and Stephane was always happy to make different things . Plenty of choice and big portions.

Stephane is very helpful with advice on local off the beaten path restaurants, bars, coffee places. He advised us on a great urban walk which took in a number of lovely places. Definitely made our visit interesting.

Would recommend a stay here and we would love to come back and stay if we go to Montreal again.

How much does a room costs at Bed and breakfast Maison Des Jardins BB ?

Prices start 122 $/night for Standard King Room with Private Bathroom . The Standard Queen Room With Private bathroom is  130 $/room per night with breakfast included – if coming on a honeymoon this is the perfect choice for gay couples.

This double room has a kitchenware, bathrobe and DVD player.

Where to book online – Bed and breakfast Maison Des Jardins B & B  – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal   – you can find the best hotels deals in Montreal during Montréal Pride Festival  which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Montreal on Booking.com or  Trip.com  or Hotelscombined.com  and see more reviews on TripAdvisor.

5. Loft Hotel Montreal 4* – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal

Located in downtown Montreal, Loft Hotel Montreal is one of the city’s last remaining Art Deco landmarks. The boutique hotel features fully furnished loft suites.

Each suite at The Loft Hotel features spacious layouts with hardwood floors and high ceilings. All lofts have a living area with modern furniture and a fully equipped kitchen. Media entertainment includes free WiFi and a 40-inch flat-screen TV.

More than a Hotel- Better than a Hotel ! LUXURY FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE. A stunning Montreal landmark, Le Loft Hotel combines fascinating architectural history with modern design and stylish amenities in the heart of downtown Montreal.

Located near the famous Latin Quarter on beautiful Terrace St-Denis Street, guests of Le Loft Hotel will enjoy world-class service , luxurious rooms and some of the best panoramic vistas of Montreal the city has to offer. Well-appointed and fully equipped lofts, Le Loft Hotel offers the ideal solution for both short and long-term accommodation in Montreal.

I thoroughly enjoyed this hotel, especially for the price. I think this is a converted industrial building, and the rooms are immense and have a great industrial meets luxury loft feel. Stayed in two of then as I went through town and both were unique. The wonderful wood floors do transmit footfalls, so given other reviews, I think the best thing is to plan to be in socks or slippers or barefoot. Having said that, the place was impeccably clean so that made it a joy to go barefoot on the hardwood. If you are a really light sleeper I could see being annoyed about footfalls above, but honestly, I only heard them once.

There were also some very minor maintenance issue such as a chip on the vanity in the bathroom, and a sagging black out curtain, but nothing that bothered me.

Finally, this hotel is in the Latin Quarter and on St Denis, an incredible street with probably hundreds of restaurants within walking distance, and also one block away from the Metro, and close to the gay Village. Great location.

The apartments at the loft hotel are really huge and luxurious. The location is great for restaurants and nightlife and is a short walk (10mins) to the  gay village. The parking is extra $20 a day but it’s on site and that’s cheap for Montreal. I’d highly recommend it.

The location is fantastic for exploring the Montréal food scene in particular. The rooms are enormous, truly loft like – bright, spacious and with funky decor. The bed was extremely comfortable and we slept very well. The rooms are quiet, with little noise from inside or the street. The  full   kitchen  was a surprise and there is plenty of room to store your things.

The shower has good pressure and the toiletries are nice. We loved that you could open the window and get some fresh air. The staff are friendly and helpful too. While we did not take advantage of it, the hotel also offers a free continental breakfast which looked pretty good.

Positives: 1) The staff are both friendly and helpful. 2) The location is incredibly convenient as the hotel is just off St Denis street which has a highly active bar / nightlife scene 3) The rooms are INCREDIBLE. They are huge and immaculately maintained. 4) There is a full service kitchen in the room 5) There is a kitchenette downstairs which has access to tea and coffee.

It was extremely spacious, with a full kitchen and six person dining table. There was a spacious entrance, a full closet, a large bathroom (with a huge shower), living area, and sleeping area.

The location of the hotel is perfect! It was about a 5 minute walk from Rue St. Catherine, and a 10-15 minute walk to ‘Old Montreal’ and the Port.

The breakfast was tasty (hard boiled eggs, pastries, yogurt, juices, cereals, etc.). We really enjoyed our stay.

The only slight downside to the room was that the air conditioning unit was a little loud over the bed….but some might enjoy the white noise:)

How much does a room costs at Loft Hotel Montreal ?

Prices start 98 $/night for Standard Suite . The Loft Suite is  99 $/room per night with breakfast included – if coming on a honeymoon this is the perfect choice for gay couples.

This suite has a fully equipped kitchen, cable TV, living area with a sofa and free WiFi.

Where to book online – Loft Hotel Montreal  – Gay Friendly Hotels Montreal   – you can find the best hotels deals in Montreal during Montréal Pride Festival  which is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Montreal on Booking.com or  Trip.com  or Hotelscombined.com   and see more reviews on TripAdvisor.

Sorin is a freelance travel writer. He is an experienced travel writer and traveller. Since 2012 he explored more than 60 countries on 4 continents: Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. Currently is based in Romania after spending the last 7 years in Myanmar.

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Gay and Gay-friendly Hotels in Montreal

Gay Hotels in Montreal

The gay hotel Montreal scene is about as diverse as Montreal itself, and whether you are planning a gaycation with your partner, a holiday with friends, or a business trip during the week, the portfolio of gay hotels in this Canadian city will certainly inspire. Gay Montreal provides opportunities for classic hotel stays, intimate boutique gay hotels, glitzy high-rise hotels, and more, all scattered throughout the city. If you are visiting in summer, why not opt for a gay-friendly hotel with a pool and enjoy an afternoon refresh each day? Or alternatively, if you are visiting in the cooler months, pencil in a stay at a cozy boutique hotel that will be sure to keep you snug.  

Montreal gay village hotels

If you are looking for gay village Montreal hotels, there are several options. For those not too fussed about anything too glitzy, the Hôtel Ste-Catherine offers convenient and comfortable accommodation without the hefty price tag. Alternatively, if you are looking for something a little more upscale, pencil in a stay at Auberge Le Pomerol . The three-star hotel offers 33 spacious rooms, which come complete with free WiFi and air-conditioning. 

If you don’t mind being just outside of the action, the chicest hotel nearby is the Boxotel Montreal . The four-star hotel is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the lively streets of the village. Studios, apartments, and full-scale lofts are available, and all reflect an industrial-chic aesthetic. Alternatively,  Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Montreal Downtown is on the fringe of Montreal’s gay village, and offers a modern design in keeping with the Marriott hotel brand.   

Montreal gay hotels and bed & breakfasts

Montreal is also home to dozens of other hotels and bed and breakfasts that are friendly, welcoming, and centrally located. This includes: Place Jacques Cartier Apartments , Hotel William Grey , and of course the W Montreal - one of the most elegant hotels in the city. So in between exploring Montreal's charming gayborhood, sipping a finely-brewed coffee at a local hipster joint, or dancing through the city streets during Montreal Pride, be sure to devote some time to enjoy whichever gay hotel you book for your next trip to Montreal.

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The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

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Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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Passage of harsh anti-LGBTQ+ law in Iraq draws diplomatic backlash

It imposes a sentence of 10 to 15 years for same-sex relations and a prison term of one to three years for people who undergo or perform gender-transition surgeries and for "intentional practice of effeminacy."

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BAGHDAD — Human rights groups and diplomats criticized a law that was quietly passed by the Iraqi parliament over the weekend that would impose heavy prison sentences on gay and transgender people.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement that the law passed Saturday “threatens those most at risk in Iraqi society” and “can be used to hamper free speech and expression.” He warned that the legislation could drive away foreign investment.

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“International business coalitions have already indicated that such discrimination in Iraq will harm business and economic growth in the country,” the statement said.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron called the law “dangerous and worrying.”

Although homosexuality is taboo in the largely conservative Iraqi society, and political leaders have periodically launched anti-LGBTQ+ campaigns, Iraq did not previously have a law that explicitly criminalized it.

The law passed Saturday with little notice as an amendment to the country’s existing anti-prostitution law. It imposes a sentence of 10 to 15 years for same-sex relations and a prison term of one to three years for people who undergo or perform gender-transition surgeries and for “intentional practice of effeminacy.”

It also bans any organization that promotes “sexual deviancy,” imposing a sentence of at least seven years and a fine of no less than 10 million dinars (about $7,600).

A previous draft version of the anti-prostitution law, which was ultimately not passed, would have allowed the death sentence to be imposed for same-sex relations.

Iraqi officials have defended the law as upholding societal values and portrayed criticisms of it as Western interference.

The acting Iraqi parliamentary speaker, Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, said in a statement that the vote was “a necessary step to protect the value structure of society” and to “protect our children from calls for moral depravity and homosexuality.”

Rasha Younes, a senior researcher with the LGBT Rights Program at Human Rights Watch, said the law’s passage “rubber-stamps Iraq’s appalling record of rights violations against LGBT people and is a serious blow to fundamental human rights, including the rights to freedom of expression and association, privacy, equality, and nondiscrimination.”

A report released by the organization in 2022 accused armed groups in Iraq of abducting, raping, torturing, and killing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people with impunity and the Iraqi government of failing to hold perpetrators accountable.

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Billionaire Columbia donor Leon Cooperman slams student protesters

• Leon Cooperman, a billionaire Columbia donor, weighed in on the crisis on the university's campus.
• He called the student protesters ignorant but expressed his support for the school's president.
• Unlike the megadonor Robert Kraft, Cooperman said he's not pulling his donations.

The Wall Street titan Leon Cooperman is the latest billionaire to weigh in on student protests over Israel's war in Gaza .

But unlike the megadonor Robert Kraft , Cooperman said he'd continue to give to Columbia even as he trashed student demonstrators.

During a CNBC interview on Tuesday, Cooperman , a Columbia University donor, was asked about the demonstrations on the school's campus, which have grown heated over the past week and resulted in more than 100 arrests.

"Many of the college kids have shit for brains," he said, doubling down on comments he made last year and adding that the students were "ignorant."

(He apologized for his language during the interview, saying: "I grew up in the Bronx when it was more of an accepted terminology.")

"They are advocating for the destruction of Israel," he said. "Israel is the only reliable ally the United States has in the Middle East, the only democracy in the Middle East."

Cooperman also said Israel was the only country in the Middle East that "allows gays and lesbians to practice what they want to practice." While LGBTQ+ people experience discrimination in many countries, some nations in the region — including Cyprus, Jordan, and Turkey — have not criminalized same-sex activity.

Cooperman blamed part of the unrest on people unaffiliated with Columbia who "are getting access to the school and creating this hoopla."

He added that he believed Columbia's president, Nemat "Minouche" Shafik , and leadership were "trying to do the right things."

Shafik appeared before Congress last week and took a strong stance against antisemitism, denouncing a professor who voiced support for Hamas and another who called the October 7 terror attacks "awesome."

The same day as her remarks on Capitol Hill, a coalition of student groups — Columbia University Apartheid Divest, Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine, and Jewish Voice for Peace — set up "Gaza Solidarity Encampments" on Columbia's campus, protesting the war in Gaza, which has claimed thousands of civilian lives, and demanding the university divest financially from Israel.

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The groups say the protests were peaceful and within their rights.

When the students would not move as requested, Shafik requested the New York City Police Department break up the protest, which led to the arrest of more than 100 protesters. Columbia and Barnard College suspended students involved with the protest.

That move sparked increased tensions, with separate, antisemitic demonstrators taking to the area surrounding the campus, according to videos posted on social media . Jewish leaders at the school allege that Jewish students have been targeted with hateful rhetoric by demonstrators.

On Monday, Columbia announced classes would be held virtually, and the campus has been closed to the public.

Cooperman, who attended Columbia Business School, donated $25 million to the school in 2012 and has said he's donated closer to $50 million in total.

"I try to give money to those schools that have made a difference to me in my lifetime. I don't think it's right, but I probably couldn't have gotten into Wall Street from Hunter College, where I got my undergraduate degree," he said. "I got an MBA from Columbia, and the very next day, I joined Goldman Sachs."

He said he would continue to give to the school but earmark his gifts to stay within the business school.

Kraft, the billionaire owner of the Patriots and another Columbia alumnus, announced he would be pulling all donations to the school "until corrective action is taken."

He did not specify what he meant by "corrective action." Kraft said he'd continue to support the school's Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, which is named after him.

Representatives for Cooperman and Kraft did not respond to requests for comment before publication.

The conversation around giving and the relationship between billionaire donors and universities has been reignited in recent weeks following protests at Columbia, Yale, and New York University.

After the October 7 attacks, tensions on college campuses erupted, prompting megadonors to criticize the responses of various university administrators. At Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, billionaires including Apollo CEO Marc Rowan , the Estée Lauder heir Ronald Lauder, and the former Victoria's Secret owner Les Wexner pulled funding.

Eventually, the presidents of the schools, Claudine Gay and Liz Magill , respectively, stepped down.

Watch: Student loans are canceled for former students of Corinthian Colleges

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