Amsterdam’s queer scene rivals that of the greats; up there with Berlin, Madrid, Brighton and more. And we’re not just talking about Reguliersdwarsstraat (Amsterdam’s celebrated Gay Street) – the LGBTQ+ party scene here stretches across the city.
From the city’s famous first gay club Cafe ‘t Mandje to tiny queenly bars with karaoke, Amsterdam has it all. Just don’t be surprised to see some open-minded straight people frequent these joints – these are some of the top clubs in a city famous for its nightlife, after all. Everyone is welcome. So whatever your vibe, here are the optimal gay bars and clubs in Amsterdam.
Derek Roberston is a writer based in Amsterdam. At Period Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers. Find more in our editorial guidelines.
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Gay & LGBTI+ Friendly Clubs in Istanbul
Istanbul, the cultural capital of Europe, is a city brimming with history, architecture, and a growing LGBTQ+ scene. As a bridge between Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been influenced by both continents, resulting in a diverse and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. The city's queer districts, Taksim and Beyoglu, are home to numerous gay bars, clubs, and venues that cater to LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
A Welcoming and Lively Nightlife
When the clock strikes midnight, Istanbul's queer nightlife comes alive. While some clubs and bars start filling up around 12:00 am, others open their doors earlier. Saturdays are the busiest nights, followed closely by Fridays. Special events and occasions can also entice crowds on other days of the week, although Mondays manage to be quieter as locals recover from a long Sunday night.
Unlike in some other cities, most gay bars and clubs in Istanbul do not possess dark rooms or allow sexual intimacy. However, kissing and hugging are generally accepted and encouraged. These establishments provide safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to socialize and enjoy themselves.
Exploring the Gay V
Gay Istanbul – the leading gay hotels, bars, clubs & more
Istanbul is quite literally where East meets West. In fact, it is the world’s only transcontinental city, with the Bosphorus Strait running through the city and dividing it into a European and an Asian side. The influences of both continents combine within Istanbul’s culture, cuisine, and the more liberal attitudes of its people—at least in comparison to its neighbors. However, Istanbul is very much its own place with a strong personality.
The former seat of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires is also a grandiose sight to behold. The 16-million-plus city takes you back to historic Constantinople as grand mosques, ancient markets, bustling bazaars, and magnificent palaces reflect a rich and fascinating past shaped over the centuries by the Greeks, Persians, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans. It also makes for a great jumping-off indicate for short trips to nearby Bursa, Troy, and the Prince’s Islands, or for deeper excursions into Turkey. Although Istanbul has a surprisingly large homosexual nightlife scene and is relatively tolerant, it’s key to remember that this is still a metropolis within an Islamic land, where conserv
LGBTQ+ nightlife in Chicago: gay and woman loving woman bars, clubs, and more
Chicago’s nightlife is a lot love the city itself — inclusive, diverse, and welcoming to all. It’s also a whole lot of fun. Our gay and dyke bars have a little bit of something for everyone, with late-night lounges, dance clubs,burlesque and drag shows, and long-standing neighborhood watering holes in almost every corner of the city. And each comes with their own singular history and vibe.
Check out some of the best lgbtq+ bars and clubs to experience Chicago’s queer nightlife scene.
Jeffery Pub
One of the city’s oldest lgbtq+ bars, Jeffery Pub is a neighborhood institution. The South Shore staple is also one of Chicago’s first black-owned gay bars, making it all the more meaningful for the spot’s many regulars. Don’t overlook the live business, like karaoke nights, Silky Soul Sundays, and a lively dance floor featuring everything from pop to house music.
Big Chicks
This lively and colorful spot is part LGBTQ hangout, part art gallery. The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintings and photos, including massive names like Diane Arbus. But don’t think for a second that makes the pla