Europe » Italy
Gay Guide Italy
The legislation provides for a uniform age of consent for heterosexual and homosexual relations of 14 years (16 years if a person with a certain authority towards the minor is involved). On 11 May 2016, the Italian parliament finally passed the Civil Partnership Act, after Catholic politicians from almost all parties made many attempts to thwart it. The law brought the rights of homosexual partnerships close to heterosexual marriages. This also includes claims of pension by the partner. The right for adoption is excluded, though. Italy was the last Western European country before the law was passed that did not allow registered civil partnerships or marriage for homosexual couples. Italy has great attraction for tourists - the northern part offers a lively gay scene in the big cities (especially Milan, Rome and Bologna). In the southern part, however, the offer of bars, clubs, etc. is extremely limited. You can only enter many establishments after purchasing a"club card". This is for the owners to avoid restrictive regulations, especially for saunas and cruising bars. The most common club card is One Pass from ANDDOS (rarely Key We), all cards are issued locally. In summer, gay life tends to take place by the sea, whether in Torre del Lago in Tuscany, in Salento in southern Puglia (Gallipoli is the centre) or between Siracusa, Catania and Taormina in Sicily. The cities rather go quiet during summer. For better orientation, the cities, towns and villages of Italy are allotted to the 20 regions.
Islands in Italy
Sardegna | Sicilia |
Cities in Italy
Location: Southern Europe
Initials: ITA
International country code: 39
International access code: 00
Language: Italian, regional: German, French, Slowenian
Population: 60,918,000
Capital: Roma
Religions: 89% Roman Catholic
Climate: Predominantly Mediterranean climate. Alpine climate in the far north, the south is hot and dry.
Important gay cities: Milano, Bologna, Firenze, Roma, Viareggio
Top Hotels
Villa Ducale
Situated in an elevated position above Taormina, life in Hotel Villa Ducale revolves around its stunning terrace. From here you can enjoy the most wonderful views across the Taormina coastline and Mount Etna and relax over a gorgeous Sicilian buffet breakfast, created daily with only the freshest of produce... more
Hotel Villa Carlotta
An heavenly retreat in the most panoramic area of Taormina, Hotel Villa Carlotta was built in 1860 for a local aristocratic family. With magnificent views across the sea and of Mount Etna, enchanting gardens, excellent Sicilian dining and an outdoor pool, this coastal idyll promises peace and exclusivity... more