Lesbian Athens, Greece: LGBTQ+ Travel Guide

This blog post features links and information which have been obtained on a press trip. However, as always, all opinions shared in this post are my own.

Athens, the capital of Greece, has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. So when the opportunity to visit the city with GNTO (Greece National Tourism Office) came up, I jumped at the chance.

I spent four days exploring the sites that make Athens famous and three nights testing out the city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife—here’s what I found.

Is Athens Safe for LGBTQ+ Travellers?

I travelled to Athens as part of a group of LGBTQ+ travellers, and as a masc presenting lesbian, I felt safe at all times during my visit. So much so that I wouldn’t hesitate to return to Athens with my wife and children very soon.

Greece has made significant strides in LGBTQ+ rights over the past decade. This is well represented in Athens, where locals are open-minded, and there is a thriving LGBTQ+ scene.

Public displays of affection (PDA) are typically well-tolerated in Athens. However, you may encounter the occasional stare. As always, I suggest gauging the atmosphere and adjusting as you see fit.

Is there an LGBTQ+ Neighbourhood in Athens?

The Gazi neighbourhood is often considered the heart of Athen’s LGBTQ+ scene. Located near the Kerameikos metro station, you’ll find LGBTQ+ bars, clubs and cafes here. Making it a great place to meet like-minded travellers and locals alike.

Other neighbourhoods, including Exarcheia and Psirri, also have a diverse and alternative vibe. These areas are best known for their art scene and live music, which attract a mix of creatives, activists, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

The Best Gay Bars in Athens

Athens boasts several gay bars that are popular with both locals and visitors. My favourites include:

  • Rooster: Situated in Monastiraki, Rooster is a cosy and inclusive bar-cafe. It’s ideal for grabbing a coffee during the day or a cocktail in the evening.
  • BeQueer: This club-bar hybrid offers drag shows, DJ sets, and themed nights. It’s a great place to dance, meet new people, and enjoy the diverse crowd.
  • Noiz Club: Best-known for its electronic music, Noiz Club draws a mixed crowd of LGBTQ+ travellers and locals.

Gay Clubs, Saunas & Cruising in Athens

For my male gay friends, Athens has a thriving after-hours scene. Notable spots to check out include:

  • Sodade2: Has two epic dance floors with different music styles, meaning there’s something for everyone.
  • Alexander Sauna: One of the more popular sauna options in the city, known for its clean & modern facilities.

LGBTQ+ Events in Athens

Athens hosts a variety of LGBTQ+ events throughout the year. These include:

  • Athens Pride: Held in June, Athens Pride is the city’s biggest celebration of LGBTQ+ rights and culture. It’s a lively event with a parade, concerts, and parties, drawing both locals and visitors worldwide.
  • XLSIOR Athens Easter Festival: This festival caters predominantly to the male LGBTQ+ community. It takes place every Easter and is a fab spin-off of the famous XLSIOR Mykonos festival.
  • Bearly Athens: This bear week extravaganza is an annual summer gathering of bears. The event started in 2022 with only one goal: to have fun!

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