Soul-stirring and high-octane in equal measure, Naples is no less than an Italian masterpiece. Perched on Italy’s southeastern coast overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the city is the birthplace of everything from iconic food to art. Whether it’s artistic movements like Renaissance or classic comfort food like pizza, Naples has left its mark on the world. Did you know that Naples also has the biggest LGBT scene in the whole of Southern Italy? You’ll find no dearth of gay friendly hotels in Naples, Italy which range from luxurious digs overlooking the ocean to boutique guesthouses from another era. But, romance and innate Neapolitan charm come together in all of them, making for a memorable stay. Besides that, the city also boasts a fascinating gay life. Gay bars and dance clubs are everywhere, but its Piazza Bellini that’s the beginning point for a night out of revelry.
What makes Naples such an exciting place for LGBTQ travelers also is its historic sights, culture, and gorgeous natural surroundings. For instance, its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the 50 Most Colorful Places On Earth. It’s also home to Europe’s oldest active opera, Teatro Di San Carlo, which features amongst the World’s 10 Most Amazing Opera Houses. Besides, there are tons of historic churches, heritage structures, museums, etc. Furthermore, one of the 12 Beautiful Villages In Italy Worth Visiting lies right off the coast of Naples! Thus, it’s no wonder that the city is so terribly fascinating to LGBTQ travelers. To that end, here are the top 11 gay friendly hotels in Naples, Italy.
Hotel Piazza Bellini
11
If you’re looking for a gay hotel in Naples, Italy’s gayborhood of Piazza Bellini, then look no further than, well, Hotel Piazza Bellini! The gorgeous hotel overlooks the venerable old palazzo right in the middle of Naples’ beating heart. In fact, the tree-shaded piazza is home to not only gay bars and clubs but also some of Naples’ best café culture and restaurants. Plus, most of the city’s best historic sights are within walking distance.
Even though the original structure the hotel sits in was gutted, original features like a grand marble staircase, tall windows, and lofty vaulted ceilings still remain. For a three-star hotel, Piazza Bellini has quite a few facilities. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine while overlooking the piazza in the first-floor library-cum-sitting-room. The best nook is easily the courtyard garden shaded by white umbrellas, which is perfect for people-watching and relaxing. The staff is unfailingly efficient, and go the extra mile in making you comfortable. Although there’s no restaurant, the hotel serves a superb buffet breakfast in the sun-kissed space off the courtyard.
All rooms are extremely spacious, with the outward-facing ones enjoying views of the port area or Vomero Hill. Plush beds, expansive bathrooms, and lovely furnishings complete the rooms. If you want to splurge, then go for rooms on the top four floors, which have sprawling terraces with glorious views.
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The Foria House
10
You might just want to settle permanently at The Foria House, a gorgeously bohemian gay friendly hotel in Naples, Italy. Located in the historic center, the 19th-century apartment radiates modern design sensibilities, complete with a homey kitchen and a shabby-chic garden. Moreover, the gay scene of Naples is not more than a five-minute walk away.
Original features of a traditional Neapolitan family apartment reman; think wrought-iron balconies, high ceilings, etc. They’re infused with bohemian-chic charm in the form of thrift-store finds and antique treasures, with the cherry on top being the mid-century lighting and furniture. The private enclosed patio and garden are equally lovely, and feature loungers, hammocks, and white dining set to relax. It’s here that breakfast, afternoon snacks, and evening drinks are served when the weather’s nice. If you’re interested in history, do rifle through the mid-20th-century black-and-white family photos of the previous owners. The reception lounge space and the bright dining/kitchen area, which has complimentary tea/coffee and an honesty bar, complete the place.
With just four rooms, staying here is one intimate experience. French doors, large windows, high ceilings, and fashionable décor in all make them the most Insta-worthy living space ever. We’d recommend going for the Chiara room, which also has a patio overlooking the garden. Expansive bathrooms with walk-in showers large enough for two are a pleasant surprise.
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Eurostars Hotel Excelsior
9
Opulence? Check. Seafront location? Check. Gay hotel in Naples, Italy? Check! Eurostars Hotel Excelsior ticks all the right boxes for a discerning LGBTQ traveler to Naples. Its splendid seafront location allows views of both the castle and Mt. Vesuvius, complete with the sweeping Lungomare (seafront walk) right out front.
A top-to-bottom revamp has given the place a modern makeover while keeping the grand, belle-époque ambiance as is. The feeling of heady glamour lingers as you come to know that celebrities, film stars, and even royalty have stayed here in the past. Plus, opulent fabrics, grand staircases, shimmering chandeliers, and marble hallways are just about everywhere. The star of all five-star facilities here is the wraparound terrace on the top-floor restaurant and bar with naturally eye-popping views. Besides breakfast and cocktails with a view, the hotel also has a state-of-the-art gym, with a spa in the works as well. Old-style service is rife throughout, with a dedicated concierge taking care of everything.
Despite being different in size, all rooms feature rich fabrics, splendid bathrooms with robes, and a mix of traditional and antique furnishings. Do splash out for a sea-view room, especially the corner ones with views of both the Castle dell’Ovo and Mount Vesuvius. The two top-floor rooms even have terraces.
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The Bellini House
8
Stay right in the thick of things at The Bellini House, one of the most whimsical and playful gay friendly hotel in Naples, Italy. The retro-inspired B&B offers serene yet young-at-heart digs stay right on Piazza Bellini, the pulsating gayborhood of Naples. The best part is it also sits in the middle of Old Town, which is chock-full of picturesque sights, narrow bylanes, and historic and ornate attractions like churches and museums. For a culture-rich yet memorable stay in gay Naples, the Bellini House is just what the doctor ordered.
The décor at Bellini House reflects the owner’s passion to collect eclectic curios and bric-a-brac. So, you’ll see lots of the 1970s-80s collectibles, repurposed knick-knacks, period posters, vintage lighting, and more. Even though it’s an upscale B&B, its facilities are excellent. The multi-purpose common area that’s a breakfast room, living area, and reception also has Atari/Nintendo consoles, retro toys, and board games. Or, go through the French doors to the white outdoor portico that overlooks the shaded garden perfect breakfast views. Likewise, breakfast is one decadent pleasure with coffee, homemade jams, yogurt, charcuterie, sliced cheeses, fruits, and Neapolitan pastries. Complimentary tea and coffee is available all day, and the staff takes care of everything that you could possibly need, right from transfers to pocket Wi-Fi for walking tours.
All six rooms, including an apartment, ooze the same quirky vibe with antique flourishes and funky lighting. Moreover’ they’re spacious with high ceilings, which is a rarity in the historic center of Naples. If you can splurge, go for those with direct access to the outdoor patio. Immaculate bathrooms with enclosed showers complete the room.
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Romeo
7
There’s more than one reason why the Hotel Romeo is one of the 11 Best Hotels in Naples, Italy. Firstly, it’s one of the original design luxury hotels in the town. Secondly, it sits right in the port area, close to all major sights and areas in Naples, Plus, the views of the sea are something else. Finally, it’s also one of the best gay hotels in Naples, Italy.
You’ll spy works and antiques from the personal art collection of the owner is all the open-plan ground-floor public spaces at the hotel. A profusion of water features and Italian design pieces complement them, making for a unique sense of style. Plus, Romeo boasts every facility that you could possibly wish for. To begin with, its 9th/10th-floor bar and restaurant enjoy knockout views of the sea and Mount Vesuvius. They serve excellent meals and drinks, including an exceptional breakfast. The rooftop infinity pool, a rarity in Naples, is the perfect place for a sunrise swim, as the sun rises behind Vesuvius. A games lounge, cigar room, and a sprawling gym complete the amenities here. Topping everything off is a superb staff, that runs about catering to your every whim and fancy.
All rooms and suites, of which the best are the upper-floor ones, look out to the port and Vesuvius through floor-to-ceiling windows fitted with wooden blinds. Moreover, there are dashes of sea-green, sleek designer furnishings, and gizmos galore, along with sexy glassed-in, see-through bathrooms. If you want to splash, go for one of the three rambling ‘wellness suites.’
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Domus Deorum
6
There’s nothing like living in a luxurious gay B&B in the heart of romantic Naples. And the Domus Deorum is the best luxury gay friendly hotel in Naples, Italy that you can find. Don’t be put off by the less-than-picturesque surroundings of the adjacent Naples Centrale train station. For once you meet the warm hosts, Domus Deorum is delightful and makes you fall in love with alluring Naples.
The upscale B&B maintains a homey atmosphere while bringing about a touch of posh. The cozy reception area, and the B&B in general, is peppered with antique and vintage family heirlooms of sorts. So, you’ll see everything from books, wine, crystal, and china to leather suitcases and the odd vintage radio. You never feel the lack of facilities here, for the hosting is impeccable. You’re welcomed with a tray of prosecco or wine, chocolates, and pastries when you check-in, and a complimentary wine bottle and rose in every room. What’s more, you’re even offered pastries and chilled local limoncello in the afternoon after a day of exploring. What’s more, the staff arranges for everything from bikes to private tours and more. The crown jewel is the room service breakfast, which is the best in the city.
Domus dispels all myths about rooms in Naples being dodgy with rooms with lofty ceilings and large windows. Plush beds and layered linen curtains ensure a blissful sleep. Piles of throw pillows, vibrant wallpapers, minibars, and contemporary bathrooms make for a soothing retreat.
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Grand Hotel Oriente
5
The Grand Hotel Oriente is a sprawling modern gay hotel in Naples, Italy, sitting smack dab in its historic center. Piazza Bellini and its posse of gay bars are a mere five-minute walk. Plus, with the Toledo metro station a two-minute walk away, the rest of the city is extremely accessible too.
The historic property is aptly named, right from the eye-catching and elegant lobby to the classic, yet tranquil rooms. The place feels grand and informal all at once, which makes the perfect setting for relaxing. Spy some of the best views in the historic center from the top-floor terrace, which also serves a kickass breakfast buffet, besides other meals. Right next to it sits the bar, where you can enjoy a cocktail while taking in jaw-dropping views of the city and the ocean beyond. Free Wi-Fi and room service complete the offerings.
The large, light-filled rooms with white walls and contrasting furnishings are simple yet elegant digs. Good-looking bathrooms and plush beds aside, the rooms have large windows and even small terraces.
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Orsini46
4
With a waterfront location and innate Neapolitan charm, it’s no surprise than Orisini46 is one popular gay friendly hotel in Naples, Italy. The quiet residential street in the fishing quarter where it sits is close to most of the Top 10 Things To Do In Naples, making it the perfect base to explore the city.
The apartment-turned-guest rooms with the pictures and antiques make it feel more like a private, elegant home. Since it’s a B&B, communal areas are limited to the tiny kitchen and the warmly-lit reception with a cushy sofa, but it’s more than enough. The personalized service here is hard to find anywhere else, with the hosts bending over backward to make your life comfortable. The icing on the cake is the exceptional, sumptuous in-room breakfast of cheese, yogurt, fresh fruit, pastries, scrambled eggs, and bacon. Yum!
All three sun-kissed rooms are named after islands off Naples – Procida, Ischia, and Capri. Procida and Capri enjoy sea views from French balconies, while Ischia and Capri are among the larger ones. Nevertheless, they all feature Nespresso machines, a mix of modern and antique pieces, and compact but pretty bathrooms.
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Hotel Le Orchidee
3
Hotel Le Orchidee is one gay hotel in Naples, Italy that’s featured on almost all lists of best LGBTQ friendly hotels in the city. This homey hotel sits right by the University Metro Station at the southern edge of the historic center. So, not only is the gay scene close at hand but so are most of the city’s historic sights. Despite being a budget hotel, the gay-owned establishment features a terrace with excellent views. It sits on the fifth floor of an atmospheric, period-era building, complete with an antiquated lift. There’s even a lovely café downstairs which serves delicious Italian breakfast every day. A 24-hour reception and free Wi-Fi round up the amenities here.
Rooms at Le Orchidee are immaculate and spacious, complete with memory-foam mattresses, mod-cons like coffeemakers, and spotless bathrooms. The best of all is the super-spacious jacuzzi room, which also has incredible views of Piazza Bovio from the superb balcony.
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Palazzo Caracciolo Napoli
2
The elegant Palazzo Caracciolo on the edge of Naples’ historic district is like a dream. A wallet-friendly price, warm service, and modern comforts in an 800-year-old historic structure – and you know you’ve got yourself a winner. The best part? This Naples, Italy hotel is extremely gay friendly too.
The 15th-century courtyard, with patio furniture and the most Instagrammable indoor garden ever, is the undeniable standout here. It’s a favorite gathering place for not just guests, but locals too. The hotel is peppered with gilded furniture, with Neapolitan “symbols” or trinkets instilling a sense of place. During summer months, lounge by the small pool and solarium. Moreover, the hotel also has a round-the-clock gym, as well as a spa with a Turkish bath, hot tub, and sauna. The on-site restaurant is great, but do enjoy a drink in the inner courtyard. If you want to book exploration trips in and around the city, then the staff are more than happy to arrange for them.
If you can, then choose the first-floor Standard rooms which are larger than the other entry-level ones. Besides plush beds, the hotel has all mod-cons of five-stars; slippers, robes, coffee machines, and minibars. Moreover, the bathrooms feature sleek marble floors and bathtubs or huge showers, or a bathtub. The best of all are the two luxury suites, complete with complimentary Neapolitan pastries when you’re checking-in.
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Grand Hotel Vesuvio
1
We’ve saved the best for the last; behold the grande dame of all gay hotels in Naples, Italy, the Grand Hotel Vesuvio. Besides a long and illustrious history, the hotel enjoys a majestic setting overlooking Castle dell’Ovo, with Mount Vesuvius in the distance. Plus, the beautiful and panoramic stretch of the Lungomare (waterfront) is the perfect romantic place to walk or cycle, or dine at one of its many bars and restaurants.
As you enter the mid-19th century structure, you can expect silk drapes, antiques, chandeliers, and marble hallways. One of the hotel’s most standout features is the 10th-floor cocktail bar and solarium, with extraordinary views of Vesuvius, the sea, and the castle. Don’t miss enjoying a sundowner here; it’s absolutely worth it. Moreover, the decadent Echia spa is one of the very few in the city and an unmissable experience. Apart from all other usual five-star services like room service, Wi-Fi, etc., the staff also arranges trips to anywhere and everywhere you might want to go.
Fork out the extra Euros for a front-facing room, for it’s the best money you’ll spend in town. All rooms, though, are opulent with 21st-century mod-cons, marble bathrooms, and luxurious linens and fabrics. While the front-facing rooms have small terraces, the suites have rambling balconies.
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Get Some Culture in Naples:
- Naples Pride – This colorful festival brings visibility to the gay community of Southern Italy with lots of food, drag performances, and a fabulous parade.
Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Naples:
- Macho Lato – Earlier known as Kapsula, this club is most famous for its bear parties. However, it welcomes the entire LGBT community for dancing, drinking, meet-cutes, and more.
- Bar Fiorillo – This welcoming Piazza Bellini LGBT bar is perfect for meeting up over drinks and light meals.
Best Gay Saunas in Naples:
- The Basement – This centrally-located gay cruising club has a sling, cabins, play area, glory holes, darkrooms, and more.
- Blue Angels – This three-floored sauna is the most popular one in Naples.
