Bologna is an open-minded city, and it hosts some important places related to LGBTQ+ history. Moreover, it has a large gay community, organizing initiatives and events in order to promote inclusivity and give support.

Bologna was also the first city in Italy to open a Center of Protection for homosexuals. In addition to that, the city boasts another record: Marcella di Folco, in 1995, was the first trans woman to ever hold a public office. Bologna is also the hometown of Pier Paolo Pasolini, who is considered one of the symbols of the development of the Italian gay movement.

In this article, you will find a guide on LGBTQ+ life in Bologna, from the most significant organizations to the bars and cool places to visit.

Organizations

In Bologna, there are many LGBTQ+ organizations that contributed and still contribute to the fight for equality and inclusion.

Il Cassero LGBTI Center

Il Cassero is the longest-running LGBTI organization in Italy, as well as the headquarters of Arcigay Bologna. It is located in Salara, which also hosts one of the largest documentation centers related to LGBTI matters.

Address
Via Don Giovanni Minzoni, 18
40121 Bologna
Website

MIT (Movimento Identità Transessuale)

MIT, Movimento Identità Transessuale, was founded in 1982 and fights against discriminations based on gender identity.

Address
Via Polese, 22
40122 Bologna
Website

Cinema Lumière

Cinema Lumière is a place that every year hosts festivals with an LGBTQ+ theme. Its link to the cinema is even stronger considering the place where it is located, which is dedicated to Pier Paolo Pasolini.

Address
Via Azzo Gardino, 65
40122 Bologna
Website

Bars and clubs

Bologna is a city full of life: it’s famous for its university, so it attracts many young people. Its nightlife is very lively, with many LGBTQ+ places where you can have a drink or dance until the morning.

Barattolo Bar

Barattolo Bar has a very fluid customer base, offering music that goes from real alternative Bolognese genres to the mainstream.

Address
Via Borgo S. Pietro 26/A
Bologna
Instagram

Bart Club Bologna

Bart Club Bologna is very famous, and it’s particularly recommended to those who want to meet new people.

Address
Via Polese, 47a
40122 Bologna
Facebook

RED

RED is the biggest gay disco in Bologna, with a very nice atmosphere, organizing big LGBTQ+ parties, especially on the weekends.

Address
Via del Tipografo, 2
Bologna
Facebook

Kinki Club

Kinki Club is the oldest gay club in Bologna, where international and local DJs usually play. It is located in a fantastic position, very close to the two towers.

Address
Via Zamboni, 1
40125 Bologna
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May 28th, 2021