LGBTQ+: Turin, Italy

Turin is one of the most youthful cities in all of Europe and, therefore, contains a progressive attitude and welcoming spirit. It’s the perfect option for LGBTQ+ travelers looking for a taste of Italian culture alongside a metropolitan feel.

The Baroque architecture of Turin and wealth of Roman ruins makes it one of the more breathtaking cities in Europe. The cobblestone streets are lined with hundreds of boutique shops standing alongside churches erected more than 100 years ago. Outside the city limits, you’ll find access to endless miles of stunning hiking trails in the Italian Alps and incredible beaches just a short drive away.

The city’s nightlife is centered in and around Quadrilatero and is more vibrant than you might expect for a city of Turin’s size. Queever and Centralino attract a young, mixed crowd with large dance floors and energetic DJs. Rhum, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back vibe and is perfect for an evening sipping cocktails and chatting with locals. Come June the LGBTQ+ community takes over the streets with the PRIDE festival, followed shortly by the Lovers Film Festival.

When you’re not exploring the finest LGBTQ+ shops and restaurants the city has to offer, you’ll want to take in a few of the sights around town. The Langhe hill area lies right in the middle of Italian wine country and is a must for anyone who enjoys a fantastic drink amid incredible views. Some other wonderful sites in the city include the Mole Antoneliana, which houses the National Museum of Cinema, and the largest open-air market in all of Europe, the Porta Palazzo.

You also won’t want to miss the Parco del Valentino and its stunning botanical gardens. It also houses an enormous Baroque castle, as well as the Medieval castle and village, which had stood since 1884 and is a favorite among locals.