Event Dates
From: Awaiting dates
To: Awaiting dates
Lou Queernaval
Nice Gay Carnival 2026
Lou Queernaval is the first gay Carnival in France and takes place on the Friday during the second week of Nice Carnival.
Lou Queernaval Nice Gay Carnival & Circuit Parties 2026
Lou Queernaval is the first gay Carnival in France and takes place on the Friday during the second week of Nice Carnival, one of the world’s most significant carnival events. The event attracts millions of visitors from across France and beyond, so book your hotel well in advance.
- Visiting Nice? Stay close to the gay bars in Vieux Nice. The Hotel Rossetti is rated “Superb” and is just 400m from the beach and right in the centre of the old town.
The Event
- Next Edition: Awaiting dates. Typically the final Friday of the event.
- Lou Queernaval is part of the regular Nice Carnival featuring live bands, dancers and traditional carnival floats, including the King and Queen of Carnival.
- Local and national LGBTI organisations join in the fun as the streets are covered in glitter and confetti across Place Massena.
- The event is full of colour and fun, a friendly way to get to know the city of Nice and its gay community. The event is free to attend.
- Events kick off at 8.30 pm with a main stage and elaborate opening show, followed by the parade with drag queens, shirtless hot guys and elaborate costumes. Imagine a gay pride parade with a Carnival twist.
- For those curious, “Lou” translates into “the” in Nissart, Nice’s regional dialect.
- Stay close to all the Carnival parades and parties at the Best Western Plus Hotel Massena Nice, a beautiful 4-star hotel, close to the old town.
After Parties
- Nice Carnival is worth visiting any time, whether for the Queernaval or during any of the other parades or theme nights.
- Each night the gay bars are packed with locals mingling with international visitors.
- Most visitors end up at Le Glam, a local gay club hosting the official Queernaval parties. Visitors begin their night visiting the many bars dotted along Rue Bonaparte, the city’s “Gay Street”.
Nice Carnival
- Nice Carnival is the third-largest Carnival in the world and is spread across almost 12 days.
- Highlights include several Carnival Parades and the stunning Flower procession.
- Nice has one of the largest gay scenes in France, outside of Paris. The Carnival festivities attract French guys from around the country and international visitors from beyond!
- Most of the gay bars and clubs are located in the Old Town known as Vieux Nice. Other popular venues can be found along the Promenade.
Nice Gay Areas
- Le Vieux-Nice (Old Town) – This historic heart of Nice is not only picturesque but also hosts a lively gay scene, especially after dark. The narrow streets are home to several gay bars, clubs, and cafes, making it a perfect area for nightlife. The area’s welcoming ambiance reflects the city’s gay friendly attitude.
- Promenade des Anglais – Famous for its stunning sea views and beachfront, the Promenade des Anglais is a popular spot for everyone. Castel Plage beach, towards the end of the promenade, is particularly gay-friendly and a great place to relax, meet new people, or enjoy a drink at the beach bar.
- Rue Bonaparte – Often referred to as the “Gay Street” of Nice, Rue Bonaparte is located in the Le Port area and is the epicenter of gay nightlife in Nice. The street and surrounding area have several gay bars, clubs, and cafes that come alive at night, offering something for all tastes.
Popular Gay Bars
- Coco Bar – Charming cocktail and wine bar in the Old Town of Nice, offering a cozy ambiance for evening drinks.
- La Cave Wilson – Fun drag and cabaret bar; a great spot for entertainment and cocktails.
- Le Swing – Popular late night bar with drag shows and karaoke nights.
- Ramdam – A fresh face in Nice’s LGBTQ-oriented scene, this bar doubles as a concept store, offering a unique blend of socializing and shopping.
- Red Kafé – A gay-friendly bar that engages its guests with drag shows and bingo nights, located in a bustling shopping street with a charming terrace in the pedestrian area.
Gay Clubs in Nice
- Glam – Lively gay weekend club in the center of Nice, with fun drag shows and a welcoming atmosphere; admission includes one drink; close to the Jean Médecin and Masséna tram stops.
- Klubber – After-hours party spot located in the heart of Vieux Nice, where the party starts early in the morning and continues until daylight, offering an inclusive space for everyone to dance the night away with one drink included in the admission price.
- L’Oméga Club – Popular gay club with drag shows and international DJs. Admission includes one drink.
- Le 6 (Le Six) – A cozy night club and music bar nestled in the Old Town of Nice, offering free admission with a minimum consumption of one drink. It’s known for its intimate setting and vibrant music, making it a perfect summer spot; located at 6 Rue Raoul Bosio near the Opéra – Vieille Ville tram stop.
Gay Cruising Bars & Saunas
- Le 7 – Large gay cruising club open from Thursday to Saturday with a bar, cabins, sling, and more for its visitors.
- Le Code – A fetish-friendly gay cruising club that opens its doors most nights, with extended hours over the weekend and special Sunday afternoon sessions. Welcoming atmosphere to various fetishes.
- Morgan Club – Open from Tuesday to Sunday, this gay cruise bar has a small labyrinth, cabins, sling, and a video room, hosting theme nights with specific dress codes including naked, jockstrap, or underwear.
- Sauna Les Bains Douches – A welcoming three-floor gay sauna, with a friendly atmosphere and central location. Popular with local guys and visitors. It offers various facilities to relax and socialize from 13:00 to 21:00 daily.
Recommended Hotels in Nice
Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the action,
Hotel Negresco, Hotel Suisse, Hotel Aston La Scala, Hôtel Massena
Recommended Hotels
Where to stay close to all the gay bars
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
Where we stay!
Hyatt Regency, literally, built into Castle
Hill at the end of Promenade des Anglais.
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Lou Queernaval, check out The Website
Gay Map of Nice
The gay bars in Nice are close to each other just a short walk, we have chosen Hotels close to the gay bars that have high reviews on booking.com our hotel partner .
Hôtel Negresco, 37, Promenade des Anglais, Carré d'Or, Les Baumettes, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, 06000, France
The famous Hotel Negresco, dating from the beginning of the 20th century, overlooks the beach and the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. From Louis XIII style to modern art, 5 centuries of history are exhibited throughout the hotel. Free Wifi access is provided and there is an on-site fitness centre. Each room and suite is decorated individually with period furniture and features air conditioning. Rooms are also equipped with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.
Le Méridien Nice, Promenade des Anglais, Quartier Jean-Médecin, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, 06046, France
Right on the Promenade des Anglais, this hotel faces the Mediterranean Sea. It is a few steps from the Old Town and offers a panoramic rooftop terrace and an outdoor swimming pool. The hotel was renovated in 2020. The modern guest rooms at Le Meridien Nice have views of the sea, the Albert 1st Gardens, or the hotel patio. Each is air conditioned and includes free WiFi access, a mini-bar and satellite TV, and most also feature a balcony.
Hôtel Suisse, 15, Quai Rauba Capèu, Vieux Nice, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, 06046, France
Set on the seafront in Nice's Old Town, Hotel Suisse is an Italian-style hotel offering a partnership with a local private beach, where meals and beverages can be enjoyed for an additional charge. Guests can access the private beach for a discounted rate. Air-conditioned guest rooms include a flat-screen TV, minibar and telephone, and most have panoramic sea views. Each room features a refined décor and has a private bathroom.
L'Hôtel Masséna, Rue Gioffredo, Quartier Jean-Médecin, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, 06046, France
Best Western Plus Hôtel Massena Nice is a design hotel in the heart of Nice, just 200 m from the beach. It offers air-conditioned rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV and free WiFi access. The property is with a 5-minute walk from Nice's Old Town and Massena Tram Stop.The guest rooms are equipped with a minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. Some rooms feature a balcony or a terrace. Most private bathrooms include bathrobes.
6 Rue du Pontin, 06300 Nice, France
The apartment has 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Located on the 5th floor, There is no an elevator.
4 Rue de l'Opéra, 06300 Nice, France
The apartment comes with 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, a microwave, a washing machine, a fridge and an oven. Bathroom with shower. Free WiFi
24 Rue Barillerie, 06300 Nice, France
The apartment provides air conditioning and free WiFi. The property includes a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, as well as a coffee machine. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels is offered. features sea and city views
39 Rue de la Préfecture, 06300 Nice, France
Located on the 2nd floor with no lift, this apartment is equipped with 3 bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave. Offering air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a bathroom and a washing machine.
8 Quai des États-Unis, Nice 06300
● Located along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, this beach offers a vibrant atmosphere.
● A pebble beach with both private and public sections.
● Castel Plage is a paid section known for its friendly vibes, providing sunbeds and umbrellas.
● Enjoy delicious meals at the beach restaurant.
Daily, 9 AM - 8 PM
Parking Saint-Laurent d'Eze, Nice 06360
● A beautiful stony beach boasting crystal-clear waters, situated between Nice and Monaco.
● Accessible via car or the LR100 bus, which offers stunning views of the Côte d'Azur.
● Features a gay and nudist-friendly area; follow an adventurous path to discover it.
Open year-round
7 Rue Gubernatis, Nice 06000
● A vibrant gay sauna spread across three floors, situated right in the heart of Nice.
● Offers a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
Daily 13:00 – 21:00
3 Rue Droite, Nice 06300
● A cozy LGBT-friendly cocktail and wine bar nestled in the charming Old Town of Nice.
● Perfect for a relaxed evening with friends over delicious drinks.
Tuesday-Sunday 17:00 – 24:00
16 Rue Gubernatis, Nice 06000
● A vibrant gay bar featuring exciting cabaret and drag shows.
● A lively spot to enjoy performances and a friendly atmosphere.
Sunday, Monday 18:00 – 00:30
10 Rue Defly, Nice 06000
● An LGBT bar known for its entertaining drag shows and fun karaoke nights.
● Ideal for those looking to sing their hearts out or enjoy a night of laughter.
Daily 18:00 – 02:30
3 Rue Lascaris, Nice 06300
● A fresh LGBTQ-oriented bar and concept store with a unique vibe.
● Hosts exhibitions, DJ sets, and various events for a dynamic experience.
Monday-Thursday 18:00 – 24:00; Friday, Saturday 18:00 – 02:00 Sunday 18:00 – 24:00
9 Rue Halévy, Nice 06000
● A gay-friendly bar featuring lively drag shows and entertaining bingo nights.
● Located in a bustling shopping street, perfect for a fun outing with friends.
Daily 17:00 – 02:00
6 Rue Eugène Emmanuel, Nice 06300
● A vibrant gay weekend club located in the heart of Nice.
● Enjoy thrilling drag shows and a lively atmosphere.
● Admission includes one drink, making it an excellent value for a fun night out.
Friday-Sunday 23:30 – 04:30
14 Rue Benoît Bunico, Nice 06300
● An exciting gay-oriented after-hours party in the lively Vieux Nice.
● Known for its energetic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
● Admission includes one drink to keep the party going.
Friday-Monday 04:30 – 10:00/11:00
8 Passage Emile Négrin, Nice 06000
● A popular gay club featuring dynamic drag shows and international DJs.
● A great place to dance the night away in a vibrant setting.
● Admission includes one drink, ensuring a festive experience.
Thursday-Sunday 24:00 – 06:00
6 Rue Raoul Bosio, Nice 06300
● A cozy nightclub and music bar nestled in the Old Town of Nice.
● Offers a laid-back vibe with free admission and a minimum drink requirement.
● Perfect for enjoying good music and a relaxed atmosphere.
Tuesday-Saturday 22:00 – 05:00; daily in summer
7 Rue Foncet, Nice 06000
● A vibrant gay cruising club featuring a bar, cabins, sling, and more.
● Perfect for a night of fun and adventure.
Thursday-Saturday 21:30 – 02:30
4 Rue Jean-Pierre Papon, Nice 06300
● A fetish-friendly gay cruising club that welcomes all.
● Admission is just 9 €, making it accessible for everyone.
Monday-Thursday 22:00 – 03:00; Friday, Saturday 22:00 – 04:00 Sunday 14:00 – 19:00 + 22:00 – 03:00
3 Rue Claudia, Nice 06000
● A unique gay cruise bar with a small labyrinth, cabins, sling, and video room.
● Enjoy themed nights with specific dress codes (naked, jockstrap, underwear).
● Admission is between 14-15 €, which includes the first drink.
Tuesday-Sunday 22:00 – 02:30
1 Rue Alberti, 06000 Nice, France
● One of the oldest gay bar on the French Riviera small but lots of fun
Daily from 6pm
9 Rue Bonaparte, 06300 Nice, France
● Nice gay Tapas bar & restaurant with drag shows and karaoke
Wednesday - Sunday (06:30ᴘᴍ- 00:30ᴘᴍ)
Recommended Hotels in Nice By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Nice that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Hotel Negresco
5 Star, Luxury
- 5-star, overlooking beach and Promenade, historic.
- Close to the gay district.
- air conditioning.
- Iconic luxury with centuries of art and history, perfect for a memorable Nice experience.
Hôtel Massena
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4-star, stylish design hotel, heart of Nice.
- A short walk to the gay bars.
- Flat-screen TV, free WiFi.
- Modern and stylish in Nice’s vibrant center, ideal for beach and city exploration.
Le Meridien Nice
4 Star, Great Value
- 4-star, Promenade des Anglais, rooftop terrace.
- Close to the gay district.
- Sea or garden views, mini-bar.
- Modern elegance on the seafront, with stunning views and excellent leisure facilities.
Hotel Suisse
4 Star, Location
- 4-star, Old Town seafront, Italian-style.
- Close to the gay district.
- Panoramic sea views.
- Charming and unique, offering discounted beach access and breathtaking Mediterranean vistas.
Video Of A Guide to Nice
Discover the best of NIce with Expedia’s video guide
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