Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 14 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days worth booking?
Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days is a 2-hour experience in Venice, Italy, from $176 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 14 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (14)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $176 per person
Hear about the stories about the cross-dressing in cat masks, exploring the places of cruising from middle ages through the later centuries up to the tolerant attitude of nowadays Venice. Take a trip over the centuries through the gay history of Venice, which is as labyrinthine as the city’s convoluted system of canals. Travel back to Middle Ages, when the practice of sodomy was deemed a sin. Learn about the history of Rolandina, a transgender who was burned at stake, as several other men of all social statuses have being condemned for their same-sex relations in the following centuries. Visit the city as a European tourists did during their discovery trip "Grand Tour" in the 17th century and how Thomas Mann and Frederick Rolfe made Venice a place of homosexual imagery during Belle Epoque. Learn about the fascist attempt to “clean up” the city, while following the location of a music video by a gay-icon as Madonna and checking out how is gay life nowadays in the floating city.
What you get
About this experience
Hear about the stories about the cross-dressing in cat masks, exploring the places of cruising from middle ages through the later centuries up to the tolerant attitude of nowadays Venice. Take a trip over the centuries through the gay history of Venice, which is as labyrinthine as the city’s convoluted system of canals. Travel back to Middle Ages, when the practice of sodomy was deemed a sin. Learn about the history of Rolandina, a transgender who was burned at stake, as several other men of all social statuses have being condemned for their same-sex relations in the following centuries. Visit the city as a European tourists did during their discovery trip "Grand Tour" in the 17th century and how Thomas Mann and Frederick Rolfe made Venice a place of homosexual imagery during Belle Epoque. Learn about the fascist attempt to “clean up” the city, while following the location of a music video by a gay-icon as Madonna and checking out how is gay life nowadays in the floating city.
What's included
Included
- Tour Leader & Nature and Interpretive Guide
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
We will pass by where used to live an italian poet, who came out in the early 70s and committed suicide some years ago. His works were some of the first Italian poetry to explore homosexuality
10 minutes here
We will pay respect to was a Venetian historian living between 15th and 16th century. His most significant work is his "Diarii" (chronicles), intended to be an comprehensive a history of Venice, before another literate was officially appointed to do so. He was said he was kind, extremely kind but we will learn why it was not really a compliment.
15 minutes here
Chiesa Santa Maria Mater Domini
We will visit a church whose arcades were placed under surveillance by public authorities to prevent sodomites from using it to cruise and meet in 1488.
15 minutes here
Ponte delle Tette
We will walk in what was the red light district par excellence of Venice in 15th century. Back in those days under these shadowy porticos around this bridge neighbourhood prostitutes were encouraged by authorities to display their wares in order to prevent sodomy in town. In the same streets walked the "gnaghe", queers or men dressed as women covering their faces with cat masks and emitting the plaintive calls of cats in heat, making explicit proposals to passers-by.
15 minutes here
Chiesa di San Cassiano
We will hear the story of Rolandina Roncaglia, the first trans person we know of in Italy. She was born as Rolandino, for seven years she lived as a woman in a house nearby. Beside selling eggs and the local market, she became a prostitute. Once discovered in 1355, she had a terrible death.
15 minutes here
In this area there used to be a theatre that boasted the title of the first public opera house in the world. It was also in place of homosexual encounters as Giacomo Casanova even points out when he worked as a spy for the state inquisitors in the 18th century
15 minutes here
On this short bank along Canal Grande a famous writer and pioneer of the British gay movement met, and not by chance, a beautiful 19 year old porter.
15 minutes here
In this campo a famous statue was used as a podium for proclamations and announcements, including bans relating to sodomy: an officer read the names of thoese sentenced to death standing on the block at the end of its staircase. The location in the immediate vicinity of the Rialto market, one of the most frequented by the population at the time, made it ideal for this kind of communication.
15 minutes here
Here a "suspicious" pharmacy was located, used by sodomites for their meetings. Just getting close could be grounds for condemnation to death!
15 minutes here
Palazzo Zenobio is considered to be one of the most significant examples of Venetian late Baroque design, both architecturally and in interior decor. Throughout the XVIII century the Palace became a venue for intense intellectual life. Since 1993, after a complete restoration, it now serves as a research centre for Armenian studies. Most importantly, it was the main indoor location of Madonna's "like a virgin" video hot in the 80's.
15 minutes here
Chiesa di San Sebastiano
One of Venice’s leading art venues thanks to its magnificent cycle of paintings by Paolo Veronese, who is buried here. We will understand why San Sebastiano is considered the patron saint of the LGBT community worldwide.
15 minutes here
Campanile di San Marco
Outside the tallest bell tower in Venice, an iron cage called "cheba" dates back to the 15th century and in the 16th century. It was also used as to expose somodimite priests to them to the bad weather and taunts of the crowd below.
15 minutes here
Between these two columns the executions took place up to the middle of the 17th century, as Casanova also confirmed
15 minutes here
Harry's Bar
Despite the founder said it was just a rumours, we will check out a famous bar where gay travellers gathered up to the 70's
15 minutes here
Riva degli Schiavoni
we will visit a palace where a love story was staged between a venetian rower and a famous german writer.
15 minutes here
In this hotel a famous lesbian US painter used to live, collecting love affairs with men and women.
15 minutes here
This palace is famous for an unrelated series of unfortunate events that happened to some of its owners, many of them gay.
15 minutes here
Palazzo Mocenigo
In this palace used to live a famous british poet, aknoledged not only for his poetry but also for a more or less important bisexual component in his very complex sentimental and sexual life.
15 minutes here
In ancient times the church had a no longer exisiting porch that a law of 1450 listed among the places of the night sodomites crusing.
15 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Venice
At the well
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
Private tour
Private tour Customized route Hotel pick up on request
Shared tour in a small group
Shared tour in a small group
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, en, it
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- deTourist Venice Valerio Coppo
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 14 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
14 verified traveler reviews for Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Entertaining stories & sites of LGBTQ history in Venice
Valerio is a very entertaining storyteller & knowledgeable of the sites and historical personalities of Venice LGBTQ life. I had a 2-hour tour in the early morning of my departure. Therefore, Valerio had to push the pace and bypass a couple of stops. I joined one of his other tours (Night-time Venice), so I know what he is like when scheduling is relaxed. I would join another of his t p urs, when I return to Venice. I felt that on both tours, I learned trivia that would not be offered by other guides. He is extremely likeable.
via Tripadvisor
Engaging, Historical and Powerful
This was such a wonderful experience!! It is fascinating, educational, engaging and powerful. Valerio was humorous, informative and fun! This tour was most definitely worth the time and money. The topic was presented from both an historical perspective and a deeply human one. So glad I chose this experience!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! I'm delighted to hear that you found the tour engaging, educational, and meaningful. Exploring LGBTQ+ history in Venice is about much more than dates and events—it's about the lives, struggles, and resilience of real people across the centuries. I'm glad this human perspective resonated with you. Thank you for joining me, and I hope to welcome you back to Venice for another adventure soon! 🌈
via Tripadvisor
What an insightful tour of Venice!
Valerio is an excellent tour guide and storyteller! He is very knowledgable and an excellent communicator! I definitely recommend his services!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm truly glad you enjoyed the tour and found it insightful. Sharing the hidden and often overlooked stories of Venice is something I deeply care about, and it's wonderful to know it resonated with you. Looking forward to welcoming you again on your next trip! All the best, Valerio
via Tripadvisor
All About LGBT History
We visited Venice with Valerio Coppo and it was wonderful. We fell in love with Venice, its streets, palaces thanks to all its excellent explanations in Spanish. We absolutely recommend it.
Response from the operator: Muchísimas gracias, Cecilia, por tu hermoso comentario. Fue un placer acompañarles y compartir con ustedes esta parte tan especial y poco conocida de la historia veneciana. Me alegra saber que se llevaron un recuerdo tan positivo de la ciudad. ¡Un abrazo grande y hasta la próxima! Valerio
via Tripadvisor (translated)
To try
Original tour, outside the usual box, makes you discover interesting and fun curiosities. Professional and kind guide.
Response from the operator: Grazie mille per la tua recensione! Sono felice che tu abbia apprezzato il tour e il suo approccio originale. È sempre un piacere condividere aspetti insoliti e curiosi della storia veneziana. Spero di rivederti presto a Venezia per nuove scoperte! Un caro saluto, Valerio
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Price range
- $176 to $308
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 5
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by deTourist Venice Valerio Coppo, who run 22 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.3.
See everything deTourist Venice Valerio Coppo runsWhy this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Venice.
How much does Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days cost?
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Prices start at $176 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Venice usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Venice is not rushed.
Is Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 14 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Venice, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days?
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Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Venice can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Venice and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Venice within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Venice?
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On Outty we rank every Venice experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Venice Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class with wine by Cooking Italy, Eating Venice Small Group Food & Drinks Tour, Tour of The Real Hidden Venice. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Venice?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Venice?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days?
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Included: Tour Leader & Nature and Interpretive Guide. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days?
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At the well Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days offered in?
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It is offered in German, English and Italian. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Venice. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days?
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Across 14 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
What booking options are available for Gay Life in Venice from the Middle Ages to Present Days?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Private tour, Shared tour in a small group. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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