Hear about the stories about cross-dressing in cat masks and Rolandina, the first transgender we know about in Italy. Explore the places gay cruised from middle ages to the Grand Tour, enjoying the tolerant, laid-back and easy-going city attitude today
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.

Rolandina and Medieval Justice
Discover the story of Rolandina Roncaglia, the first documented transgender person in Italy, burned at the stake in 1355. Her tragic end reveals how brutally LGBTQ+ individuals were treated in medieval Venice.

The Gnaghe: Cat-Masked Crossdressers
Walk through Venice’s former red-light district, where in the 15th century crossdressers known as gnaghe prowled the arcades wearing cat masks and meowing seductively to passersby.

When Sodomites Went to Church
We’ll stop at a church whose arcades were placed under state surveillance in 1488 to prevent same-sex cruising—evidence of hidden queer networks even in religious spaces.

The Too-Gentle Historian
Pay homage to a Venetian historian of the Renaissance, known for his Diarii. His exceptional kindness earned him admiration—but also raised suspicions in a less tolerant era.

The Gay Poet of the 1970s
We’ll pass by the home of a pioneering Italian poet who came out in the early 1970s and later took his own life. His verses were among the first in Italy to speak openly of same-sex desire.

Casanova and the Spies at the Theatre
In this area once stood the world’s first public opera house—also a place for same-sex encounters. Giacomo Casanova, as a spy for the Venetian state, recorded what he saw.

A British Poet and a Venetian Porter
On this quiet canalbank, a famous British writer and early gay rights advocate met—and not by chance—a handsome 19-year-old Venetian porter.

Public Announcements of Sodomy Sentences
In this square, proclamations were read from a statue’s base, including the names of those sentenced to death for sodomy. Its proximity to the bustling Rialto market ensured a large audience.

A “Suspicious” Pharmacy
Here stood a notorious pharmacy known as a meeting spot for sodomites. Even being seen near it could be grounds for arrest—or worse.

Madonna in Baroque Venice
Palazzo Zenobio, a gem of late Venetian Baroque, was used as the indoor set for Madonna’s Like a Virgin music video in the 1980s. Today it bridges high culture and queer pop iconography.

Saint Sebastian: A Queer Icon
Explore a church decorated with paintings by Veronese, who is also buried here. Discover why Saint Sebastian, depicted in semi-nude martyrdom, is considered the patron saint of the LGBTQ+ community.

A Gay Bar That Denied Everything
Visit a once-famous bar known among gay travelers in the mid-20th century. Though the founder denied its reputation, its legacy lives on in queer memory.

A Gondolier and a German Writer
Learn about a romance between a Venetian rower and a German author that unfolded in this historic palace—between admiration, desire, and heartbreak.

The Lesbian American Painter
Outside this elegant hotel, discover the story of an American painter who lived here and was openly queer, collecting both artistic fame and romantic scandals.

The Bisexual British Artist
A celebrated British poet lived in this palace. His work—and life—testified to a rich and complex emotional world shaped by both male and female lovers.

The night crusiing in Venice
This now-vanished church was listed in a 1450 law as one of the nighttime cruising spots for sodomites, proving queer desire had a long, often hidden, history in Venice.

Top-rated local guide
Pickup from your hotel or any location in Venice’s historic center (only for private tours)

What’s not included
Gratuities at your discretion

The shared small-group tour is available  in English and limited to 15 participants max.

For English, Italian, Spanish, or German, you can book a private tour.

Private tours are fully customizable and reserved exclusively for your group.

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 5 minutes before the tour starts to ensure a smooth and high-quality experience.
I recommend wearing comfortable shoes.

I strive to make this experience as inclusive and accessible as possible.

If you have motor, sensory, or cognitive disabilities, please inform me in advance — I’ll do my best to accommodate your needs.

The shared group tour is not wheelchair accessible, but a wheelchair-friendly private version is available upon request.

In which languages is the tour available?
The shared small-group tour is available in English and German. Private tours can be conducted in English, German, Italian, or Spanish upon request.

How long does the tour last?
The standard duration is 2 hours.

Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio. For private tours, a personalized pickup can be arranged at your hotel or any location within Venice’s historic center. If you need help with directions, feel free to contact me via WhatsApp or email.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not designed for young children due to its mature themes (sexual identity, historical repression, etc.). However, it can be interesting and appropriate for teenagers, especially if they are accompanied by an adult and interested in LGBTQ+ history and culture.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The shared group tour is not wheelchair accessible. However, private tours can be customized with accessible routes upon request. Please contact me in advance to discuss your needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as the route includes bridges and cobblestone streets.

What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. Please dress appropriately for the weather. In case of severe weather, I’ll contact you to discuss rescheduling or modifications.

Is it possible to customize the tour?
Yes! Private tours are fully customizable. If you have specific interests or wish to include additional stops, I can tailor the itinerary accordingly.

Are entrance fees to attractions included?
No. This is an outdoor walking tour. If you’d like to include museum or church visits, let me know in advance so I can adjust the itinerary.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance. No refund for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour or no-shows.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely! Many stops are perfect for capturing unique and meaningful images.

Can you give advice about the LGBTQ+ scene in Venice?
Yes! I’m happy to provide suggestions for bars, events, cultural spaces, and other places of interest for the LGBTQ+ community in Venice.

Can I book other tours or experiences?
Yes! Many guests combine this tour with other Venice experiences such as food tours, island hopping, or artisan visits. Contact me to learn about special offers and custom itineraries.

How can I contact you for more information?
📩 Email: valerio@detourist.it
📲 WhatsApp: +39 340 671 1267