GAY TRAVEL TIPS 
Having lived in France for 10 years, this guide combines my personal experience with the latest updates from our community. While my time there gave me deep insights into French gay life, our active readers help keep this information current and relevant. We maintain this guide as a living document that reflects the current reality of gay life in France.
A Gay Guide to France
Cultural Background
France holds a complex position in gay culture. Paris earned its reputation as a gay-friendly capital long ago, with other major cities like Lyon, Marseille, and Nice following closely. Since legalizing same-sex marriage in 2013, acceptance has grown steadily, especially in urban areas. However, the situation differs between cities and rural regions. Legal protections are strong here. Anti-discrimination laws cover sexual orientation in employment, housing, and public services. The country recently strengthened trans rights and banned conversion therapy in 2022. You'll find most French people, particularly younger generations, are accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Safety Overview
France is generally safe for gay travelers, but awareness matters. Paris's Le Marais district stands out as the most comfortable area, where holding hands and showing affection is common. However, some considerations exist: Most safer areas include:
Central Paris (especially 3rd and 4th arrondissements) Major city centers in Lyon and Marseille Tourist areas in Nice and Montpellier
Exercise more caution in:
- Suburban areas after dark
- Rural regions
- Some northern Paris suburbs
Specific safety concerns: Avoid responding to very persistent messages on dating apps, particularly those quickly suggesting private meets. Watch out for drink tampering in clubs - it's rare but happens. Keep belongings secure, especially in tourist areas where pickpocketing is common.
Dating Scene
Dating apps work differently in France compared to many other countries. While Grindr remains popular, you'll find many French guys using Tinder for more than hookups. Meeting for drinks first is standard practice, even for casual encounters. App activity peaks between 6 PM and 10 PM. Most profiles mix French and English, but using basic French phrases helps a lot. Common apps include:
- Grindr - Most active in urban areas
- Tinder - Popular for actual dating
- Hornet - Big with locals and tourists
- Romeo - Has a solid French user base
You may see duplicate profiles on different apps, so don't be surprised. It's usually not a scam but the person may be a bit desperate, so be cautious and try to stick to one app. When chatting with French guys, directness about intentions is appreciated. Many won't respond during dinner hours (8-10 PM), and that's normal. Last-minute cancellations are considered rude here, unlike some other European countries. Dry conversations (no questions asked or 1-2 words answers) are usually a sign of disinterest, so don't take it personally.
| Slang | What it means |
|---|---|
| Tu cherche ? | What are you looking for |
| capote / kapote | Condoms |
| Dispo ? | Available right now ? |
| Passif / Actif | Bottom / Top |
| RDV (rendez-vous) | Meetup at |
| TBM / TTBM / Tres bien monté | Hung / Really hung |
| Tu suce ? | Interested in performing oral ? |
| no-capote | Unsafe intercourse |
| Suggest a new slang by | |
Sexual Health & Safety
As a visitor to France, accessing basic supplies is straightforward. Pharmacies (marked by green crosses) are everywhere in cities, easily spotted, and non-judgmental. Unlike some countries, you'll find all essential supplies without prescription or questions asked. Prices are reasonable - quality supplies cost around 10€. Where to get supplies:
- Pharmacies (most reliable, some open 24/7)
- Supermarkets (basic options)
- Gay venues (often provide free basics but don't count on it)
- Specialized shops (in major cities)
Emergency & Health Services
- Health emergency
- 15
- Police
- 17
- Pharmacy finder
- 3237
- SOS Homophobia
- +331 48 06 42 41
For urgent situations (like potential HIV exposure), French hospitals will help regardless of residency status. Key emergency info:
- Hospital emergency rooms (24/7): Dial 15
- Post-exposure treatment (PEP): Available at any ER within 48h
- Tourist insurance recommended to cover costs
- Emergency pharmacy finder: 3237 (audio in French)
For non-emergencies, these English-speaking clinics serve tourists:
- American Hospital of Paris (expensive but familiar system)
- Several private clinics in tourist areas
- AIDES association provides free testing and advice
Important: Bring enough regular medications (like PrEP) for your stay plus extra. While French pharmacies stock everything, you'll need a local prescription to buy most medications. Important 2: While PrEP is available in France, you should not count on the other person to take it. Always take care of your own health and use protection, PrEP only protect the person taking it.