Gay saunas in France: a guide by city
Gay saunas are a familiar feature of LGBT life in France: places to relax, socialise and meet people, in a setting designed specifically for men. This guide covers the main cities — Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse and Nice — and offers some advice on how to choose the right one, especially if it’s your first time. These venues are for adults only (18 and over).
What can you find in a gay sauna?
As well as Finnish saunas and steam rooms, most venues offer a jacuzzi, showers, changing cubicles, video rooms, and a bar or snack area. Many also organise theme days or special parties (reduced rates, time slots dedicated to certain age groups, themed events). The atmosphere varies enormously from one venue to another: some focus on relaxation and wellbeing, whilst others emphasise a friendly atmosphere and partying.
How can you tell if a sauna is any good?
In my experience, two criteria make all the difference. Firstly, cleanliness: a well-maintained venue with spotless facilities makes all the difference to the comfort of your visit. Secondly, the programme: saunas that offer special events — such as under-30s parties, themed days and regular events — are often the liveliest and most enjoyable. A clean venue with a lively atmosphere is better than a large, impersonal space.
Gay saunas in Paris
Paris has the widest selection, with several saunas spread across different arrondissements. Among the best-known venues are: Sun City (3rd), one of the largest with its indoor swimming pool, IDM (9th), Les Bains d’Odessa (14th), Atlantide (12th) and Le Riad (20th). Find all the addresses on our page dedicated to gay saunas in Paris.
Gay saunas in Lyon
In Lyon, the Double Side Sauna, right in the heart of the 1st arrondissement, is the place to go: a large, modern and exceptionally well-maintained venue, which hosts themed parties tailored to different preferences. Find out more on our page dedicated to gay saunas in Lyon.
Gay saunas in Marseille
In Marseille, Les Thermes is popular for its facilities and accessibility, right in the city centre. A great option for combining relaxation and a friendly atmosphere during a visit to Marseille. Discover the addresses on our page for gay saunas in Marseille.
Gay saunas in Toulouse
Toulouse has two leading venues. Les Thermes (rue Denfert-Rochereau) offers a jacuzzi, hammam, Finnish sauna, dining area and several levels of themed cabins. KS Sauna (rue Saint-Ferréol) is open seven days a week and offers a more intimate setting with a dry sauna, private rooms, a bar and a café. Find out more on our page on gay saunas in Toulouse.
Gay saunas in Nice
On the Côte d’Azur, Nice has its own venue: Les Bains-Douches, which is convenient and well-located for extending a stay or a party in Nice. Find it on our page for gay saunas in Nice.
First-time sauna-goers: our tips
If this is your first time, don’t worry. Just follow a few simple guidelines:
- Bring your flip-flops: this is a real plus for hygiene, both in the showers and in communal areas.
- Respect everyone’s pace and consent: a ‘no’ must always be respected, and nobody is obliged to do anything.
- Think about prevention: condoms are available, and get tested regularly — most venues provide what you need.
- Check the opening hours and theme nights before you go: that’s often when the atmosphere is at its best.
Guide published by Agenda LGBT. Addresses, opening hours and practical information are provided for guidance only and are subject to change; please check with the venues directly for up-to-date information.
FAQ
What can you find in a gay sauna?
Sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, showers, treatment rooms, video rooms and often a bar or snack bar, with themed days on occasion.
How do you choose a good gay sauna?
Above all, take a look at how clean the venue is and what’s on (highlight days, themed parties): these are the two best indicators.
Do we need to bring anything?
A pair of flip-flops is recommended for hygiene reasons. Everything else (towel, padlock) is usually provided or available at the door.
Are gay saunas for adults only?
Yes, entry is restricted to adults (aged 18 and over), subject to presentation of proof of identity.
