Brussels is one of the most progressive and liberal cities in Europe, it is a leading gay city with a rich history, thriving nightlife, a French vibe and delicious cuisine.
- dimitrisvetsikas1969 / Pixabay
It also has plenty to explore for the man looking for a men-only scene, a scene which you will find is discrete, varied and welcoming.
Macho Sauna: A very friendly and comfortable suite of rooms accommodating a sauna, a steam room, a gym and a hammam, a terrace, a lounge and a club zone. Choose the time to go carefully, mid-week is perfect if you want to concentrate on the facilities but the weekend is when it gets jam-packed and turns into a party zone.
Rue du Marche au Charbon 106, 1000 Brussels,
+32 2 513 56 67
Open 12:00 – 00:00
Oasis Sauna: Pretty much the opposite of the sleek modernity of Macho Sauna, instead it is housed in a rather grand building filled with chandeliers, fireplaces, portraits and comfortable armchairs. All the usual facilities are to be found but with more of the atmosphere of an old-time Gentlemen’s Club.
Rue Van Orley 10, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 218 08 00
Open 11:30 – 22:00
The Stammbar: Open about the fact that it is a “music cruise bar, “ it is fitted out in an industrial style, has cruising areas, a dark room and is open every night. While it plays to the more obvious end of the scene, it is friendly and attitude free, popular with locals and visitors alike and manages to stay on the right side of the divide that separates sleazy and sexy from sordid and grubby.
Rue du Marché au Charbon 114, 1000 Bruxelles
+32 2 502 58 00
Open 09:00 – 04:00
La Baroque: Best described as compact and bijou but proves that size isn’t everything by being one of the most popular bars on the city’s the gay scene. It is full of colour and atmosphere, but most visitors drink outside. On the weekend, there’s usually a DJ who plays a mixture of club classics and pop music. Give him a wink, and he’ll play your favourite tune.
Kolenmarktstraat 44, 1000 Brussels
+32 492 03 16 08
Station BXL: Midweek is very busy. It has a retro feel, plenty of room for dancing, some dark corners for more intimate encounters and although it might be at the more expensive end of the drink pricing it is undoubtedly a comfortable and rewarding place to spend time.
Rue du Marche au Charbon 27, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 608 30 41
Open 17:00 – 04:00
Written by Ray Si – proud member of IGLTA
