in the heart of zurich, a unique establishment known as the predigerhof serves as a vital queer gathering spot. it's a place where expertly crafted drinks meet genuine hospitality, fostering an atmosphere of warmth and community.
this venue isn't just about beverages; it's about creating connections and celebrating individuality.
predigerhof: a versatile queer haven
the predigerhof stands out for its dynamic atmosphere and dedicated staff. individuals like thomy exemplify the spirit of this bar, bringing creativity, charm, and a keen understanding of people to every shift.
his presence adds a spark, ensuring that even during busy periods, a sense of calm prevails, while quiet moments are enlivened with energy and good vibes. thomy's touch brings a certain magic to the morning routines.
tuesdays with la diva
tuesdays at the predigerhof are transformed by the presence of "la diva." this charismatic figure infuses the afternoons with sparkle, laughter, and an undeniable charm.
with an intuitive sense for what makes an evening special, la diva elevates ordinary nights into memorable events. originating from a less prominent spot, this individual has now become a celebrated institution within the predigerhof, a true testament to their enduring appeal.
celebrating special occasions
the predigerhof offers a distinctive setting for celebrations.
whether it's a birthday or a gathering of colleagues and friends, the venue promises a stylish experience filled with good vibes and all the elements that make an occasion truly special. the bar is equipped to handle groups, ensuring everyone has a memorable time.
exclusive venue hire
for those seeking a more private affair, the predigerhof provides exclusive hire options.
for a few hours, the entire venue, complete with dedicated staff and all necessary amenities, can be yours, allowing for a personalized and intimate celebration or event.
a taste of zurich's broader queer scene
while the predigerhof is a key destination, zurich's queer nightlife offers a variety of experiences, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
exploring venues like les garçons, pin-up bar, and le déclic reveals the breadth of this vibrant community.
les garçons: chic and contemporary
located in the heart of the old town, les garçons is a sophisticated, two-story bar known for its expertly mixed cocktails.
the ambiance is enhanced by chic, contemporary sounds, and the staff are consistently friendly and attentive. fridays and saturdays are particularly lively, featuring resident and guest DJs that keep the energy high until the early hours, with doors often open until 4 am.
while cocktails in zurich are generally not inexpensive, les garçons offers a happy hour, typically between 5 pm and 7 pm, which makes enjoying their renowned drinks more accessible.
the bar attracts a predominantly male, predominantly gay clientele of all ages, who appreciate the stylish setting and the opportunity for relaxed conversation. the upstairs area provides a more intimate setting with comfortable sofas and pool tables, perfect for extended stays.
during warmer months, the outdoor seating on the street becomes a prime spot for people-watching, offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant social scene.
heaven: a modern clubbing experience
following in the footsteps of previous popular venues, the club heaven is making a strong impression on zurich's nightlife map.
it's a space that manages to be both compact and energetic, offering a convivial and somewhat cruising atmosphere. heaven hosts local and international DJs who primarily play commercial and mainstream music, though friday nights often lean towards harder techno sounds.
the club also hosts occasional schlager parties, which provide a fun opportunity for creative expression, particularly for drag performers.
nightlife near gewerbeschule
in the vicinity of gewerbeschule, there's a welcoming spot that draws a consistent crowd.
with reasonably priced drinks, a table football area, and a terrace overlooking the limmat river, this venue offers a relaxed and enjoyable environment. it's a place that has cultivated a loyal following, appreciated for its straightforward charm and pleasant riverside views.
langstrasse: a hub of activity
the langstrasse area is a well-known centre for nightlife, offering a range of options for the queer community.
for lesbians and women seeking an exclusive environment, the popular Tanz Leila parties are a notable event. these parties, held on the first Sunday night of each month at Club Exil, welcome women, transgender individuals, intersex people, and drag kings, providing a dedicated space for dancing and socialising.
attendees are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the night, be prepared for dancing and flirting, and to express themselves fully.
alternative nightlife in ville marché
ville marché offers an alternative nightlife experience, particularly at a venue with a distinct dual personality.
the upstairs area, known as the Love Bar, provides a cosy setting for drinks and conversation before guests descend to the darker, more atmospheric dancefloor. while the venue has shifted its focus from dedicated bear and lesbian parties to a more general successful weekend formula, occasional theme nights still provide opportunities to experience different musical styles and atmospheres.
gameboy at mad
the gameboy event at MAD represents a specific niche within zurich's queer scene, catering to a particular crowd and aesthetic.
it's a place designed for visibility and social interaction, attracting those who enjoy being seen and being part of a dynamic social landscape.
mad: a multi-level clubbing destination
MAD is a multi-level club that commands attention, designed to host up to 1,000 patrons across its five levels and four dance floors, along with a restaurant.
it's a venue known for attracting major international talent, with artists like Armand Van Helden, David Guetta, and Eric Morillo having performed there.
the club hosts a variety of club nights, showcasing local, Swiss, and international DJs, making it a significant player in zurich's larger clubbing scene.
pin-up bar: a unique mixed venue
opened in 2016, the pin-up bar is a notable establishment in zurich's LGBT scene, distinguishing itself as a genuinely mixed bar catering to both lesbians and gay men.
the bar boasts an impressive drink selection and frequently offers complimentary platters of cheese and cold cuts, enhancing the social experience. guests can also enjoy shisha pipes, adding another layer to the bar's unique offerings. the pin-up bar has established itself as a trailblazer for its inclusive approach and welcoming atmosphere.
le déclic: geneva's oldest gay bar
in geneva, le déclic holds the distinction of being the city's oldest gay bar.
it embraces a kitsch aesthetic, featuring a lively mix of roman columns, plastic palm trees, fairy lights, animal prints, and distinctive wavy mirrors. this unapologetically maximalist approach creates a fun and vibrant environment. the cosy and comfortable space serves a range of creative cocktails, often adorned with fruit, umbrellas, and glow-sticks, perfectly complementing the bar's "more is more" philosophy.
house favourites like "pom pom boys" and "black-out" are testament to this playful style.