Barcelona is a city for all the senses. It is home to beautiful guys and stunning architecture. Party animal, beach bum or culture vulture, this city has something for everyone!
Barcelona has been one of the top destinations for gay visitors to Europe since the late 90’s. The city has all the ingredients for the perfect escape; great year-round Mediterranean climate and beautiful beaches close to the gay district of Eixample.
Where is the gay area?
The gay district of Eixample, or Gaixample as it known locally, is in the centre of the city. Here you will find most of the gay bars. All of the businesses in this district are gay-friendly. Our editors have selected the best restaurants, hotels and shops worth visiting.
What’s on?
Barcelona loves to party and major events include the Circuit Festival in August, Gay Pride in July and Bear Pride in March. Traditional events such as Carnival (normally Late February), New Years and Fiesta Mayor are also very popular. Barcelona is a busy congress city. Hotels can fill up fast with business travelers.
The gay scene comes alive late. Bars and clubs get busy from around 1am. The best times to visit the bars of Gaixample are from 12am until 3am.
- For early evening cocktails visit the Skybar at the Hotel Axel
- Visit People lounge for a nice mix of tourists and locals.
- Dance the night away at Metro Club.
Take a personalised gay tour of the city and get to know the best Barcelona has to offer.
Where is the gay beach?
Barcelona also has some fine beaches, all just a short stroll from your hotel. Platja de Sant Sebastia is a popular beach with great restaurants nearby. The gay beach of Platja de Mar Bella is home to the Chiringay and is the day-time hub of gay life in the city during the Summer Season (May to September).
Nearby you will find Sitges. It is just 30 minutes away by train. Many visitors to Barcelona choose to spend some part of their holiday in this bohemian and gay-friendly beach village.
What to See?
Barcelona’s popularity lies in its unique cultural, culinary and architectural heritage. The city is blessed with famous buildings. Avoid the queues at the Sagrada Familia by taking our skip-the-line tour. Explore Gaudi’s Parc Guell, a sight for all the senses. Visit these attractions early in the morning and avoid the crowds during the midday heat.
When to visit?
Barcelona is a year round destination with mild winters and warm hot summers. Beach weather is from April to October (but nights can be chilly so bring something warm to wear). Peak beach season is July and August, when the city fills up with tourists as locals set off to the coastal town of Sitges.
Where to Stay?
If you want to be close to all the gay bars and beaches, then stay in Eixample district or “Gaixample” as it is referred to by locals.
- The Epicentre of gay life in Barcelona is the Hotel Axel. It was one of the world’s first “Hetro Friendly” hotels and has since become synonymous with the city’s gay-friendly reputation.
- Right around the corner from the Axel hotel is the Hotel Cram. This boutique hotel is more demure in its approach to gay clientele. It is both stylish and relaxed and is the choice of discerning travelers to the city.
- Barcelona has some of the best short-term rental apartments of any city in Europe, many offering superior service and amenities.
