After passing a marriage equality law in 2005, Spain is becoming a popular destination for gay-friendly tourism. In fact, the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association just held their 2014 convention in Madrid, cementing the country’s stance on progress and equality.
After the regime of Francisco Franco came to an end, right-wing Catholic conservatism took a backseat to an embrace of liberal values that started in Madrid and moved to Barcelona. The heart of the LGBT scene lies in the Eixample District that’s packed with clubs, restaurants and boutique shops. There are plenty of gay-operated establishments in the neighborhood, earning it the nickname “Gay-Xample.”
There are a number of LGBT hotels in the area, most famous of which is the world’s first gay hotel chain, Axel Hotels, the self-titled “hetero-friendly hotel.” Located on the edge of Eixample, the hotel features a rooftop terrace, bar and wellness center. Hotel Cram and the Casanova are also popular places to stay in the gay district, and there is also Hotel California, located in the stylish Gothic Quarter.
If you are looking to soak up some sun, Mar Bella and Nova Mar Bella are popular with the LGBT scene, as they are more secluded and not quite as chaotic as Barceloneta. Once the sun sets, Gay-Xample comes alive with a whole district of gay nightlife. Deitrich, Lust and Ambiente del Sur are popular spots, but if you want to venture out of Eixample, head over to El Cangrejo in El Raval, a famous drag club known for its raucous parties. Metro is a popular men-only club spot that specializes in disco and house music. Ladies might want to head to Aire, sister club to Arena Disco, which is an enormous club venue with a mixed crowd.
You can learn more about LGBT tourism in Barcelona here.
Read This Next
AC Hotel Cuidad de Pamplona
Hotel
Sep 19, 2014All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Oct 28, 2026Book a Stay at Sofitel New York for NYC’s Festive Season
New York City is the place to be during the holiday season. From festive Christmas markets to ice skating through Central Park, the city comes alive and embraces its Manhattan magic.
Sponsored Content
12 Reasons to Visit Gozo, Malta’s Slower Sister Island
Gozo may be small in size, but Malta’s charming sister island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, deep-rooted history, rich culture and adventure. Gozo offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. From picturesque villages and cliffside views to ancient temples and festive celebrations, the island invites visitors to slow down and savor the true Mediterranean lifestyle.
Surveys
Oct 28, 2026Study Finds Younger Travelers Skeptical of AI Travel Planning
A new study from Squaremouth, a travel insurance marketplace, finds younger travelers are skeptical of using AI for travel planning. However, AI usage for travel planning is increasing overall.
Destinations / North America
Oct 28, 2026How Athens, Georgia, Became a Year-Round Hockey Destination
Athens, Georgia, may be best known in the sports world as a football destination for the successful Georgia Bulldogs (and they do, of course, deserve recognition), but did you know Athens is also one of the South’s newest and unexpected hockey towns?
Sponsored Content
TAP Air Portugal: A Milestone Year
From small airline to global success, TAP Air Portugal turns 80 and better than ever.
Destinations / North America
Oct 27, 2026Kalahari Resorts Opens Massive Expansion, Industry First in Wisconsin
Earlier this month, Kalahari Resorts & Conventions opened a 75,000-square-foot, $85 million expansion in Wisconsin. The new Aquadome expansion is part of the brand’s Wisconsin Dells flagship resort.
ShareThis