Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
It’s got beautiful beaches, it’s got delicious food, it’s got oh-so-much-culture, and it’s got one of the biggest gay nightlife scenes in the world; so is it any wonder really that Gay Barcelona is such a popular travel destination?
Barcelona is known as Spain’s cultural capital, and there’s undoubtedly art, history, and architecture aplenty. During the day you can head to the magical, and unfinished, Sagrada Familia, wander the streets of the Gothic Quarter, or go and see on the eye candy at one of the gay beaches to the north of the coastline.
There’s plenty to feast your eyes on, but not just during the day! At night, Barcelona offers a diverse and fun-loving gay scene where things don’t really get started until after midnight (drink lots of coffee!). Metro club is varied and open all night, every night; or try the legendary PERVERT parties on a Saturday night.
L’Eixample, or Gayxample, as it’s known, is the centrally located gay area of Barcelona. You can go here in the afternoons to sip a cocktail in the sun and watch the world go by, or wait until after sunset to enjoy most of the city’s gay bars, including Café Bar Punto and the Axel Sky Bar. It’s always worth visiting Europe’s most famous ‘hetero-friendly’ hotel chain for a drink at their rooftop terrace.
Barcelona is great to visit any time of year, but if you want a huge party, then aim for the Circuit Festival, Easter Matinee, or of course, Pride Barcelona -one of the best Gay Pride festivals in the world.
The circuit is two weeks festival attracting 70,000 visitors every August and boasting parties everywhere, from water parks to the beach. Easter weekend in Barcelona might not be that big, but there are still plenty of parties, and of course, Pride needs no explanation here!
Spain is undoubtedly one of the world’s most gay-friendly countries, and while the Catholic Church still holds a lot of ways here, LGBT acceptance in Barcelona (and other urban centers like Valencia, Seville, Madrid, and Salamanca) is very high.
As big as it already is, the gay scene in Barcelona is still growing as word continues to spread and more bars, clubs, hotels, saunas, and cafes battle it out for the almighty Pink Dollar. Yes, we all know the gays all love a good trend, and in Barcelona, everything has snowballed so that today it is all gay, all the time!
A bewitching seaside city combining infinite culture, extraordinary architecture, world-class dining, gorgeous beaches and some of the best queer nightlife in the world: is it any wonder Barcelona is considered one of the gay capitals of the world!
In this article we will cover...
Attractions in Gay Barcelona
Being gay does not define which attraction most of us will want to see in each city, and most queer tourists will simply want to check out the top things to see in Barcelona during the day!
Barcelona is a very safe city, but still, all travelers should take caution with valuables. Gay people in Barcelona do not need to make any precautions at all regarding public displays of affection in this very progressive city, and we encourage you to experience what true freedom feels like.
There are so few places in the world as uninhibited and liberating for gay couples as Barcelona, and this is something every one of us should be able to experience every day!
Barcelona has so many things to do it can be overwhelming, but most gay travelers simply head for the gaybourhood, Eixample (as known as the “Gayxample”) or to the beach during the day.
We, however, enjoyed exploring food markets, architecture, art, and the surrounding towns and relaxing by our luxe hotel pool – cocktail in hand. If you are not sure where to go, take a peek at our gay map of Barcelona at the end to get an idea of where all the gay bars, clubs, saunas, cafes and stores are.
Having said that, here are just a few of our favorite things to do in Barcelona to get you started!
Top Highlights Of Gay Barcelona
ES Collection
The flagship store of this gay-popular clothing brand that produces swimwear, underwear, athletic wear and casual wear. All made and designed with love in Barcelona, so why not stop by and pick up something nice to show off on the beach, or in the clubs at night?
A men’s fashion store stands as a beacon of empowerment and style in the heart of Barcelona, crafting a unique narrative within the fetish wear landscape. With a foundational commitment to fostering intimate connections and self-expression among men, CRDKO offers a meticulously curated selection of both contemporary and classic fetish attire designed to elevate comfort and confidence. This brand transcends mere fashion; it’s a movement towards embracing and celebrating one’s sexuality with pride and elegance. Each piece, from handmade garments to customizable designs, is a testament to the brand’s devotion to quality, creativity, and inclusiveness.
Beyond serving the LGBTQI+ community, CRDKO welcomes all who resonate with their vision of fetish fashion, providing a discreet, safe atelier for personal consultations and bespoke tailoring. Here, artistry meets activism, where every stitch and seam not only embodies the pinnacle of fetish fashion trends but also champions a broader ethos of acceptance and body positivity. CRDKO’s history of artisanal excellence and its vibrant, inclusive ethos have cemented its status as not just a brand, but a sanctuary for those seeking to stylishly express their identities.
Discover three countries in just one day on a full-day tour to Baga, Ax Les Thermes, and Andorra from Barcelona. Emerge early, and head to Baga, a beautiful village shrouded in medieval heritage, and then cross the border to Ax Les Therms, a charming spa town with loads of French character.
Continue to Andorra via a stunning high mountain pass, stopping for a break in a beautiful mountain valley before going on to the capital to indulge in some duty-free shopping.
Learn to prepare some of the classic dishes of Spain and Catalonia during a 3.5-hour cooking class in Barcelona. Your cooking class takes place in a private home with a professional chef who teaches you to prepare favorites such as seafood paella.
Learn the history of tapas, sample 12 different tapas, and enjoy the delicious lunch that you helped to create, accompanied by unlimited wine, beer, or soft drinks. You can also upgrade to also get a fascinating tour of La Boqueria, one of Spain’s most important food markets. Perfect for gay couples or groups of friends!
An astonishing bazaar with a range of everyday objects from around the globe with something for everyone. With goods from Cuba, Vietnam, Mexico, Romania and more, Fantastik has got to be the most outlandish version of a mainstream gift store we have ever stood foot in. No matter who you are, or what you are looking for, you will certainly find something curious here.
Soar above the sublime landscape of Catalonia near Barcelona on this early-morning hot-air balloon excursion. Marvel at beautiful landmarks like Montserrat and the Pyrenees Mountains as you climb to heights of up to 3,000 feet (900 meters) during your 1- to 1.5-hour flight.
Then head back down to earth for brunch with sparkling wine. Your hot-air balloon flight also includes a certificate, plus you can upgrade to a longer 2-hour or private flight.
Enter and experience the ornate wonders of Casa Batllo, one of the famed architect Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces. See the light, color and shapes interact with wood, glass, ceramics and quarried stone in this fantasy construction, then explore a fairy tale world, with a dragon’s back on the roof and a princess’ flower-shaped balcony on the top floor.
Insanely popular in summer, so book tickets in advance if you don’t want to waste hours outside.
Barcelona Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
See the best of Barcelona’s attractions at the pace that works for you from an open-top city sightseeing bus. Select a one or two-day package and hop on and off as you wish at the city’s iconic landmarks.
Take stunning photos from the open-top upper deck or ride in comfort on the air-conditioned lower deck and stay connected with free direct WiFi throughout the tour – so you can share those photos instantly, or check Grindr throughout the day…
With three different routes to be enjoyed with a single ticket, this is a fun and easy way to discover the best of Barcelona.
Gay Beach in Barcelona
During the day, what more could you want but recover from the night before surrounded by gorgeous, bronzed gay men as eye candy? While there is no beach in Barcelona that gays would not be welcome on, we seem to have claimed two as our own. Mar Bella is the busiest and most famous gay beach, twenty minutes walk from Metro Ciutadella Vila Olímpica, with nightly events in summer.
There is a large sand dune here that separates it from the rest of the beach, and it is the only nude beach in Barcelona. Nearby San Sebastian is more relaxed and popular amongst gay couples.
If you are staying at the gay-popular W Hotel, this beach is right on your doorstep – or even if you are not there the bar is open for cocktails after a long day at the beach. All are very public and open; if you want a cruisy beach, you could head to Sitges for the day…
Visit the historic Catalonian town of Girona, also used as the filming locations for King’s Landing and Braavos in Game of Thrones.
Visit the awe-inspiring Cathedral and explore El Call, one of the best preserved Jewish Quarters in the world, before wandering the narrow cobbled streets in your own time and admiring the famous multi-colored houses on the riverbanks.
Entirely possible to visit on a day trip, though you could also consider hiring a car and exploring more of Gay Girona on your own.
Flamenco Show at Tablao Cordobes
Be amazed by the cave-like architecture naturally enhancing the characteristic sound of flamenco from the stage. Get up close to the 15 or so performers in the intimate space allowing for a truly memorable experience – you might even see legendary flamenco dancer Carmen Amaya’s granddaughter perform if you are lucky.
Sestienda
Serving the local LGBT community since 1981, this gay adult sex toy store in Barcelona is the oldest in Spain. Stop by to browse their extensive selection of toys, pick up something from your wish list, or take delight in finding a device you never thought possible.
One of the most charismatic beach bars in all of Barcelona and also the only openly gay environment one – located, of course, on the Mar Bella gay beach. An elegant space with a covered terrace, a chill-out space, and hammocks serving delicious Mediterranean and international dishes.
BeGay is the ideal place to meet new people, have fun, be yourself, love who you love and be as you are.
Savor local Spanish wines paired perfectly with delicious tapas as you explore and experience the best of Barcelona’s food sites and get a taste of local sidestreet tapas. This fabulous 5-hour tour offers plenty of diverse wine, tapas, and gourmet dishes, enough to be lunch and dinner!
What perfect way could there be to discover Spain’s long, colorful and exciting culinary traditions than on a food tour – and you can either choose an afternoon or evening tour to suit your schedule.
A small LGBT bookstore that has been fighting to add to LGBT culture for 22 years. With plenty of interesting books, mostly in Spanish, it’s also a nice place to meet other people and ask questions about the local community.
Gay Events In Barcelona
Barcelona is where Matinee, one of the biggest names in gay clubbing worldwide, was formed and is home to their flagship event: Circuit Festival, the largest gay event in Europe.
Circuit Festival and Barcelona Gay Pride are the two biggest events of the year, so if you plan to attend – or visit during this time – book your hotel far, far in advance. There are many, many, many more events held annually, which have also been listed later on, but these are the big ones you should know:
Matinee Gay Easter Weekend (April)
Forget the resurrection of Christ; Easter is when gays from all over Europe rise from their slumber and flock to Barcelona for this crazy weekend.
Organized by nightlife promoter Matinée Group, if you’re hungry for sun, parties and holidays but you can’t wait until the summer, here’s something to tide you over! Matinée Group brings you the ultimate spring getaway: 4 full days of world-class DJs and events shared with thousands of clubbers from all over the world. Not quite as big (yet) as the Circuit Festival, but there is still no way you will be disappointed…
United Bears Barcelona (April)
Another massive gay weekend in Barcelona over Easter; this is the annual international bears meeting when thousands of hairy men (and their admirers) from all over Europe wake up from their hibernation. A new event, but already wildly popular with pool parties, international DJs and all-night raves.
One of the biggest gays prides in the world, with over 250,000 people in attendance annually. Everybody says, LOVE! Not only a celebration of love and diversity but a continued fight for the freedom, dignity, and respect of LGTBI people in Spain and around the world.
Campaigning, concerts of international and national artists, parties, the March, sports competitions and offers for everyone – this inclusive event has something for absolutely every possible interest. Of course, there are also some of the biggest club parties of the year held in conjunction with Pride – so many queer people you might well wonder if anyone is actually straight anymore!
Barcelona Circuit Festival (August)
The largest gay festival of its kind in Europe. Circuit Festival means discovering the best music on earth, meeting with friends from all over the world and making new ones, celebrating culture and diversity, discovering a city that has endless leisure and cultural offer, visiting beautiful beaches and incredible places…
But, above it all, Circuit Festival is a writhing hot mess of the most gorgeous, muscly guys you have ever seen. Held over 11 amazing days with 16 mind-blowing parties, 40 world-class DJs and thousands of people from all over the world, this event solidifies Barcelona’s reputation as one of the gay capitals of the world!
Gay-Friendly and Gay Hotels in Barcelona, Spain
While basically every hotel in Barcelona is friendly and welcoming to the LGBT community, there are some that make an exceptional effort to be part of gay Barcelona.
No hotels are exclusively for gay men anymore – a sign of the liberal times, we guess – but others are still a crucial part of the gay scene because of their location and history and some hotels are just known for being exceptionally welcoming of gay guests.
The following gay hotels in Barcelona can all be relied on for an extraordinary stay in Barcelona, though two of these are the ‘hetero friendly’ gay hotels; Axel and Axel 2 are almost guaranteed to only have gay guests staying.
In all of the below options, you’ll find sheer decadent luxury, contemporary design, and delicious in-house restaurants – along with plenty of other gay guests. If Barcelona wasn’t so amazing, we’d never leave some of these hotels!
There are hundreds of other good hotel options in Barcelona if you don’t find what you are looking for, but we are confident you’ll find something here for you. Whether you want a fun and social hostel, a cheap place to crash after a night of partying or a chic designer option to sip cocktails and surround yourself with fabulous people – Gay Barcelona is something for everyone!
Gay Hotels in Barcelona
Both of these contemporary and trendy gay hotels are located in Gayxample, so you’re perfectly positioned to explore Gay Barcelona.
While these hip hotels are aimed at the gay community, absolutely everyone is welcome. The teams here know that what’s important is creating a welcoming atmosphere to add to the charms of an already charming city. While we briefly cover here, you can also read more extensively about why we are obsessed with Europe’s gay Axel hotel chain!
Axel Hotel Barcelona And Urban Spa ☆☆☆☆
This is a beautifully designed space with edgy and modern rooms; the décor includes some pretty original artwork (a lightbox shaped like a naked man is one example), which we find a great touch. There’s every luxury you need to unwind in the rooms, so they’ll be your oasis of calm after exploring the busy city.
There’s a stunning rooftop space with a Sky Bar, where you can drink inventive cocktails and listen to the sounds of the city, getting ready for the night ahead. If you don’t fancy heading out, the Nikkei 103 restaurant offers tasty Peruvian-Japanese fusion food, and then you can head to the spa for some R&R.
TWO Hotel Barcelona by Axel ☆☆☆☆
This Two Hotel is supposed to be the more chilled-out alternative to the ultra-sophisticated flagship Axel. It’s a little bit smaller but just as chic, and the terrace on the rooftop is much bigger. There are even hammocks for you to lie back in after a day’s sightseeing.
The swimming pool on the roof is heated, and here you can get chatting with other guests and see what’s on in Barcelona that evening. Start your night with a drink in the lobby bar, an elegant and modern space with windows gazing out on the street.
Gay-Friendly Luxury Hotels in Barcelona
This gorgeous boutique hotel is located right in the heart of the action in Barcelona’s famous Gothic Quarter. Even better than the location is the view: you’ve got incredible views over the old city from the rooftop pool and even from some of the rooms.
Every one of the 74 rooms is sleek, modern, and contemporary, with up-to-date amenities. We love the luxury baths in the bedrooms for the sheer decadence of the idea. There are flat-screen TVs and iPod docks if you want to unwind with an LGBT film or some music. Speaking of unwinding, the gym offers great sauna facilities (oh yes, and a place to work out, too!).
We’re very confident that as a traveler with style, and taste, and one who doesn’t mind dropping some extra money on a hotel, you will have heard of the W chain – a luxury brand aimed at younger people who want to have a good time.
The W Barcelona has all of the trademark features we have come to expect, with amazing service, munchies boxes, and an incredible bed. You’ll enjoy amazing views across the sea and a swimming pool. It’s not the location for you if you want to be within walking distance from the gay nightlife scene of Barcelona as it’s further away at the beach, but for a luxury stay, it cannot be beaten.
This is more than just a gay-friendly hotel; it’s almost a work of art. An elegant, historic building near Passeig de Grácia has been remodeled with a minimalist and sophisticated design. As well as this stylish feel, you can also enjoy all the delights of a spa, including a gym, indoor pool, and sauna.
It’s all about the technology here – keys are out, and fingerprint technology is in. State-of-the-art TVs are in the room, and Bvlgari products are in the bathroom. Amidst all this glamor, you might never want to leave, but if you do, Barcelona’s amazing gay nightlife in Eixample is only 15 minutes away.
Mandarin Oriental Barcelona ☆☆☆☆☆
Step inside this striking and modern Mandarin Oriental in the shopping district of Barcelona, and you will be immediately impressed. You feel instantly that you’re in the lap of luxury and can have every confidence in having an amazing stay.
The service matches the décor in being perfect from start to finish. Let’s start with our favorite part: a spa that covers over 1000m² and includes eight treatment rooms and a pool.
It’s the perfect recuperation spot once you’ve toured all the attractions of Barcelona. The rooms are equally as luxurious and comfortable, with fluffy beds you can sink into and binge-watch lesbian TV show all night! While the restaurants and bars of Eixample are only 10 minutes away, you don’t even need to leave the hotel at all with its range of dining options and 9th-floor bar exclusively for guests.
NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderon ☆☆☆☆
Barcelona has so much to do, see, and do that a hotel right in the middle of the city is a great asset. From the newly renovated NH Gran Hotel Calderon, you can easily access the gay scene in Eixample, the tourist sights near Las Ramblas and all the shopping your heart desires!
Sometimes you just want a hotel that you know you can rely on, and a chain like NH is just that. The rooms are clean and bright with minibar, flat-screen TVs and views over the city. When you are done with sightseeing, you can head to the rooftop pool and sun terrace to unwind. There’s also a tasteful bar and restaurant area.
Pullman Barcelona Skipper ☆☆☆☆☆
This is another option for the beach bums among you, particularly if you want to be close to Barcelona’s famous gay beach, Mar Bella. Set up at the Pullman and then take a 15-minute stroll along the promenade to the beach. Nova Icàri Beach is gay-popular as well, and even closer.
It’s also a 15-minute walk to the tourist area of La Rambla for your daytime sightseeing, although if you are going on a night out to Eixample, a taxi might be your best bet. At the hotel, you’ll find clean, spacious and modern rooms to relax in, all of which have amazing views over the sea.
If you upgrade to a Superior or Deluxe room, you will also have a private terrace. We love the Turkish steam bath at the day spa because it’s the perfect way to unwind fully when you’ve been walking the streets of Barcelona all day.
Gay-Friendly Budget Accommodation in Barcelona
A very central hotel with the Barcelona gay scene literally on your doorstep. Cutting-edge and sophisticated, this hotel is so gay-popular we almost listed it as a gay hotel, but they are open to all adventurers. The contemporary rooms feature partially mirrored walls, many with balconies and mood lighting, while there is also a glamorous outdoor pool, sundeck and cocktail lounge.
Located in the center of Barcelona, just beside Plaza Cataluña and the Ramblas, is this oasis of calm favored by many gay travelers thanks to its location and price. One of the hidden gems of Hotel Jazz is its fabulous hotel pool in Barcelona, located on the 8th floor, amidst a spacious terrace with magnificent panoramic views of the entire city.
A very chic hotel that is surprisingly affordable when booked in advance. The B Hotel offers modern rooms designed with high-end furnishings and materials and equipped with the latest electronics and technological devices.
Located in central Barcelona close to the wild gay scene, B hotel also offers a chic terrace-solarium with a pool on the 8th floor, granting guests panoramas of the city.
A gay-popular, cozy and very affordable budget hotel in the central Eixample district of Barcelona, near Plaza de Catalunya, Gothic Quarter and Passeig de Gràcia. A forerunner in its style of architecture, given that it was the only building built in the form of a typical Eixample-style block courtyard.
It boasts modern, warm and welcoming rooms and friendly staff with no luxe amenities ensuring the price remains competitive.
A hotel inspired by the exuberant nature of the tropics, featuring contemporary decorations in yellows and greens to transport guests to a fresh and impulsive world reflecting the very same values for which the Catalan capital city is renowned across the world.
With its fun, bold, and vibrant character, chic&basic Lemon is a mirror image of the city and provides the ideal way of discovering the most genuine side of Barcelona.
Hostel Casa Kessler ☆☆
(Temporarily or permanently closed. If you know something, please suggest an edit.)
Stay at this glamorous boutique hostel, and all of Gayxample is right on your doorstep – perfect for travelers who want to fully explore Barcelona’s gay district. This location is one of the reasons we’d describe it as an almost-gay hostel in Barcelona; that, and the fabulous interior!
It’s an intimate space with just seven meticulously decorated rooms and an independent apartment for those who want a bit more privacy. The managers have taken a lot of care with the renovation of this Art Nouveau building, and the results are stunning.
Enjoy the lavish mezzanine, the modern and fun design in the dorms and the decadent touches, like fur, throws in the bedrooms and zebra-print rugs on the floor. It’s a soothing space ideal for gay travelers who want a more sophisticated mini-break!
Gay Nightlife in Barcelona
We are not even sure where to start as the gay nightlife in Barcelona is amongst the best in the world.
If you are as overwhelmed as we are, the only thing you need to know is the main gay area for nightlife is the Eixample district, also known as “Gaixample”. This 3-block area between the Urgell and Universitat metro stations contains more gay spirit than anywhere else in the city – but is by no means the only place to spend the night with your global queer family.
Gay club parties in Barcelona are all the range with different locations across the city every evening, but we have only listed the most popular and fabulous, as there are almost too many to count! Use our Gay Barcelona Map at the end if you’re lost, but there is plenty of bars, cocktail lounges, bearded glitter queens and bear dens littered across Barcelona to satisfy even the most discerning of gay travelers.
Many restaurants here don’t get busy till around 10 pm, which bars filled from around 1 am and clubs getting going around 2.30am. The insanely-epic weekend events like Matinee’s Pervert are the exception to this, however, and they full up fast!
Cash is king here, and pickpockets are sadly rife throughout almost venue we visited – just be careful, leave your non-essentials at home and just take what you are actually going to use on the night. Take special care at bars and in dark rooms as – well, easy targets are those literally with their pants down.
We have only focussed on explicitly gay venues here in Barcelona, but the city and country are so liberal that it doesn’t feel like you can’t make out with your partner in most bars or clubs here!
Refreshing and freeing, the gay nightlife in Barcelona has something for everyone!
Barcelona Gays Bars In Gaixample Area
A happening gay dance bar with a darkroom and crowded dance floor frequented by an older crowd of guys, generally 30+. The service is friendly, the bartenders speak English, and the vibe is fun, frivolous and lively, just like Gay Mykonos.
La Chapelle
A gay bar decorated with odd religious artifacts serving enchanting cocktails. Grab a seat on the terrace and enjoy your drink, watching as all the gay crowds head past for bigger bars and clubs. Who knows, maybe you’ll find someone cute and join them. Busy from 10 pm to 2 am with affordable prices and genuinely friendly bartenders.
One of our favorite gay bars in the Eixample area offers a quiet place to sit down and enjoy designer drinks with new friends. There is a very relaxed and romantic garden and DJs on the weekends, but it never gets as noisy and overcrowded here as most of the other gay bars in Barcelona. A mostly local crowd who come for the friendly service and some of the best mojitos in town.
An affordable gay bar inspired by the famous artist Antoni Gaudí with an extensive menu of excellent wine and fun cocktails. With terrace service, a great selection of music and irresistible prices Blunit is a perfect place to start the night off strong. And if you want to continue the party, they also have free tickets and discounts for the most important clubs in the area, such as Arena disco etc.
Sky Bar
The Axel Hotel Barcelona rooftop bar, Sky, has been designed to enjoy both day and night. During the day, its sun loungers and pool are perfect for sunbathing during the hottest days. At night, the Sky Bar becomes the perfect place to enjoy Barcelona’s evening atmosphere and the most refreshing cocktails.
At dusk, when the sun goes down, Priscilla Café springs into life, or earlier during the week with the after-work crowd. Relax with friends, have a drink and enjoy the stylish, elegant surroundings well into the morning every day of the week.
After dinner, before going dancing, a drink before returning home, warm smiles and cocktails are always waiting here. Who knows, maybe you’ll even meet new friends to join you on a colorful bus tour from Sydney across the Australian desert, or at least head out on an adventure in Gay Barcelona.
Bacon Bear Bar
The place to go for bears and their admirers. Simple and relaxed with a very friendly crowd, weekly happy hour on Thursday nights and plenty of room for the crowds, which file in on the weekends.
The Moon
Hot bartenders in little more than tight-fitting shorts, pole dancers and cheap drinks are the obvious appeal here, drawing in large crowds later at night. Earlier come for the strong-pour cocktails in giant glasses and island décor that has us dreaming of Punta Cana and gay-friendly Caribbean Islands.
A stress-free place, with trendy decoration and excellent service in the hands of the sexy GinGer Boys. Located in a privileged place – Aribau Street in the heart of Gayxample – Gingin Gay Bar offers fun music, strong drinks, an alternative crowd and nothing but good vibes.
Fashionable, contemporary and cozy close to Axel Hotel, try them out on Tuesdays for 2-4-1 drinks or indulge in their wonderful gin and tonics any other day of the week.
A fancy cocktail gay bar in Barcelona, with one of the best streetside terraces for enjoying delicious drinks with a spot of people-gawking. Not to be missed! The perfect place to go when you actually want to have a conversation with friends over a cocktail.
The expert mixologists and creative bartenders will awaken your senses with their own creative proposals – some of which come with gummy bears! We personally loved the strawberry lychee mojito and range of margaritas that had us reminiscing about nights out in Cancun and Puerto Vallarta.
And the adorable unicorn float drinks! With delightful decor, relaxed patrons and low-key background music of house/deep-house, there are no dancers here, just good food and great drinks.
A new addition to the already expansive Barcelona gay scene proving itself as a popular hotspot for modern cocktails surrounded by seriously-chic French Rococo-Esque decor! Wonderfully tacky, Versailles would make a welcome addition to the Paris or Montpellier gay scene, but lucky for us, it is here in Barcelona with attentive bartenders and no-attitude crowds.
Ambarito
A small gay dive bar in Barcelona with warm crowds pre-loading for bigger parties elsewhere. Nothing, in particular, stands out here, but Ambarito is quiet and a fun place to mix and mingle without pretense.
A popular gay café / meeting place with plenty of space and lots of light and color. Popular with a younger crowd and getting busy earlier (around 10 pm), Punto BCN is especially busy on Wednesday with a popular happy hour.
There is a nice mezzanine with tables perfect for people-watching and a modern bar, but one of the clear highlights is the free tickets to the Gay Arena club parties of the night since Punto BCN is under the same umbrella group.
A glittery, campy gay dance bar with a mix of old and new queer anthems music and some Latin music thrown in to. Sure to turn everyone into a singer, although the drinks were a little pricey and bartenders spoke limited English.
A simple but large gay bar with a dance floor, drag shows and back rooms offering traditional old-school gay shade with a Latin twist. Drawing in a crowd of mostly younger guys, this is a camp place perfect for coming with friends or making new ones.
In the heart of Barcelona’s Eixample, BoysBar BCN has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, sexy guys, great music and, above all, a place to have a good time. Open Tuesday to Sunday, Boys Bar offers a totally different kind of party. Fun, strippers, cute guys, a darkroom with cabins and glory holes and House Music DJs are all waiting for you here!
Wednesdays are Latin nights with salsa, bachata, reggaeton, plus the sexy guys we have been dreaming about since our time in Medellin and Quito. Fridays take it up a notch again with buff strippers, and Saturdays boast DJs and go-go dancers for the perfect pre-club warm-up, which is great as free passes and discounts are also available for all gay clubs. There is also a daily happy hour until 11.30pm.
Other Gays Bars In Barcelona
Near the Poblenou subway stop, this campy and theatrical cocktail lounge is small but vibrant, with a great location, great cocktails and a great choice of music. Inhibitions and librations flow freely all night long here, and while all the cocktails are divinely balanced, we personally have to recommend the Tom Sour, a signature gin-based cocktail that will have you ordering round after round.
A trendy mixed bar in the emblematic Raval neighborhood, in the heart of Barcelona. Offering a beautiful terrace and exquisite cocktails with the utmost care taken with preparation and taste, this is a fun gathering place for locals and in-the-know tourists.
A great gay waterhole in the Poblesec area with a vibrant, funky atmosphere, live events, great drinks at a great price and incredibly kind staff who went above and beyond to make sure we have a good time. Wednesdays are Drag Bingo night, but even on quieter nights, there are board games available if you want to take your friends or make some new ones.
A very cool and casual neighborhood gay bar in El Poble-sec attracts artists, queers, and allies. Typically Barcelonian in a too-cool-for-school way with rotating art exhibitions, theme parties, and strong cocktails.
Museum Bar
A fun gay bar just south of the gay district filled with copies of world-class art from many of the Grand Masters. Not that we think all the buff bodies that file in here care in particular, being more concerned about meetups and cheap drinks before heading to the nearby gay clubs.
Handly free entry passes are available at the bar. Museum Bar fills up around midnight with sexy local boys gyrating to the pop-music youtube playlist.
A popular gay bar filled with students and a good number of lesbians. Thursdays are swimsuit night, which we were absolutely living for.
Pop music, dance and contemporary R&B blaring out every night out across the dance floor, and you’ll find a great variety of cocktails, beers, mojitos, and gin-tonics at the bar – though we wouldn’t recommend going here for the drinks alone. Just to the south of the gay Eixample area.
Weekly Gay Dance Parties and Night Clubs In Barcelona
Culture Club
A large three-level nightclub that attracts a gay-majority crowd with a mix of house, techno, rock, and pop. Centrally located in the main street of Barcelona, Las Ramblas, on the site that used to host Club Fellini. Popular with tourists, it is not exactly cheap but has a very crazy crowd, and is so big you can often get lost. Like many nightclubs in Barcelona, watch out for pickpockets.
An only-for-men gay club night in Barcelona on Saturdays from midnight until 06.00 am. The official gay party of the Matinee group in Barcelona and has epic production values, great DJs and an atmosphere conducive to debauchery. Expect a mixed-age crowd with everyone from twinks to daddies, all shirtless and dancing in one glorious sweaty frenzied mess.
The Black Room @ Club City Hall
For seven years, this has been the biggest gay party on Sundays night in Barcelona. Very cruisey and for those who never want the party to stop with shirtless go-go dancers, busy, dark rooms, house music and a crowd who didn’t come just to dance.
A gay nightclub in the center of Barcelona is suitable for all audiences with fantastic live shows from transvestite to dancers, including singers and drag queens. Pumping music every day until 5 am, or Fridays and Saturdays up to 6 am! And playlist?
Well, as long as it is quality music, played by a good DJ and makes your body shake, you will find it here. With regular theme parties catering to different tribes, Believe Club is always one of the last clubs to close because, well, have you ever done Barcelona justice if you go to bed before dawn?
The mother of all Grupo Arena halls, open every day of the year, for more than 20 years, awaits you with a different atmosphere for your total fun. Popular with the young, gay and fabulous, always hosting queer events and generally featuring international DJs and some combination of exotic striptease shows and go-go dancers.
Playing a mix of upbeat remixes and house music, this is one of the biggest gay clubs in Barcelona, but it does not get busy till late and is always more popular on the weekend. Very cruisy with a no-holds-barred dark room. Discounted or free entry tickets can be found at many of the bars around the Barcelona gay area.
Another Arena venue hosts a range of gay dance parties with over 2,600 m² of space that is totally transformed based on the party. Fridays generally feature hot pop, electronic, house and techno parties, while on Saturdays, it is time to dance to the most popular pop, hits, and house hits.
Though the club is very much for the LGBTQIA + community, everyone is welcome. Check their website for upcoming events to match your interests.
Home to some of the biggest gay events in Barcelona, and is already a benchmark for queer nightlife in Barcelona. This jungle-themed space changes based on the agenda, but generally features multiple rooms and bars, VIP areas and a capacity for over 1350 people. Absolutely wild; check their agenda before you head to Gay Barcelona, as some events sell out in advance.
A weekend gay dance club playing classic hits and the best pop music of the day. For lesbians in Barcelona, on Friday, Saturday and holiday eve from 11 pm to 2 am, they host the lesbian dance party, Air Girls, after which they continue the party until 6 am, where everyone is welcome.
If you get your hand stamped, you can also access all the other Arena venues for free on the same night, including Safari Disco Club, Sala Tango, and Arena Madre.
Less Frequent Gay Parties In Barcelona
A gay cruise party full of thumping house and electro bass and humping men. Normally held on the last Friday of the month at Sala Tango, but check in advance as it seems to be undergoing some changes. Kluster vs. Mordosiko at Safari Disco Club seems to be the current iteration.
A camp, queer mess and probably the funniest monthly gay party in Barcelona. Taking over Safari Disco Club with two rooms – one of the pop hits and the other house music – and plenty of drag performances complete with all the glitter and tacky dresses you could wish for.
Themed gay parties are held on Sunday evenings, where people meet, dance and take delight. Held every 2-3 times per month at different venues, but normally at the Apollo Rooms. It an ideal to ensure you end the weekend in a good mood with the fun dance music of all genres.
A different kind of party with two rooms and Chocolate con churros served earlier in the night, this is less about cruising and debauchery, but a fun space for locals to party without stripping down and showing off their gay boxer brands.
Held every few months, this is a hot and heavy gay party known for sexy gogo shows and DJ House remixes. And if you can’t handle the heat, they have a few refreshing showers, dark rooms, and cabins. A night to focus on your desires without detours, all inspired by Tom of Finland, obviously.
One of the biggest gay circuit parties on earth started right here in Barcelona in 1997. A young company with an innovative spirit that has consistently brought stayed ahead of the trend and been at the forefront of the world’s gay scene year after year.
Their aim is to delight the audience and ensure that whichever event you will attend will be mind-blowing and unforgettable. They host the weekly Pervert Club in Barcelona and a range of other annual delights, including the world-famous annual Circuit Festival and the annual Matinée EASTER Weekend festival.
Check their website for upcoming events, not only here in Barcelona but in Lisbon, Milan, Miami, Rome and as far afield as Sydney!
Gay Saunas in Barcelona
Had enough of gay cruising in Barcelona – either in the bars or elsewhere?
For those who want a bit more guaranteed action, there are six steamy gay saunas in Barcelona that shouldn’t leave you disappointed (unlikely all those faceless accounts on Grindr or the other hookup apps…). If you want to explore your kinky side without a humid sauna, there is also the gay Barcelona cruise club scene which is as sensually self-indulgent as you will find anywhere on Earth.
Foreigners are happily welcome in all gay sex clubs and saunas in Barcelona, and although many speak English, you’ll still need to be good at reading non-verbal cues. Luckily we have our gay sauna guide to help you out! Most saunas here are open 24/7 at while not the cleanest in Europe, they still offer plenty of fun.
A luxurious sauna to live out all of your hot, carnal desires in. Open 24/7 but most popular after work and for their after-party on Sunday mornings. There is an amazing whirlpool, gay cinema theater, bar, steam, dry sauna, and plenty of private cabins.
Located further from the center, however, you will probably need a taxi to get here – but its style and clean facilities can make Sauna Barcelona a worthwhile investment in this respect. Plenty of younger, good-looking guys (mostly from Europe) with very few locals when we visited – and very clean.
An urban gay sauna in the center of Barcelona with four floors to relax or find the fun you are seeking. Inside there are hot male massages, a bar-cafeteria, a jacuzzi, a steam room, a cinema, cabins, and dark rooms. Open 24 hours over the weekend with discounts for younger guys, Sauna Galilea is normally quieter than other saunas but attracted more locals in our experience.
A big, beautiful and affordable sauna with everything you need: good service, clean facilities and a quiet and friendly environment for playing in. Open since 1980 but recently given a total renovation, Sauna BRUC is very clean and modern with a small bar, hydromassage pool, Jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, showers, dark room, garden patios, and bed.
Popular with bears and their admirers – if you go, don’t be afraid to explore the kinky Sitges Room, only for the most daring that you will have to discover for yourself.
A very spacious sauna set over three floors and visited by an older clientele. Come for an intimate workout in the darkroom, or time your visit with one of their popular bear or leather parties.
Open 24/7; there is a large Jacuzzi, dry room, steam room, fun showers, maze, private cabins and plenty of dark spaces. There is no luxury here, however, and Sauna Condal is rather run down and in need of more cleaning.
Anything goes in this vast labyrinth of a modern sauna filled with young sexy guys in every corner. But we are – you are either a client or a rent boy here. It’s not for us, but we do like how Sauna Thermas does it in a classy way providing a safe and clean environment for what is a very sought-after service in Barcelona.
With not one, but two indoor pools, a Jacuzzi, steam rooms, a sauna, and relaxing rooms – plus play spaces – your every desire is catered to here.
One of the most popular saunas in Barcelona, and one of the hostel cruising points in the Eixample gay district. Large and recently updated, this “party” sauna has an exceptionally fashionable atmosphere and draws a variety of guys, but mostly young and under 35.
Like a gayest saunas, cleanliness can be an issue, but there is still plenty of fun to be had in the open showers, steam room, playrooms, and jacuzzi.
Gay Cruising and Fetish Clubs in Barcelona
If the bars, gay parties or saunas in Barcelona are too vanilla for you, perhaps these fetish clubs and cruise lounges are a better fit.
We have to warn you; however, Barcelona has one of the most intense fetish scenes we have ever come across – up there with Berlin, Paris, Munich, Vienna, and Prague and it is definitely not for everyone. We have tried to identify places for the more ‘initiated,’ but there is nothing vanilla here.
Most of these ultra-hardcore cruising venues / gay sex clubs in Barcelona are centrally located and easy to find, but you can use our Gay Barcelona map at the end to find the closest to you.
A pioneer of jeans & leather bars in Barcelona, frequented by bears and manly mature men of age between 30 and 50. Offering two kinky floors, in the first, you’ll find a large bar, while about there are several cabins and a darkroom.
New Chaps is one of the more traditional gay bars in Barcelona and is a popular meeting point for like-minded tourists visiting the city. Inside you’ll find a friendly atmosphere, nice and efficient bartenders, and people willing to have fun and meet new people – as well as frequent activities and parties listed on their website.
Nestled on the fringes of the vibrant Gayxample quarter, Club Rectum emerges as Barcelona’s sultry sanctuary for gay men, offering a tantalizing retreat into the world of cruising and bear-friendly celebrations. This exclusive private club entices with an array of themed parties that promise an unforgettable journey into desire and fantasy, all within the discreet confines of its dark rooms, equipped to fulfill every whim.
With its intimate ambiance, welcoming staff, and a calendar bursting with events to cater to every taste, Club Rectum is not just a venue—it’s an experience where privacy meets pleasure, and every visit leaves you longing for the next.
Barcelona’s illustrious gay bar and fetish club, serves as an exhilarating haven for those seeking to explore their desires in a space without limits. Known for its welcoming atmosphere where men can freely indulge in their wildest fantasies, this members-only enclave offers themed nights that cater to every predilection—from leather and military to the highly anticipated Naked Night.
Here, amidst an environment that champions play and exploration, attendees are encouraged to adhere to specific dress codes, ensuring that the experience remains exclusive and respectful. With a reputation for being the largest and arguably the most engaging of Barcelona’s adult clubs, ClubOpenMind stands out not just for its diverse and electric parties but for its commitment to safety, inclusivity, and continuous hot, masked, or naked fun, making every visit a memorable foray into the heart of the city’s vibrant queer nightlife.
A 400 m2 concept space where music, hot boys and a friendly atmosphere combine to create a place where you can make your fantasies come true. One of Barcelona’s best gay sex club venues provides a safe place to explore, full of people just like you.
Hosting frequent themed parties, there is a lot of raunchy fun to be had here in the dark rooms and cabins, most with glory holes and spy holes so you can keep in touch with your neighbor. Or simply relax and recharge in the chilled-out café or take a look in their shop. Free lockers are available to store your valuables before heading in, and the ticket is valid all day, so you can jump in and out.
Open every day and always lively, Night Barcelona is one of the most popular places in Gaixample, the gay district of Barcelona, with a dark bar room, booths, glory holes, and a cruising area. Free condoms and a cloakroom are also available.
Men of all ages go here, perhaps originally drawn in by the shirtless bartenders but staying for the regular events, casual fun and affordable drinks (which are even cheaper on Thursdays). Busiest after midnight on the weekends but earlier during the week.
Clandestino Fetish Rooms in Barcelona beckons those drawn to BDSM with a promise of discreet, luxurious exploration. Within its five specialized rooms, every desire from bondage to sadomasochism finds its stage, set against a backdrop of privacy and cutting-edge amenities like a sound tower for an immersive experience. Dubbed as Barcelona’s echo to the notorious Grey’s room, Clandestino is a haven where domination and submission play out in the most intimate settings. It’s a place where fantasy meets reality, designed for those eager to delve into their deepest desires in a world where eroticism and lust reign supreme.
Much like Gay Vegas, what happens at Open Mind, stays at Open Mind. As they are not a club open to the public, Open Mind can guarantee the rights to privacy of the members and absolute confidentiality! Everyone is required to register and become a member, for one day, 3 months or 1 year.
Catering to various kinks and themes through events with strict dress codes (rubber, jockstrap, military, leather, uniform), make sure to plan your visit around your particular desire. Inside, you will find a bar, lockers, bathrooms with washing facilities, slings, banks, cages, booths, a Cross of St Andrew, glory holes, condoms and lube dispensers. Everything you need to play without limit…
Welcome to Berlin Dark, the pinnacle of kink and freedom in Barcelona’s nightlife since 2007. This hard-core fetish and cruising bar not only promises but delivers an electrifying experience where men and the entire spectrum of the fetish community can explore their desires without limitations—except for the unyielding respect for one another. From the liberating sessions of the Bastards Club every Wednesday to the sultry, exclusive Byzantium party and the daring Macho Factory Confidential with invited porn stars, Berlin Dark is where fantasies come alive under the cover of night, Tuesday through Sunday.
Whether you’re donning fetish gear, sportswear, or deciding to bear it all, Berlin Dark ensures your night will be anything but ordinary. The dress code might suggest leather, rubber, or a jockstrap, but ultimately, you’re encouraged to strip down to your bare essentials, boots or slippers only. With entry granting you wardrobe service, a complimentary drink, and the keys to a treasure trove of play accessories, Berlin Dark stands as a beacon of hedonistic pleasure. Here, discretion intertwines with absolute respect, creating a sanctuary for guests to dive deep into their kinks, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts.
It’s like stepping into a real-life version of “Fifty Shades of Grey,” but with better lighting and a soundtrack that doesn’t quit.
Barcelona’s biggest gay fetish & sex club, where you can find 400 m2 of sex in the city. Leather, Sport, Skin, Zapas, Rubber, Workers, Bears, and all kinds of codes are welcome at this local for the hottest night of cruising in town.
Industrial-themed with plenty of play spaces including private cabins, XXX lounge, showers, cages, and a wrestling lounge + plenty of theme night catering for specific fetishes. Every Tuesday is open to all genders and sexualities. Otherwise, it is a male-only club with a specific dress code and membership available for purchase at the door.
Gay Adult Toy Stores in Barcelona
Erotic Palace BCN
A small adult entertainment and male sex toy shop with video cabins, a darkroom, a cinema, and glory holes. They also have a location in Madrid. Other popular adult shops with cruising areas attached for gay men are Zeus, Nostromo, and Erotixx.
Sex Shop Zeus
At Sex Shop Zeus in Barcelona, every corner pulsates with the promise of pleasure, offering an intoxicating array of toys, BDSM gear, and the finest selections of leather, rubber, and neoprene. It’s a paradise where desires are unlocked and fantasies meet reality, amidst an atmosphere of absolute discretion and inclusivity.
Gay Map Of Barcelona
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is Gay Barcelona? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!