Barcelona is not only one of the most beautiful cities in Europe—it’s also one of the most LGBT+-friendly. With a vibrant queer scene and a wide array of gay and lesbian bars, restaurants, and events, it’s no wonder the city is a favorite destination for lesbian and gay travelers. Most of the nightlife and queer-friendly accommodations are located in the L’Eixample district, affectionately nicknamed “Gaixample.”
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Lesbian Bars and Parties
I was lucky to explore the city’s nightlife with a local friend—always a bonus! If you’re traveling solo and would prefer some company for a night out, I highly recommend using apps like Tinder or Her to connect with locals or fellow travelers who might show you around.
La Sue (closed)
We began our night at La Sue, which used to be a popular lesbian hangout. It was a cozy bar that also served tapas—perfect for a casual start to the night before heading to a club.
Update (2018): Sadly, La Sue has closed down.
Aire

On Friday night, we went to Aire, a popular lesbian party held at Arena Classic. It’s one of the most well-known queer women’s events in Barcelona, with a lively dance floor and DJs playing a mix of current hits, Latin beats, and timeless favorites. The party is mainly for women, but men are welcome if accompanied by lesbian friends.
Tip: Arrive early and ask about a free pass to Arena Madre—sometimes you can enter both venues with just one ticket! Also check out the Barcelona Nightlife Ticket, which includes entry to several gay bars and over 25 nightclubs.
Event times and locations can vary, so for the latest info, check out @airechicas on Instagram — they post regular updates, special events, and party photos.
Update 2025: As of this year, Aire events are currently on pause. Be sure to follow their Instagram page to stay informed about when (or if) they’ll return.

Even though Aire events are currently on pause (as of 2025), there are still plenty of nightlife options in the area. Grupo Arena owns several popular gay bars and clubs, including for example:
Punto BCN
Arena Experience
Safari Disco Club
All are within walking distance of one another, making bar-hopping super easy. You can find their full event list on Grupo Arena’s website.
Girlie Circuit
If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona in August, make sure to catch the Girlie Circuit festival—Europe’s largest international lesbian event, similar in spirit to The Dinah in the U.S. It features parties, beach events, pool days, and concerts.
LGBT-friendly Hotels
If you’re planning to go out and enjoy the nightlife, check out my hotel recommendations for the area. One of the best parts of traveling is being able to stay in the heart of the city—and if you’re heading out in the evening, it’s always nice to be just a short walk from the bars. The L’Eixample district is home to several gay-friendly hotels, and even gay hotels, such as Axel Hotel Barcelona & Urban Spa, though many of them tend to cater more toward gay men. That said, here are some great accommodation options for every budget, all conveniently located in L’Eixample near the city’s gay bars:
Luxury Hotels:
Casagrand Luxury Suites

Photo by Casagrand Luxury Suites
Located just next to L’Eixample and a 15-minute walk from the gay bars, this hotel offers a truly luxurious experience. The apartments are stylish, modern, and soundproofed, and guests enjoy free access to a rooftop terrace with a pool and sauna. The property also features a 24-hour gym, free Wi-Fi throughout, and 24-hour reception.
Check out the prices and book the hotel on Booking.com.
Almanac Barcelona

Photo by Almanac Barcelona
Almanac Barcelona is located in the heart of L’Eixample, just a few steps from the Paseo de Gracia Boulevard, central Plaza Catalunya and a metro station. This luxurious hotel offers a panoramic rooftop bar and terrace, and a fantastic pool and sun lounge area. The hotel also has a fitness and wellness center, a treatment room, steam sauna and relaxation lounge.
Check out the prices and book the hotel on Booking.com.
H10 Casa Mimosa

Photo by H10 Casa Mimosa
H10 Casa Mimosa is a 19th- century modernist building, located close to the Diagonal metro station and it’s within walking distance of all the gay bars. The hotel offers a beautiful chill-out terrace with a plunge pool and a sun lounge area with great views of Casa Milà’s terrace. The hotel also features outdoor gardens, an on-site restaurant, fitness and meeting rooms and high-speed WIFI.
Check out the prices and book the hotel on Booking.com.
Mid-Range Hotels:
The Corner Hotel

Photo by The Corner Hotel
The Corner Hotel is a four-star hotel offering free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, sun terrace and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. The Corner Hotel has a very central location in L’Eixample and it’s located half a kilometer from Casa Batllo.
Check out the prices and book the hotel on Booking.com.
Hotel Granvia

Photo by Hotel Granvia
Hotel Granvia is in an impressive 19th-century building, and it’s only a few steps away from the shops and restaurants of Passeig de Gràcia, while also being very close to the gay bars. The hotel has free Wi-Fi and a stunning terrace, and offer excellent value for money.
Check out the prices and book the hotel on Booking.com.
Forget Me Not Plus

Photo by Forget Me Not Plus
Forget Me Not Plus also has an excellent location in L’Eixample.
Featuring free WiFi throughout the property, an on-site bar, and a delicious breakfast buffet, this boutique Bed & Breakfast is a great place to stay in Barcelona.
Check out the prices and book the hotel on Booking.com.
Budget:
Sant Jordi Hostel Rock Palace

Photo by Sant Jordi Hostel Rock Palace
Sant Jordi Hostel Rock Palace is a designer hostel dedicated to Rock Music of all ages. The location is perfect, and the hostel offers modern facilities, fun atmosphere and excellent service. There is also a roof-top swimming pool, bar, a guitar collection, Wi-Fi throughout the building, guest computers, sound-proofed rooms, huge guest kitchen, outdoor patios and spacious bathrooms.
Check out prices and book the hostel on Booking.com.
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1 comment
Super useful article!! I look forward to going back to Barcelona, I’ll definitely be checking these recommendations out!