Eixample (pronounced Esh-aum-pla) is situated in the modern quarter of Barcelona and is home to some of the trendiest bars, restaurants and clubs. Couples can start off with a stroll in the surrounding older areas of Barcelona and then make their way to a restaurant for a romantic dinner, followed by some fun at one of the gay bars or clubs.



One such club that is a must on your itinerary is Sweet Cafe, situated at Casanova, 75. The biggest nights are Fridays and Saturdays, although all other nights (excluding Mondays because it is closed) are abuzz with a more chilled vibe. The vibe is accentuated by live DJs, film viewings and art exhibitions.

If you are looking for gay-friendly accommodation or hotels in Barcelona, then you should consider the Axel Hotel. This hotel, opened specifically with the gay and lesbian community in mind, has been restored within a 16th century building. The hotel has everything to make your stay more comfortable, complete with a Jacuzzi, business centre, rooftop terrace, gym, pool and restaurant. The best feature of the hotel is the 66 individually designed rooms so that whenever you stay in the hotel, the room will be completely different.

No visit to Barcelona is complete without a visit to Sitges the gay beach area. Sitges is situated less than 30 minutes from the Barcelona city centre and it is very easy to get there by car or by public transport. In the summer time, more than 30% of the tourists are gay. Originally an artists colony in the late 1800s, the gay beach area is now called Platja de la Bossa Rodona. This area is complete with quaint Spanish restaurants, nudist beaches and is teeming with nightlife. Although there is no lesbian club in the area as yet, many of the gay clubs on the Calle de San Bonaventura strip have lesbian nights. This area of Sitges is full of gay bars and clubs where anything from cocktails and drag to bears and cubs can be found.

One of the highlights in Sitges is the Gay Carnival in February. There are many gay-friendly hotels and holiday apartments in the area, but it is essential to book early to avoid the disappointment of having to stay in accommodation that does not reach your expectations.

Barcelona has so much to offer gay couples looking for a romantic getaway. The city has a mixture of culture, heritage and modernity that will make any holiday memorable.