Known for its beautiful beaches and for being the original home of Spain’s most famous dish, Paella, Valencia is a must-see destination. While it is Spain’s third largest city, Valencia still maintains a quiet sense of community and culture, making it all the more charming for both locals and tourists alike. The city is an easy train ride down the coast from Barcelona, and is sure to amaze with its unique street art and breathtaking architecture. While it does not get the same hype as Barcelona or Madrid, the gay Valencia scene is flourishing.
Believe it or not, Valencia as a whole is very gay-friendly with gay life not being restricted to a certain zone. Gay bars, clubs, and hangout sites are spread throughout the city, and are extremely easy to get to from each other. Some areas include the Maritime Quarters, Ruzafa Quarter, and El Carmen Quarter. There is however a well-known gay beach called Playa de l’Arbre del Gos in the south of the city. Anywhere you go in Valencia, you are sure to come across a gay-friendly establishment. Just speak to the locals, they should be able to point you in the right direction.
Wherever you are in Valencia, you are sure to stumble upon one of the many gay bars Valencia has to offer. If you plan to interact with some cute friendly gays, be sure to hit up The Muse and/or La Boba y el Gato Rancio where you will undoubtedly meet a pretty smile. End the night with some dancing at Desero 54, one of Valencia’s top gay clubs. For an unforgettable gay experience, visit Valencia at the end of June for Gay Pride Valencia. Weekend festivities include a Pride Parade, concerts, films, exhibitions, and of course some lively, outrageous parties - we’re talking Spain after all.
Aside from the specifically gay Valencia scene, there are many other attractions to check out. Art and culture are big in Valencia, and museum entry is generally very inexpensive or even free, for example at the Museum of Fine Arts. Another must is the central market, El Mercat, which is the heart of local produce and specialty foods in Valencia. If you are looking to siesta on the beach, Playa de la Arenas is one of the most popular beaches in Valencia to relax and people watch on.
Although Spain as a whole is a great gay travel country, the gay accommodation Valencia offers is off the charts! Some of the most popular stays with gay travelers are: Caro Hotel, The Westin Valencia, and Jardin Botanico Hotel Boutique. These are all gay-friendly hotels in Valencia and are right next to all the gay hotspots. Otherwise, if you would prefer to tap into some local culture, why not pencil in a stay with a misterb&b host, who can help you live like a gay local? Otherwise, entire misterb&b apartments in Valencia are also available, should you wish to have a little privacy in your very own pad! Whichever you choose, misterb&b has you covered as you plan your next gay travels.