

Madrid, once overshadowed by its somewhat sexier rival, Barcelona, is rightfully claiming its position as one of the trendiest gay cities in Europe. Ever since Europride in 2007, the city has become home to one of the biggest annual prides in the world. Madrid has it all; a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful museums, world renowned art galleries, sexy and friendly guys and a hot underground party scene. There is simply so much to discover.
First things first! Madrileños love to party. If New York is the city that doesn’t sleep, then Madrid is most certainly the European equivalent - except maybe for a leisurely disco nap in the afternoon that is! Considering the blazing hot late spring and summer afternoons you would also be well advised to join the Madrileños in seeking a cool place to pass the heat of the day with a little siesta.
Highlights in the Madrid annual gay calendar include the international fetish weekend, Sleazy Madrid during Easter, the Madrid Pride in July, the Gay Film festival in November and the International bears week (also known as MAD BEAR) in December.
If you do plan on visiting for the Gay Pride at the end of June, you should consider booking well in advance. More than 1 million people take to the streets for the main parade and the parties and festivities last for more than a week.
New Year's Eve is also a huge event in Madrid with an International Gay Winter festival taking place over 4 days.
The gay scene is centred around Chueca so everything is witchin walking distance. Most of the gay bars, cafes, shops and some of the smaller clubs are located in the centre. The larger circuit Parties such as WE and Space of Sound can be reached by taking a taxi.
Chueca nightlife is mostly about small dive bars. These bars are packed full of locals and tourists at the weekend from around 12am. To get your bearings start out at Room Mate Oscar's Gift Lounge Bar. Its definitely the place to be seen. At the end of the night check out La Boite, one of Madrid's most famous dance clubs. Fancy something with an edge, then visit Strong! Visit the bars section for more info on where to go out.
Eating out in Madrid is a late affair. There are some great tapas bars that serve up tasty home-cooked food for a pittance. One of the hottest tables in town has to be Bar Tomate... (reservations recommended)! Check out our restaurants section for a guide on where to eat.
Looking for a place to stay that's Gay Friendly and in the heart of Madrid? Then check out Petit Palace Ducal, set in a traditional 19th-century mansion. It offers modern rooms and free Wi-Fi throughout.
For those on a budget, try Pensión Chueca, cheap and cheerful and within seconds of the city's best gay bars and clubs.