Flamenco, Freedom, and a Whole Lot of Fabulous: Why Spain Continues to Lead LGBTQ+ Travel in 2025
Spain has long been a top-tier destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, and in 2025, that reputation is only growing stronger. With a culture that embraces individuality, a progressive legal framework, and locals who genuinely welcome queer travelers, Spain continues to top our list. Not just for Pride season, but year-round.
Last year, we explored the southern gems: Seville, Granada, Málaga, Ronda, and Torremolinos; each one radiant with history, tapas, and gay-friendly hospitality. This year, we turned our compass northward, toward the Basque Country and the Mediterranean jewel of Sitges. What we found? Spain hasn’t lost its magic, it’s just spread it around.
Bilbao – Bold, Artsy, and Unexpected
We kicked off our northern adventure in Bilbao, staying at the newly opened Axel Hotel. Once a gay-only hotel brand, Axel has now opened its doors wider, not sure how we feel about that. Nevertheless, Bilbao itself was an elegant surprise and definitely feels like home to queer travelers.
The highlight? A four-hour immersion at the Guggenheim Museum. Honestly, we could’ve spent the whole day surrounded by its sleek titanium curves and provocative installations by world renown architecture Frank Gehry. Bilbao blends innovation and tradition effortlessly. Ideal for travelers who appreciate both style and substance.
San Sebastián – A Culinary Love Affair
Next up: San Sebastián, and let’s just say… we didn’t stop eating. Known globally as one of the world’s true culinary capitals, as of 2025 it has 16 Michelin stars spread across 11 restaurants, the highest per capita worldwide.
We strolled through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, indulging in round after round of pintxos (don’t call them tapas here!) and sipping on crisp txakoli wine. After five plates, I knew I’d need to book a detox retreat next, but it was worth every bite. San Sebastián doesn’t just feed your stomach; it feeds your soul.
The Rioja Wine Region – Sip, Stroll, and Swoon
On our way to Sitges, we passed through the famed Rioja wine region, stopping to admire another Frank Gehry masterpiece: the stunning Marqués de Riscal hotel structure. This region offers more than just wine, it’s pure visual poetry. Rolling hills, golden vineyards, and avant-garde architecture make for a drive that feels like cinematic magic.
Sitges – Spain’s Queer Beach Paradise
Our final stop brought us to Sitges, and wow! Think: all the glam of Madrid and Barcelona, but with sand between your toes and a deeper sense of community. Sitges has become a home base for a large, proud, and visible LGBTQ+ population, including locals and transplants from all over Europe and the U.S.
Our favorite moment? Hands down: a day at the legendary Playa del Hombre Muerto (“Plage de l’Home Mort” in Catalan). Here’s the deal: you take a cab to the last stop, hike through a pine forest, cross train tracks, and suddenly … a gorgeous, all-nude gay beach with turquoise water that’s warmer than most of the Mediterranean. And yes, there’s a chic chiringuito (beach bar) serving cold drinks and tapas right on site. This beach is recognized since 1930 as one of the world’s first beaches to openly welcome the LGBTIQ+ community and is often considered the first “gay beach” in Europe.
And let’s not forget the other “play area” tucked discreetly into the landscape. A space that’s part fantasy, part freedom, and 100% unforgettable. “Magical” doesn’t even begin to describe it.
Spain – Still Queer. Still Proud. Still #1.
Spain continues to define what it means to travel while queer, not just with safety and acceptance, but with beauty, culture, and a celebration of life. Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, beach bum, or Pride enthusiast, Spain delivers. Every. Single. Time.