The 18 best and coolest gay hotels in Barcelona

Sassy, cosmopolitan, super cool and sooo gay!

That sums up just why we love Barcelona so much and why we keep returning every year for more! Regardless of how long you plan to visit, how much ground you hope to cover, and the kind of vibe you want to be around, Barcelona is filled with multiple options for gay travellers. We’ve always found the perfect place to suit our needs – whether we were just craving a short city break or a full-on romantic reenactment of our honeymoon.

There are plenty of choices for those willing to paint the town green (with those dollah dollah bills y'all), or who need to keep a tight grip on those purse strings. Either way, Barcelona is a calling you…so it is your duty to answer!

We've rounded up our picks of the coolest gay hotels in Barcelona in this guide, so you will have all the info you need to book your own perfect fabulous stay.

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Where to base yourself in Barcelona

Situated in the Eixample district, the main gay area is nicknamed, Gaixample (pronounced: gay-sham-pleh). Here you can find tons of LGBTQ bars, clubs, cafés, restaurants and shops to explore. It’s an entire gay village that we get all to ourselves! Who will be the Queen of the village? That’s a hard question as there are tons of candidates vying for the spot…but obviously, it's us! If you want to be walking distance to the most hip-and-happening gay hangouts, as well as the main tourist sights of Barcelona, then this is where we recommend you base yourself. Read more in our gay travel guide to Barcelona as well as our guide to the city's best gay bars.

Then again, if you aren’t as much of a city junkie, you can always look at areas closer to the beach. The neighbourhood and beaches of Barcelonetta are extremely gay-friendly, plus there is a gay, clothing-optional section here. With loads of hotels and amenities to enjoy in the surrounding areas, it's a great spot to base yourself if you're just looking to chill-out and get a tan.

01

Axel Hotel Barcelona

Eixample

It’s always busy, always thriving, always fabulous, and we love it! With a 95% occupancy rate throughout the year, it is worth booking months in advance. In fact, it's so popular, that they’ve had to open up a second branch just down the street (called “TWO Hotel Barcelona Axel” – see more about it below). With stylish rooms touched with modern excellence and Mediterranean warmth, the Axel Hotel embodies all things quintessentially Spanish. From the bright use of colouring that is found throughout the halls and dining areas, to the fine woods of the furniture. It just oozes elegance here! A complimentary breakfast is also included in the room rate.

The Sky Bar is also a huge factor in what makes the hotel so popular, with even non-guests popping in for a drink. We personally found the bar a tad on the pretentious side, but it remains a staple on the gay scene of Barcelona. It has panoramic views of the city, a pool, and deck to lounge around in whilst sipping something delicious from the bar. Parties, art exhibitions and shows take place here regularly. There's also Wellness Club 333 by Axel, an indulgent space for gym bunnies, as well as a cruisy sauna to meet Mr Right Now!

For us, Axel represents the hearts of the Barcelona gay scene. It's the focal point from where we get our bearings when hanging out in Gaixample. All the main gay bars and clubs of Barcelona are just around the corner from Axel, as well as Barcelona's main tourist sights.

02

Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

Eixample

There is a wide variety of room choices to select from, depending on how much you are able or willing to spend. There are also various kinds of suites fitted with outdoor terraces, master beds and dining spaces. All rooms have a modern and contemporary style, with French rugs, wooden floorings and soft furnishings. Even walking into the room helps you feel more relaxed. Located on Passeig de Gracia, the Mandarin Oriental is ideally situated for you to explore Gaixample's happening nightlife.

A-list celebrities from around the world have been known to stay at the Mandarin, and after a night spent here ourselves, we understand exactly why! Rami Malek, the gorgeous actor who stepped up to the challenging role of Freddie Mercury in ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ partied with the surviving members of Queen in this hotel during his stay. He said it will always have a special place in his heart.

The Mandarin Oriental houses four different dining options, and the head chef of the hotel is the world-famous Carme Ruscalleda, the only woman that holds 7 Michelin stars! Moments restaurant holds two Michelin stars and serves healthy cuisine inspired by Catalan culinary culture. The staff at the Mandarin Oriental Spa are committed to wellness – with treatments inspired by their Oriental heritage, as well as local culture. From yoga to meditation to beauty therapies, treatments go beyond the physical by offering a holistic approach that will seep into your mind and soul.

03

W Hotel Barcelona

Barcelonetta

Committed to bringing you the full Spanish experience, complete with unique dishes bursting with flavour, La Barra restaurant encapsulates all things wonderfully Mediterranean. A seafood restaurant with a Michelin star, the food here will honestly take you to newfound levels of appreciation for cuisine. If you're looking for something a little more relaxed then SALT restaurant serves juicy burgers and innovative cocktails right on the beach.

The W Lounge and Bar is perfect for a drink before heading out or a nightcap before turning in. With plush couches, delicious cocktails and sizzling views of the beach and sea, it's a gorgeous spot on the ground floor. You can also ascend to the WET deck for cocktails and light snacks beside (or in) the pool. There's even a club called Eclipse on the 26th floor if you feel like dancing the night away!

For true pampering and relaxation head to the W's spa where all manner of treatments await for you to get glowing. From massages to waxing, manicures and men's services, you will be in true heaven. The infinity pool and sun deck are also magical, with private cabanas you can rent to enjoy the stunning views over the beach. There's also a fitness centre where you can workout while still enjoying the view from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The W is truly an incredible spot for a luxurious getaway.

04

TWO Hotel Barcelona by Axel

Eixample

A single night here is enough to show you just why it is beloved by the queer community from around the world. Not only is the staff’s attention-to-detail second to none, but the interior looks like it came straight out of a gay man’s daydream. Neon pink deck chairs lay by the pool, a rooftop bar serving all kinds of delicious cocktails, and a small gym to get you pumped up. It’s like a Barbie and Ken dreamhouse!

It’s also situated right beside Boyberry, one of the best gay cruising saunas in Barcelona. If you book your stay at TWO for a minimum of 3 nights, at least 60 days in advance, you get an 18% discount. Plus, you are free to go to the original Axel Hotel, saunter up to the rooftop bar and enjoy a drink there. The atmosphere in both hotels is bursting with so much energy. Everyone there is just looking to have fun, make new friends and be their fabulous, merry gay selves.

The rooms at TWO are spacious, modern and elegant with all of the Axel brand's bathroom amenities. They're also completely soundproofed, so no one will know what's going on with you and the sexy fella you met at Boyberry, or just so nobody will be bothered by Stefan's snoring! While a buffet breakfast is served each day you will need to explore further afield for dinner, but that's not a problem since there are so many fantastic restaurants close by to choose from.

05

Soho Hotel

Eixample

The name gives it away, as the Soho takes after the kind of boutique ones you find in Manhattan or London. With bright, modern spaces, and scenic views from the rooftop terrace (with pool), you’ll feel right in the centre of the city action. It’s also based in the heart of the gay district Gaixample, so you have easy access to queer clubs, bars, shops and restaurants. You’ll be close to sights like Plaza Cataluña, Paseo de Gracia, the Rambla and the Gothic Quarter.

An extensive buffet breakfast is served each day in the cosy lounge, but it's the rooftop terrace that really shines. There are plenty of spots to sunbathe or relax with a drink, and the small pool is great for cooling off on hot days. The rooftop area is only open during the summer months, but let's face it, nobody wants to freeze their bits off in winter anyway!

Hotel Soho is gay-friendly, with an LGBT Route on their website giving you the lowdown on the best places to eat and party if you're a gay traveller. There are also gastronomic, architecture, culture, and green routes, so everyone will find something to pique their interests. Hotel services include in-house massages and complimentary access to a nearby gym, so you'll probably forget you're even staying in a budget hotel!

06

Pol & Grace Hotel

Grazia

As enthusiasts of all things art and literature, we love the idea of creatives having such a space in a busy city like Barcelona. There is no place quite like a city to help artists burst through their creative blocks. Staff are always upbeat, friendly and super knowledgeable about the best things to do in the city. Pol & Grace is also very pet-friendly, even welcoming large dogs into their spacious Double Superior rooms.

We also love how comfortable and serene the rooms are here. Everything is designed to be muted and relaxing so that you can press the reset button after a busy day of exploring, plus the beds are huge! There's a lovely library to chill out in, while a free coffee and tea service is offered from mid-morning onwards. They have snacks like cake available for a small fee.

Situated in a quiet part inside the bustling city, it is a serene and tranquil place to come home to after a busy day of sightseeing. It's located right beside the Gràcia neighbourhood, which is itself an artistic hub. There are plenty of places to eat, shop and take beautiful snaps for Instagram-land nearby! Breakfast is served in typical Catalan style, with artisan breads, traditional sausages, granolas, cereals, an assortment of fruits and yummy hot dishes.

07

Claris Hotel & Spa

Eixample

In fact, Claris Hotel holds an art collection that draws people from all over the world. The art pieces, that are sprawled between both public spaces and guest’s rooms, represent all kinds of backgrounds and cultures. From 18th century English furniture to the Turkish kilims of the 19th century and Roman sculptures, you will feel as if you are having your very own “Night at the Museum” – art museum that is! Hotel guests can even take advantage of free entry to the Barcelona Egyptian Museum next door.

When we’re looking for a new place to stay, we are always won over by mention of a good spa. And Hotel Claris' Mayan Secret Spa is utterly magical. The range of treatments on offer will be the perfect way to centre yourself, allowing you to find balance and harmony in your body. We adored the Temazcal sauna, based on the traditional handcraft of the Mayan Culture, where volcanic stones are heated, then water with aromatic medicinal herbs is poured on them to release steam.

The hotel is close to Passeig de Gracia, where you will find a string of high-street shops, cafes and restaurants. Although you may not want to go out for fine dining, as Claris is also home to two fantastic and mouth-watering restaurants. La Terraza del Claris serves innovative Mediterranean cuisine on the rooftop terrace while Mr Kao is an intimate dim sum club inspired by the golden age of Shanghai’s private clubs. There's also a swimming pool on the rooftop terrace where you can enjoy unparalleled views over the city while cooling off in the water.

08

Olivia Balmes Hotel

Eixample

With a rooftop pool and solarium, you can do some laps in cool waters or stretch out on the patio furniture while still admiring the beautiful views of Barcelona city. It’s a great place to chill out, have a drink and meet new people. From jumping in and out of the pool to just absorbing some much-needed Vitamin D, the rooftop is definitely a must-visit spot for all Olivia Balmes guests.

Just off the terrace and pool is the hotel's gym, which is open 24 hours a day for anyone who really needs to get a workout in at 3am! There are also six different room types available at Olivia Balmes, so you'll find your perfect stay no matter your budget or desires. They're all modern and spacious, but you can choose from ones with balconies, basic rooms, superior or even the huge exclusive suites.

For dining, the Seventeen Restaurant draws in people from all over the city. Fusing Catalonian and Mediterranean cooking into their dishes, the food is bursting with flavours and passion. The terrace allows you to enjoy your meal outdoors. Sit back and give a toast with some fine wine, whilst breathing in the cool Spanish air. This is also where you can enjoy a varied breakfast buffet each morning, before beginning your day exploring the city.

09

Hotel Acevi Villarroel

Eixample

They work hard to ensure everyone feels personally catered for, taking the time to get to know you and tailor the experience for your needs. Whether you are taking a dip in the rooftop outdoor pool or relaxing on the patio surrounded by plants and flowers, the Acevi Villarroel is a budget-friendly way of re-energising. There's also a small gym for keeping fit during your travels.

The Kunu'u Spa features an array of services, from massages to chromotherapy, saunas and steam baths. This is also where the big outdoor Jacuzzi from the photo above is located. Hotel guests get a 60% discount, or free entry if you book the deluxe room with spa access. Breakfast is served each day in the elegant and minimalist restaurant, which also offers international cuisine for dinner.

Rooms are spacious, well-equipped and ultra-modern, with options to suit all kinds of budgets. Choose from a minimalist single/double room, or a luxury Jacuzzi Junior Suite for a truly romantic setting. These come with an incredible jacuzzi spa-bath in a fabulous marble bathroom. Lounge around in your own private spa, order some room service and enjoy a night in. Now that is what we call an intimate date night!

10

Hotel Center Gran Via

Eixample

It’s budget-friendly, with simple and functional rooms. Fitted with flat-screen TVs with international channels, you can choose to have a few cosy nights in here and there. Though based on the hotel’s location, we’re not sure why you would want to. In the middle of the Eixample district, with dozens of shops, restaurants and cafes on your doorstep, you're just a few minutes away from the thriving Paseo de Gracia – one of Barcelona’s busiest avenues.

The staff are super helpful and will be happy to offer tips and information on what to do around the city. We made great friends in the foyer staff, who proved you can inject a little fun into looking after your guests, whilst still remaining professional. We also loved that the hotel is in a beautiful Modernist building, with splashes of red throughout. This isn't a luxury hotel but if you want somewhere clean and comfortable without forking out lots of cash, then it's a great choice.

11

Hotel Villa Emilia

Eixample

Not only is the hotel pet-friendly, but all the rooms come with a pet bed for your four-legged pal. The rooms are also spacious and bright, with sleek, modern decor. You're located on the edge of the Gaixample area, right next to a metro station so it's easy to get to all the fantastic gay bars and clubs.

Zinc bar is a must-see. Sure you might be dying to get out and explore all the city has to offer, but don’t forget that the very place you choose to rest in may also have some magic! The bar often features musical guests, from soothing jazz singers to New York-style piano bar realness. We love the little touches at Villa Emilia as well, like the fact that they serve free coffee and pastries every afternoon.

The terrace is a lovely place to share a quiet evening drink or meal with your lover. They have weekly barbecues each Sunday or you can enjoy some delicious vermouth with olives at any time. There's also an excellent bistro serving Catalan dishes made from seasonal produce for lunch and dinner. We recommend saving it up for the last night and toasting off your fabulous adventure in Barcelona.

12

Renaissance Barcelona Hotel

Eixample

The staff are all about maximising your comfort. Whether it be through serving up some delicious cocktails or pointing you in the direction of some must-see landmark in the city, they are always making sure you have a great time! Whilst the city offers much to be discovered, don’t overlook the magic that lies within the hotel itself. You might even be able to spot the Sagrada Familia from your bed!

The Mayan Luxury Spa has non-guests pounding down their doors. The treatments here are definitely something you wouldn't want to miss out on. Particularly after a long day of exploring the city, you’ll want to avail yourself of their world-class massages and luxurious saunas. There's also a gym that's open 24 hours a day and provides plenty of fitness machines to keep you looking trim.

With their superb Goja Rooftop Experience serving up exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, you’ll always have an optimal option for dining if you are ever stuck for a bite. They’ve somehow managed to embody everything magical about Spanish food and sprinkle it throughout every dish. Day or night you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from here, plus the decor is so cute and quirky, with chairs that look like eggs!

13

Ako Suites Hotel

Eixample

While it's not exactly a hotel, you can still enjoy fabulous hotel amenities like the rooftop swimming pool and solarium. The views from up here are fantastic, plus the pool has some cool running waterfall-type features to splash around under. We also love how the deck chairs have big green leaf-shaped sunshades and there are plants all around making you feel like you're in a little rooftop jungle!

The front desk is open 24 hours a day and the staff are happy to provide you with all sorts of info about the best things to do in the city. While there isn't a hotel restaurant, you can order room service and enjoy an a la carte breakfast in your room. Since the suites are in the heart of Eixample you'll also be able to enjoy all the nearby restaurants, bars and clubs. If you're looking to save money there's also a supermarket just around the corner, as well as a laundromat to keep your clothes fresh.

14

The Corner Hotel

Eixample

Having undergone an extensive facelift, this gay friendly hotel has endured centuries of transformation throughout Spanish history. Whilst the design incorporates snapshots of times gone by in its structure, the hotel itself still feels brand new. The interior combines modernity, comfort and convenience, to create an incredible atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to collapse into after a night of partying or shopping in the sprawling, energetic city.

Throughout the whole hotel is a true communal spirit. Staff want to get to know you. Fellow guests are eager to make friends. The bar is always full of life and chatter and has the kind of vibe where you feel like you can approach just about anyone. Hotel rooms are bright and spacious, equipped with state-of-the-art technology to make your stay as pleasant as possible. It can be hard at times to pull yourself out of your room, but alas Barcelona is calling….

15

Cram Hotel

Eixample

Plus, if that didn’t sound like it came straight from a rom-com movie, then a night spent at the Angle Restaurant will. Ancient dishes that harken back to age-old Spanish traditions, sprinkled with elements of modernity, fill out the menu. A favourite of ours had to be the grilled red mullet with cabbage textures and kimchi, as well as the scarlet shrimp bouillabaisse infused with aniseed and saffron. Occasionally, the genius chef Jordi Cruz will give guests a masterclass in cooking, so it is worth asking the staff as you arrive when the class will be on.

There is also a rooftop bar, where you can admire views of the city, have a drink and meet new people. There are views of the surrounding mountains, so you have a nice juxtaposition of seeing both scenic and city wonders. Though don’t get too caught up in Cram’s charm. There is still a city out there, pulsing with action and begging for you to explore. Close by are sites like the Casa Batlló modernist museum and the Sagrada Família church that you can't come to Barcelona and not visit at least once!

16

Hostal Boutique Khronos

Eixample

With rooms that can accommodate up to 5 people, you’ll have everything you need from a hotel served to you. If you’re with friends – think of it as the perfect sleepover. Plus, the rooms are super cosy, sleek and stylish, so you won’t even notice that you are in budget accommodation. We especially love how everything is decorated with soothing tones of grey, black and white, with occasional pops of bright pink.

Close to the main tourist sights, Khronos is right on the periphery of the gay scene. Perfect for when you are simply passing through the city on a small break, the hostel is a cost-effective way of absorbing the magic of Barcelona. There's a beautiful rooftop terrace for relaxing in the sun, and we really enjoyed looking at all the gorgeous historic buildings across the road.

The staff here are knowledgeable and ready to point you in the direction of all the most exciting sights around the city. They manage to strike a great balance between professional hotel staff, and the good-natured approach of hostel workers. You feel like you made a friend whenever you speak with any of them. This is a theme throughout the entire establishment – with all guests holding a totally laid back and carefree attitude.

17

Hostal Centric

Eixample

From the outside, the Hostal Centric looks like a simple, brick building, with arched doorways and plants perched inside the windows. Inside, it is a bright, white, modern space with avant-garde art hanging on the walls and compact-style furniture. Some of the rooms have private balconies or you can simply access the shared terrace with table and chairs for relaxing in the sun.

Suited to the solo traveller, or a bigger family, Centric always feels super roomy and cosy. Oozing Scandanavian style, with its clean lines, minimalist design and smooth, wooden furnishings, the Hostal Centric feels more like a 4-star hotel than a modest hostel. They may refer to themselves as ‘basic but cosy’, but there is nothing basic about this place. What’s basic about a 93% occupancy rate all year round?

18

Hostal Balkonis

Eixample

You can go simple with just a single or a double room, or you can opt for a room with a balcony. We’d definitely recommend doing this as it allows you the chance to step out every morning and soak up the sounds and sights of the city. There are also family-sized rooms and an apartment-style room for groups of 5 people. Perfect for college mates looking to do some travelling over their summer break.

A visit to Balkonis is a great way to experience Barcelona on your first visit. It’s cheap, though very central, and the staff here are super knowledgeable. The interior design oozes Mediterranean charm, from the tiled walls to the artwork and arched doorways. The hostel also features a charming common area, with comfortable furniture, blooming flowers and leafy green plants. This is a great spot to meet fellow travellers, chat, play games, or just relax.

For more inspiration:

• If you're looking for somewhere to swim and sunbathe, these are the best gay beaches in Barcelona
• While you're in the city, shop up a storm at the best gay shops in Barcelona
• Solo travellers will, in particular, appreciate our guide to the best gay tours in Barcelona
• Foodies won't want to miss these mouth-watering gay restaurants in Barcelona
• As well as the best gay saunas in Barcelona if you don't want any sand getting everywhere!
• Find out everything you need to know about attending gay Pride in Barcelona
• As well as our favourite places in Spain to celebrate Pride
• And we highly advise gay travellers to Barcelona to also check out Sexy Sitges! Find out more in our gay guide to Sitges.

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