I’ve been to Madrid a few times now but have never really checked out the “scene” there. So I asked my friends at HostelBookers to provide a few tips for a gay guide to Madrid.

The gay scene in Madrid is fun, vibrant and exciting. The Chueca area (pronounced Choo-aye-ka) is well-known for having the best gay clubs, coffee shops and bars. The annual Gay Pride is held in the centre of the city and is always a crazy day full of fancy dress and live events celebrating the city’s gay community.

There are plenty of cheap Madrid hotels, but if you’re looking for a fun one on the gay scene try Gay Hostel Puerta Del Sol Madrid. It only has private rooms so it’s actually more like a hotel. It’s also close to all of Madrid’s main attractions and is a friendly place that often has free tickets to the best gay discos of Madrid. All rooms are private and you’ll get Wi-Fi and breakfast included in the price. It’s also right next to the best of Madrid’s gay nightlife in the famous Chueca area. Private rooms start at €22 per person per night.

Bars and clubs

Chueca is in the old part of Madrid so as well as being fun and lively it’s also beautiful to look at. Like the rest of Spain, in Madrid it’s normal to eat out after 10pm, hit the bars at 1am and party on till past 4am when the clubs close.

La Lupe de Chueca is one of the most popular gay bars in Madrid. Get there early to bag the enormous orange mattress at the far end of the bar where you can relax in the cushions and call in the cocktails. They also do food and some nights have flamenco acts showing off their stuff.

If you’re in Madrid for some serious partying action you need to get to ATTACK Fun SX Gay Bar, previously known as Blue Bar Madrid . They have different themed nights every day of the week and are open till late.

For an after party with a theme go to the Leather Club in Chueca. It’s open from 6am to 3pm and judging by its size is always popular with the locals and tourists.

Saunas and gyms

The most famous gay sauna in Madrid is the Premium Sauna by Opera tube station. Entrance starts from €10 and they have a dark room, a Jacuzzi, a bar and a steam room.  You could also try the legendary Sauna Paraiso. It used to be known as the best gay sauna in Madrid before all the others came along. If you’re 40+ the Sauna Puerta de Toledo caters specifically for you and is the perfect place to wind down in the evenings after a busy day sightseeing.

Wherever you decide to stay in Madrid, with HostelBookers.com you can always get good quality accommodation to suit your budget.

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