LGBTQ+ Friendly Guide to Visiting Madrid

Madrid, Spain is a lively European city with plenty of things to do. You can indulge in fun walking tours to learn more about the architecture, roam the Lavapies neighborhood, walk to the famous El Retiro park and even enjoy a Spanish wine and cooking class. The options are endless and incredibly versatile, ensuring that there is something for just about everyone in Madrid. 

Chueca Neighborhood

The Chueca, which means crooked in Spanish, neighborhood in Madrid is lined with rainbow flags and gay-friendly establishments. It’s a fun destination to walk the streets, shop, take an afternoon lunch and enjoy the lively nightlife. The Chueca Metro stop is particularly fun because it is outfitted in rainbow colors, often becoming a photo-opportunity amongst many tourists. 

 Royal Palace of Madrid 

Where would Spain be without a bit of regal history? Take a tour of Madrid’s Royal Palace, featuring 3,418 rooms, making it the largest palace in western Europe. Traverse the different rooms and take in the Medieval art, beautiful architecture, etc. It is also worth booking a guided tour of the Palace to learn more about the history of this Spanish landmark. 

Fun Outdoors

Madrid is quite an outdoorsy city with plenty to do. In the summer, you can go to the Piscina el Lago, a public swimming lake for hot days and a picnic area. If rooftops are more your vibe, head to Azotea del Círculo de Bellas Artes, with some of the best views in town. Finally, if you’d instead visit a garden, the La Rosaleda is a beautifully blooming spot to grab a kiss and a photo. 

Templo de Debod

Visit the (free) landmark to learn about the relationship between Spain and Egypt. This spot is particularly stunning when the sky puts on a colorful show at sunset.

San Miguel Market: The storied Madrid market dating back to the early 19th century hosts a variety of tapas counters and experiences within its steel framework. 

La Coneria: Try Madrid’s famed conofres, something between a waffle and a pancake, with whimsical flavors at this bakery. 

Casa Lucas: Located in the heart of the Latin neighborhood, this is the spot for traditional Spanish tapas. 

el miniBar: This hole-in-the-wall institution serves affordable copas, wine and tapas to go along with it in a lively local atmosphere. 

Diurno: This cosmopolitan Spanish restaurant prides itself on inventive dishes like the healthy burger or the upside down tart. 

Sacha: Founded in 1972, this Basque and Galician restaurant is perfect for al fresco dining on its outdoor patio. 

Paco Roncero: The perfect spot for a romantic dinner is a storied Madrid palace offering a proper gastronomic experience. 

Salon des fleurs: Stop by here for dessert and coffee after your siesta, or what Spaniards call merendar. 

1862 Dry Bar: Inventive cocktail bar with fun drinks. Remember that Spaniards love gin, so anything with gin tends to be the true winner on the menu! 

Barbara Ann: Come here for a proper brunch serving delicious eggs benedict, pancakes and croissants. 

Mad Mad Vegan: Vegan Spanish restaurant serving all veggie-focused local favorites. 

LL Bar: A fun gay bar perfect for a night out on the town.

Fulanita de Tal: Local-favorite lesbian bar with a fun atmosphere and great cocktails.