Gay Sitges – Best Gay Hotels, Beaches, Nightlife & More!

Overview

Situated just 35kms (approx. 22 miles) southwest of Barcelona, Sitges is the perfect day trip, weekend getaway, or extended gay travel destination. It’s the birthplace of the founder of Bacardi rum and home to the world’s first gay beach, Playa del Muerto, since the 1930’s. Sitges has long been a popular retreat for the LGBTQ+ community as a seaside escape full of art, excellent food and wine, and the freedom of self-expression. From Carnival to Gay Pride to Bears Week, Sitges has something for everyone, and it queerly punches above its weight!

Where to Stay

Elite Sitges – Our top pick for where to stay is Elite Sitges, a luxury, clothing optional hotel for gay men only. We love the modern rooms, oversized rooftop hot tub, sundeck and bar, and central location. We highly recommend using European favorite Booking to reserve in advance. In summer, this popular gay hotel is often sold out for weeks at a time, so definitely book early.

Hotel MiM – Another one of our favorites is the Hotel MiM based on its location and luxury boutique feel. We are obsessed with their grand staircase as well as their rooftop pool and Sky Bar! There’s a fab gym and spa, and it’s also just a stone’s throw to the main gay beach.

Hotel Calipolis – For a mid-range option that is very popular with the LGBT+ community, check out Hotel Calipolis which is located directly across the street from the main gay beach behind the Picnic Restaurant.

If you are looking for an excellent budget option, look no further than Hotel Liberty. It’s well situated just across from the train station and fab supermarket/food hall at Mercat de Sitges. There is an included breakfast served in the garden, and gay owners Thomas and Dieter will make you feel right at home.

Things to Do

Exploring the old town is a must do on any trip to Sitges. Climb the stairs up to Plaça del Baluard square to find the iconic seventeenth century church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla along with spectacular views of the Balearic Sea. You'll journey back in time with cobblestoned streets, medieval walls, whitewashed buildings, and historic museums.

Take a stroll along the Passeig Maritim promenade, the gorgeous pedestrian walkway that fronts the beaches and provides great views of the church, seaside mansions, and beautiful people. You'll also find the rainbow bench along this stretch and the Bacardi monument dedicated to the founder of his eponymous spirit.

For Spanish sparkling wine lovers, take a tour of two of Sitges’ renowned wineries. Enjoy wine and cava from the Penedès region, where cava is originally from, while letting someone else do the driving. Hotel pick-up is included.

Finally, take a day trip to Barcelona for art and culture. After all, it's just a 40-minute train journey. Start early in the morning with a visit to Park Güell for panoramic views of the city followed by a fast track guided tour of Sagrada Família. After sightseeing, walk over to the gay Eixample neighborhood for happy hour. We love gay bar La Chapelle with its unique decor and heavy pours! For more on gay Barcelona, check out our complete LGBTQ+ travel guide to Barcelona.

Where to Eat and Drink

After a month in Sitges and returning to so many places we knew from previous visits or enjoying new places that came highly recommended to us from friends living here, we’re going to share our absolute faves that have us coming back time after time.

Villa Marina – Our hands down favorite restaurant in Sitges which may feel a bit unexpected based on its location. Villa Marina is located in the marina which requires a decent walk to the other side of Balmins Beach away from town. The food is just delicious, and for sure, they have the best pastas in town.  They also give you little side plates as a taster of what your table mates order or even a dish from another table if you’re on your own! We love this simple touch. Some of the best menu items are the Pirata salad, Sorrentina pasta, and of course, the house Tiramisu for dessert. Bottles of wine are also extraordinarily well priced. It’s a tiny place so reservations are required.

Montroig Cafe – For fresh sandwiches and salads, and of course, excellent people watching. It’s located just a few doors down from Parrots gay bar, which is the epicenter of gay Sitges.

Skybar – To find the best rooftop restaurant, pool, bar, and views of Sitges, don’t miss Skybar at Hotel MiM. Also, be sure to take the stairs up or down for a well curated art collection.

Massimo Ristorante – If you love pizza and gelato as much as we do, head to Massimo Pizzeria followed by Gelati Dino across from the beach promenade. We love to pick up a scoop or two of their pistachio gelato and walk the promenade at sunset.

Spice Garden – For vegetarian or vegan options, Spice Garden and its sister restaurant Cinnamon both have AMAZING Indian food. The friendly service, relaxed vibe, and amazing lunch specials give Spice Garden the edge.

La Nansa Restaurante – If it’s traditional Catalan food you’re after, request a table outside at La Nansa Restaurante. If you don’t see one available, then ask the friendly wait staff who continually add white linen-lined tables on wood pallets down the street as the night progresses.

Izakaya Estrella – On the fancier side, Izakaya Estrella will impress with excellent Japanese cuisine, sushi, and perhaps the best Champagne selection in town.

La Pícara – For amazing tapas and wine. Like many of the best restaurants in Sitges, reserve in advance during summer.

When to Go

As a beach town, Sitges is most popular during the summer months of July through early September when the big Bears Week occurs! We also like the shoulder season months leading up to high season from May to June, including the smaller Bears Week and Sitges Gay Pride!

How to Get Here

Unlike many gay beach towns, getting to Sitges is super easy and convenient. Barcelona’s El Prat Airport (BCN) lies southwest of Barcelona on the way to Sitges, so a taxi can deliver you to your hotel in about 30-minutes. If you are already in Barcelona, you can hop on the train at the main train station, Barcelona-Sants, or at Passeig de Gracia near the gay Eixample neighborhood, and be in Sitges in 40-minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sitges safe for gay travelers?

Yes, Sitges is considered very safe for tourists and residents alike. The town is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ visitors. You will find gay people everywhere and public displays of affection common.

When is the best time to visit Sitges?

The best time to visit Sitges is during the summer months, from July to September, when the weather is warmest and the nightlife is in full swing.

Are there gay hotels in Sitges?

Yes, Elite Sitges is a men only gay hotel located in the center of town. It's also clothing optional which we love. In addition, Hotel MiM and Calipolis are very gay popular given their location just a few steps from the main gay beach.

What are the must visit gay bars and clubs in Sitges?

Parrots Pub is the first place to come to mind and the epicenter of gay Sitges. El Horno, Queenz Music Bar and Bears Bar are also favorites. For naturist/cruise clubs, we recommend Bukakke.

What are the best LGBTQ+ events in Sitges?

The best LGBTQ+ events are Sitges Pride (June) and Bears Week (September). Sitges Carnival (February/March) is also very popular with the LGBTQ+ community.

Do I need to know Spanish to visit Sitges?

While knowing Spanish can make your travel experience better, it's not necessary. As an international tourist destination, many locals speak English.

Travel Resources

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