Gay Sitges: Best Hotels, Beaches & Nightlife (2025)
Are you considering a gaycation in sunny Spain? If so, Sitges should definitely be on your short list! This perennial gay favorite is one of the top LGBTQ+ destinations in Europe. In this guide, we cover everything you need to plan your trip to Sitges, including the best gay hotels, beaches, bars, clubs and events.
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!
SITGES TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Sitges? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
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Planning your trip to Sitges? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
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🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. By booking services or shopping through these links, you’ll save money AND help keep our blog posts and videos coming your way. Thanks for the support!
Where to Stay
Elite Hotel Sitges – Our top pick for where to stay is Elite Hotel 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. Read our full hotel review here.
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 one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly and iconic hotels in Sitges, don't miss Hotel Calipolis. You seriously can’t beat this location. Hotel Calipolis is right on the seafront promenade—just steps from Platja de la Bassa Rodona, also known as the main gay beach in Sitges. Right across the street, you’ve got Picnic restaurant, a longtime favorite for post-beach drinks and Mediterranean bites. The hotel is within easy walking distance of all the gay bars, clubs, and restaurants. But it’s far enough away from the center to feel peaceful at night. Read our full hotel review here.
Hotel Liberty – 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
Sitges may be known for its beaches and nightlife, but this charming Mediterranean town is full of culture, history, and fabulous day trips. Here are a few of our favorite things to do:
Wander the Old Town – Sitges’ historic center is a postcard-perfect blend of cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and Catalan charm. Start your stroll at Plaça del Baluard, home to the iconic Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla church perched above the sea. Climb the steps for sweeping views of the Balearic coastline and explore nearby museums like Cau Ferrat, once the home of artist Santiago Rusiñol. It’s a magical mix of old-world beauty and bohemian history.
Stroll the Passeig Marítim – This gorgeous seaside promenade stretches for over a mile along Sitges’ beaches, lined with palm trees, modernist mansions, and plenty of eye candy. It’s perfect for an early morning walk or a sunset saunter with an ice cream in hand. Keep an eye out for the rainbow bench—an iconic photo stop—and the Bacardi Monument, a tribute to the Sitges native who founded the famous rum brand.
Sip Cava in the Countryside – If you love bubbly, you’re in the right place. Sitges is just a short drive from the Penedès wine region, the birthplace of cava. Join a small-group winery tour for a day of tasting Spain’s finest sparkling wines while soaking up the vineyard views. Even better? Hotel pick-up and drop-off are usually included—so you can indulge without worrying about the ride back.
Take a Day Trip to Barcelona – One of the best perks of visiting Sitges is how close you are to Barcelona. In just 40 minutes by train, you can explore some of Spain’s most iconic sights. Start with Park Güell for those sweeping views, followed by a guided tour of Sagrada Família to beat the crowds. After sightseeing, head to the gay-friendly Eixample district for cocktails and cruising. We love La Chapelle for its cheeky decor and generous pours. For more Barcelona tips, check out our full LGBTQ+ travel guide to Barcelona.
Where to Eat and Drink
Sitges may be small, but it punches way above its weight when it comes to food and drink. After spending a month revisiting old favorites and discovering new gems (thanks to tips from our local friends), here are the places that keep us coming back for more:
Villa Marina – Hands down our favorite restaurant in Sitges. This cozy, unpretentious spot serves the best homemade pasta in town—think pillowy Sorrentina or rich ragu tagliatelle. One of our favorite touches? The generous tradition of sharing: expect little sample plates from other tables, especially if you’re dining solo. Don’t skip the Pirata salad or the house-made tiramisu, and order a bottle of wine—prices are surprisingly low. Reservations are a must.
Montroig Café – Perfect for a casual lunch or coffee break with prime people-watching. This breezy café serves fresh sandwiches, salads, and cocktails just steps from Parrots Bar, making it the ideal spot to fuel up before or after your gay nightlife adventures.
Massimo Ristorante & Gelati Dino – Our go-to pizza joint when we’re craving Italian comfort food. Afterward, head to nearby Gelati Dino and grab a scoop (or two) of their ultra-creamy pistachio gelato. Sunset strolls along the promenade taste even better with ice cream in hand.
Massimo Ristorante & Gelati Dino – Our go-to pizza joint when we’re craving Italian comfort food. Afterward, head to nearby Gelati Dino and grab a scoop (or two) of their ultra-creamy pistachio gelato. Sunset strolls along the promenade taste even better with ice cream in hand.
La Nansa Restaurante – For a taste of traditional Catalan cuisine, make your way to La Nansa. Request a table outside and you might find yourself dining on a quaint street as servers continuously add white-linen tables down the block. It's romantic, rustic, and quintessentially Sitges.
Izakaya Estrella – When we’re in the mood for something chic, Izakaya Estrella delivers with its sleek interior, flavorful Japanese dishes, and standout sushi. Their Champagne list is one of the best in town—perfect for a bubbly start to your night.
La Pícara – Tapas lovers, this one’s for you. La Pícara serves up elevated small plates and an impressive wine list in a charming, intimate space. Be sure to book ahead in high season—this place fills up fast, and for good reason.
Best Gay Bars & Clubs
Sitges has one of the most exciting (and walkable!) gay nightlife scenes in Europe, with most bars and clubs centered around Carrer de Joan Tarrida, the unofficial “gay street” of town. From cocktail terraces to drag bars and cruise clubs, here are our top picks for a night—or full week—of fun:
Parrots Pub & Terrace – The epicenter of gay Sitges, Parrots is the place to kick off your evening with flirty cocktails and fantastic people-watching. With sexy servers, an extensive drink menu, and tables spilling onto the street, it’s easy to strike up a convo with locals and fellow travelers. Ideal for solo visitors or groups looking to get social.
El Piano – This intimate piano and cabaret bar is our favorite spot to start night two with a bit of class. Run by the charming Stephen & Björn, El Piano serves up cocktails with style and features live entertainment throughout the summer. Think jazz, torch songs, and glam cabaret—perfect for a more refined start to your night.
El Horno – A longtime Sitges staple, El Horno is a great spot to grab a drink and soak in the scene. The outdoor seating is perfect for early evening people-watching before the bars really heat up.
Man Bar – This high-energy bar strikes the perfect balance between chill and cheeky. The music’s pumping, the crowd is sexy and international, and the staff always makes you feel welcome. We often stop in here between Parrots and Bears Bar for a dance and a strong drink.
Bears Bar – Friendly vibes, affordable beers, and a dark room in the back for when you’re feeling extra social. Especially popular with locals during the off-season, Bears Bar is casual, cruisy, and a lot of fun.
Queenz Music Bar – Sitges’ premier video and drag bar, Queenz serves up fierce performances, upbeat music, and cold Estrella on draught. The energy here builds fast, so grab a drink early and claim your spot for the show. Dancing usually follows—and yes, it gets wild.
Boys Bar Sitges – One of our favorite spots for top-tier drag. Even in the quieter months, the shows here slay (shout-out to the incredible Ava Cardo!). We love how transparent the prices are—posted right on the wall—and bartender Steve always treats us like VIPs. Pro tip: get here before midnight to snag a good view, because it gets packed.
Bukkake – For those looking to end their night with a bang (literally), Bukkake is Sitges’ most popular late-night naturist and cruise bar. With a bar, lockers, and plenty of rooms to explore, it’s a no-judgment zone for adventurous fun. Not for the shy—and definitely not your average nightcap!
Best Gay Beaches
In Sitges, you’re spoiled with not one, not two, but THREE gay beaches. We’ve dedicated this this blog post and the YouTube video above to help you find them!
When to Go
Sitges is a sun-soaked beach town with a year-round LGBTQ+ presence, but it truly comes alive from May through September, when the beaches are buzzing, the bars are full, and the event calendar is packed with world-famous festivals. Whether you're here for poolside relaxation, sunset strolls, or all-night parties, Sitges has something for everyone.
If you prefer warm weather and lively crowds, plan your visit during the high season (July to early September) when the beaches are at their busiest and the energy is at its peak. That said, May and June offer beautiful weather and a slightly more laid-back vibe—perfect for enjoying all that Sitges has to offer without the height-of-summer crowds.
Here are the biggest LGBTQ+ events that make Sitges shine:
Bears Week Sitges (May) – Kick off the season with the original spring edition of Bears Week. Expect beach parties, bar crawls, and a beefy crowd from all over Europe and beyond. It’s smaller than the September edition, but no less fun.
Sitges Pride (June) – One of the most glamorous Pride celebrations in Europe, Sitges Pride features a beachfront stage with international performers, themed parties, and a fabulous parade along the sea. It’s all the fun of Barcelona Pride with a resort-town vibe.
Fiesta Mayor (August) – While not specifically LGBTQ+, Fiesta Mayor is Sitges' biggest traditional festival—and everyone joins the party. Think fireworks, human towers, parades, and local flair. The city transforms into a nonstop street celebration, and the gay bars go into overdrive.
Bears Week Sitges (September) – The largest and most iconic Bear Week of them all. Drawing thousands of bears, admirers, and partygoers, this two-week extravaganza is the biggest LGBTQ+ event on the calendar. The beach is packed by day, and the streets are shoulder-to-shoulder at night.
No matter when you go, Sitges always offers a warm welcome, vibrant nightlife, and plenty of sun-soaked charm. But time it right, and you'll catch one of the best LGBTQ+ festivals in Europe.
How to Get Here
Getting to Sitges is a breeze, whether you're flying into Spain or already soaking up the sun in Barcelona. Unlike many gay beach towns that can feel remote or hard to reach, Sitges is just a quick ride away from one of Europe’s busiest international airports.
From Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) – Sitges is just 30 minutes by taxi or private transfer from the airport, and the route doesn’t require going into central Barcelona first. It’s by far the easiest and fastest option—perfect after a long flight or when you’re ready to get your toes in the sand ASAP.
From Barcelona City Center – Already in Barcelona? Hop on a direct train from Barcelona-Sants or Passeig de Gràcia stations. The ride to Sitges takes about 40 minutes, with departures running frequently throughout the day. It’s budget-friendly, reliable, and super convenient—especially if you’re staying near the gay Eixample neighborhood.
🌟 Pro tip – When you arrive at the Sitges train station, the tourist information office is just to your left, and the friendly staff speaks English. They’re a great resource for maps, event schedules, and tips on what’s happening during your stay. Before heading to the beach, swing by the Mercat de Sitges, located just to the right of the train station. This bustling local market is our go-to for picking up snacks, beach gear, wine, beer, and picnic essentials. Not only will you get better quality than at the beach kiosks, but you’ll also save money!
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 Hotel 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 Piano, 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).
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.
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