Madrid

Madrid is considered the queer capital of Spain, and hardly any other European metropolis carries its LGBT scene so openly in front of it. This is supported by a mixture of southern joie de vivre, a long nightlife culture and politically firmly anchored equality, which makes the city a destination for a long weekend as well as for a whole week. During the day, the art mile with Prado and Reina Sofía, the Retiro Park and the covered market halls beckon. In the evening, life shifts to the bars and clubs.

Trendy district

The center of the gay scene is Chueca, a lively neighborhood in the heart of the city around the Plaza de Chueca of the same name. Bars, cafés, boutiques, bookshops and saunas are lined up here, and rainbow flags are part of the streetscape all year round. As one of the best-known and most self-confident gay districts in the world, Chueca has not become a pure tourist backdrop. Even during the day, a stroll through the narrow streets is worthwhile, for example to the Mercado de San Antón with its roof terrace.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Madrid starts late and often doesn't end until dawn. From cozy cocktail bars to drag bars to large clubs, you will find almost every type of game in Chueca. Larger dance temples and mega parties are partly located outside the district and attract an international audience on weekends. If you like it quieter, start in one of the terrace bars around the plaza and let yourself drift through the night from there.

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn are the most pleasant months because the temperatures remain mild and the city is not overcrowded. In midsummer, Madrid gets very hot, with values well above thirty degrees and little shade in the city center. You can experience the greatest hustle and bustle around the MADO, the Pride of Madrid at the end of June and beginning of July, whose parade is one of the largest in Europe. If you are looking for the exuberant week of festivities, plan your trip specifically for these days, but then you should book accommodation early.

Arrival

Madrid is directly connected to most German-speaking cities via Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport. From the airport, you can easily reach the center by metro line 8 or the Cercanías suburban train, both of which only take about half an hour. Within the city, you can get around easily by metro, buses and on foot; Chueca itself is centrally located and is accessible via the metro station of the same name. From other Spanish cities, the AVE high-speed train is also a convenient option.

Safety & LGBT Rights

As far as queer people's rights are concerned, Spain is one of the most progressive countries in the world. Marriage for all has been possible since 2005, adoptions are allowed, and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is prohibited by law. In Madrid, and especially in Chueca, openly shown affection and queer life are part of everyday life, assaults are rare. As in any big city, it is advisable to take a normal look at bags and valuables in busy places, otherwise you will travel very relaxed here.