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A Guide to LGBT Nightlife in Valencia

Cocktail bartender
Cocktail bartender | Photo by Ambitious Creative Co. - Rick Barrett on Unsplash

Valencia’s LGBT scene isn’t immediately obvious for all to see and you might need pointing in the right direction when you arrive. However, you won’t need to spend too long looking for a good night out with our guide to making the most of the city’s gay-friendly bars, clubs and more.

LGBT-Friendly Neighborhoods

Valencia is an open and accepting city, and you’ll find LGBT-friendly spots scattered throughout the city. However, the main LGBT-friendly area is the “Gayxample,” located in the city center near Gran Via del Marques del Turia. Here, you’ll find several gay bars, clubs, and LGBTQ+-owned businesses.

Valencia’s night life

Much of Valencia’s gay nightlife revolves around a couple of main bars and clubs in the city centre. Top of the list is The Muse, known as ‘the’ gay bar in Valencia. There’s free entry, modern decor with an open dance area, playing a mix of contemporary Spanish and English-language tunes. All are welcome and there’s a relaxed friendly atmosphere, especially on the outdoor terrace in summer. Doors open at 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays but it’s worth noting that – like many other nightlife spots – it only gets into full swing after midnight, when the Spanish have finished dinner and are ready to party.

Live music

After drinks at The Muse, it’s just just three minutes’ walk to the city’s hottest gay club, Deseo 54. With live performers and DJs across two floors, this is definitely the place to be on a Friday or Saturday night. Downstairs the strobe-lit dancefloor is always packed with revellers, while the smaller upstairs also has a VIP area perfect for special occasions. Entry on weekends is around €8 – or free if you grab a flyer at The Muse beforehand.

For those simply wanting a laid-back drink in the Old Town, not everyone knows that the famous Cafe de las Horas is a particularly gay-friendly bar – complete with great cocktails and a stunning baroque-style interior featuring chandeliers and a star-spangled ceiling.

Cafe de las Horas, Valencia. Photo courtesy of Valencia Tourism

Colourful atmosphere

If you fancy a night out in the colourful Ruzafa district, you could start the night at Planet Valencia for some cocktails in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere with good music and great company. La Boba y el Gato Rancio, immediately identifiable by the rainbow flag outside, is ‘gay-friendly’ and welcoming to all – a great spot to enjoy a wide range of local beers before heading to nearby Piccadilly. This laid-back, popular club features a surprising Liverpool-themed interior decor. There’s a large open dancefloor, regular live performances and even a silent disco. The two floors have a great ambience with an international mix of gay and straight groups enjoying the party. Doors open at 1am and the party goes on until 7.30am.

Wilder parties

For a wilder night out, there’s also Nunca Digo No (‘Never Say No’) which – as the name might imply – is aimed at those looking for new experiences. There’s free entry, happy hour every night from 6pm-9pm, and it’s especially busy on Sundays.

If you need a spot of relaxation after the party, head to the Olympic saunas on Carrer dels Vivons. A popular spot open 24 hours over the weekend, featuring a pool, jacuzzi, steam rooms and dark room. Entry is up to €15 during the busiest times.

Although not as big or easily accessible as in some cities, you’ll find Valencia’s LGBT-friendly nightlife offers plenty for everyone to enjoy.

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About the author

Clare Speak is a travel journalist from Manchester, England who has been living out of a suitcase for the past decade. She currently writes about all things Spanish from her base in Valencia.

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