Spain's Unofficial LGBTQ+ Beach Capital Offers Bustling Nightlife And Endless Beaches

A mere 24 miles from Barcelona is Spain's lesser-known beach city, Sitges, a local crowd-pleaser and unofficial gay capital of the country. With 17 sandy beaches, the town itself is also a gorgeous postcard-esque beauty often named the "St. Tropez of Spain." Cobbled streets and white-walled villas give this town a bohemian vibe, and though Sitges is sleepy in the day, at night, it erupts into a thriving party center, attracting the international LGBTQ+ party crowd to sample its world-famous nightlife.

The city of Sitges dates back to the 4th century BC, with relics of these beginnings still visible today. The party-positive city we know today is thought to have begun when Catalan playwright and poet Santiago Rusiñol helped turn the town into a flourishing artistic center in the age of modernism. Sitges later became a playground for artists like Dalí and Lorca, who frequented the coastal town until the start of the Spanish Civil War. Later, in the '60s, Sitges reemerged from the post-war era as a countercultural epicenter and a less crowded alternative to Barcelona. The locals, who have a long tradition of winemaking, established an annual bacchanalian wine harvest festival, Festa de la Verema, in 1961, and the rest is history. Today, it has its own place in the hearts of Spaniards, beloved by party animals and history buffs alike.

Sitges has transformed into one of Spain's hottest holiday destinations, drawing both locals and globetrotters to its sun-soaked shores. One long promenade connects many of its 17 pristine beaches, meaning that despite the heavy tourism, you'll still be able to find a spot to sunbathe. Most of the beaches also have a wooden boardwalk for easier access. If you're coming from outside of Spain, Sitges is very conveniently placed, located less than a 1-hour train ride away from Barcelona, making it a good place for a day trip. However, with the number of sights and beaches on offer, it's more than worth staying a little longer.

Though all the beaches in Sitges are LGBTQ+ friendly, the main gay beach is considered to be Bassa Rodona, located in the center. Here, you'll find beach bars, parties, and excellent physiques. L'Home Mort is another small, popular gay beach situated 2.5 miles from the center. The family-friendly Fragata is also a local favorite. Sitges also offers a plethora of notable cultural events throughout the year, hosting an annual carnival in February and the iconic Sitges Film Festival, which happens in October and brings cinematic glitz and glamor to the city. There is basically something to do in every season, ensuring that Sitges is buzzing all year round.

In terms of nightlife, you'll be spoiled for choice in Sitges, with hundreds of buzzing options ranging from chic terrace bars to beach clubs and the occasional all-night party. Here, you'll find some of the best nightlife in Europe at a fraction of the price of Malaga or Ibiza. Places to look out for include El Vivero, a beach bar and restaurant with excellent views. Of course, Sitges is already known as the gay vacation capital of Europe, with a pretty spectacular annual Pride Festival in June that is bound to be the busiest time of the year in the city. At Sitges Pride, you'll find pool parties, parades, and special drink deals all over the city. Sitges has made it very clear that their attitude toward all sexual orientations is very welcoming. As one of the most inclusive places in Europe, not to mention one of the most fun, you'll be surprised it's not everyone's number one Spanish destination.

You'll find Sitges' best paella at La Zorra, a popular foodie landmark that has some exciting variations on the traditional dish, including a pisto rice, Barbastro, pickled lemon, and prawn combo. (Book in advance to avoid disappointment.) There are also a vast amount of traditional and local spots to eat in the Old Town, which still has architectural remnants of its medieval past. If you're looking for a pretty, bohemian beach retreat or are heading to the heat in search of fiesta — the versatility of Sitges has something for everyone.