Seville is as Spanish as it gets! The vivacious capital of Andalusia (a region of southern Spain) is everything you think of when you picture Spain – well, minus the beaches. Strolling its streets is a veritable feast for the senses. You’ll hear passion-infused flamenco from street performers, see breathtaking Moorish architecture, bask in sun-drenched plazas, laze with a tinto de verano on the banks of the river Guadalquivir, savor deliciously authentic tapas in bustling food markets, and meet people every bit as warm – not to mention as hot – as the baking Spanish sun itself. The freedom-loving and life-embracing spirit of Seville lends itself to a progressive attitude, making it an ideal destination for LGBTQ+ travelers looking to explore Spain beyond the obvious gay meccas of Barcelona and Madrid. 

In fact, Seville has a lot to offer travelers in general, despite being often overlooked in favor of its coastal neighbors, Malaga and Torremolinos. From memorable sights like the Moorish Alcázar palace and the Gothic Seville Cathedral to its spirited nightlife in Alameda de Hércules and fiery flamenco shows in its intimate bars, Seville offers a blend of Spanish tradition and Mediterranean modernity that is sure to satisfy anyone looking for a taste of authentic Spain.

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfers
3. Gay Hotels in Seville
4. Sightseeing and Activities in Seville
5. Gay Tours in Seville
6. Restaurants and Cafes
7. Seville Gay Bars and Clubs
8. Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
9. Gay Events in Seville
10. Day Trips from Seville

General Advice

One confusion to clear up first is the whole ‘Sevilla’ or ‘Seville’ dilemma, as both are used as names for the city. Put simply, ‘Sevilla’ is the Spanish name, whereas ‘Seville’ is the English one (although there is also a more complex historical reason for the two names). You’re, of course, free to use either, but note that when pronouncing ‘Sevilla,’ the double ‘l' is pronounced like a Y.

For language in general, the truth is, you are less likely to find fluent English speakers in Seville than you would in, say, Barcelona, Madrid, or Torremolinos. You can get by in English when visiting the key tourist attractions and visiting restaurants in the center, but learning a few simple phrases – or favorite dishes to order when the menus don’t have English – often helps. Especially if you wish to step off the beaten path in the city, which you definitely should!

As an LGBTQ+ tourist, you are unlikely to experience any homophobia in Seville. Although the gay scene is modest in size, the local LGBTQ+ community blends in effortlessly with the rest of the city, and it's difficult to find an establishment of any type that isn’t gay-friendly. That said, the city boasts a few specific LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and cafes found almost always in the Alameda de Hércules area, which is easily the best neighborhood to go drinking in anyway. Note that Spanish people eat later and stay out later – with dinner at around 8-10pm. This means the bars are empty until later and the clubs even more so.

The best time to visit Seville is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is usually pleasantly warm and sunny. April, in particular, is a good month to visit because the city really comes alive with festivals, including the famous Feria de Abril. At that time, there’s also the perfect blend of warm temperatures and fewer crowds, allowing for a more enjoyable exploration of the city's historical sites and vibrant neighborhoods. In the summer months, Seville is the hottest city in Spain, so if you choose to visit then, be prepared for the sweltering heat – it really is quite something! Between 2pm to 5pm is siesta time in Spain, when lots of places close for a few hours – during the summer months, you really get to understand this tradition as being out on the streets at this time you feel the worst of the heat.

Seville Pride is worth braving the heat for and takes place in June. The city becomes a cavalcade of joyous celebrations, including a massive parade across the city. Just be sure to take it easy with drinking during the day though, and, as well as a beer/tinto in one hand, be sure to have a bottle of water in the other.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Seville is easily reachable by a number of airports in the nearby region. The closest is Seville Airport (also known as San Pablo Airport), which is only 10 kilometers from the city center. Several buses go to and from the airport, but the easiest to find is the EA (Especial Aeropuerto) bus, which operates every 15-30 minutes, costs €4 (or €6 return), and takes around 35 minutes each way. The bus also stops at key locations in the city, including Santa Justa train station and Plaza de Armas bus station. The latter stop is the best for those staying within Seville because the Santa Justa train station is actually about an hour’s walk outside of the center. Malaga and Jerez airports are other nearby airports, but require train journeys of around two/three hours on Renfe to reach Seville’s Santa Justa train station.

Seville’s city center isn’t actually that big – with all the main neighborhoods and sites – within pleasant walking distance of each other. By foot is really the best way to enjoy the city and absorb Seville’s palpable atmosphere – if you can take the heat that is, depending on when you visit. That said, the public transportation system is pretty simple, featuring buses, trams, and a metro line.

There is a singular metro line with twenty two stops reaching as far as the city outskirts and tickets cost only €1.35 for a single trip. However, the tram is the better way of getting around in the center and connects all the main areas between Plaza Nueva and Avenida de la Constitución (near the cathedral) with tickets costing €1.40 per trip and can be bought onboard. There are many buses, but those can feel complicated for those who don’t speak Spanish and don’t know the city well. The C1, C2, C3 and C4 run in, through and around the center and tickets are available from the driver (from €1.30) or in a kiosk. Public transportation operates from early morning until 11pm during the week and as late as 2am on weekends to allow for late night shenanigans.

Gay Hotels in Seville

Luxury

Only You Seville – this gorgeous 5-star hotel blends the classic Southern Spanish style with a modern homely touch. Their rooms are beautifully furnished in the same style as the rest of the hotel, have spacious balconies and sport incredibly comfortable beds! Located near the Santa Justa train station and a short walk from the center, the hotel also has its own exquisite Andalusian style restaurant, Trotamundos, and their buffet breakfast is on another level – including a showcasing station where you can have your favorite breakfast choices made right in front of you. There’s a gym, a trendy looking bar and a sophisticated pool area at the back, giving a nice place to unwind as the sun sets over Seville. Prices for a standard room begin at just over €200.

Sacristia de Santa Ana – this beautifully ornate boutique hotel is right in Alameda de Hercules, the area home to the majority of Seville’s gay-friendly bars. The building is an 18th century mansion whose traditional decor juxtaposes with the vibrant bars just outside. The air-conditioned rooms have parquet floors and the same classical-style décor as the rest of the mansion. Each one has a work desk and a private bathroom. A restaurant downstairs serves continental food, including a full English/Irish breakfast. Rooms go at around the €180 mark.

Mid-Range

Hotel Inglaterra – how about blending a little bit of English sophistication into your Spanish experience with this elegant four star hotel? Just a few feet away from the Seville Cathedral, this hotel has an English theme evidenced in its classic-style decor. Their spacious air-conditioned rooms have wooden floors, marble bathrooms and include a private balcony. However, the highlight of the hotel is its roof-top terrace with a stylish bar, which overlooks Plaza Nueva and sports impressive views of the Seville skyline. Hotel Inglaterra also offers a generous breakfast buffet and has its own restaurant, serving Mediterranean cuisine. Rooms start at around €150 a night for a basic room.

Hotel Doña Lola – offering all the comfort of an apartment with all the services of a hotel, this 2-star hotel is located right in the heart of Seville, just south of Alameda de Hercules. The rainbow flag hanging from the balcony above the door identifies it as openly gay-friendly, but also a hotel where everyone is welcome. There’s also a sociable clothing-optional solarium terrace with a cute pool up on the roof. The rooms all have a different color theme, have a clean, crisp feel to them and prices begin at around a reasonable €80 a night. Hotel Doña Lola is also pet friendly.

Patio de la Alameda – in Andalucia, a lot of pride is put into their patios, and this hotel’s feels like that of an authentic Spanish home. Once a nineteenth century palace, it has now been converted into a charming hotel. All the rooms exit onto balconies encircling three grand Andalusian patio courtyards full of flowers and comfy seating to unwind on. The hotel is also conveniently located right in the central Plaza of Alameda de Hercules by all the best gay-friendly bars and restaurants. The rooms are modern and stylish with prices beginning at about €70 for a standard room.

Budget

Banana Gay House – situated in the center of Seville just south of the gay area is this cozy men-only, clothing optional guest house. The property has a large terrace, shared lounge and kitchen which nurtures a sociable atmosphere. In other words, it’s a great place to meet other guys visiting the city. The rooms are simplistic but cozy, and some come with their own fully-equipped kitchens. A room for the night will only set you back in the €50 – €100 range.

Sightseeing and Activities in Seville

Real Alcazar de Sevilla – Seville has three UNESCO World Heritage sites all within the gorgeous old town/Jewish quarter. The most iconic of these perhaps is the Alcazar. Originally a Moorish fort, it now serves as a residence for the Spanish royal family when they visit Seville and is instantly recognizable by anyone who has seen Game of Thrones as the palace in Dorne. Over the centuries it has been expanded and renovated, blending Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The palace complex includes beautiful gardens, intricate tilework, and ornate courtyards to explore. Tickets cost €14.50 but to avoid the crowds you can take a tour with Walks, who provide VIP morning access so you can traverse the palace alone with your group. Book tour →

Cathedral of Saint Mary’s (Seville Cathedral) – built on the site of a former mosque, this impressive 16th century cathedral houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus (allegedly), an ornate Gothic altarpiece, and the iconic Giralda bell tower, originally a minaret with an amazing view over the old town and city. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a central attraction in Seville with entrance tickets costing €9. Book tour →

Triana – a vibrant neighborhood in Seville, is easily accessible via the Isabel II Bridge from the city center. Located along the scenic River Guadalquivir, Triana is renowned for its lively bar/restaurant scene, historic ceramics, and flamenco heritage. Stroll through its charming streets, visit the bustling Mercado de Triana, and lay back on the riverbank to watch the canoes slide down it. Triana boasts some of the city’s best restaurants, offering delicious tapas and traditional Andalusian cuisine. Book tour →

Las Setas de Sevilla – a more modern monument can be seen in Seville's Plaza de la Encarnación in the form of Las Setas de Sevilla (Mushrooms of Seville), also known as the Metropol Parasol. The striking wooden structure was designed by Jürgen Mayer and features six mushroom-shaped parasols providing shade and stunning architectural interest. Visitors can explore an archaeological museum in its base, enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop walkway, and relax at the terrace café.

Museum of Fine Arts Seville – housed in a former convent, this museum showcases an extensive collection of Spanish art from the medieval period to the 20th century. Renowned for its impressive works by Murillo, Zurbarán, and Velázquez, the museum offers a deep dive into the rich artistic heritage of Andalusia. Entrance costs €1.50 or is free for EU residents.

Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla (Maestranza Bullring) – whatever your thoughts on the cruelty of bullfighting, it is impossible not to acknowledge its place in Spanish culture. The Maestranza Bullring is one of Spain's oldest and most prestigious bullrings, and an iconic landmark. Even today, it hosts traditional bullfights and cultural events – but if none of that appeals to you, it still houses a museum showcasing the history and art of bullfighting. Entrance to the museum with a guided tour in the arena is €10.

Seville Tapas and Flamenco Tour – you simply can’t come to Seville and not see a Flamenco show – it would be a crime of culture! However, there are lots of rip off tourist trap shows for that very reason. Devour Tours combine a tapas tour with seats at an authentic flamenco show in the Jewish Quarter – no dramatic lights, just pure passionate flamenco at its finest. Book tour →

Parque de Maria Luisa – Seville's green oasis-like park in the center of the city offers a tranquil escape while showcasing Seville's natural and architectural beauty. Gifted to the city in 1893, it boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, serene ponds, and charming pavilions. Wander through shaded pathways, admire vibrant flower beds, and discover the stunning Plaza de España, a masterpiece of Renaissance Revival architecture where you can take a romantic boat ride through the semi-circle shaped pond that encircles the plaza (tickets cost €6 for 35 minutes with a depository of €4.

Isla Magica – release that inner child at this popular theme park in Seville. A departure from the flamenco and street life of the city, the park offers roller coasters, water rides, entertaining shows, and interactive attractions themed around Spain's Age of Exploration. It's located on Cartuja Island, down the River Guadalquivir with tickets for entrance around €25. Book tour →

Gay Tours in Seville

Gaily Tours – this company that specializes in LGBTQ+ tours offers a general historic tour of the city, a Luis Cernuda’s secrets tour (exploring the city in the footsteps of a famous gay poet) and Seville by night tour within the city. Book tour →

Restaurants and Café

Flamingo Café Bar – just on the corner off the Plaza Alameda de Hercules is this cute gay-friendly cafe with a big terrace. During the day, it's a great place for a coffee, cheesecake, some bravas maybe and taking in the area’s vibes. It is also a popular gathering place for the gays of Seville, especially at night from Thursday to Sunday, when it becomes more like a bar.

Mentiroso Cafe Bar – also located just off Plaza Alameda de Hercules, this trendy establishment with the local LGBTQ+ folk is a cafe by day and bar by night.

Café Otto – this cafe is one of the best places in Seville to get breakfast or brunch, period. They serve delicious homemade cakes, crepes and do the traditional ‘pan con tomate’ Spanish people have for breakfast come rain or shine. Just as most cafes in Spain, you can also switch up your cafe for an alcoholic beverage anytime you like. Day drinking is almost a given.

Al Aljibe – a chic restaurant in Alameda de Hercules that has all the traditional tapas – like bravas and croquetas – done right, as well as more creative tapas options. All their meat and seafood dishes are sourced from the Seville area and all their wine Andalusian wines. A large terrace made to incorporate the energy of the neighborhood adds to the dining experience.

Mamarracha – this trendy tapas bar right in front of the cathedral has an urban theme to it with sleek wooden furniture, concrete walls and a hipster-like vertical garden.The menu has a varied selection of tapas but the restaurant’s speciality is grilled meat. And it sure is grilled to perfection.

El Sella – the Triana neighborhood across the river from the center is home to some of the best restaurants in Seville. El Sella is one of the best, even if technically a lot of the food is not, in fact, from the Andalucia region but from the northern region of Asturias. Regardless, it's still Spanish at its best and the menu is simply exquisite with perhaps the best tapas in the city. Highlights include scallops and pork cheeks in dark chocolate, cochinillo (suckling pig ) and an unbelievable paella.

Alameda Ritual Club – a bar just up from the actual Hercules pillars that really stands out due to it being within a white renovated mansion lit up by purple lights at night. It’s a mixed bar that is nonetheless popular with the gays and the cocktails are fierce – not to mention potent!

El Bosque Animado – another gay bar located on – yes, you guessed it – Alameda de Hercules with an extremely lively terrace open to the main plaza. The interior also has a lot of character and – as is the meaning of the name of bar – looks like an “animated forest” with a cute wooden animal statue propping up the bar.

ITACA – the main gay club in Seville with dance music and fun drag shows. It has a discreet, yet surprisingly big, dark room upstairs with cubicles. During the week there isn’t a lot going on here, but as the only official gay club in the city, the weekends tell a different story.

LUX Terraza – only open in the summer, this club radiates “summer is here” vibes by being outside of the city alongside the river with a huge terrace open to the night sky. It’s predominantly LGBTQ+ but does draw a mixed crowd. There’s also a sneaky cruising area outside the club and down the path alongside the river – you’re welcome!

Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars

El Bunker – just up from the Alameda de Hercules Square is this large no-nonsense cruising bar. Over its two floors it has darkrooms, slings and cubicles, as well as a bar itself. The clientele is of mixed ages and the atmosphere perfectly suited to a sex club. Every day has rotating events with differing dress codes, ranging from specifically fetish to simply underwear – so check their website before you go.

The Boyz – another top cruising club in Seville that has two floors of fun, located in the Santa Catalina neighborhood. The Boyz has a sociable vibe to complement the cruising with quite a spacious bar/disco to visit up on its first floor. On the ground floor however, there’s the standard labyrinthine cruising area, sling, porn cinema, cabin and dark room you’d expect.

Sauna the Cube Urban – Seville’s main sauna is one of the best in Spain. It’s big, clean and full of hot guys of varying age groups – especially on the weekends. The sauna is split into three “environments” the first more your typical sauna/steam room area with a darkroom, the second a bar area sporting a big pool and the third focused more on cruising and kinkier play areas. Entrance at the weekends is a little pricey at €17.50, but is cheaper during the week and for under 30s in general.

Gay Events in Seville

Seville Pride – also known locally as Orgullo Sevilla, Seville Pride takes place in the sweaty heat of June. The whole city transforms with the highlight being its big parade beginning at the iconic Plaza de España and winding through the city's historic streets, culminating at Alameda de Hércules. What sets Seville's Pride apart is its unique blend of traditional Andalusian culture with modern LGBTQ+ festivities. Not to mention the street parties are – as the Spanish say – “de puta madre!”

Feria de Abril – not technically a gay event, but one frequented by all the gays of Seville nonetheless, Feria de Abril is a week-long festival held two weeks after Easter. This annual event is a raw celebration of Andalusian culture, taking place at the fairgrounds, known as the Real de la Feria, adorned with hundreds of casetas (tents) to dance in. The festival features traditional flamenco music (including the region’s Sevillanas dance, which you really have to try dancing yourself), delicious tapas, and a lot of sherry. Horse-drawn carriages parade through the streets, adding to the festive atmosphere and at night the fairgrounds light up with colorful illuminations and amusement rides. There are even one or two gay casetas marked by their rainbow flags and blaring Spanish pop music.

El FOC (Cultura con Orgullo) – a cultural festival celebrating LGBTQ+ pride through diverse artistic expressions. Held annually in May, it features theater, film, music, and art exhibitions. The festival aims to promote inclusivity and visibility within the arts, showcasing talent from the LGBTQ+ community in Spain.

Day Trips from Seville

Andalucia has the most variety when it comes to cities and towns in Spain – you can be skiing in the mountains one day and partying on the beach the next. Seville is well placed to take day trips to many of these locations.

Ronda – you’ve no doubt seen Ronda before…on a screensaver or wallpaper that is. The often photographed town in Spain's Andalusia region has unique geography in that it dramatically sits atop a deep gorge, El Tajo, with the Puente Nuevo bridge connecting its old and new towns. Besides the stunning view, you can explore the historic Plaza de Toros, one of Spain's oldest bullrings, and wander through cobbled streets lined with charming shops and tapas bars. Getting there by train or bus just for a day is difficult and it's far more advisable to take a tour. Book tour →

Setenil de las Bodegas – Spain has a lot of cities and towns with geographical oddities. Setenil de las Bodegas’ is that the rocky cliffs the town clings to literally overhangs some of its streets. Wander through narrow, winding streets, enjoy local tapas, and marvel at the unusual cave dwellings. Once more, it is easiest reached on a tour. Book tour →

Córdoba – a worthy day trip easily accessed in under an hour by train from Santa Justa train station, this captivating city in southern Spain is famed for its rich history and stunning architecture. Most famously, its ‘Mezquita’ is a magnificent mosque-cathedral, showcasing its diverse heritage. Cordoba is a blend of Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences and it's a pleasure to wander through the flower-filled patios of the old town, explore the historic Jewish Quarter, and admire the Roman Bridge. Book tour →

Cadiz – if you’re missing the beach, but still want an authentic Spanish experience away from the tourists of the Costa Del Sol, then the historic port city of Cádiz makes for the perfect beach day trip. Cadiz is found on a – rather phallic – shaped peninsula with beaches of flour white sand running all along its side. At the tip is the old town which is a labyrinth of narrow streets, picturesque plazas, and vibrant markets. Just under two hours away by train you can get some quality beach time, a little exploring and be back in time for dinner. Book tour →

Jerez – the city of Jerez is just over an hour away and close to Cadiz – so you could see both in the same day if you're limited on time. The city is renowned for its sherry production, flamenco heritage, and Andalusian horse culture. The key things to do in Jerez are to visit a sherry bodega, walk the streets of the old town and visit the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. If you’re lucky enough to be around during its own feria in early May, it rivals even Seville’s and is certainly less exclusive. Book tour →

Granada – around two/three hours away by train is the mystical looking city of Granada, nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The Alhambra, a huge Moorish palace-fortress, is the principal reason to visit (be sure to book tickets before you go to avoid disappointment). However, Granada is also a beautiful city in general and it's a true pleasure to walk around its charismatic winding streets. Only in Granada can you eat like a Spanish king and get drunk for under €10, since every drink comes with a huge tapa. Book tour →

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