The Independent's journalism receives support from our readers. Purchases made through links on our site may generate commission. These are Madrid's ten most inclusive hotels for LGBT+ travellers. Planning an escape to the Spanish capital? Here are some of the most welcoming, LGBT-friendly hotels the city has to offer.
Madrid: A City of Courage and Celebration
Madrid is a metropolis defined by contradiction and courage. Following decades under Franco's oppressive dictatorship, which forced queer lives into silence, Madrid blossomed in the late 1970s as the epicentre of La Movida Madrileña. This cultural and social explosion reclaimed freedom through art, nightlife, sexuality, and bold self-expression. The result was not merely tolerance but vibrant, undeniable visibility.
Today, Madrid is loud, proud, and unapologetically social. From the grand boulevards of Gran Vía to the narrow, bar-lined streets of Chueca, the city invites active participation rather than passive observation. In Madrid, hypervigilance softens. Your shoulders relax, and your voice finds its natural register once more. This city doesn't just host the LGBT+ community; it holds space for it openly and without compromise. This spirit is evident in the way locals celebrate Pride with sacred fervour, in the art, the music, and the late-night conversations on rooftop terraces. Crucially, this inclusivity extends to its hotels.
Each property featured on this list has woven acceptance into its very DNA, earning its place through countless small acts of radical hospitality. Positioned in historic squares like Plaza Mayor, in the pulsing heart of Chueca, and within the creative corners of Salesas and Chamberí, these hotels remind us how good it feels to take up space and to do so, unapologetically.
The Best LGBT+ Friendly Hotels in Madrid for 2026
At a Glance
- Best LGBT+ friendly hotel overall: Axel Hotel Madrid
- Best for rooftop views and social energy: Room Mate Oscar hotel
- Best for romantic city breaks: Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid hotel
- Best for understated elegance: H10 Villa de la Reina hotel
- Best for timeless luxury: Hotel Fenix Gran Meliá
1. Axel Hotel Madrid
Nestled in the literary quarter on Calle de Atocha, the adult-only Axel Hotel Madrid is far from a typical boutique stay. It's a former mansion transformed into an "oasis of freedom", where theatrical design meets sensual comfort. The eighty-eight rooms balance bold aesthetics with genuine comfort, featuring large beds, rainfall showers, and excellent soundproofing—respectful of guests who may return in the early hours.
Downstairs, the lobby bar acts as a social anchor, drawing a proudly international crowd of solo travellers, couples, and groups. Conversations flow alongside excellent cocktails. The rooftop Sky Bar serves as the hotel's vibrant heartbeat, complete with loungers, a pool, and panoramic city views. It's a popular spot for early evening drinks and relaxed afternoon socialising. A fitness area includes a compact gym, sauna, and steam room, though many guests treat it as optional given Madrid's encouragement of dancing, walking, and joyful exploration.
2. Room Mate Oscar Hotel
Standing proudly in Plaza de Pedro Zerolo in Chueca—Madrid's most iconic LGBT+ square—Room Mate Oscar feels like the city's communal living room. Bright, bold, and unashamedly design-forward, this hotel combines playful interiors with a warm, come-as-you-are vibe that mirrors the neighbourhood's spirit.
Rooms are fresh and functional, featuring vibrant colours, clever lighting, and just enough personality to intrigue. Step outside, and you're instantly immersed in queer Madrid, with bars, cafes, and Pride parades right on your doorstep. The crown jewel is the rooftop, boasting a pool, solarium, panoramic views, and DJs spinning records on summer weekends. It's the kind of place where strangers become friends by sundown.
3. Catalonia Gran Via Hotel
Set along the iconic Gran Vía, this stately building dates to the early 20th century, but inside, it's a modern, welcoming retreat. Catalonia Gran Via offers easy access to Madrid's theatres, shops, and the Chueca district is just a short stroll away. Rooms are spacious, sleek, and tastefully understated, with plush beds, marble-accented bathrooms, and balconies overlooking the bustling boulevard. Some even feature private terraces and outdoor hot tubs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
A rooftop plunge pool and bar cater to summer days, complemented by a full-service spa and a breakfast spread embodying pure Spanish hospitality. It's not loud or flashy, but it doesn't need to be.
4. Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid Hotel
Tucked within Madrid's most iconic square, Pestana Plaza Mayor is a romantic, five-star hideaway blending heritage, serenity, and standout design. Housed in a restored 17th-century building, it's a peaceful retreat where you can wake up to the buzz of old Madrid.
Interiors nod to the city's baroque past while maintaining a refreshingly contemporary vibe. Expect warm lighting, stone archways, natural textures, and curated modern art. Rooms feel quietly luxurious, with views over the square or charming interior courtyards. A small rooftop pool is ideal for golden-hour lounging, a wellness centre resides in the old coal cellars, and an inner courtyard restaurant offers a sense of calm even on the liveliest days.
5. UMusic Hotel Madrid
More than just a hotel, UMusic is an experience. Built around the iconic Albéniz Theatre, this unique stay fuses luxury hospitality with live performance, creativity, and bold design. Located steps from Puerta del Sol and moments from Madrid's most vibrant cultural corners, it's ideal for music and culture lovers.
Rooms are sleek and tech-savvy in a modern palette, featuring ambient lighting and high-end touches that make you feel like a VIP on tour. You're surrounded by art, music, and curated experiences, from rooftop DJ sets to spontaneous live shows. The rooftop bar and pool offer city views worth lingering over, while the in-house restaurant serves seasonal flavours with flair. When the last song plays, you're already home.
6. H10 Villa de la Reina Hotel
Set in a beautifully restored 20th-century building on Gran Vía, H10 Villa de la Reina offers a boutique hotel experience with a distinctly European soul, just steps from Chueca. French-inspired interiors meet warm Spanish hospitality, creating a space that feels both elegant and relaxed.
Rooms are cosy and refined, with crisp linens, soft lighting, and subtle pops of colour. Some offer balconies overlooking the city, while others face quieter interior courtyards—perfect for recharging. Public spaces resemble a chic living room, with curated bookshelves, velvet armchairs, and a lobby bar serving excellent cocktails in an intimate setting. It's an ideal base for those wanting proximity to the action but a calm retreat to return to.
7. Hotel Fénix Gran Meliá
A long-time favourite of artists, writers, and those drawn to timeless elegance, Hotel Fénix Gran Meliá sits just off Plaza de Colón, steps from Serrano's boutiques and a short walk to Chueca. With its Belle Époque architecture and refined interiors, this five-star gem offers polished tranquillity in the city's heart.
Rooms are plush and elegant, featuring marble bathrooms, velvet textiles, and subtle, restful lighting. Some suites offer private jacuzzis and rooftop views, while guests booked into Meliá's RedLevel service enjoy added perks like personalised check-in and butler service. A rooftop terrace, small spa, and the iconic Dry Martini bar complete the offering, embodying quiet confidence and effortless luxury.
8. Urso Hotel & Spa
Tucked between the trendy Chamberí and vibrant Chueca districts, Urso Hotel & Spa offers a rare mix of calm and connectivity. Set in a stately early 20th-century building, this five-star boutique hotel blends neoclassical architecture with cool, contemporary interiors that feel effortlessly elegant.
Rooms are spacious, light-filled, and timeless, with oak floors, crisp linens, and marble bathrooms featuring double vanities. The on-site spa, powered by Natura Bissé, is a standout, offering a hammam, hydrotherapy pool, and personalised treatments. An atrium restaurant serves seasonal dishes, a hidden cocktail bar awaits, and complimentary bikes are available to explore Madrid. Chueca's nightlife is close, but Urso provides a space to unwind, reflect, and reset.
9. Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá Hotel
Set in a restored 19th-century palace once home to the Dukes of Granada de Ega, Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá is a luxurious tribute to Spain's artistic legacy. Inspired by Velázquez's works, the hotel blends regal architecture with modern elegance, located steps from the Royal Palace, Opera House, and Teatro Real.
Rooms are warm and sophisticated, with plush beds and curated artwork echoing the building's noble past. The RedLevel experience adds personalised service, from exclusive lounges to private terraces. A quiet courtyard garden and seasonal rooftop pool offer sanctuary above the city. Dining is equally impressive, with three restaurants, including a Michelin-starred option focused on traditional Spanish flavours.
10. Only YOU Boutique Hotel
Housed in a restored 19th-century mansion in the stylish Salesas district, Only YOU Boutique Hotel bursts with charm, individuality, and eclectic design. It's bold without being brash, where colonial elegance meets vibrant contemporary interiors, and every space invites lingering.
Rooms are beautifully curated with deep blues, soft lighting, and vintage accents, each unique in layout and style. Some overlook Calle del Barquillo, while others face quiet courtyards for a restful stay. Downstairs, the open-plan lounge and restaurant are social and welcoming, often buzzing with locals. A reading nook, concept store, and flexible workspaces make it feel more like a creative studio than a traditional hotel—lively yet underpinned by calm.
Why Trust This Guide
Aidy Smith is an award-winning broadcaster, TV presenter, journalist, and inclusivity spokesperson. He writes on food and drink, presents Amazon Prime's award-winning The Three Drinkers series, and serves as The Independent's LGBT+ and neurodivergence travel specialist. As the only global TV presenter with Tourette syndrome and a proud inclusivity advocate, he aims to offer wisdom and inspiration to help his community get the very best from their travels. Having visited Madrid multiple times, he provides a personal and informed perspective. Hotel selections are based on his own stays, evaluating location, facilities, service, and all details that ensure an exceptional experience for all travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to visit Madrid?
For fewer crowds yet pleasant weather, visit Madrid during the shoulder seasons: April, May, September, and October.
Is Madrid LGBT+ friendly?
Yes, Madrid is considered exceptionally LGBT+ friendly, with a vibrant, welcoming culture.
Where are the best LGBT+ nightlife spots in Madrid?
Chueca remains one of the most popular districts for LGBT+ nightlife. Notable venues include Bear's Bar, LL Bar, and You&Me bar.
