Gay Valencia

Valencia is one of the Mediterranean's most rewarding cities, and one that rewards visitors who make the effort to look beyond the obvious Spanish itinerary. The old town is a maze of Roman ruins, Gothic churches, and baroque facades, while the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences complex, designed by local hero Santiago Calatrava, sits at the other end of the spectrum entirely.

In between, you get world-class paella (this is where it was invented), a beach that's actually close to the city centre, and a pace of life that feels more relaxed than Madrid or Barcelona without sacrificing any of the quality.

As for the gay scene, it punches above its weight for a city of this size. Ruzafa is the go-to neighbourhood where you'll find the gay bars. For Pride, Valencia's celebration falls on the last weekend of June, organised by the Colectiu Lambda, and has grown into one of the most popular in Spain.