Queer Hotel Opens in Valencia, Spain

Valencia, a city in Spain, has recently welcomed its own Axel Hotel. This marks the latest addition to the Axel brand, which was founded by hotelier Juan Julià. The brand is known for being LGBTQ+-focused but also "straight-friendly." The first Axel hotel opened in 2003 in Barcelona, followed by locations in Buenos Aires in 2007 and Berlin shortly after. The chain continues to expand, with Axel Hotel Valencia now becoming the 11th member of the Axel family.

Axel Hotel Valencia officially opened at the end of October. It is situated in a 17th-century building located on Roteros Street No. 25, within the historic Casa Vella district. The location is rich with history. According to Axel, the building was once a dance club in the 1970s and later served as a home for squatters during the 1990s.

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The property has been transformed into “a queer temple featuring a majestic noble room with a dome that’s a cultural heritage landmark of the neighborhood.” The hotel offers 72 rooms, including luxurious suites. The design blends the original architectural elements—such as wooden beams and stone walls—with warm-colored tiles and modern, high-end amenities.

In addition to the rooms, guests can enjoy a wellness club and gym, a rooftop viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city, and the Café de Las Horas, which serves as a popular meeting spot.

Spain is often recognized as one of the most gay-friendly vacation destinations globally. The country recently ranked highly in a list of queer-friendly countries for destination weddings, with 85% of locals stating they feel safe being openly LGBTQ+. In another survey, Spain and Canada both topped the list of safe countries for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Why Valencia?

While many visitors to Spain are drawn to Barcelona or Madrid, Valencia, the country's third-largest city, offers a unique mix of historical charm and modern innovation. The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences complex features stunning architecture, an oceanographic park, and interactive museums. The historic center includes the Gothic Valencia Cathedral, the bustling Central Market—one of Europe’s largest—and the medieval Silk Exchange.

For those who love the beach, Malvarrosa Beach along the Mediterranean coast provides a perfect urban escape. Valencia is also the birthplace of paella, offering a vibrant food scene and exceptional cuisine. The city hosts the lively Las Fallas festival each March, combining culture, a Mediterranean climate, affordable prices, and a manageable size that makes it easy to explore.

Another major event coming to Valencia next summer will specifically attract thousands of queer visitors. The Gay Games, held every four years, will take place in Valencia from June 27 to July 4, 2026. If you're planning to attend, it's advisable to book a stay at Axel Hotel Valencia as soon as possible.

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New Axel hotels in 2026
After Valencia, more Axel hotels are expected to open in 2026. Following the launch in Mykonos, a second Axel franchise will arrive in Crete next April. The new hotel, Axel Beach Crete, will have 41 rooms. Additionally, the Axel Hotel Porto is scheduled to open in 2026, though no official opening date has been confirmed yet.

Check out more photos from Axel Valencia below.

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