Home  /   Europe  /  Bilbao Events /  Bilbao Gay Pride

Bilbao in Black 2025

Bilbao in Black is the gay leather and fetish Spring event not to be missed.

  • Event Dates

    From: Thursday, June 12, 2031
    To: Thursday, June 12, 2031

  • Key Highlights

    • Fetish dinner
    • Official photo shoot
    • Official night party
    • Fetish lunch
    • Tourist tour
    • Boat party
    • Farewell brunch

Bilbao in Black 2025

Bilbao in Black is the gay leather and fetish Spring event not to be missed. Every year, mid May, guys from Spain and beyond descend upon Bilbao for a weekend of fun.

  • Visiting Bilbao? Stay close to all the bars and the city's top attractions at the Hotel Tayko Bilbao, rated “Superb” by guests, offering river views in a historic building, circa 1924.

The Event

  • Leather, rubber, boots, harnesses, sneakers, neoprene – just wear what turns you on and have a good time! Any age, any fetish – meet people with similar interests and enjoy with no fears or taboos.

The Schedule

  • Events begin with a social meeting and dinner followed by a boat party on the Bilbao river. Saturday kicks off with a breakfast and tourist tour of Bilbao visiting the stunning Guggenheim Museum and ending with a fetish lunch!
  • Parties continue late into the night with the official night party followed by the group photo shoot. Sunday, the final day ends with a farewell brunch.

Gay Bilbao

  • Bilbao is a modern metropolitan city and has a vibrant gay scene. The majority of Bilbao’s gay venues are located within close proximity to each other in the areas known as Casco Viejo and Bilbao La Vieja or the San Francisco quarter (above the street San Frantzisko Kalea).
  • The old town is full of bars and clubs. Saunas are a little bit further west. Bilbao is a very tolerant city and gay tourists receive a warm welcome.
  • Bilbao is home to two busy Saunas, Sauna Ego, open from Thursday to Sunday and Sauna Element, open daily.
  • Weekends in Bilbao are very gay and very busy as it is the epicentre for gay life in the entire northwest of Spain.

Where to stay?

The following hotels are all close to the gay bars:

Hotel MeliáNH Collection Villa de BilbaoHotel Conde DuqueBaps Apartments.

Gay Map of Bilbao

The gay scene centers around the Casco Viejo near the historic “seven streets” of the old city center, and the area between the river and San Frantzisko Kalea (Calle de San Francisco). All points area easily walkable, one from another.

Address: Lehendakari Leizaola Kalea 29, 48011 Bilbao, Spain

  • Meliá Bilbao is a 5-star hotel near the Guggenheim Museum.
  • Striking architecture gives the property a strong visual identity.
  • Rooms are spacious with contemporary design touches.
  • A heated pool and gym support relaxed city stays.
  • Gay nightlife is about 10 minutes by taxi.
  • A polished choice in a calmer part of the city.
  • Website

Address: Gran Vía 87, 48011 Bilbao, Spain

  • NH Collection Villa de Bilbao is a 4-star hotel on Gran Vía.
  • Offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi and a rooftop gym.
  • Features a restaurant serving Basque cuisine and a bar.
  • Provides a buffet breakfast and tapas at The Corner Bar.
  • Approximately 10 minutes' walk to Casco Viejo's gay nightlife.
  • Centrally located for exploring Bilbao's attractions.
  • Website

Address: Bidebarrieta Kalea 2, 48005 Bilbao, Spain

  • Petit Palace Arana is a boutique hotel beside Bilbao Cathedral.
  • Historic architecture pairs well with clean modern rooms.
  • Pedestrian streets outside keep the area lively.
  • Breakfast is a strong start before city exploring.
  • Gay nightlife sits within a short walk in Casco Viejo.
  • A smart pick for guests wanting a central base.
  • Website

Address: Campo de Volantín Pasealekua, 22, 48007 Bilbao, Spain

  • Hotel Conde Duque Bilbao is a 3-star hotel along the Nervión River.
  • Offers modern rooms, fitness center, sauna, and on-site dining.
  • Located near the Guggenheim Museum and Calatrava Bridge.
  • Approximately a 15-minute walk to Bilbao's gay nightlife areas.
  • Provides easy access to the city's main attractions.
  • Ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
  • Website

Address: Calle Nicolás Alkorta 3, bajo – Plaza Zabalburu, 48003 Bilbao

  • Sauna Ego Bilbao is an exclusively gay sauna in central Bilbao.
  • Facilities include a Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, and cruising areas.
  • The venue spans approximately 1,000m², offering ample space.
  • Known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse clientele.
  • A popular spot for relaxation and social interaction.
  • Open: Thu–Sun: 4pm–11pm
  • Website

Address: Costa Kalea 8-10, 48010 Bilbao, Spain

  • Sauna Element is a gay sauna in Bilbao’s Abando district.
  • Modern interiors create a comfortable setting to unwind.
  • Facilities include a dry sauna, jacuzzi, and private cabins.
  • Draws a steady mix of locals and visiting men.
  • A reliable stop for social time indoors.
  • Open: Mon-Fri: 4pm-10pm, Sat: 3pm-2:30am, Sun: 4pm-10pm
  • Website

Address: Dorre Kalea 1, 48005 Bilbao, Spain

  • Bizitza is a gay bar in Bilbao’s Casco Viejo.
  • Vintage décor gives the space strong character.
  • Cocktails and music create an easy social mood.
  • The terrace works well for relaxed evening drinks.
  • A dependable stop in the heart of the Old Town.
  • Open: Mon-Thu: 2:30pm-1am, Fri-Sat: 2pm-3am, Sun: 3pm-1am
  • Facebook

Address: Calle de la Pelota 8, 48005 Bilbao, Spain

  • Lamiak is a gay bar situated in Bilbao's Casco Viejo.
  • It offers a welcoming atmosphere with two distinct floors.
  • The bar is known for its well-made cocktails and homemade cakes.
  • It has been a staple in the local LGBTQ+ community since 1979.
  • Its central location makes it a convenient spot for socializing.
  • Open: Mon–Wed: 3:30pm–11pm, Thu: 11am–11pm,
  • Fri–Sat: 11am–1:30am, Sun: 11am–12am
  • Instagram

Address: Barrenkale Kalea 4, 48005 Bilbao, Spain

  • Manolita La Primera is a gay bar in Bilbao's Casco Viejo.
  • The venue features retro Spanish music and a lively dance floor.
  • Affordable drinks and friendly staff enhance the festive atmosphere.
  • It attracts a diverse crowd looking for a vibrant night out.
  • A popular spot in the city's historic district.
  • Open: Thu: 8pm–1:30am, Fri–Sat: 8pm–3am
  • Instagram

Address: Barrenkale Kalea 11, 48005 Bilbao, Spain

  • Paquita la de Barrenka is a gay bar in Bilbao's Casco Viejo.
  • The venue offers a spacious dance floor and curated lighting.
  • Music selection evolves throughout the night for diverse patrons.
  • The bar is committed to inclusivity and welcoming all identities.
  • A staple in Bilbao's LGBTQ+ nightlife since November 2024.
  • Open: Thu: 7pm–1:30am, Fri–Sat: 5pm–2:30am
  • Instagram

Address: Barrenkale Kalea 14, 48005 Bilbao, Spain

  • Modesto is a gay bar situated in Bilbao's Casco Viejo.
  • It features a small dance floor, terrace, and hosts cultural events.
  • The bar is known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse clientele.
  • Patrons appreciate the friendly staff and well-crafted cocktails.
  • Modesto is a staple in Bilbao's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
  • Open: Thu: 7pm–1am, Fri: 6pm–3am, Sat: 5pm–3am
  • Instagram

Address: Barrenkale Kalea 13, 48005 Bilbao, Spain

  • Pavoneo is a gay bar located in Bilbao's Casco Viejo.
  • The venue offers a mix of pop hits from various decades.
  • Friendly staff and crafted cocktails enhance the experience.
  • Themed nights like drag bingo add to the lively ambiance.
  • Despite its size, Pavoneo holds a grand reputation.
  • Open: Thu: 8pm–2:30am, Fri–Sat: 8pm–4am, Sun: 6pm–11:30pm
  • Instagram

Address: Barrenkale Kalea 19, 48005 Bilbao, Spain

  • Pepe por Dios is a gay bar in Bilbao's Casco Viejo.
  • The venue offers a vibrant atmosphere with retro music.
  • It features a lively dance floor and friendly staff.
  • The bar attracts a diverse crowd seeking nostalgia.
  • A unique spot in Bilbao's inclusive nightlife scene.
  • Open: Thu: 7:30pm–1:30am, Fri: 5pm–3am, Sat: 12pm–3am
  • Instagram

Address: Kristo Kalea 13, 48007 Bilbao, Spain

  • Pub Key is a gay bar situated in Bilbao's Uribarri district.
  • It features captivating drag performances by Asier Bilbao.
  • The venue offers a lively dance floor and welcoming crowd.
  • Known for its vibrant atmosphere and late-night entertainment.
  • A standout spot in Bilbao's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
  • Open: Fri–Sat: 10pm–4am
  • Facebook

Address: Bailén Kalea 10, 48003 Bilbao, Spain

  • El Balcón de la Lola is a gay nightclub in Bilbao La Vieja.
  • The venue offers electronic and pop music with themed nights.
  • It features a dance cage and stays open until 6am on weekends.
  • As a Queer Destinations Committed partner, it ensures inclusivity.
  • A staple in Bilbao's vibrant nightlife scene.
  • Open: Fri–Sat: 12am–6am
  • Instagram

Address: Hernani Kalea 10, 48003 Bilbao, Spain

  • Badulake is a gay nightclub in Bilbao's Casco Viejo.
  • The venue features dynamic drag performances and lively music.
  • It attracts a diverse crowd with its inclusive atmosphere.
  • Thursday cabaret shows and weekend DJ sets are highlights.
  • A staple in Bilbao's vibrant nightlife scene.
  • Open: Fri: 10:30pm–6am, Sat: 11:59pm–6am
  • Instagram

Recommended Hotels in Bilbao By Booking

Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Bilbao that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars

Hotel Meliá Bilbao
5 Star, Luxury

Hotel Meliá Bilbao
Booking.com
  1. 5-star luxury, heated outdoor pool, award-winning restaurant.
  2. A short walk to the gay bars.
  3. Luxurious rooms, flat-screen TV.
  4. Perfect for art enthusiasts, close to the Guggenheim Museum, with elegant design inspired by Eduardo Chillida.

Villa de Bilbao
4 Star, Readers Choice

NH Collection Villa de Bilbao
Booking.com
  1. 4-star, near San Mamés Stadium and Euskalduna Palace.
  2. A short walk to the gay bars.
  3. Free Wi-Fi, fitness center access.
  4. Ideal for sports and culture lovers, conveniently located near museums and entertainment venues.

Hotel Conde Duque
3 Star, Great Value

Hotel Conde Duque Bilbao
Booking.com
  1. 3-star, offering smart TVs, and central heating.
  2. A short taxi ride to the gay bars.
  3. Coffee maker, free toiletries.
  4. Combining value and modernity, offers a local cuisine restaurant and is perfect for a comfortable and convenient stay.

Petit Palace Arana
3 Star, Location

Petit Palace Arana Bilbao
Booking.com
  1. 3-star, 19th-century building, chic design.
  2. Close to the gay district.
  3. Air conditioning, minibar, flat-screen TV.
  4. Nestled in a historic building, this hotel provides a unique blend of old-world charm, ideal for exploring Bilbao's heart.

Video of Bilbao in Black

Sercotel Coliseo

Other Events in May

St. Pete Pride

St. Pete Pride

From: May. 29.2026 - To: Jun. 28.2026
The St Pete Pride Festival draws around 100,000 visitors to downtown St. Petersburg's Historic Grand Central District.
Bangkok Pride Month

Bangkok Pride Month

From: May. 31.2026 - To: Jun. 28.2026
Bangkok, one of the world's most gay-friendly and welcoming cities, celebrates Pride all month long with a series of parties, events and the return of a colourful parade through the city's streets
St Maarten Carnival

St Maarten Carnival

From: Apr. 15.2027 - To: May. 03.2027
Celebrate Carnival in the Caribbean in St Maarten and enjoy colourful parades, spectacular pageants, Calypso competitions, energetic bands concerts and delicious carnival cuisine
The Kentucky Derby Festival & Thunder Over Louisville

The Kentucky Derby Festival & Thunder Over Louisville

From: Apr. 17.2027 - To: May. 01.2027
The Kentucky Derby Festival is one of the premiere events of its kind in the world and a proud five-time winner of the International Festivals Award.
Stuttgart Spring Festival

Stuttgart Spring Festival

From: Apr. 17.2027 - To: May. 09.2027
As the winter chill gives way to the warmth of spring, Stuttgart, the heart of Baden-Württemberg, awakens with an exuberant celebration like no other, The Stuttgart Spring Festival