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La Tomatina, Buñol 2026

A small town, just under a half-hour drive from the city of Valencia and in August becomes the home of the World's biggest food fight.

  • Event Dates

    From: Wednesday, August 26, 2026
    To: Wednesday, August 26, 2026

  • Key Highlights

    • Fireworks
    • Lots of Boys
    • The Mosh Pit
    • 150,000 Tomatoes
    • The Tomatoes Fight
    • 40 Tonnes of Tomatoes

La Tomatina, Buñol 2026

Buñol is a small town, just under a half-hour drive from the city of Valencia and in August becomes the home of the World's biggest food fight. The event is held on the final Wednesday in August.

Thousands of visitors from Spain and beyond make the pilgrimage to the ancient town of Buñol to party long into the night, in between dodging the odd tomato or two! Over a hundred thousand tomatoes flying through the air over the course of an hour is, without a doubt, a sight to behold.

La Tomatina 2026

  • Next Edition: Wednesday 26th August, 2026.
  • First off, arrive early as roads to the town are closed off from lunchtime. We recommend staying in Valencia and taking a rideshare or bus to Buñol.
  • Wear White! Everyone does as they make their way down the hill to the centre of the town square, Plaza del Pueblo; you will find street vendors galore selling drinks as music plays over speakers. The atmosphere is one of hype and mayhem as people prepare for the main event.
  • The fight takes place in what is known as “The Mosh Pit”. Trucks carrying 40 tonnes of tomatoes will have arrived earlier that morning, and that's over 150,000 tomatoes! Get your ticket and pick up your tomato ammunition and start throwing them at everyone and anyone. Afterwards, you can pay locals a small fee to hose you down with water, which is highly recommended. You may not want to see a tomato for a while after your experience in the pit, but you certainly will have a unique memory of your trip to Spain.

Tips for the event

  • Bring a change of clothes and wear something you won't want to wear again. Bring goggles as, believe it or not, tomatoes sting. Avoid flip flops, so pack some trainers you don't mind destroying.
  • This is a ticketed event, limited to 20,000 visitors to avoid overcrowding. Tickets cost EUR 12 approx.
  • The food fight begins at 11 am and lasts for one hour, and takes place on the last Wednesday in August each year.

Other Activities

The tomato fight, which dates back to 1945, is the highlight of a week-long celebration full of fireworks, music and dancing held in honour of Buñol's Patron Saint, San Luis Bertrán.

How La Tomatina began

  • La Tomatina started in 1945 during a parade of Giants and Bigheads. Some local youth decided to participate in it, and some of the party members got angry. There was a minor dispute near where there was a vegetable stand, and the argument became a tomato toss between both sides until the police ended the “conflict.”
  • The following year and successive years, the same scenario was repeated until the authorities saw a high demand at the party. Due to this, the City Council took over the organization in 1980. Since then, La Tomatina has become popular every year. Now it is a festival that attracts thousands of tourists, making it one of the festivals with a significant international impact.
  • The town has few hotels, so Valencia makes an ideal base to explore the region. If you want to stay in the town, or close by, prepare to book well in advance 

Where to stay?

Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the action

Hospes Palau,    Zenit Valencia,    Vincci Palace,    Catalonia Excelsior

Map of Valencia

The gay scene in Valencia is spread out in 2 distinct districts, The Botànic/Quart and Russafa (Ruzafa). Both are within close walking distance from the Old Town centre. The city also has one gay beach, Platja de l'Arbre del Gos which is outside of the city, however the city beach is packed full of gay boys throughout the season.

Address: Paseo Alameda, 32, 46023 Valencia, Spain

  • SH Valencia Palace is a 5-star hotel in Valencia.
  • It offers elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, spa, and fine dining.
  • The hotel is opposite Palau de la Música and near Turia Gardens.
  • It's a short taxi ride to Ruzafa's gay bars and clubs.
  • Ideal for guests seeking luxury with access to LGBTQ+ nightlife.
  • Website

Address: Calle de la Paz, 42, 46003 Valencia, Spain

  • Vincci Palace is a 4-star hotel in central Valencia.
  • It offers elegant rooms with modern and classic design.
  • Major attractions are within walking distance.
  • The hotel is close to the city's gay nightlife.
  • It's ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
  • The hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
  • Website

Address: Carrer de Bailen, 8, 46007 Valencia, Spain

  • Zenit Valencia is a 4-star hotel in a central location.
  • Rooms are modern with strong soundproofing.
  • Shops and historic sights are within walking distance.
  • A short taxi ride reaches the main gay nightlife areas.
  • Good fit for travelers wanting convenience.
  • Works well as a comfortable city base.
  • Website

Address: Plaza de San Lorenzo, 2, 46003 Valencia, Spain

  • Boutique 3-star hotel in Valencia's historic center.
  • It offers elegant rooms with modern amenities.
  • Located near the Cathedral and Turia Gardens.
  • In the main gay nightlife area short walk
  • Ideal for travelers seeking cultural experiences.
  • Provides a comfortable and stylish stay.
  • Website

Address: Carrer de la Barcelonina, 5, 46002 Valencia, Spain

  • Catalonia Excelsior is a 4-star hotel in Valencia's city center.
  • Rooms are modern with amenities like free Wi-Fi and minibars.
  • The hotel offers a buffet breakfast and a fitness center.
  • It's a short walk to Ruzafa, the heart of gay nightlife.
  • Ideal for travelers seeking comfort & proximity to LGBTQ+ venues.
  • The hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
  • Website

Address: Passeig de Neptú, 46011 Valencia, Spain

  • Passeig de Neptú is a popular beachfront with a visible gay crowd.
  • Gay locals and visitors gather along the nearby beach sections.
  • Terrace bars make it ideal for daytime drinks.
  • Summer brings the strongest LGBTQ+ presence.
  • It’s a key outdoor social spot rather than a gay venue.
  • Open: Open 24 hours
  • Website

Address: Between Pinedo and El Saler, 46012 Valencia, Spain

  • Platja de l'Arbre del Gos is a gay-friendly, clothing-optional beach.
  • It lies between Pinedo and El Saler, near an old factory chimney.
  • The beach is peaceful, with showers and a promenade.
  • Behind the dunes, a wooded area is popular for cruising.
  • The beach is accessible via bus lines 24 and 25.
  • Open: Open 24 hours
  • Website

Address: Carrer dels Vivons, 15-17, 46006 Valencia, Spain

  • Sauna Olímpic is a gay sauna located in Valencia.
  • It features two floors with jacuzzis, steam rooms, & cruising areas.
  • The venue offers a bar, private cabins, and video rooms.
  • Patrons appreciate the spacious layout and diverse crowd.
  • Some reviews mention cleanliness and maintenance issues.
  • Open: Mon–Wed 10am–11:50pm Thu 10am–12am Fri–Sun 24 hours
  • Website

Address: Carrer de Ruaya, 48, La Saïdia, 46009 Valencia, Spain

  • The Muse Valencia is a gay disco pub in La Saïdia.
  • It has a spacious dance floor and modern lighting.
  • Music includes Spanish and English pop hits.
  • It's a popular spot before heading to clubs like Deseo 54.
  • The venue attracts both locals and tourists.
  • Open: Fri–Sat 10pm–3:30am
  • Facebook

Address: Carrer del Botànic, 7, Extramurs, 46008 Valencia, Spain

  • Bubu is a gay bar in Valencia's Extramurs district.
  • It caters primarily to bears, mature men, and their friends.
  • The venue features karaoke, DJ nights, and themed events.
  • Visitors praise its friendly staff and affordable drinks.
  • The bar offers a relaxed atmosphere with a local crowd.
  • Open: Wed 8pm–12am, Thu 8pm–1am
  • Fri 8pm–3:30am, Sat 9:30pm–3:30am, Sun 8pm–12am
  • Instagram

Address: Carrer del Crist del Grau, 10, El Grau, 46011 Valencia, Spain

  • La Barbería is a gay bar known for its themed parties.
  • It features events like "Cancaneo" and "Trastero Club".
  • Music includes Spanish pop and dance hits from the 80s and 90s.
  • The venue is praised for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff.
  • It's a popular spot for both locals & tourists seeking a lively night out.
  • Open: Thu–Fri 11pm–3:30am, Sat 5pm–3:30am
  • Instagram

Address: Carrer de Cuba, 59, 46006 Valencia, Spain

  • La Boba y el Gato Rancio is a gay bar with a relaxed atmosphere.
  • It offers cocktails, coffee, and desserts in a colorful setting.
  • The bar features a terrace and ambient music for conversations.
  • Patrons commend the friendly staff and reasonably priced drinks.
  • It's a favored spot for both locals and visitors.
  • Open: Wed 7pm–12:30am Thu 7pm–1:30am Fri–Sat 7pm–2:30am
  • Instagram

Address: Carrer de Moratín, 7, 46002 Valencia, Spain

  • Moratín 7 is a gay cruise bar catering to an older male clientele.
  • It features a dark room and ambient music in a compact space.
  • The bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere and central location.
  • Some patrons have noted the presence of hustlers.
  • It remains a recognizable spot in Valencia's gay nightlife scene.
  • Open: Tue–Sun 6pm–2am, Mon closed

Address: Plaça del Músic López Chávarri, 2, 46003 Valencia, Spain

  • Trapezzio is a gay café-bar with a spacious terrace.
  • It serves cocktails, gin-tonics, and a variety of beers.
  • The venue is known for its relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.
  • Located in a quiet plaza, it's popular for afterwork drinks.
  • The bar attracts a diverse and friendly crowd.
  • Open: Mon–Thu 6pm–12am, Fri–Sat 6pm–2am, Sun 6pm–11pm
  • Instagram

Address: Carrer del Gravador Jordán, 1, 46013 Valencia, Spain

  • Tête-à-Tête is a gay cruise bar in the southern part of Valencia.
  • The venue features cabins, swings, lockers, and showers.
  • It hosts themed events, including naturist nights and live DJs.
  • The atmosphere is lively, with 90s music and friendly staff.
  • Admission is around €10, including one or two drinks.
  • Open: Daily 6pm–3:30am
  • Website

Address: Carrer del Dr. Monserrat, 28, 46008 Valencia, Spain

  • Nunca Digo No is a gay cruise bar with a provocative atmosphere.
  • It features dark rooms, a maze, slings, and private cabins.
  • The venue hosts themed nights like Underwear and Naturist parties.
  • Patrons appreciate the friendly staff and diverse crowd.
  • It's a long-standing spot for adventurous nightlife in Valencia.
  • Open: Daily 6pm–3:30am
  • Website

Address: Carrer d'Alacant, 11, 46004 Valencia, Spain

  • Hòmens is a gay cruise bar with a large labyrinth.
  • It includes cabins, lockers, and play areas.
  • The bar hosts regular themed nights.
  • Crowds are mixed with locals and visitors.
  • It’s a recognized stop on the gay nightlife circuit.
  • Open: Daily 5pm-3am
  • Website

Address: Carrer de Pepita, 15, 46009 Valencia, Spain

  • Deseo 54 is a gay nightclub known for its vibrant themed parties.
  • It features two floors with house music downstairs and pop upstairs.
  • The club hosts drag shows, international DJs, and live performances.
  • Guests appreciate the energetic atmosphere and modern lighting.
  • It's a central hub for Valencia's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
  • Open: Fri–Sat 1:30am–7:30am
  • Website

Address: Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, 386, 46017 Valencia, Spain

  • Fetish Morning’s Social Club is a gay after-hours venue.
  • It focuses on electronic music and guest DJs.
  • The space has a raw underground feel.
  • Crowds arrive after the main clubs close.
  • It attracts fetish fans and late-night regulars.
  • Open: Sat-Sun 6:30am till late
  • instagram

Address: Carrer de Dénia, 83, 46006 Valencia, Spain

  • La Matina is a gay day club in Valencia.
  • It offers techno and house music with live DJs.
  • The venue features premium sound and lighting systems.
  • It attracts a diverse and energetic crowd.
  • Entry requires ID; admission includes a drink.
  • Open: Sat–Sun 8:30am–4pm
  • Facebook

Address: Carrer de Mossèn Femenia, 11, 46006 Valencia, Spain

  • Barber Club is a gay-friendly bar in Valencia's Ruzafa district.
  • It features indie, pop, rock, and disco music with live DJs.
  • The venue hosts themed parties and offers a relaxed atmosphere.
  • It's busiest between 1am and 2am on weekends.
  • The club attracts a diverse and inclusive crowd.
  • Open: Fri–Sat 11pm–3:30am
  • Instagram

Address: Carrer dels Tomasos, 14, 46006 Valencia, Spain

  • Picca is a gay club located in Valencia's Ruzafa district.
  • With 3 distinct areas a silent disco cocktail bar & main dance floor.
  • The club is known for its inclusive atmosphere and diverse crowd.
  • Music ranges from pop and indie to Latin and 90s hits.
  • The venue is housed in the historic former Sala Sider.
  • Open: Fri–Sat 12am–7:30am
  • Facebook

Address: Carrer del Comte d'Almodóvar, 1, 46003 Valencia, Spain

  • Café de las Horas is a gay-friendly bar in Valencia.
  • It offers Agua de Valencia, cocktails, and artisan coffee.
  • The venue features a lavish baroque-style interior.
  • It's known for a relaxed atmosphere and themed events.
  • Located near Plaza de la Virgen, it's popular with locals and tourists.
  • Open: Daily 10am–1:30am
  • Website

Address: Carrer de Mossèn Femenia, 3, 46004 Valencia, Spain

  • Templo is a gay bar in Valencia's Ruzafa district.
  • It features drag shows and live performances.
  • The venue offers affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere.
  • It attracts a predominantly local crowd.
  • The bar is known for its friendly staff and vibrant energy.
  • Open: Thu–Sun 10:30pm–3am
  • Instagram

Address: Carrer de Borrull, 15, 46008 Valencia, Spain

  • A Fer La Ma is a gay-friendly gastrobar in Valencia.
  • It offers traditional Spanish tapas and Mediterranean dishes.
  • The venue features a cozy atmosphere with drag-themed decor.
  • Patrons appreciate the friendly service and generous portions.
  • It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
  • Open: Mon–Sat 6pm–11:30pm, Sun 7pm–10:30pm
  • Facebook

Recommended Hotels in Valencia By Booking

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

SH Valencia Palace
5 Star, Luxury

Booking.com
  • 5-star, opposite Palau de la Música, rooftop pool.
  • A short taxi ride to the gay bars.
  • Classic design, free Wi-Fi, spacious rooms.
  • Ideal for a luxurious stay with stunning rooftop pool views and easy access to Valencia's cultural highlights.

Zenit Valencia
4 Star, Readers Choice

Zenit Valencia
Booking.com
  • 4-star, central location, opposite Estación del Norte.
  • A short walk to the gay bars.
  • Stylish furnishings, plasma TV, free Wi-Fi.
  • Perfect for exploring Valencia's heart, offering modern comfort and excellent amenities, including a fitness center.

Vincci Palace
4 Star, Great Value

Booking.com
  • 4-star, near Cathedral, attractive design.
  • A short walk to the gay bars.
  • Elegant rooms, satellite TV, free internet.
  • Offers a blend of elegant design and central convenience, ideal for discovering Valencia's historic charm.

Catalonia Excelsior
3 Star, Location

Catalonia Excelsior
Booking.com
  • 3-star, centrally located, modern facilities.
  • A short walk to the gay bars.
  • Bright decor, flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi access.
  • Great for travelers seeking a central location with modern amenities and easy access to Valencia's vibrant nightlife.

Video of La Tomatina

Highlights of the hilarious tomato fight.

Cathedral Suites Valencia

Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Valencia

Valencia is LGBTQ+ friendly, and there are several areas in the city that are popular among the gay community. The city is also known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and rich history.

Ruzafa | A trendy & diverse neighborhood

Ruzafa Valencia Spain
Photo: Ruzafa is home to some of Valencia's most popular gay bars
  • Ruzafa has historically been a diverse and inclusive neighborhood, attracting people from various backgrounds.
  • It has a reputation for being LGBTQ+ friendly and is home to many gay-friendly bars, cafes, and venues.
  • The streets of Ruzafa are adorned with colorful street art and murals, contributing to the neighborhood's vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.
  • Discover the best things to see and do in Ruzafa

El Carmen

El Carmen is the historic old town of Valencia, with its narrow streets, medieval architecture, and bohemian vibe.

Quatre Carreres

Valencia's modern district, hosts the iconic City of Arts & Sciences complex & lush Turia Gardens.

El Cabanyal

One of Valencia's most popular & iconic beaches. It's a wide, sandy beach with a long promenade, perfect for relaxing.

L'Eixample

Calle Colón is a prestigious shopping street in L'Eixample. famous for its high-end boutiques & luxury brands.

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