The 7 things I wish I knew before attending Europe’s biggest Pride

You could say I’m a seasoned expert when it comes to Pride.

I’ve paraded through the canals of Amsterdam, danced along Wellington’s windy waterfront, and marched in the pouring rain in Manchester. But nothing – and I mean nothing – prepared me for the spectacle that is Madrid Pride.

Currently reigning as Europe’s biggest Pride, Madrid takes over the city with a riot of colour, joy and glitter. Squares and parks become party zones, with stages hosting big-name DJs and performers.

Almost two million smiling faces spill out into the streets to celebrate, make new friends and have a damn good time. And, at a time when LGBT+ rights are increasingly under threat, seeing such an unapologetic outpouring of love felt even more powerful.

This was my first time, and after Hard Rock Hotels invited me to be Metro’s Madrid Pride correspondent (official sash pending), it felt only right to share my top hacks for making your maiden voyage one to remember.

1. Lots of Pride events are free

Despite numerous paid events that the gays™ descend upon into the early hours of the morning – namely MyPleasure, WE Party and VivaPop – street festivities and stages are free for everyone.

That means the outdoor stages, the parties in the plazas, and the parade itself are open to all. Security is tight but efficient, and once you’re in, there are pop-up bars and toilets galore so you can stake your spot and soak it all up.

If you’re set on the big-ticket parties, book early. Prices hike the closer you get, and most sell out well before the weekend.

I spent a lot of time at Plaza de España and Plaza de Pedro Zerolo – two of the main hubs. €10 gets you a beer big enough to share (or not), and the entertainment is next level. I even caught Christine and the Queens for the five minutes they graced the stage.

2. Prepare to queue

There’s no doubt you’ll find yourself in Chueca, the epicentre of Madrid’s LGBT+ scene.

The neighbourhood sprawls across a warren of side streets, and here you’ll find vibey bars and cafés, as well as stores to get your favourite pair of budgie smugglers. It’s easy enough to find a table in the restaurants – shoutout to Hermanos Vinagre for great bites – but bars? Less so.

The truth is: they’re rammed. Expect to queue for up to an hour for most spots. Entry is usually €20 with a drink included, but if patience isn’t your thing, grab a drink from a corner shop and chill in one of the nearby squares.

It’s a vibe, and let’s be honest – the al fresco scenes are often better than the clubs.

3. Getting the best view at Madrid Pride

The Pride parade is the pièce de résistance of Madrid Pride.

It lasts a few hours, and because of the heat, it starts in the evening and goes well into the night.

I was lucky enough to join a float with Hard Rock Hotels, and it was something I’ll never forget. So much love, smiles and rainbows everywhere, not to mention the sea of ‘Protect The Dolls’ merch.

Along the way, I made note of key locations to see the parade from.

My recommendation would be to position yourself around Plaza de Colón – it’s an open space with loads going on, giving you a great view of the parade and a prime spot to see the sunset, too.

4. Sleep away from the madness

As much as I like to party, I need my downtime, too.

Some hotels at the heart of the Chueca were packed. It was noisy and I can guarantee you won’t sleep if you stay there (unless that’s your vibe, then go get ‘em).

I stayed at Hard Rock Hotel Madrid, a boutique hotel about a 30-minute walk from Chueca. For the days I was feeling lazy, a short Uber got me from A to B in 10 minutes.

The hotel has everything you need for a city break: modern, clean rooms with slick features like a shower playlist and a bed so comfy, it puts the one I spent a small fortune on back home a run for its money.

Bonus hotel feature: Hard Rock Hotels Madrid gets into the spirit. On parade day, I was treated to their legendary Drag Brunch Madrid – a full-blown show with drag queens who’ll roast you and then belt out a ballad.

Add bottomless mimosas and more food than you could ever need, it’s no surprise that this was another highlight.

Exploring the hotel, it was evident the décor and brand has queer-coded influence – I spotted a portrait of Lady Gaga, an iconic Rihanna dress and a jacket worn by Madonna just hanging about.

5. Locals’ hack: Sip above Madrid

One of the best tips I got came from Jorge, a Madrid local who told me to check out the rooftops – he wasn’t wrong.

For sweeping views and a break from the bustle, head to Círculo de Bellas Artes. It’s a few Euros to enter, but the view makes every cent worth it.

Another top pick is the rooftop at H10 Puerta de Alcalá, perfect for a golden-hour vino and unbeatable views.

6. Dress (and drink) for heat

Madrid in July is hot. And, if you’ve been to any Pride event before, you’ll know that ‘less is more’ is the general dress code. This time, it’s also practical.

When I was there, it hit 35°C. I was showering three times a day just to survive. So, pack wisely. Portable fans are lifesavers (Burger King staff were even handing them out for free), and staying hydrated is key.

My mate and I made a rule: one water bottle for every giant cup of sangria. It worked. Refill stations and fountains are everywhere, so bring a reusable bottle and save your euros for something more fun.

Here are my five essentials: water bottle, portable charger, fan, SPF, and wet wipes.

7. Don’t rush back to reality

This is one I’ve learnt the hard way. If you can, don’t jump on the first flight home.

I extended my trip by three days and hopped on a first-class train from Madrid to Malaga (€65 and better than any UK train I’ve ever been on). Big seats, a full meal, endless drinks – bliss.

My experience with Hard Rock Hotels didn’t end in Madrid. In Marbella, their huge resort welcomed me with open arms. A taxi ride from Malaga had me in their grand foyer within the hour, and I was welcomed with outfits from Lady Gaga and Madonna that had me feeling right at home in an instant.

The staff were unbelievably helpful and set me up on a Balinese bed for the afternoon, complete with cocktail in hand (can’t recommend the strawberry daiquiri enough).

Between morning yoga, a spa session and a stroll through the stunning Old Town, it felt like the post-Pride detox I didn’t know I needed.

And the food? Incredible. The breakfast and dinner buffets are loaded with options, while the signature restaurant Novayne (by chef Richard Sandoval) served me a chicken curry I’m still dreaming about. Coming from a Brummie-turned-East-Londoner, that’s saying something.

Now it’s back to reality. I’m leaving Spain with so many great memories, new friends and a tan that will make my boyfriend unbelievably jealous.

For those considering heading to Madrid Pride next year, I’ll see you there.

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