Radio City
One of the city’s favourite live music spots, this laid-back bar has a varied programme of jazz, funk, blues, flamenco and much more besides. It gets its slightly shabby charm from the eye-catching photos and artwork covering the walls and ceiling, and the equally colourful clientele. Check out the monthly listings or stop by one of the regular open mic nights or jam sessions, where you can expect the unexpected! Depending on your mood, you can hit the dance floor or catch up with friends over reasonably-priced drinks in the quieter, separate bar area. The space also hosts occasional pop-up markets and other events during the day.
Carrer de Santa Teresa, 19, 46001 València
Guitar band playing | Photo courtesy of Radio City
Jimmy Glass
A cosy, dimly-lit jazz bar off one of El Carmen’s winding cobbled streets, Jimmy Glass is an immensely popular, sophisticated spot hosting the best established and up-and-coming performers around. The owner is a serious jazz fan, and it shows. If you can manage to grab a table, sit back and unwind with a glass of wine and some tapas, while you soak up the atmosphere and admire the curious photo displays. In summer, the party spills out onto the street. The bar also organises its own Contemporary Jazz Festival every year in October.
Café Del Duende
This intimate and very Spanish bar is the place to go for your fix of flamenco music and culture. The constantly evolving art form has its roots in Andalucia, but it’s very popular here in Valencia, too. Let the song, guitar and dance stir your soul during one of the hour-long performances, held four nights a week from Thursday to Sunday. The place itself has a local vibe, simple decor and a chilled out, convivial atmosphere.
Carrer del Túria, 62, 46008 València
Women dancing | Photo courtesy of Cafe Del Duende
Black Note
One of the best-known and most established music venues in Valencia, Black Note is an essential stop on a night out in the lively Aragon nightlife area in the city centre. This immensely popular spot attracts the big names in jazz, blues, funk, soul, r’n’b and rock, plus everything in between, from Spain and worldwide. There’s a friendly, mixed crowd, reasonably-priced drinks, and with something on every night of the week you’re sure to find something here in tune with your tastes.
Loco Club
An intimate venue playing host to a melting pot of live music acts, featuring everything from rock and punk to pop and country. It’s earning a reputation as the place to discover new local bands thanks to its monthly night highlighting up-and-coming talent. The interior is modern, spacious and classy, but the atmosphere remains relaxed with a local, neighbourhood vibe, thanks to its location, just outside the El Carmen area and conveniently close to the Angel Guimera metro station.
Calle Erudito Orellana, 12, 46008 València
Band and crowd | Photo courtesy of Loco Club, Valencia
Wah-Wah
If you’re looking for something more alternative, check out this dark and atmospheric live music venue in the city’s student area. There’s always a young, bohemian crowd rocking out to mostly up-and-coming local Valencian or Spanish rock, indie, punk and metal bands, with the occasional international act paying a visit. Just a short walk from Amistat metro station and Blasco Ibanez street, Wah Wah is the place to go for music lovers with an ear for the alternative and underground.