Enjoying good coffee and lively conversation at any time of day is a big part of Spanish life, and Salamanca is no exception when it comes to laid-back cafe culture. You can easily get your fix of cafe con leche or enjoy a caña and a pincho or two in any part of town and, just like the city, many cafes have a very artsy or literary atmosphere. Here’s our pick of the best places to try during your visit.
This famous literary cafe beneath the arches of the main square is said to be the oldest cafe in Salamanca, founded in 1905. Over the years it has been a favourite hangout of writers, artists and politicians. Today it makes an elegant, atmospheric place to sip a coffee or enjoy some tapas. Though cafes on the Plaza Mayor tend to charge double the price of those elsewhere in town, it’s definitely worth it to sit and enjoy the spectacular light in the evening or the buzzing atmosphere during the day.
If you’re looking for a great late breakfast spot, join the students and try the coffee and pastries available all day long at Café Unamuno, the best of the bunch for quality and service on a street packed with countless pavement cafes.
Let the modernist, Antoni Gaudí-inspired interior transport you to Barcelona while you enjoy your coffee and cake at the ever-fashionable Delicatessen Café. In the evenings it becomes a lively night spot open until the early hours. There’s a mixed crowd here with plenty of students, thanks to its location near the University.
Step inside this candlelit cafe, decorated with furniture and art from the late 19th century, and you’ll be taken back to the days of “La Regenta,” one of Spain’s most famous literary heroines. Definitely one not to miss.
Probably the most popular cafe of all among the city’s student crowd, this friendly, charming cafe also serves as an exhibition space for local artists and hosts the occasional live music performance. Great for coffee and a chat during the day or a glass of wine at night, as it’s open until the early hours.
This may call itself a tea room, but don’t expect fancy china and tiny sandwiches at PAP. The modern American-style spot serves up high quality coffee, fresh juices, salads, mouthwatering gluten-free cakes and yes, tea, to a mixed crowd of students, locals and visitors all day long.
