The Best Live Music Venues In Salamanca

The historic cobbled streets of Salamanca, while quaint, don’t mean that the city is one big outdoor museum. In fact, this small city has a lively, bohemian atmosphere thanks to its large student population, meaning there’s plenty to see in terms of arts and music. There are no large concert venues here, but you can always catch smaller live shows at quirky and cosy bars and other spots around town. Here are some of the city’s best live music venues.

1. Tio Vivo

Tio Vivo means ‘carousel’ in Spanish, so it’s no surprise to find that this colourful cafe bar is decked out like a funfair, complete with wooden horses on the bar. There’s a fun atmosphere to go with the decor, and a full programme of live music, plus theatre and comedy in Spanish and English.

Calle Clavel, 3, Salamanca, Spain

2. Libreria Hydria

Art Gallery, Bookstore

Live music at Libreria Hydria, Salamanca

Salamanca is a literary city packed with independent bookstores, and Hydria is one of the best. As well having as a great selection of books, it serves as an art gallery space and frequently hosts local artists playing everything from acoustic rock to jazz. Stop by to see what’s on or check their Facebook page for updates.

3. The Irish Theatre

Bar, Pub, American, Spanish

No city’s nightlife would be complete without a raucous Irish pub, and Salamanca’s is excellent. The Irish Theatre is designed, as the name suggests, like an old-fashioned theatre, complete with stalls, theatre-style seating and a bar that looks like it came straight from the turn of the last century. The best thing of all is the warm and lively atmosphere, with an international crowd coming to enjoy all kinds of live music, from rock to hip hop, as well as comedy shows and other events.

5. Cafe Moderno

One of the city’s most famous nightlife venues, Cafe Moderno is legendary in Salamanca for its unconventional vibe and great entertainment. It has its own arts programme, hosting all kinds of unique events and original live-music performances. The crowd is young and international, and the party goes on late into the night.

Calle Gran Vía, 75, Salamanca, Spain

Cafe Moderno, Salamanca | Photo courtesy of Cafe Moderno

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