The Best Cafes In El Carmen Valencia

The little neighbourhood of El Carmen is a must-see during any trip to Valencia thanks to its exciting mix of old and new. The winding cobbled streets and pretty squares are packed with street art, nightlife and independent boutiques, as well as landmark buildings like the Torres de Quart, the Llonja and the Central Market. There’s so much to see here that you’re guaranteed to need a coffee break or two, and the cafes here will not disappoint.

1. Café de las Horas

Cafe, Pub, European

Candlelight and a lush, baroque-style interior make this cafe unique in the city, and very well-known locally. It’s a lovely place to spend time after checking out the stunning sights at the Placa del Virgen nearby, with its friendly service, excellent coffee and homemade cakes. At night this becomes a hotspot for cocktails and events.

2. Café Lisboa

Cafe, European

After a visit to the Llonja building, duck down the little street at the side and you’ll find a small square, lined with pavement cafes. Here, Cafe Lisboa is a perfect place to sit and enjoy a coffee al fresco, while soaking up the sun and lively atmosphere. There are plenty of impromptu musical performances, and members of a nearby dance school can often be seen practicing their Lindy Hop in the middle of the square.

3. Mayan Coffees

Cafe, South American

If you’re a serious coffee lover, this is the place for you. After a walk to the top of the Torres de Quart to see the view, pop down to this little Mayan and Guatamalan themed cafe for a well-earned rest. Let the extremely knowledgeable baristas talk you through their selection of carefully-chosen coffee beans, before you make your choice. If you’re a big fan, you can also buy some beans to take home.

4. Cafe Museu

Bar, Cafe, European

If you prefer your cafes with a slightly grungy, alternative vibe, check out this quirky spot tucked away down a little street at the north end of El Carmen. There’s a programme of cultural events including language exchanges, and a family-friendly atmosphere. If the weather’s good there’s plenty of outdoor seating, and the vaulted space indoors is cosy and welcoming with its eclectic decor. This place transforms into a bar in the evening; there’s local Turia beer on tap, all kinds of snacks and tapas available. It’s named after the El Carmen Convent Museum across the street, which has free, temporary exhibition spaces open to the public, set in a stunning 13th-century monastery.

Many cafes in Valencia transform into bars after dark. Photo courtesy of Valencia Tourism

5. Horchatería de Santa Catalina

Cafe, European

A historic cafe famous for its tiled facade and its horchata, a sweet local drink, served cold and very popular in the summertime. It’s not to everyone’s taste, but definitely worth a try while you’re in Valencia. They also serve coffee, tea, ice cream, churros, and other sweet local delicacies. Whatever you fancy, this unique and very central cafe makes a great place to stop and rest during a long day of sightseeing.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.