If you are looking for cute little streets, a lot of history and tons of things to visit, the neighbourhood El Carmen is your place to be. For many visitors of Valencia the old town, also known as El Carmen, is known for its many bars, restaurants, live music venues, beautiful ancient churches and houses. You can wonder around this neighbourhood without being bored at any time. Because of its central placement you will find other travellers wondering around but there are enough hidden gems to discover!
History of El Carmen
The neighborhood of El Carmen is named after the convent that lies at its heart. Shortly after the Christian reconquest of Valencia from the Islamic Moors, King Jaime I ordered several Christian buildings to be constructed in and around the city. Just outside the western city walls, the Catholic Carmelite Order built a monastery with its adjoining church. The name of the district, El Carmen, comes from these Carmelites! Today, their former monastery is a cultural center that’s free to visit and hosts exhibitions of contemporary art.
The Morería
For a long time, El Carmen consisted of six separate little villages that gradually grew into one neighborhood. All of these villages were established during Valencia’s Islamic period. When Jaime I captured the city in 1238, his soldiers moved into the city, forcing many of the Muslim population to flee. These refugees settled in the villages just outside the city walls. One part of this area became known as the Morería, or Moorish quarter.
The Maze of El Carmen
The old district of El Carmen was a tangle of narrow alleys and winding streets. Since no one ever designed a proper street plan, the neighborhood became a real maze! Over the centuries, the maze became known for things that weren’t exactly approved of in the rest of the city at one point, parts of El Carmen were infamous around the Mediterranean for prostitution. Later, the authorities cut a few long, straight streets through the area, but the charming narrow alleys still exist between them. That’s what makes El Carmen such a wonderful place to get lost in today!
What to do in El Carmen?
Torres de Serranos & Torres de Quart
If you walk around El Carmen it is not difficult to spot the ancient history of the city: around the town you will find two sets of towers, the Torres de Serranos and the Torres de Quart. The towers were built in the 14th century and were used to protect the city against the attacks of the Moors. Nowadays it is possible to climb up the towers for a great view of the city and the coast side. Both the Torres de Serranos and the Torres de Quart were once used as prisons: Serranos mainly held noblemen and high-ranking prisoners, while Quart later served as a women’s prison.
Museums
If you are a fan of modern and contemporary art, don’t hesitate to visit the IVAM (Institut Valencià d’Art Modern) and the MuVIM (Museu Valencià de la Il·lustració i de la Modernitat) for modern illustrations and thought-provoking exhibitions. The IVAM boasts an impressive collection of more than 10,000 works of modern art, including photography, paintings, and sculptures, with three rotating exhibitions at any given time and free entry on Sundays!
For an even more laid-back and eclectic experience, check out the CCCC (Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània), set in a stunning former convent right in El Carmen. With its free exhibitions, vibrant contemporary art, and peaceful cloister courtyards, it’s a real hidden gem in the city.
Cathedral & squares
The main roads of the neighbourhood, such as Carrer dels Cavallers (or Calle Caballeros), will lead you straight to the Cathedral of Valencia, a must-see landmark. You can even climb its iconic bell tower, known as El Micalet (or El Miguelete), to enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the city. Just behind the cathedral, you’ll find Plaza de la Virgen, a stunning historic square with its famous Turia fountain, the perfect spot to watch locals and young people hanging out. And yes, from here you can also spot the impressive Micalet tower rising above the square!
Shopping
Looking for a new outfit that is not made by the big stores like Zara, H&M or Mango? In El Carmen there are a lot of small boutiques where you can find second hand or new clothes. Bugalu, situated next to the Silk Exchange (La Lonja) is a small shop where you can find local jewellery, jackets and other clothing from alternative brands. More into second hand clothing? At Santo Spirito in Calle Alta you can find sunglasses, clothes and other gadgets previously owned by others.
Dining
El Carmen is perfect for having dinner in the evening: paella, pizza, tapas; everything can be found here. During the night there is a lot of atmosphere in this barrio so for sure you will have nice time! Here are our favourites:
Oslo
A fan of vegetarian food? Then you will like Oslo! This restaurant has some brother and sister restaurants in the rest of the city as well, called Copenhagen en Malmo. Products are being bought at the Mercado Central, which is very close by so everything is very fresh! Vegetarian tapas are on the menu; minipizza’s topped with vegetables, salads with pear and gorgonzola sauce, spaghetti and moussaka with tofu and soy. Que aproveche!
- Calle Catalans 8
46001 Valencia - Website
- Tuesday till Saturday: 13.30 – 16.00, 20.30 – 23.30
Sunday: 13.30 – 16.00
Tasca Angel
One of the smallest places to have tapas in El Carmen with a lot of energy! Run by two very enthusiastic Spaniards, you will feel very welcome here. You can order gamba’s, sardinas, typical pimientos de padron (grilled peppers) and enjoy a talk with a local. A real hidden gem of this neighbourhood!
- Calle Purisima 1
- 46001 Valencia
- Website
- Every day: 10.30 – 15.00 and 19.30 – 23.30
Café Infanta
A true El Carmen classic! Café Infanta is a charming, bohemian café tucked away on a picturesque square. Known for its relaxed vibe and vintage decor, it’s a fantastic spot to grab a drink, some tapas, or even a full dinner. Sit outside on the terrace, enjoy the lively square, and watch the neighbourhood come alive at night. A favourite among locals and visitors alike and perfect for a laid-back evening!
- Plaza del Tossal 3
46001 Valencia - Website
- Every day: 10.30 – 1.30
Live music
Valencia has a lot of venues where you can enjoy live music. Also in El Carmen there are several evenings where you can listen to jazz, flamenco, funk en soul. Let’s dance!
Jimmy Glass Bar
Since 1991, Jimmy Glass has been Valencia’s iconic jazz bar. With its cozy, dim-lit and bohemian vibe, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy live jazz, from classic standards to modern, experimental sets.
- Calle Baja 28
46003 Valencia - Website
- Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday: 20.15 – 2.00
Thursday: 21.30 – 2.30
Friday and Saturday: 21.30 – 3.30
Radio City
Radio City is one of El Carmen’s most iconic nightlife spots, a colorful, artsy bar with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of live entertainment. From funk and soul to flamenco, DJs and jam sessions, the program changes every night, often showcasing local talent and students from the renowned Berklee music school.
Whether you want to chill with a beer at a table, watch a live show, or dance the night away, Radio City is the perfect place to experience the creative energy of Valencia after dark.
- Calle Santa Teresa 19
46001 Valencia - Website
- Monday to Saturday: 23:00 – 03:30
Sunday: 20.00 onwards
Tips
- Don’t miss a visit to Valencia’s Central Market! Here you’ll find an incredible selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, and all sorts of delicious local specialties, a true feast for the senses.
- In El Carmen, the parties usually wind down around 3:00 AM. If you’re looking to keep the night going even longer, head over to other neighborhoods like Ruzafa, where the nightlife continues until the early hours.