Barrio del Carmen ~ Valencia Old Town
… Hip, Historical, Fashionable & Trendy!
Bario del Carmen is peaceful during the day and bursting with life at night. It’s one of the most popular areas of Valencia Old Town and a great place to stay ~ (See Old Town Accommodation).
Barrio del Carmen
El Carmen is officially located in the north east of the old town behind Plaza de la Virgin and near Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart.
This part of the medieval old town is famous for the many cafes, bars and restaurants. Calle Caballeros, which is just off the square, is one of the best places to go for nightlife in Valencia.
There are many attractions in this area of the old town plus you are also very close to the lovely Turia Gardens.
Plaza del Carmen in Barrio del Carmen
Dominated by the medieval church of Carmen and full of fountains and orange trees, this is an idyllic place to spend time exploring the local historic and artistic places of interest. The Convent of Carmen is now a major center for arts and culture in Valencia.
The area is easily accessed from Calle Serranos and if you’re coming from the other side of the Turia Gardens you can reach el Carmen by crossing any of the nearby bridges such as the Puente de Serranos (Torres de Serranos – see below).
Barrio del Carmen ~ Torres de Serranos
The Torres de Serranos (Serranos Tower/Gates) and Torres de Quart were once part of the old city wall of Valencia.
Both these towers mark the entrance to the Old Quarter of Valencia.
Barrio del Carmen ~ Torres de Quart
Torres de Quart is the other gateway to el Carmen and easy to reach. It is located at the intersection of Calle Guillen de Castro and Calle de Quart at the end of Calle Caballeros.
The canon ball marks are a reminder of Napoleon’s invasion of the city. If you climb to the top of the tower you will be rewarded with panaromic views of the city.
There is a charge of 2 Euros and on Sunday it’s free.
Barrio del Carmen ~ IVAM ~ Valencia Institute of Modern Art
A must to visit whilst you are here is IVAM the (Valencian Institute of Modern Art).
As well as the many fantastic exhibitons of modern art, there is also a lovely restaurant and cafè with terrace to relax on.
Barrio del Carmen At Night
Many of the magnificent old palaces and townhouses in el Carmen have been turned into restaurants, trendy shops and clubs.
Things don’t really come alive until after 10 or 11pm and if you’re looking for the best places to go try Calle de Caballeros (just off Plaza de la Virgin).
To enjoy Valencia at night take a stroll down this street, especially on a Friday or Saturday evening, this is where all the action is. Why not start your night at Bolsería at 41 Calle Bolsería. It’s one of the most popular bars/clubs in the area with live music ranging from jazz to hip-hop.
Museum Centro del Carmen
This lovely cultural center and museum was built in the old convent and houses temporary exhibitions open to the public. The museum is linked to the Bellas Artes Museum (see Art Galleries & Museums).
Where To Stay in Barrio del Carmen ?
The SH Ingles Boutique Hotel is located in an 18th-century palace in the center of Valencia. The hotel is 150 meters from the Cathedral of Valencia.
The Ad Hoc Monumental Hotel is a boutique hotel located in a 19th-century building in the historic center of the old town and includes Free WiFi and breakfast made with local produce.
Valencia Travel / Clubs in Barrio del Carmen / Flamenco in Valencia
