Bar
Radio City
A music hall in El Carmen since 1979, known for its Tuesday flamenco nights, live bands at weekends, reggae, funk jams and resident DJs.
Café Madrid
A historic cocktail bar in the old town with roots in 1940, credited as the birthplace of Agua de Valencia and once a meeting point for the city's artists and writers.
At a glance
- Type
- Historic cocktail bar
- Area
- Ciutat Vella (Sant Francesc), Valencia, Spain
- Price
- $$$ · Upscale
- Official site
- elcafemadrid.com
Good to know
- Agua de Valencia
- Classic cocktails
- Step-free access
Why we recommend it
Café Madrid is the place where Valencia's best-known cocktail was born. The bar's roots go back to 1940, and it became the city's leading address for well-made mixed drinks and a gathering point for the bohemian, artistic and literary life of Valencia. It is credited as the birthplace of Agua de Valencia, the mix of orange juice, cava and spirits that is now served all over the city. Today it is part of a local hotel group and sits on a small street in the shopping district south of the Plaza de la Reina.
The setting is intimate, with space for only around 30 people, which gives it the feel of a classic cocktail bar rather than a busy pub. The drinks list is long, built around mixed drinks and cocktails, and the obvious choice for a first visit is a jug of Agua de Valencia in the place that claims to have created it. The bartenders also make the classics, and there is Mediterranean food if you want something to eat with your drinks.
Café Madrid opens from midday until about 01:30, so it works for an aperitif before dinner, a drink after a meal in the old town, or a late nightcap. Early evening is the best time for a relaxed visit, while weekends get busy later on. Because the room is small, larger groups may struggle to find space; couples and small groups are the ideal fit. The average spend is higher than in an ordinary bar, reflecting the quality of the drinks.
Agua de Valencia is stronger than its fresh orange taste suggests, so pace yourself, especially in warm weather. A jug is meant for sharing among several people. If you are curious about the story of the drink, the staff can tell you more about the bar's history.
The bar is in the heart of the commercial centre, a few minutes' walk from the Plaza de la Reina, the church of San Martín and the shops of Calle San Vicente. The Plaza del Ayuntamiento and the Mercado Central are both within about ten minutes on foot. The nearest metro lines are 3 and 5, and buses 4, 6 and 31 stop nearby. The venue is listed as accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Café Madrid FAQs
Why is Café Madrid famous?
It is credited as the birthplace of Agua de Valencia, the city's signature cocktail.
What is Agua de Valencia?
A cocktail of orange juice, cava and spirits, usually served in a jug to share.
How old is the bar?
Its roots go back to 1940.
When is it open?
From midday until around 01:30.
Is it suitable for groups?
It is small, with space for around 30 people, so it best suits couples and small groups.
Is there food?
Yes, there is a Mediterranean food menu to accompany the drinks.
Where is it?
On Calle Abadía de San Martín, a few minutes' walk from the Plaza de la Reina.
Is it accessible?
It is listed as adapted for people with reduced mobility.