How long does it take to walk through El Carmen?

A typical neighborhood stroll through El Carmen takes between 60 to 90 minutes. This allows enough time to view the murals on Carrer de Moret and explore the cloisters of the CCCC.

Is the street art in Valencia permanent?

No, street art in El Carmen is ephemeral. While some famous murals like 'The Kiss' have been maintained, many walls change frequently as new artists contribute to the neighborhood's evolving canvas.

Is El Carmen safe to explore independently?

Yes, El Carmen is a safe and popular neighborhood for independent exploration. It is a residential and commercial area that is very active during the day and evening.

Are there any entrance fees for the CCCC?

The CCCC (Centro del Carmen de Cultura Contemporánea) usually offers free admission to its permanent cloisters and temporary exhibitions, making it a budget-friendly cultural stop.

Can I see the old city walls in El Carmen?

Yes, you can see remnants of the Islamic and Christian walls throughout the district. The Portal de Valldigna and the nearby Torres de Quart are the most prominent historical gates.

What is the best time of day for photography in El Carmen?

The best time for photography is the late afternoon. The 'golden hour' light beautifully illuminates the narrow alleys and the murals on Carrer de Moret.

Is this walking route suitable for children?

Yes, it is family-friendly. Children often enjoy the vibrant colors of the street art and the hidden 'House of Cats' (La Casa de los Gatos) located near the route.

Where can I find water and restrooms during the walk?

Restrooms are available for free inside the CCCC art center. For water, there are several small grocery stores and numerous cafes around Plaça del Tossal.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

El Carmen is the beating heart of Valencia’s historic center, a neighborhood where thousand-year-old city walls meet the cutting edge of Mediterranean street art. This self-guided walk invites you to explore a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone alleys that have served as the canvas for the city's creative soul. Rather than following a rigid schedule, this neighborhood stroll allows you to discover how ancient Roman and Islamic foundations support a vibrant, modern culture. As you navigate the winding paths, you will encounter grand medieval gateways like the Portal de Valldigna and the remains of the old city walls, which now stand side-by-side with massive murals by internationally renowned artists. What makes this walking route special is the constant dialogue between the past and the present. In El Carmen, a 15th-century convent might house an experimental art gallery, and a quiet plaza might be home to a world-famous piece of graffiti. You will explore the 'Street of Colors' (Carrer de Moret), where local artists have transformed a once-forgotten alley into an open-air gallery, and visit the CCCC, a former monastery that has been repurposed into one of the city's most dynamic cultural centers. This route is designed for those who want to see the authentic Valencia, away from the standard tourist paths, providing a deep dive into the myths that shaped the city and the murals that define its future. Whether you are interested in the historical transition from Moorish to Christian rule or the social commentary hidden in modern spray paint, this independent journey offers a comprehensive look at the city's artistic evolution. Use this audio walk to unlock the stories behind the symbols, from the legendary 'Kiss' mural to the hidden squares where locals still gather for their evening vermouth. It is an easy-to-follow walking tour Valencia style—relaxed, visually stunning, and full of surprises around every corner. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Discover the 'Street of Colors' and its famous murals

Pass through the 15th-century Portal de Valldigna

Explore the CCCC, a stunning convent turned art center

See the remains of the ancient Islamic and Christian walls

Visit Plaça del Tossal, the epicenter of Valencia's creative nightlife

Find hidden gems and local legends in the winding alleys of El Carmen

Tour Stops (6)

Plaça del Tossal

Start your journey at Plaça del Tossal, a vibrant square that serves as the gateway to El Carmen. While it is now a hub for nightlife and cafes, look beneath your feet—this spot marks a confluence of history where the old Islamic and later Christian city walls met. Nearby, you can often find large-scale murals that set the tone for the neighborhood’s creative spirit. Street art here is ephemeral; artists like Escif often use these walls for social commentary. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of architectural styles surrounding the square, from traditional Valencian balconies to modern interventions. This plaza captures the essence of the district: a place where the city's ancient defenses have evolved into its most open and expressive public space.

Portal de Valldigna

Walking through the Portal de Valldigna is like stepping back into the year 1400. This stone archway was never a defensive gate but rather a passage that separated the Christian city from the 'Morería,' the Moorish quarter where the Muslim population lived after the Reconquista. Notice the decorative altarpiece above the arch, depicting the foundation of the Valldigna monastery. The portal is a rare survivor of the city's medieval urban fabric. As you pass through, the streets become even narrower and more labyrinthine, a characteristic of the neighborhood's Islamic heritage. It is a quiet, atmospheric spot that reminds us of the many layers of faith and culture that have occupied this ground over the centuries.

Plaza de la Santa Cruz

The Plaza de la Santa Cruz is the heart of El Carmen. It is named after one of the oldest churches in the city, though the original structure was largely destroyed in the 19th century. Today, the square is a peaceful oasis where you can see the local life of the 'Barrio' in action. Look for the small fountain and the surrounding traditional buildings with their colorful facades. This area is frequently visited by street artists, so keep an eye on the smaller details—stickers, stencils, and miniature installations often hide in plain sight on the drainpipes and shutters. It is the perfect place to feel the transition from the monumental history of the portals to the lived-in, artistic reality of the modern neighborhood.

Carrer de Moret

Welcome to Carrer de Moret, famously known as the 'Street of Colors.' This narrow alleyway was transformed through an urban art project intended to revitalize the area. The most iconic piece here is 'The Kiss,' a photorealistic mural by Luis Lonjedo based on a photograph of two strangers. While street art is by nature temporary and can be painted over or updated, the spirit of this street remains one of community-led beautification. Take your time to explore the various styles here, from large-scale portraits to abstract designs. This street has become one of the most photographed spots in Valencia, proving how creativity can breathe new life into the city's oldest corridors.

CCCC (Centro del Carmen de Cultura Contemporánea)

The CCCC is a masterpiece of adaptive reuse. Originally the Royal Convent of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, founded in the 13th century, it now serves as a dynamic contemporary art center. Entry is typically free, allowing you to wander through its stunning Gothic and Renaissance cloisters while viewing cutting-edge installations. The contrast between the silent, ancient stone arches and the bold, often provocative modern art is striking. This building embodies the 'Murals and Myths' theme perfectly—it is a site of religious legend that has become a sanctuary for modern expression. Be sure to check out the courtyard, which often hosts temporary large-scale sculptures or community events.

Carrer de la Corona

Concluding your walk on Carrer de la Corona, you find yourself in a quieter, more residential part of El Carmen that still boasts impressive street art. This street is home to several long-standing murals that have become neighborhood landmarks. Look for works by artists like Julieta XLF, known for her colorful, dreamlike characters that often feature themes of nature and fantasy. The pace here is slower, allowing you to appreciate the architectural details of the 19th-century houses. As your self-guided adventure ends, you are perfectly positioned to find a local tapas bar or continue exploring towards the nearby Botanical Gardens or the IVAM museum. This street represents the enduring, everyday relationship between the people of Valencia and their art.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through El Carmen is ideal for street art lovers. This route focuses on Carrer de Moret and Carrer de la Corona, which are the most famous spots for murals in Valencia.