Welcome to Benimaclet…
…a neighborhood that was once an independent village and is now a vibrant part of Valencia. Benimaclet has long remained under the radar, but more and more people are beginning to discover it, just like us! With its rich history and unique charm, Benimaclet is a place where old meets new. The name Benimaclet comes from the Arabic ”bani Mahlad,” meaning ”children of Mahlad,” referring to the neighborhood’s Arabic origins. In 1972, Benimaclet officially became a neighborhood of Valencia, but as you walk through its streets, you will see that it has retained its own character in its narrow and colorful lanes.
Let us take you by the hand and tell you what there is to discover in this wonderful neighborhood. From cozy coffee shops and restaurants to lively music bars and the cultural spots you really must have seen. Benimaclet has something for everyone!
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Tasty discoveries in Benimaclet
For those who know me, know that I am a real ‘foodie’. That’s why we start our adventure in Benimaclet at the best places for a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. This neighborhood has it all.
El Obrador
L’Obrador is a place that buzzes from morning to night. With a tray full of delicious pastries and sandwiches and a homey atmosphere, you’ll feel instantly welcome. Whether it’s an older couple enjoying a cup of coffee together, or a group of friends ending the afternoon with a cerveza, anything is possible at L’Obrador. Outside, the terrace is always filled, but even inside, the cozy interior makes you feel at home. Be welcome!
Trellat Benimaclet
Just a few doors down from El Obrador you’ll find Trellat Benimaclet, a bustling place with a unique concept: mini pizzas! The nice thing is that you don’t choose which pizzas you get – it’s always a surprise. At less than 3 euros each, these pizzas are not only affordable, but also delicious.
The atmosphere is always lively and fun, and the locals love this place. In addition to the pizzas, you can also enjoy delicious burrata and hummus. Inside, artworks by local artists are sold, from jewelry to paintings. Even without the pizzas, Trellat Benimaclet is a great place to enjoy the ambiance and good company.
La Ola Fresca
Looking for a nice place for breakfast, brunch or lunch? Then there’s only one place that immediately comes to mind: La Ola Fresca. This charming cafe is run by England’s Helen Westwater, whose British flair and warm smile make you feel right at home.
Besides the homey atmosphere, the dishes are delicious. From fluffy pancakes to tasty bocadillos and weekly surprise recipes – there is something for everyone. My tip: order the Bocadillo “Oh La La,” the perfect combination of sweet and savory.
El Gastronomo
Looking for a fancier night out? Benimaclet has that covered for you, as well. El Gastronomo is a traditional restaurant in Valencia, with good service and classic dishes. One of the highlights of this dining spot is the steak tartare, which many say (and I agree!) is the best in Valencia. What makes it even more special is that they prepare this dish for you at the table. In addition to the steak tartare, the crepe Suzette is also highly recommended. This classic is prepared in a spectacular way and is a delicious end to a great experience at this restaurant.
Pizzeria Km0
As soon as you walk into this small cosy restaurant, you are welcomed by the wonderful smell of fresh dough that a good pizzeria is supposed to have. The friendly staff, proudly tells you that they only work with local suppliers, lots of vegetables and everything organic. They try to mix Italian cuisine with ”Benimaclet ingredients”.
This Pizzeria has a lot of vegetarian options. They have the standard pizzas, but an even bigger list of seasonal pizzas. Think homemade broccoli cream, or truffle cream instead of the standard tomato sauce. I can really only say one thing, don’t wait any longer and go enjoy it for yourself!
Live Music and Drinks in Benimaclet
In the streets of Valencia you can also find several places for a great night of music and a nice drink. The bars and pubs in this district have an alternative touch, which makes each place in the district unique.
Kaf Café
One of my favorite places in Benimaclet is Kaf Café. This is not just a bar, but an oasis of culture and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the alternative atmosphere, where the wine flows with the sound of the piano and the recitation of poetry. Enjoy the ambiance with a snack and a nice beer.
Whether you come for a game, a book from their collection, or one of their many free events, everyone immediately feels the togetherness. Every Tuesday night there is an open mic, and on their socials they announce their events weekly.
London Lounge Bar
Do you like a nice special beer? Then you’ve come to the right place at the London Lounge Bar. Here they serve the classics like Duvel and La Choufe. But have no fear, cocktail lovers can also take a seat here. With an extensive list of cocktails, there is something for everyone. It is the perfect place to let the idea of ”a drink” spiral out of control into a full night out. The friendly staff and dynamic crowd make you want to come here to enjoy an evening.
Architecture, Art and More…
Benimaclet is certainly also characterized by its distinctive architecture and art. The Universities of Valencia are not far from Benimaclet and this new generation is also reflected in the streets of the neighborhood. A unique mix of old and new.
Plaça de Benimaclet
A place where everyone comes together: the square of Benimaclet. When you are here you really feel the almost village feeling of this neighborhood. With the characteristic church, and plenty of catering establishments around it, this is the heart of the neighborhood. There are regular street parties and concerts in this square, where both young families, students, and the elderly come together to enjoy themselves. Tip from me: Order a cup of coffee at RIOT, the coffee shop I tipped in my blog about the best coffee hotspots, and walk to this square. Sit on a bench or maybe just on the steps of the church and enjoy this place with an oasis of tranquility.
ESTUDIO 64 – Bookstore and Gallery
On this beautiful Plaza, if you look closely, lies a hidden gem of Benimaclet. It is a bookstore and gallery in one. As soon as you step inside, you are surrounded by beautiful illustrations, original artworks and handmade objects that leave the creative among us to enjoy.
The store also holds regular exhibitions, workshops and lectures. Whether you are an art lover yourself, or just love to browse around, Estudio 64 is a perfect place to immerse yourself. And if you’re still looking for an original souvenir, you’ve come to the right place!
Street Art in Benimaclet
The creativity of this beautiful neighborhood is also reflected everywhere in the narrow streets through…. Street art! As you stroll around, you are surrounded by colorful murals in the most unexpected places.
Besides being beautiful to look at, most of these murals really tell a story about the local community. Several cultural festivals also take place in this neighborhood including Confusión, where the murals are also often renewed, thus continuing to surprise the residents. It is really worth looking for the most beautiful gems when you are here!
TIP! Do you like Street Art? We also offer a Street Art Tour with a real expert who can tell you everything about the art in the streets of Valencia. Click here for more information.
Residencial ”Espai Verd”
For the architecture lovers among us, it is worth walking a little further to admire this extraordinary architectural building with your own eyes. Residencial ”Espai Verd” (which literally means green space), is a residential complex where people literally live among the trees. The architect was asked to bring together housing and gardens in urban environments, by also working in height. And see here, the insane result of this project!
La Casa de Trencadís
In the heart of the neighborhood, between Mistral and La Murta streets, stands a very special house. Its entire facade is covered with colorful tiles, which fall together like a mosaic. More than 80 years ago, a mason lived in this house, José Sanmartin Zarzo, with great admiration for Gaudí and a love of architecture. With little money but high praise for this cultural neighborhood, he used leftover tiles to create these, still to be admired, facades that also give a small nod towards Gaudí. They used to be houses but nowadays a store has been in them for over 40 years. Because of its symbolism, the facade has always been respected and protected. Definitely worth a look!
Special Tip: Jardines del Real / Viveros
Officially, it is no longer part of Benimaclet, but if you want to walk or bike from the city towards Benimaclet, it is the perfect opportunity to do so through this beautiful park: Jardines del real / Viveros (Vivers). Despite being located along some busy roads, once you walk into the park you won’t realize that you are in the middle of Valencia. The park is always very lively, whether it’s runners, people walking the dog, or a group of friends having a picnic. Prick up your ears and you cannot ignore the sound of the typical green parrots called Myiopsitta Monachus. You can spot these beautiful birds everywhere here. There is also a café with a terrace in the middle of the park, next to the Natural Science Museum. And when you walk out of the park on the other side … you can immediately start your adventure in Benimaclet!
And many more…
Hopefully you are now bursting with inspiration and can’t wait to explore Benimaclet. Are you looking for someone to help you further plan your visit? Then you’ve come to the right place!
With my 15 years of experience as an official guide, I would love to help put together your perfect trip. From tours and activities to the best foodie tips, with me you have come to the right place!
Also, don’t hesitate to download the free Valencia Tips App, where you can save your own favorite spots in your own list and see which places I would recommend to you. Here you can also find all the named spots in Benimaclet on our map!
