Step into the literary world of Spain, where ink meets inspiration and books whisper their stories from every corner. Grab a coffee (you’ll need one for this article) and let’s explore the country through the eyes of some of the world’s most famous writers. Here we will check out some of the best literary cafes in Spain and some iconic spots frequented by writers such as Ernest Hemingway.

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Madrid’s Literary Heartbeat: Barrio de Las Letras

When Ernest Hemingway called Madrid one of his favorite cities, he wasn’t just talking about the food (though Sobrino de Botín’s legendary roast suckling pig did make an impression). No, he was taken in by the city’s rich literary history. To really feel that magic, head to Barrio de Las Letras, Madrid’s literary quarter. It’s where Spain’s Golden Age came to life with the likes of Miguel de Cervantes and Francisco de Quevedo. Walk down Calle de Cervantes (look out for the plaque on number 2) to see where the author of Don Quixote once lived. Oh, and fun fact: they found his tomb not too long ago at the Convent of the Barefoot Trinitarians (Calle Lope de Vega, 18), definitely worth a visit.

Sobrino de Botín: Where Hemingway Dined

This isn’t just any restaurant; it’s the oldest in the world, and Hemingway loved it. Step into this iconic restaurant and imagine it’s 1932, and Hemingway is writing Death in the Afternoon, a non-fiction look at bullfighting, where he casually mentions that he’d rather be eating suckling pig at Botín than thinking about the potential dangers of bullfighting.

The same restaurant pops up in The Sun Also Rises too. It’s like stepping into Hemingway’s world, right here in Madrid. The restaurant has been in continuous operation ever since it opened in 1725. The original oven has been kept burning non-stop since its opening!

Café Gijón and Café Comercial: A Literary Tradition

We’re still in Madrid where the café culture is rich with history. If these walls could talk, they’d tell tales of writers and thinkers who gathered at places like Café Gijón (since 1888) and Café Comercial (opened in 1887 and recently renovated). Hemingway wasn’t the only one who frequented these spots; writers like Valle-Inclán, Benito Pérez Galdós, and Camilo José Cela once sipped coffee here while plotting their next masterpiece. Today, you can still feel the magic in the air, whether you’re attending a literary event or simply enjoying a café con leche.

Literary Spots in Barcelona

Barcelona known for its stunning architecture is also home to plenty of literary haunts and a collection of cozy bookstores and cafés where you can get lost in a good read.

Café de l’Opera this historic café near the Gran Teatre del Liceu has been a favorite spot for writers, poets, and artists since the 19th century. It’s said that some of the most famous figures in Spanish literature, including poets like Federico García Lorca, enjoyed the atmosphere here. The café’s grand setting and proximity to Barcelona’s cultural scene make it an inspiring place to reflect or write.

Els Quatre Gats (The Four Cats) is one of Barcelona’s most iconic literary spots. In the late 19th century, it was a popular gathering place for Catalan artists, writers, and intellectuals. The famous Spanish modernist artist Pablo Picasso spent time here, as did poets like Ramon y Cajal and Joan Maragall. The café, still in operation today, maintains its historical charm and is the perfect place to enjoy a drink while soaking in the creative energy that once inspired these literary legends.

Laie Bookstore & Café
Tucked away near the Picasso Museum, Laie is a beautiful mix of bookstore and café, which has a curated selection of books on art and culture. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours browsing the shelves and then enjoy a quiet coffee while taking in the artistic atmosphere.

Altaïr Bookstore & Café
For those with a sense of adventure, Altaïr is the place to be. Specializing in travel literature, this bookstore feels like an open invitation to explore the world, even if you’re just sitting back with a warm cup of coffee. Located on the Gran Vía, it’s a great spot to plan your next trip while drinking a coffee.

Literary Landmarks Across Spain

Spain isn’t just home to Madrid and Barcelona when it comes to literary history. There are plenty of other spots around the country that have inspired famous writers, and they’re well worth a visit. Take Granada, for instance. The breathtaking Alhambra Palace has been capturing the imaginations of poets for centuries. Washington Irving was so taken by the place that he wrote Tales of the Alhambra, inspired by its magical atmosphere. Then there’s Salamanca, with its historic University of Salamanca, a place that’s seen countless intellectuals pass through its doors. Even Miguel de Cervantes spent time here, drawing from the city’s rich academic life.

Head up north to Bilbao, where the Bidebarrieta Cultural Centre is a spot that’s drawn its fair share of writers, like Fernando Aramburu, and where you can soak in the Basque country’s special atmosphere. Over in the Canary Islands, La Laguna on Tenerife was a favorite of José de Viera y Clavijo, whose works helped shape the region’s literary scene. And down in Córdoba, the stunning Mezquita (the mosque-cathedral) has long been a place of inspiration for poets and philosophers, including Luis de Góngora.

Literary Cafes Across Spain

Caótica: Sevilla’s Literary Wonderland
In Sevilla, you’ll want to check out Caótica. This cozy, multi-level space isn’t just a café; it’s a bookstore, a gallery, and an event space all rolled into one. Whether you’re grabbing a book or just people-watching over coffee, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel at home. If you’re into meeting new people, there are always literary events happening here, readings, signings, you name it.

Baobab Café: Bilbao’s Bookish Charm
For something a little different, head to Baobab Café in Bilbao. It’s all about creating a sense of community. A café that serves up great tea and coffee, but also connects people through books. It’s where people come together, whether it’s for a good read or a deep conversation.

Mapas y Compañía: Málaga’s Traveler’s Bookstore
In Málaga, there’s a special bookstore for anyone who’s dreaming of their next adventure. Mapas y Compañía is all about travel, with maps, globes, and books that inspire wanderlust. You can practically feel the adventure in the air here.

Valencia: El Asilo del Libro

If you’re in Valencia, swing by El Asilo del Libro. This antique bookstore feels like stepping back in time, with rare books and a lovely old-world feel that takes you straight into a different era.

Spain’s literary scene isn’t just about the books, it’s about the places that bring them to life. Every café, every bookstore, every library is a small piece of the puzzle. So next time you’re wandering the streets, remember, you’re not just walking through history, you’re part of it. The words of Hemingway, Cervantes, and countless others are all around you, waiting for you to discover them.

Main image: Shutterstock/Kinga