10 Must-Try Foods and Drinks in Spain

Spain’s culinary culture is built around connection — to land, tradition, and each other. Meals stretch late into the night, often ending with wine and conversation. From jamón ibérico sliced fresh at market stalls to the comforting richness of tortilla de patatas, food here isn’t rushed. It’s celebrated.

So where should you begin? These foods and drinks offer up a tasty snapshot of Spain’s culinary heritage — and a delicious way to explore the country, one bite (or sip) at a time.

Quick Answer — What Should You Eat & Drink in Spain?

For a taste of tradition, go with the classics like paella, tortilla de patatas, and rich red wines. If you want to try a variety of flavors in one meal, order tapas: Spain’s famous savory small plates. Whatever you choose to enjoy, make sure you take your time and savor every bite.

💻 Want a deeper dive into Spain and Portugal? Watch our on -demand virtual event, Get to Know Iberia, to learn about travel highlights, tours, and insider insights.

Must-Try Foods in Spain

1. Paella

Bright saffron. Smoky paprika. Golden rice piled high in that signature wide pan. Paella is Spain’s most iconic rice dish. Born in the Valencia region, it’s now served in endless varieties, like paella marinera (seafood), paella mixta (meat and seafood), and paella negra (squid ink) — each reflecting local tastes and ingredients.

✈️ Experience It On Tour: On Spain’s Classics & Portugal, learn the secrets behind the dish at a demonstration before digging in for lunch.

2. Jamón Ibérico

In a quiet corner of a Madrid market, a jamón carver slices paper-thin ribbons of cured ham from a mahogany leg mounted on a stand. The aroma is nutty and floral, the texture silky, and the flavor melt-in-your-mouth rich. Jamón ibérico, made from a specific breed of Iberian pigs, is Spain’s most prized ham. And all you need is one bite to understand the hype. 💡 Pro Tip: Ask for a tasting flight to compare different curing styles, and pair with a glass of dry sherry.

3. Tortilla de Patatas

Golden and thick, with a tender center of slow-cooked potatoes and eggs, tortilla de patatas is Spain’s answer to comfort food. Served warm or cold, it’s a staple in homes, cafés, and tapas bars across the country and eaten from breakfast all the way through dinner.

Some versions sneak in onions, while others keep them out — and the debate over which choice is best is almost as famous as the dish itself. 💡 Pro Tip: Order it “jugosa” (juicy) if you prefer a softer, creamier texture.

4. Bocadillo de Calamares

Calamari meets crusty bread in Madrid’s beloved bocadillo de calamares, a simple sandwich that packs a flavorful punch. Squid is lightly battered, fried until crisp, and tucked into a baguette. It’s delicious just like this, but you’ll also find it served with a swipe of aioli, a squeeze of lemon, or even a spicy tomato sauce.

It’s a staple around Plaza Mayor, where locals grab one on the go or linger at sidewalk cafés with a cold beer.

✈️ Want to taste it for yourself? Visit Plaza Mayor on tour.

5. Chocolate con Churros

If you have a sweet tooth, chocolate con churros needs to be on your list. Churros are crisp, rigid sticks of fried dough, and they’re served hot alongside a cup of thick, melty chocolate. Think less hot cocoa and more pudding — made for dipping, not sipping. It’s a classic Spanish comfort food, popular in the early morning, late at night, or as an afternoon treat.

6. Cocido Madrileño

Cocido madrileño is a delicious meal at any time of the year, but it’s especially satisfying if you’re visiting during colder weather. This stew is one whole meal traditionally served in three courses: first, a rich broth; second, tender garbanzos with vegetables; and finally, a plate of meats and sausages. It’s slow-cooked in clay pots and deeply rooted in Castilian culinary tradition. 💡 Pro Tip: Ask for a glass of Garnacha to complement the stew’s earthy flavors

7. Olives

That’s right — Spain’s olives are worthy of their own mention. Spain is home to over 250 varieties of olives, and they’re more than just a garnish. From green manzanillas to kalamatas, olives are served as snacks, stuffed with anchovies, or blended into tapenades.

And then, of course, there’s that robust, golden olive oil, which can be tasted right out of the glass.

✈️ Experience It On Tour: Go behind-the-scenes of this savory fruit and visit an award-winning olive grove on Exploring Iberia: Southern Spain to Portugal.

Must-Try Drinks in Spain

1. Wine

Spain’s wines are as varied as its geography, from the crisp Albariños of Galicia to the sherries of Andalusia. Each region brings its own character to the glass, shaped by centuries of tradition and a deep connection to the land.

One of the many standouts? Rioja. This northern region is renowned for its bold, complex reds made primarily from Tempranillo grapes.

✈️ Experience It On Tour: On Flavors of Portugal & Spain, spend two nights in this famous wine region.

2. Cava

Though technically a wine, cava is getting its own spotlight on this list because it’s often compared to champagne. Spain’s answer to the French classic, cava is a sparkling wine made mostly in Catalonia using traditional methods. It’s crisp, dry, and celebratory, often poured during tapas hour or festive gatherings. Unlike Champagne, Cava uses native Spanish grapes like Macabeo and Parellada, giving it a distinct character.

📌 Top Place to Try It: Tapas bars, paired with cheeses or salty bites like olives and jamón.

3. Vermouth

Vermouth in Spain is more than a drink; it’s a social ritual. Often served over ice with an orange or lemon slice and an olive, Spanish vermouth is herbaceous, slightly sweet, and perfectly suited for sipping before lunch. Some spots have house-made versions on tap, each with its own blend of botanicals.

Bonus Bites & Sips

• Turrón: Almond nougat that ranges from crunchy to creamy.

• Campo Real Olives: Mild, meaty olives from near Madrid, often served as a tapa with vermouth or beer.

• Pimientos de Padrón: Small green peppers blistered in olive oil (most are mild, but every few pack a spicy surprise).

• Queso Manchego: Aged sheep’s milk cheese from La Mancha, nutty and firm.

FAQs About Food & Wine in Spain

What time do people eat dinner in Spain? Dinner in Spain typically peaks after 9:30 p.m., with many restaurants filling up closer to 10. It’s part of the country’s relaxed, social dining culture.

Is tipping expected at restaurants in Spain? Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated, especially in tourist areas.

Are vegetarian options easy to find in Spain? Yes, especially in larger cities. Dishes like tortilla de patatas, grilled vegetables, and cheese plates are common, and many restaurants now offer plant-based menus. On our tours, your Tour Manager can recommend flavorful vegetarian options.

Can I bring Spanish wine or olive oil home? Yes, but check airline and customs regulations. Many shops offer vacuum-sealed packaging for jamón and travel-safe bottles for wine and oil.

What’s the difference between tapas and raciones? Tapas are small portions meant for snacking or sharing, while raciones are larger plates — ideal for splitting among a group or enjoying as a full meal. And on our tours, you can try both.

Final Thoughts

Spain’s culinary traditions are more than just delicious — they’re deeply woven into daily life, history, and community. Whether you’re sipping Rioja in a quiet vineyard or learning the secrets of paella from a local chef, every experience offers a deeper connection to the culture.

✈️ Ready to taste it for yourself? With Collette’s expertly planned, expertly led tours, savor the local flavors, experience culture, witness must-sees, and more. Find your journey now.