12 Famous Drinks in Spain to Sip on Your Next Trip
Wondering what the most famous drinks in Spain are and which ones are actually worth ordering? You’re in the right place!
From refreshing summer cocktails to regional specialties and classic wines, Spain has no shortage of local drinks to try.
As someone who lives in Spain (and doesn’t pass up the chance to try something new), I’ve sipped my way through lots of local specialties–some of which have totally surprised me.
In this post, I’m sharing 12 famous drinks in Spain that you’ll see on menus across the country, plus a few tips for when and where to try them. Let’s get into it!
Famous Drinks in Spain To Try
Whether you’re sitting on a sunny terrace or hopping between tapas bars, these are the most famous Spanish drinks worth trying during your trip.
🍷 Want to sample some of these traditional Spanish drinks with zero stress?
I recommend booking a food and drink tour with Devour Tours. You’ll get to try a few authentic drinks from Spain, along with food and snacks without having to plan a thing!
1. Cava
Cava is Spain’s sparkling wine and hands down my favorite drink to order whenever I go out.
It’s mostly produced in Catalonia (the region where Barcelona is located) and it’s basically Spain’s version of champagne since they’re not allowed to use the French name.
One of the best things about cava is that you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy it, and people drink it casually all the time.
You’ll find it on the menu at nearly any bar or restaurant in Spain, and it usually costs a fraction of what champagne does.
It’s light, crisp, and honestly just as good, if not better!
2. Vermouth
Vermouth, or vermut, is a spiced fortified wine that’s traditionally served as an aperitif.
It has a slightly bitter flavor and herbal aroma, so it can be a bit of an acquired taste.
I’ll admit I didn’t like it much at first, but it’s grown on me over time and now I’m starting to enjoy it.
The key is to sip it slowly and not chug it!
And you can always ask for a sifón to add some soda water to tone it down a bit–most bars have this on hand.
And the cool thing about vermouth is that a lot of bars make their own blend in-house, so you’re always getting something new.
3. Sangria
Sangria is probably the most famous drink in Spain internationally, and you’ll see it on menus everywhere.
It’s usually made with red or white wine, fruit juice, fresh fruit, and sometimes a splash of liquor like brandy.
You can also find cava sangria, which is a sparkling version that feels a little lighter if you want to mix things up.
While it’s often associated with tourists, locals do drink it too, especially during social gatherings or at beach bars.
It’s a fun drink to share with friends, especially if you’re ordering a pitcher.
4. Tinto de Verano
Tinto de verano is a simple Spanish alcoholic drink made with red wine and lemon soda, and it’s super popular in Spain during the summer months.
It’s lighter and more refreshing than sangria, and it’s what locals actually order when they want a casual wine-based drink.
You’ll usually get it served over ice with a slice of lemon, and it goes perfectly with snacks or a light lunch.
This Spanish cocktail is a great option if you want something easy to drink that won’t hit you too hard.
If you’re trying to blend in with the locals, this is what to order instead of sangria.
5. Spanish Wine
Spain is one of the top wine-producing countries in the world, and there’s a huge variety of wines to try.
Tempranillo is the most well-known red grape, and you’ll find it in regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero.
For white wines, Albariño from Galicia and Verdejo from Rueda are refreshing and usually served chilled.
Most restaurants offer a solid house wine by the glass, and even the cheapest ones are often really good and will only cost a few euros!
6. Sidra
Sidra, or Spanish cider, is a traditional non-alcoholic drink in northern Spain, especially in Asturias and the Basque Country.
It’s usually cloudy, tart, and a bit funky, which makes it totally different from the sweet bottled ciders you might be used to.
The traditional way to serve it is by pouring it from above the head to aerate it, which adds a little fun to the experience.
You only pour a little at a time and drink it quickly before the bubbles go flat.
If you’re traveling in northern Spain, you’ve got to try this at a local sidrería.
7. Spanish Beer
Beer is a go-to cheap drink in Spain, especially when you’re out for tapas or watching a football game.
The most popular Spanish brands you’ll see are Estrella Damm, Mahou, and Cruzcampo, depending on the region you’re in.
Instead of large pints, it’s more common to order a small draft beer called a caña, which helps keep it cold and crisp.
Spanish beer is usually light and easy to drink, making it perfect for warm afternoons.
8. Agua de Valencia
Agua de Valencia is a cocktail that originated in Valencia and definitely lives up to its reputation.
It’s made with fresh orange juice, cava, vodka, and gin, so while it tastes citrusy and refreshing, it’s surprisingly strong.
I tried it on my last trip to Valencia and it came in a large round glass and definitely snuck up on me after just a few sips.
Don’t let the fruity taste fool you–this one packs a punch!
9. Kalimotxo
Kalimotxo (or calimocho) is a mix of red wine and Coca-Cola that’s pretty popular with younger crowds and student parties.
I used to drink it occasionally during my study abroad days, and now I’m more than happy to leave it there!
It’s definitely an acquired taste but you’ll still see people sipping it at festivals or casual outdoor hangouts.
It’s not fancy, but it’s cheap, fun, and definitely part of young Spanish drinking culture.
10. Rebujito
Rebujito is the signature drink of the Andalusian spring fairs and a warm-weather favorite in southern Spain.
It’s made by mixing dry sherry, usually fino or manzanilla, with lemon-lime soda like Sprite or 7Up.
The result is a crisp and slightly sweet drink that’s perfect for hot days and dancing into the night.
Even if you’ve never liked sherry on its own, this is a totally different experience.
Try it if you’re in Seville or Córdoba, especially during festival season.
11. Horchata
Horchata in Spain is completely different from the Mexican version you might be familiar with.
Here, it’s made from tiger nuts (chufa) and has a slightly sweet, earthy, and nutty flavor that might catch you off guard at first.
It’s dairy-free, always served cold, and especially popular in Valencia, where it’s often enjoyed with soft, spongey pastries called fartons for dipping.
This refreshing drink is a classic afternoon treat during the warmer months and a great non-alcoholic option if you’re taking a break from wine or cocktails.
You’ll find horchaterías all over the city, like Horchatería Santa Catalina, which is one of the best places to try this local favorite.
12. Clara
If you’re like me and aren’t a huge beer person, a clara might be your perfect match.
It’s just a mix of beer and lemon soda, kind of like a Spanish version of a shandy.
You’ll often see it on menus during the summer or at beach bars.
It’s light, bubbly, and perfect if you’re not really into the taste of beer but still want something cold and refreshing.
Final Thoughts: Traditional Drinks in Spain
I hope this list helped you discover what to drink in Spain during your trip, whether you’re into wine, cocktails, or something totally different.
From classics like cava and vermouth to regional specialties like sidra or agua de Valencia, there’s always something new to sip on here.
And if you want to try a few of these popular drinks in Spain in one go without stressing over what to choose, I definitely recommend checking out a food and drink tour with Devour Tours.
It’s the perfect way to experience local flavors and learn a bit along the way.
¡Salud!
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