Spain isn’t just about flamenco dancers, sun-soaked beaches, and Gaudí’s masterpieces. It’s also one of the most exciting culinary destinations in the world. Whether you’re strolling through a bustling Barcelona market or enjoying seaside tapas in San Sebastián, Spanish food is an adventure all its own.
So, what should you eat (and sip) on your next trip? From bold, rich wines to crispy calamari sandwiches, here’s your guide to the must-try Spanish dishes and drinks that bring local culture to life, plus how to book unforgettable food experiences through Viator.
Paella – Spain’s Signature Dish
Let’s start with the obvious, shall we? Paella is Spain’s most famous dish, and for good reason. Originally from Valencia, this colorful rice-based meal is traditionally cooked in a wide, shallow pan over an open flame. The classic version includes rabbit, chicken, and snails (yes, really!), while modern variations feature seafood like prawns, mussels, and squid.
🍴 Where to try it:
- Book a paella cooking class in Valencia through Viator for a hands-on experience
- Or join a tapas and paella dinner tour in Barcelona to enjoy it in a local restaurant.
Discover authentic paella-making tours with Viator and bring home more than memories—bring recipes!
Bocadillo de Calamares
Don’t leave Madrid without trying this humble hero of Spanish street food. The bocadillo de calamares is a crusty baguette stuffed with freshly fried calamari—simple, golden, crunchy, and addictive. It’s a no-frills snack that locals love, especially with a cold beer in hand.
Best place to eat it: Head to Plaza Mayor in Madrid, where dozens of small bars serve up this iconic sandwich daily.
Better yet, book a Madrid food and drinks walking tour on Viator to try this and other street food favorites with a guide who knows exactly where to go.
Pulpo á Feira – Galicia’s Octopus Special
If you’re heading north to Galicia, you’re in for a seafood treat. Pulpo á feira, or Galician-style octopus, is a regional delicacy made with boiled octopus, paprika, olive oil, and coarse salt—served on a wooden plate, of course.
The octopus is tender and flavorful, and while it might sound adventurous, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves bold, coastal flavors.
🌊 How to try it:
Book a Viator food tour in Santiago de Compostela or A Coruña that focuses on Galician cuisine. Many tours include a pulpería (octopus tavern) stop where you can taste the real deal.
Pan Tumaca – A Toast to Simplicity
Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most delicious. Pan tumaca is a Catalan classic that turns basic ingredients—bread, tomato, olive oil, and garlic—into something magical. This tomato-smeared toast is often served with cured ham or cheese, especially for breakfast or as part of a tapas spread.
🍅 Try it during:
- A Barcelona brunch tour
- Or as part of a Viator-led tapas and wine crawl through the Gothic Quarter.
Don’t underestimate the simple stuff. Book a tapas tasting experience through Viator and eat like a local.
Rioja Wine – Spain’s Bold Red Star
Spain’s wine scene is vast and varied, but Rioja is the undisputed king of reds. Produced in the La Rioja region, this wine is typically made from Tempranillo grapes, aged in oak barrels for a smooth, rich flavor. It pairs perfectly with everything from jamón to roasted meats.
🍇 Book with Viator for tasting wine through La Rioja or enjoy Rioja samples on a Madrid wine and tapas night.
Sip Spain’s finest reds: Join a Viator wine-tasting tour in Rioja or the city of your choice.
Sweet Treats That Are Worth Trying
Got a sweet tooth? Spain’s got you covered with plenty of local desserts and pastries. A few worth tasting:
- Churros con Chocolate – Thick hot chocolate and crispy fried dough
- Tarta de Santiago – Almond cake from Galicia, often dusted with a cross of St. James
- Flan – Creamy caramel custard served in nearly every Spanish restaurant
You can find these on Viator-led food tours or during dessert stops in tapas crawls.
Book Culinary Experiences with Viator
One of the best parts of traveling is discovering the flavors of a new country—and with Viator, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Viator offers:
- Authentic cooking classes
- Tapas and wine pairings
- Market tours with local chefs
- Cider and wine tastings
- Regional food walks in cities like Madrid, Seville, Valencia, and San Sebastián
From hands-on cooking to guided tastings, these culinary experiences let you connect with Spain’s culture in the most delicious way possible.
Final Thoughts
From the savory crunch of bocadillo de calamares to the rich flavors of Rioja wine, Spain’s food scene is vibrant, local, and full of surprises. Whether you’re indulging in traditional paella by the sea or sipping sidra in a northern village, the best way to experience it all is through expertly curated food and drink tours.
Ready to take your taste buds on a trip?
👉 Visit Viator.com and start booking your food and drink adventures across Spain because the best memories are made around the table.