Get a free Tapa with Your Wine in Nerja and other places in Spain?

Ordering a glass of wine or beer and receiving a free Tapa (small plate of food) at no extra cost is one of Spain’s most beloved traditions. But where does this custom come from?

The word "tapa" actually means "lid," and legend has it that the tradition began in the 13th century when King Alfonso X of Castile ordered that wine should always be served with some food to prevent people from getting too drunk. Another popular theory is that bartenders in Andalusia started placing a piece of bread or ham over wine glasses to keep out dust and insects—hence the name "tapa" (lid).

Regardless of its origin, the tradition has endured, and in some parts of Spain, receiving a free tapa with your drink is still the norm. But where is this most common?

Where Can You Get Free Tapas?

- Granada – Here, free tapas are a way of life. The more drinks you order, the better and more varied the tapas become.

- Almería – One of the few cities where you can often choose your free tapa from a menu!

- Jaén – Just like in Granada, bars here serve generous tapas when you order a drink.

- León – In northern Spain, free tapas are also part of the local culture, especially in the old town.

- Salamanca – A lively university city where bars often offer tapas to attract students and tourists.

- Nerja – This beautiful coastal town in Andalusia still holds onto the free tapa tradition in many of its bars. Enjoy a drink with a sea view and a tasty bite on the side!

In other parts of Spain, such as Barcelona and Madrid, tapas are usually something you pay for, but in some traditional bars, you might still get a small plate of olives or chips with your wine.

So, next time you’re in southern or northern Spain, enjoy the free tapas and be surprised by what arrives on your plate!