Spain remains one of the most popular destinations for British holidaymakers, with the promise of golden beaches, warm evenings, and a chilled jug of sangria proving hard to resist. But according to one Spanish resident, that fruity pitcher could be the biggest tourist trap in the country.
Posting on Reddit, user Delde116 urged visitors to reconsider the drink they so often associate with authentic Spanish culture. “Sangria. This is a tourist trap, originally created by some British folk, the same way chicken tikka masala was invented by a Scotsman,” they claimed.
The warning comes amid growing tensions in popular resorts such as Majorca, where anti-tourism protests have recently rattled the hospitality sector.
According to Delde116, locals rarely order sangria.
Instead, the traditional far cheaper choice is tinto de verano, a refreshing mix of Spanish red wine and lemon soda.
“Sangria is a soda like Coca-Cola and Fanta,” they said. “So imagine going to Spain and paying 10 euros (£8.58) for a jar of Fanta. This happens everywhere in Spain.”
Across the country, sangria’s status sparks fierce debate.
Some view it as a part of Spain’s culinary identity, while others dismiss it as a product aimed squarely at tourists. Tinto de Verano, by contrast, is widely enjoyed by locals and typically costs a fraction of the price.
The Reddit user also touched on another common tourist misconception, that paella is Spain’s national dish.
“Spanish cuisine is regional,” they said. “Paella is a dish from Valencia. While you can find genuine versions outside the region, they’re usually hidden gems known only through local recommendations.”
In reality, Spanish gastronomy is a patchwork of regional specialities. Seville is famed for its tapas, Galicia for its tender octopus, and San Sebastian for pintxos, bite-sized delights served on bread.
In Andalusia, gazpacho offers a chilled, tomato-based escape from the summer heat.
For visitors seeking an authentic sip of Spain, Delde116 suggests heading north to La Rioja, the country’s most celebrated wine region. There, travellers can swap overpriced tourist jugs for rich reds enjoyed by the people who make them.
So, for a more genuine taste of Spain, skip the sangria and drink like a local. Your wallet, and your palate, will thank you.
