Where to find the Best Free Tapas in Granada Spain

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Tapas culture is a big deal in Spain, and the city of Granada takes it to the next level. This historic Andalusian city isn’t just famous for the Alhambra and stunning views of the Sierra Nevada, but it is also known for its incredible tradition of complimentary tapas.

If you’re planning a trip here, prepare to spend plenty of time hopping between some of the best tapas bars in town. In Granada, it’s common to receive a free plate of food with every drink you order—whether it’s a cold beer, a glass of wine, or even a soft drink. Yes, completely free!

We stayed in Málaga but took the train to Granada — the train journey was quite easy, taking about 1.5 hours.

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It’s one of the most enjoyable (and delicious) ways to experience the city. Each bar has its own style and specialties. Some even serve more generous portions with every round. A great place to start your tapas adventure is Calle Navas—a lively, pedestrian-only street full of tapas bars and restaurants, where you’ll find plenty of spots offering a free plate of food with every cold beer or glass of wine.

So if you’re wondering where to go for the best experience, I’ve got you covered! Here’s my guide to finding the best free tapas in Granada, Spain.

Table of Contents

Discovering Granada

A First-Time Visitor’s Taste of Rich History and Local Flavors

Granada is a city where rich history meets vibrant modern life, making it the perfect place for a first time visitor to explore. From the stunning Alhambra Palace to the winding streets of the Albaicín, every corner tells a story. But Granada isn’t just about sights — it’s also a food lover’s paradise. The city’s tapas culture is legendary, and pairing those small plates with refreshing local wines or a cold tinto de verano (a popular summer wine cocktail) is part of the authentic experience.

You can wander through historic neighborhoods or settle in at a lively bar. Granada offers a warm welcome and flavors that stay with you long after you leave.

How to get to Granada

Getting to Granada is fairly easy, whether you’re planning a quick day trip or staying overnight. One of the most convenient options is taking a guided tour, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a hassle-free experience. Many tours depart from popular cities like Seville or Málaga, and often include skip-the-line entry to the Alhambra and a local guide to walk you through the city’s highlights.

If you’d rather explore at your own pace, public transport is a great choice. Granada has a well-connected train station, making it simple to reach from nearby cities. The train from Málaga, for example, takes under two hours and drops you close to the city center. If you’re coming for the day or spending a few days, getting to Granada on your own is both affordable and convenient. Once you are in Granada, everything is pretty much walking distance.

Staying overnight in Granada? Here are a few hotel options:

Best places to get free tapas

If you’re visiting Granada and want to dive into Spanish cuisine, this section will guide you through the best places to get free tapas—a tradition the city is famous for. I’ve also included some amazing Granada tapas tours to help you experience the food scene like a local.

Los Manueles

Los Manueles is a Granada classic and one of those traditional bars that has been open since 1917 and is still going strong.

With a few locations around the city center, including near Plaza Nueva and Calle Reyes Católicos, it’s a great spot to experience traditional Andalusian flavors in a lively setting. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with rustic decor and a buzz of conversation that makes you feel right at home.

Its the perfect place to order a cold beer or a glass of wine, and you’ll receive a plate of tapas—generous portions that often get better with each round. Favorites include their famous croquettes, patatas bravas, and jamón ibérico. The menu also features hearty dishes like oxtail stew and the local specialty, Tortilla Sacromonte. Grab a seat at the bar or out on the terrace, and enjoy a delicious introduction to Granada’s culinary tradition.

Bodegas Castañeda

Bodegas Castañeda is one of the most iconic spots to check out for Granadas tapas scene. Tucked just off Calle Elvira, this place has been around since the 1920s and still feels like a piece of old-school Andalusia. Inside are wooden barrels, handwritten menus, and lots of local energy. When you order a drink, you’ll get a generous plate of tapas.

The food here is tasty and traditional, with options like oxtail stew, jamón, croquettes, and gazpacho, depending on what’s coming out of the kitchen. You can also try their house vermouth or the local drink called “calicasa,” which is a strong, sweet mix of different wines. It does get busy, but that’s part of the charm.

Bar La Riviera

Bar La Riviera in Granada is one of those traditional tapas bars that feels super local and laid-back. It’s a local favorite with that old-school vibe—think stone walls and wooden beams—and the best part is you get a free tapa with every drink, just like real tapas culture! They have tons of choices, from chorizo and croquetas to vegetarian-friendly plates like aubergine with honey or salads.

The friendly service and casual atmosphere make it an easy spot to pop into while exploring the city. I had a crisp white wine with mine, and it was the perfect pairing with the delicious food. Best of all, it is very affordable!

La Buena Vida

La Buena Vida is a tiny, charming traditional tapas bar in Granada that really lives up to its name. It’s the kind of spot you’d walk past if you weren’t paying attention—but don’t! The atmosphere is cozy, the friendly service makes you feel right at home, and the food is honestly great for the price. On top of that, you’ll get generous tapas with your drink (hello, good wine and cold beer), and there’s a surprisingly large selection—including lots of vegetarian tapas.

Everything I tried was flavorful and fresh—definitely a little flavour experience. It’s a small place with limited seating, so you might have to wait a bit, but it’s worth it. They have the most delicious tapas! I’d go back in a heartbeat.

Taberna La Tana

Taberna La Tana is a small, family-run traditional tapas bar tucked into the charming Realejo neighborhood of Granada. It’s been around since 1993, and it’s a local favorite! The vibe inside is warm, cozy, and the restaurant has great wine selection.

The place is lined with wine bottles from floor to ceiling—there are nearly 600 different kinds, and about 80 you can try by the glass! It’s run by Jesús González, a passionate sommelier who really knows his stuff.

With every drink, you’ll get a free tapa—think toasted bread with tomato and olive oil, olives, or spicy morcilla. The portions are small but delicious, and the friendly service makes it feel like you’re hanging out at a friend’s kitchen table.

Bar Poë

Bar Poë is a small, cozy traditional tapas bar looared on calle verónica de la magdalena. It has a super relaxed atmosphere and a fun international twist. Every drink comes with a free tapa. But not just any tapa—these are full of global flavors.

There are dishes like Portuguese piri-piri pork, Brazilian bean stew, Thai chicken, and Italian-style veggies. It’s a fun way to enjoy tapas in different ways. And the best part? You get to choose what you want.

The vibe is warm and welcoming. The crowd is a mix of locals, young people, students, travelers, and expats. It’s a great place to meet people, grab a drink, and try something new. If you want a twist on the usual tapas scene, Bar Poë is a perfect pick.

Bar Ávila Tapas

This place is one of the top spots and a true local favorite. Even before lunch, it’s busy with a lively crowd, and the friendly service adds a special touch to the experience. Located on Calle Verónica de la Virgen, Bar Ávila is known for its big portions and warm, welcoming vibe.

In classic Granada style, every drink comes with a free tapa. Some of their standout dishes include roast ham, paparrones (fries topped with meat sauce and cheese), and roast pork tenderloin. Everything is delicious and served in generous portions, perfect for sharing or indulging.

The atmosphere here feels authentic and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy real Spanish cuisine. If you want a genuine Granada food experience with tasty dishes, great value, and a true local vibe, Bar Ávila is definitely a spot to check out.

Bar los diamantes

Bar Los Diamantes is a chic yet casual spot known for its amazing Andalusian seafood tapas, fried fish, and a great selection of local wines. The bar has a lively atmosphere with an open kitchen, giving you an authentic and vibrant dining experience right in the heart of Granada’s bustling Calle Navas.

The seafood here is top-notch and fresh. Highly recommended dishes include razor clams, fried artichokes, grilled baby squid, and fried asparagus—all bursting with flavor. Portions are generous, so be ready to share or take leftovers home! Drinks come with free tapas, which makes it perfect for a relaxed evening of tasting different small plates.

Despite its popularity with both locals and tourists, the service is quick and efficient. If there’s a wait, try grabbing a spot at the bar or balcony to enjoy your meal without delay. With great food, local wines, and a fun, buzzing vibe, Bar Los Diamantes is definitely one of the best places to experience authentic Spanish cuisine and seafood in Granada.

Bar Casa Julio

Bar Casa Julio is a lively, intimate tapas bar tucked away in a charming alley near Plaza Nueva. It has an old-fashioned feel but a buzzing atmosphere that makes you feel like a local right away. The spot is perfect for a quick drink or a casual lunch with friends, offering great service and friendly vibes.

The menu shines with delicious fried fish tapas like fresh boquerones (anchovies), gambas fritas (fried shrimp), and other tasty small plates that come free with your drink — a classic Granada tradition. Veggie lovers will also appreciate their well-seasoned tomate aliñado (seasoned tomatoes). Portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable.

You can either stand at the bar or grab a seat outside, Bar Casa Julio is surely one of the top picks for authentic Spanish cuisine in Granada. It’s a fun, no-frills place where the focus is on great food, drinks, and that lively local energy. Definitely a must-visit!