“Ir de Cañas” (Go for Drinks) in Spain

At its core, ir de cañas simply means “going out for beers”. But this is an entire social ritual that represents the Spanish approach to life: relaxed, spontaneous, and centered around the joy of human connection. It’s not just about drinking. It’s about enjoying a small glass of beer, called a caña, with friends, family, or colleagues after a long day or during a lazy weekend afternoon.

But the drink is just the starting point. What truly sets “ir de cañas” apart is the way it creates moments of connection. Whether it’s a quick catch-up before lunch or an impromptu gathering after work, it’s always casual, unhurried, and very authentic.

This Spanish tradition is not confined to a specific age group, class, or occasion. From university students to retirees, from city dwellers to small-town locals, ir de cañas brings everyone together. And while beer is the drink of choice, what really matters is the experience: the simple pleasure of gathering around a table, swapping stories, and letting time slip away.

In many parts of Spain, cañas are accompanied by tapas—small plates of food that range from classic dishes like patatas bravas (crispy potatoes with spicy sauce) to regional specialties like pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus). In some cities, like Granada, your caña will often come with a free tapa, making it an even more enticing adventure!

If you want to experience ir de cañas like a true local, timing is everything. While there’s no strict schedule, the magic tends to happen in the late afternoon or early evening. In the bustling city centers, you’ll see people spilling out onto terraces and sidewalks around 7 PM, enjoying a drink and a bite to eat before dinner.

In smaller towns or coastal areas, the vibe is even more laid-back. Midday, especially on weekends, is another great time to go, as many Spaniards meet friends for a pre-lunch caña (around 1 PM) before heading home for the famous long lunch and siesta.

Now, where should you go?

The beauty of ir de cañas lies in the variety. You don’t stay in one spot. You should move from bar to bar, savoring the different atmospheres, tastes, and sights. You could start at a bustling corner bar in Madrid’s La Latina neighborhood, where the clinking of glasses and chatter fill the air. Or wander through Seville’s narrow streets, stopping at traditional tabernas with tiled walls and wood-paneled counters, where the beer is ice-cold and the tapas are unforgettable.

If you want to ir de cañas the way locals do, there are a few simple rules to follow:

We have spent years guiding travelers through the nooks and crannies of Spain, so we know for sure that ir de cañas is a must-do experience.

It’s your chance to live like a local, to feel the pulse of Spanish culture in its most natural state. There’s no need for museums or tourist attractions when you’re sitting at a lively bar, listening to the hum of conversations, and watching the world go by.

So, when you are in Spain, whether it’s in the heart of Barcelona or a hidden gem of a village in the Basque Country, don’t just stick to the usual tourist route.

Take a detour, step into a local bar, order a caña, and let yourself be swept up in the moment. You’ll leave with more than just memories. You’ll have experienced a slice of Spanish life that’s truly unforgettable.

Cheers—or as we say in Spain, ¡Salud!