By Expedia Team, on October 25, 2019

10 things you can only buy in Spain

When it comes to Spain, you have your pick of some of the most fascinating locations in the world, places where you can experience ancient historic sites, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. Fortunately, Spain also has some of the most distinctive souvenirs to help you remember your travels. From uniquely colored wine to vessels to drink it from, and guitars that have been specially handcrafted for the last 100 years, Spain offers numerous opportunities for one-of-a-kind gifts and mementos to remember your visit.

Here are 10 things you can only buy in Spain.

1. Flamenco guitars

The Conde family are master guitar craftsmen who have been creating instruments for over a century in Spain. Though flamenco guitars are on the pricey side, they’re a lifelong investment and a piece of music history that will also forever remind you of your special trip. Such legends as Paco de Lucía, Cat Stevens, and Bob Dylan have purchased guitars from Felipe Conde.

flamenco guitar things to buy in spain

2. Caganers

One of the most unique Catalonian Christmas traditions is the caganer, or Christmas pooper. This is a time-honored staple of nativity scenes in Catalonia that depicts a figure with its pants down. The gift of a pooper is meant to symbolize good fortune for the year ahead, and it’s relatively unknown in the United States and some of Europe, making it a truly unique gift option.

caganar things to buy in Spain
Trover Photo by CJ Rincon

Though caganers began depicting a young boy in period clothing, the figures have evolved to include famous people like Pope Francis and Vladimir Putin. You can find a range of different Christmas poopers throughout Spain to take home as a gift.

3. Wineskin

A bota, or wineskin, is a traditional drinking vessel in Spain. Though mostly used for wine, a bota can hold any beverage. Traditional wineskins were lined with animal bladders and resins were used to prevent the liquid from seeping through, but modern bota bags have a plastic liner and nozzle. Botas are easy to pack and make a wonderful gift that represents your travels and a longheld Spanish tradition.

4. Blue wine

The first blue wine in the world was launched in 2016 by a Spanish company. Though it shook up the traditional wine industry, it quickly became a popular wine choice. The wine is made from a combination of red and white grapes with natural flavors and pigments, and it’s available in wine shops and restaurants all over the country so you can easily shop for this unique souvenir to take home with you.

5. Flamenco clothing

Spain is home to flamenco, the passionate and captivating dance style, so it’s the best place to purchase a flamenco dress, shawl, accessories, or shoes. You can splurge on a full, genuine costume, or take home some castanets, a type of shell that flamenco dancers use as a percussion instrument during dances. Only in Spain can you find the quality and unique design of the accessories for this fiery and dynamic art form.

6. Jamón

Jamón, or ham, is a popular tapas menu item throughout Spain which is generally served in the cured varieties of Serrano and Ibérico. You can find it in any bar or restaurant, and you may even see a full ham leg hanging out in the open that allows waiters to easily slice off strips. You can take home packets of quality jamón or even a full leg, and the best ham comes from black Iberian pigs that wander the oak forests and are fed a diet of acorns.

jamon

7. Abanicos

The Spanish fan, or abanico, is a popular souvenir that celebrates Spanish culture. Many traditional Spanish dances use the abanico as a prop, and you can find fans in a variety of colors and styles, all with a range of elaborate and beautiful designs for a unique gift. Fans can be used as they were intended to cool yourself off at outdoor events or for home decór that is easy to change and update.

8. Bullfighting poster

Bullfighting is a strong part of Spain’s history and culture. Many tourists use a trip to Spain as an opportunity to witness a live bullfight in one of the many bullrings, and there’s no better way to remember the experience than with one of the promotional bullfighting posters you can find in the street. Posters are budget-friendly, easy to pack, and bring a long tradition of Spain back to your friends and family.

bullfighting poster things to buy in spain
Trover Picture by Dina Zagaeva

9. Spanish pottery

Spanish pottery and ceramics make great souvenirs, especially for family members or your own home décor. Many of the ceramics and pottery items you’ll find in Spain are handcrafted by local sellers, so you can take home a truly one-of-a-kind gift. You can find cups, mugs, bowls, plates, and decorative pieces that fit your style to infuse your home with a little Spanish culture and a memento of your trip.

spanish pottery

10. Toy toro plush

Stuffed animals are always a popular souvenir option. In Spain, the bull (toro) is a highly prized symbol and is often featured in artwork and crafts. You can find an array of adorable toro plush toys that are great for kids and adults alike. Best of all, this is a gift that uniquely represents Spanish culture and history, so you’re unlikely to find toro plush toys quite like these anywhere else.

toro

From the handicrafts of Spanish locals to high-end guitars that honor the legends of music, there are plenty of ways to bring back a little slice of Spain and hold onto the memories of your fun vacation. If you’re planning a trip to Spain, check out Expedia for Spain holidays to make the most of your experience.