In Andalusia, bars are far more than just places to drink; they are the heartbeat of social life, where friends, families, and even strangers gather to share conversation, food, and the easy warmth of southern hospitality. You will find tabernas with tiled walls and sherry barrels in cities like Córdoba, cosy bodegas in coastal towns where fresh seafood is paired with crisp white wines, and lively Cervecerias buzzing with chatter over cold beer and small plates of tapas.

 

In many Andalusian bars, it is customary to be served a complimentary tapa with your drink, and it is perfectly normal, even encouraged, to stand at the bar, chatting with staff and other patrons rather than claiming a table immediately. Ordering is informal but polite; a friendly “por favor” goes a long way and locals often order drinks one at a time rather than all at once, lingering for hours over conversation.

 

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It is expected to greet staff with a warm “buenos días” or “buenas tardes” upon entering and to thank them with a “gracias” when leaving.

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Tipping is modest,  small change or rounding up the bill is appreciated but not obligatory. Many bars stay open late and it is common for people to enjoy a relaxed drink well past midnight, especially in the summer months. Noise and laughter are part of the charm, but respect for others is key; boisterousness is welcome, aggression is not.Whether you are sipping a glass of fino in Jerez, a sweet moscatel in Málaga, or a strong coffee in a Granada backstreet, you will quickly learn that in Andalusia, the bar is an extension of the living room, casual, welcoming, and deeply woven into the rhythm of daily life.