When moving to or visiting Spain, one of the first things you’ll want to figure out is where to do your grocery shopping. Spain has a fantastic range of supermarkets, each offering different strengths in terms of quality, price, and product selection. Here’s a guide to the best supermarkets in Spain and what you can expect from each one.
Top Supermarkets in Spain
1. Mercadona – The All-Rounder
Mercadona is one of Spain’s most popular supermarkets and is known for its quality and affordability. With its own-brand “Hacendado” and “Bosque Verde” products, you can find a great selection of food and household items at reasonable prices.
- Freshness: Mercadona is known for its fresh produce, meat, and fish, thanks to daily deliveries.
- Price: Mid-range, but excellent value for the quality.
- Best for: Fresh fish, ready-made meals, and high-quality own-brand products.
2. Carrefour – The International Choice
Carrefour, a French supermarket chain, has a strong presence in Spain, offering a wide variety of both Spanish and international products.
- Freshness: Good quality meat, cheese, and bakery sections.
- Price: Slightly higher, but frequent promotions and discounts make it competitive.
- Best for: International brands, organic products, and extensive wine selection.
3. Lidl – Budget-Friendly and High Quality
Lidl has become a favorite among shoppers looking for quality at lower prices. Their bakery section is a standout, and their fresh produce is surprisingly good.
- Freshness: Excellent bakery and seasonal fruit and vegetables.
- Price: One of the cheapest supermarkets in Spain.
- Best for: Fresh bread, budget-friendly organic options, and weekly special offers.
4. Aldi – Affordable and Healthy Choices
Aldi, like Lidl, offers a great balance of affordability and quality. Their selection of organic, gluten-free, and healthy products is expanding, making it a great option for health-conscious shoppers.
- Freshness: Good selection of fruit and vegetables.
- Price: Very affordable.
- Best for: Organic products, dairy, and healthy snacks.
5. El Corte Inglés – Gourmet and Imported Goods
El Corte Inglés supermarkets (often under the Hipercor brand) cater to shoppers looking for gourmet products and high-end international goods.
- Freshness: Excellent quality in all fresh food sections.
- Price: On the higher end.
- Best for: Gourmet ingredients, fresh meat, seafood, and high-quality imported products.
6. Día – Everyday Budget Shopping
Día is a great choice for those looking for the lowest prices on basic products. While not as known for freshness as other supermarkets, it offers significant discounts on essentials.
- Freshness: More limited, but improving.
- Price: One of the cheapest options.
- Best for: Discounted household goods, pantry staples, and frozen foods.
7. Superdumbo – Regional Favorite
Superdumbo is a lesser-known but well-loved supermarket in certain regions of Spain, especially in Alicante and Murcia. It offers a mix of local and international products at competitive prices.
- Freshness: Great selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, and locally sourced meats.
- Price: Affordable with frequent discounts.
- Best for: Regional Spanish products, fresh produce, and bakery items.
8. Iceland & UK Supermarkets – A Taste of Home
For British expats or visitors missing their favorite UK products, Iceland and other British supermarkets in Spain offer a great selection of familiar goods.
- Freshness: Good range of frozen products, meats, and dairy.
- Price: Slightly higher due to imported goods.
- Best for: British brands, frozen meals, and specialty items like baked beans, sausages, and tea.
Where to Find the Freshest and Cheapest Products
- For the freshest seafood: Mercadona, El Corte Inglés, and Carrefour are excellent choices.
- For budget shopping: Lidl, Aldi, and Día offer the best prices.
- For organic and healthy products: Carrefour and Aldi have great selections.
- For gourmet and specialty foods: El Corte Inglés is the place to go.
- For regional Spanish products: Superdumbo is a great option in certain areas.
- For British products: Iceland and UK supermarkets are the best options.
Don’t Forget Local Markets!
While supermarkets are convenient, Spain’s local markets (mercados) are unbeatable when it comes to freshness and quality. Shopping at local markets means getting:
- Fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables often grown by local farmers.
- High-quality meat and seafood straight from butchers and fishmongers.
- Better prices on fresh produce compared to supermarkets.
- A chance to support small businesses and experience authentic Spanish shopping culture.
For the best shopping experience, mix supermarket shopping with visits to your local market – your wallet and taste buds will thank you!
