Rick Steves Says It's Always Best To See A Local Performance Of This Timeless Spanish Tradition

From north to south, Spain buzzes with a distinctive energy — shaped by unique traditions that tell the story of a vibrant country that's been influenced by different cultures over the course of thousands of years. So, while Catalonia moves to the rhythms of the sardana dance, crowds in the Basque Country gather to watch "Herri Kirolak" strength competitions that showcase rural skills, and Valencia erupts with the excitement of Las Fallas every March. All of which goes to show exactly how the country's 17 autonomous communities are so different from one another despite sharing national borders.

However, out of all the traditions and performances across Spain, there's one special art form that's won over travel expert and TV show host Rick Steves' heart: flamenco. A bucket list experience for Americans traveling abroad, Steves describes flamenco as a "visual reminder of Andalucía's vibrant mix of cultures." Something that, according to his blog, just can't be replicated unless you actively look for traditional shows away from the tourist path.

A powerful expression of emotion through movement and music, flamenco began in southern Spain's Andalucía region. Combining fast-paced guitar playing with singing, hand clapping and vocal interjections (jaleo), and dramatic dance, the art form is a fusion of Spanish, Moorish, and Romani influences. Depending on the style, performers typically use flamenco to express deep feelings — from intense joy to profound sorrow. That said, for Spaniards, flamenco represents so much more than a popular form of entertainment — it embodies a cultural spirit that continues to evolve while still staying true to its roots.

Without a doubt, one of the best places to enjoy an authentic flamenco performance is Seville — one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. That said, while the city's main tourist areas might offer plenty of daily performances, Rick Steves suggests venturing into the backstreets of neighborhoods like Triana and Macarena. Here, small venues — referred to as "tablaos" — host heart-pounding performances where locals and in-the-know visitors can come together to appreciate the art form in its purest state. Because, unlike tourist-oriented shows with fixed schedules, these authentic experiences often kick off late at night and even feature spontaneous collaborations between performers who feed off the audience's energy.

Beyond Seville, Granada is another excellent destination for some authentic flamenco. Specifically, the hillside Sacromonte district — historically home to cave-dwelling Roma communities — typically hosts intimate performances in cave venues where the natural acoustics help to enhance every guitar strum and foot stomp. Meanwhile, in places like Jerez de la Frontera, locals typically head to peñas flamencas — traditional private clubs dedicated to preserving flamenco traditions. Don't worry, though: While these venues might seem exclusive, they're generally welcoming of respectful visitors who show genuine interest in the event.

The key to finding an authentic flamenco performance lies in looking beyond the flashy tourist advertisements. Unlike these commercial options, authentic shows generally prioritize the emotional power of the performance rather than the glitz, which ultimately makes for a more profound experience for you as a viewer. With that in mind, one of the most common mistakes you'll want to avoid while visiting Spain is letting yourself get seduced by venues that feature excessive frills like elaborate costumes, fancy lighting effects, or dinner packages. In most cases, these additional elements will only distract from the raw emotion that defines true flamenco.

Along with that, you'll also want to pay close attention to the more practical aspects of choosing the right show. Itinerary-wise, most authentic performances happen in the evening, honoring the tradition's nighttime roots. In the same vein, be prepared to stay late ... very late.

Finally, keep in mind that, although flamenco's dramatic dance moves often tend to get the most attention, authentic performances give equal importance to the singing and guitar-playing portions of the show. Similarly, the best shows also tend to make space for spontaneous interactions between performers rather than relying on rigid choreography. So, when you see a performer respond almost instinctively to another's energy, you can rest assured that you're getting the real deal out of your experience.