Trip planners may think of exploring the world in terms of visiting ‘iconic’ landmarks or taking in ‘scenic’ views, but really it’s about the flavors of a particular destination. How about a signature cocktails of the local flavor to get your feet wet in a culture? These must try signature cocktails embody the spirit of their home, from bustling cities being, to tropical beaches. It’s time to make it a global an adventure, time to raise your glass and toast to a life full of journey.
1. Piña Colada – Puerto Rico
What better place to take in this tropical delight than in its birthplace. The most tropical vacation of a drink, the Piña Colada is blended rum, coconut cream and pineapple juice. It’s is a sip of sunshine in every glass, and best paired with the soft sand of Puerto Rican beaches.
- Price: $8–$15
- Highlights: Sip this creamy tropical drink at the Caribe Hilton in San Juan, where it was first crafted. Pair it with ocean views for the perfect island vibe.
2. Mojito – Cuba
There’s music in the streets, history, and refreshingly mojitos, in Havana. The perfect warm Caribbean evening cocktail of white rum, sugar, lime juice, soda water and fresh mint. Perhaps you could learn to dance salsa at a local bar, while enjoying one!
- Price: $5–$10
- Highlights: Enjoy a mojito at La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana, known for its association with Ernest Hemingway. The vibrant music and Cuban ambiance make it unforgettable.
3. Negroni – Italy
Negroni is elegance in a glass, Italy’s Negroni. This classic cocktail is a fantastic aperitivo hour cocktail, all mouth warming sweetness, a harmonious blend of gin, Campari and sweet vermouth. If you’re in Italy, sip it at a sidewalk café in Florence or Venice!
- Price: €8–€12 ($9–$13)
- Highlights: Indulge in a Negroni in Florence, where it originated. Many bars in the city offer their unique twist on this iconic drink.
4. Caipirinha – Brazil
The Caipirinha is Brazil’s national signature cocktail, and no less alive. Typical of a zesty and refreshing drink, made with cachaça, lime, some sugar and ice. During Rio Carnival is a good time, the energy is awesome, and the flavors are bold.
- Price: R$15–R$30 ($3–$6)
- Highlights: Try this zesty cocktail at a beachside kiosk in Rio de Janeiro. It’s a quintessential Brazilian experience with scenic ocean views.
5. Margarita – Mexico
Mexican hospitality marches to a catchy tune, known as the Margarita. It’s a celebration in every sip — whether frozen or on the rocks — this one is tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. For your enjoyment (and because tequila is King in Jalisco) don’t miss one in the heart of Jalisco.
- Price: $6–$12
- Highlights: Sample authentic Margaritas in Jalisco, the birthplace of tequila. Many bars offer traditional and creative versions to complement the local cuisine.
Also Read: Best Korean Food Destinations to Add to Your Travel Itinerary
6. Sangria – Spain
Spain is brought together by a pitcher of Sangria. This is a mainstay at gatherings of all kinds, usually mixed with brandy and fresh fruit. The perfect tapas or people watching in the lively streets of Barcelona of Madrid.
- Price: €10–€15 per pitcher ($11–$16)
- Highlights: Gather with friends at a taberna in Madrid or Barcelona. Sangria is perfect for pairing with tapas and lively conversations.
7. Singapore Sling – Singapore
The Singapore Sling is a tropical medley of gin, cherry liqueur, pineapple juice, and grenadine, the latter two of which are followed by served in an enormous ice filled glass (or bucket). When in Singapore, you have to try this once, as a mix of their cultures and their food.
- Price: SGD 35–40 ($26–$30)
- Highlights: Experience this iconic drink at the Raffles Hotel Long Bar, where it was invented. The colonial-era ambiance adds to the charm.
8. Martini – USA
The Martini is a sophistication drink that has been fine tuned by American bartenders. Sampling one in a New York City cocktail bar is an experience you won’t forget—whether dirty, shaken, or dry, you think, and prefer your cocktail so.
- Price: $12–$20
- Highlights: Relish a Martini in a swanky New York City bar like The Campbell or Bemelmans Bar. Customize it to your liking—shaken or stirred!
9. Mai Tai – Hawaii, USA
Sip a Mai Tai and will transport you to the Pacific islands. With its laid back Hawaiian mix of rum, orange curaçao, lime and orgeat syrup, this drink represents the lifestyle. Watch the sunset over the ocean with sip one.
- Price: $10–$15
- Highlights: Enjoy a Mai Tai at a beachfront bar in Waikiki, Honolulu. The drink pairs perfectly with a mesmerizing Hawaiian sunset.
10. Pimm’s Cup – England
The quintessentially British Pimm’s Cup is a perfect summer cocktail. A refreshing choice made with Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade and a mix of fruits and mint. Serve at a garden party or watching Wimbledon.
- Price: £8–£12 ($10–$15)
- Highlights: Sip this refreshing cocktail at an English garden party or during summer events like Wimbledon. The fruity flavors are perfect for the season.
11. Espresso Martini – Australia
The Espresso Martini’s origins are disputed, but it’s an Australian drink beloved now. It’s a caffeinated cocktail of vodka, coffee liqueur and espresso that’s a great way to kick off a night out in Melbourne or Sydney.
- Price: AUD 15–20 ($10–$13)
- Highlights: Enjoy an Espresso Martini in Melbourne’s chic cocktail bars. It’s a great way to start (or continue) a lively evening out.
12. Daiquiri – Cuba
The simplicity of the Daiquiri is another Cuban classic. A refreshing signature cocktail is made with loads of lime, sugar and rum. Hemingway’s fav, must be enjoyed at the bar that gave it fame, El Floridita.
- Price: $5–$8
- Highlights: Visit El Floridita in Havana, the bar famous for perfecting the Daiquiri. Immerse yourself in its historic charm while savoring this classic.
Travel Tip:
Many of these signature cocktails are quite best had at their original venue, or at least in local hotspots with reputed mixology. If happy hours or cultural festivals, for example, also exist, look for an opportunity to enjoy them at a better price, and become immersed in the local atmosphere.
From the traditional sweetness of a Piña Colada to the personal boldness of a Negroni, signature cocktails around the globe share the tale of where they came from. While you travel, don’t skip the chance to take a sip (and a culture connection) on one of these.
Well, then which one are you going to try first? One more cheers to your next adventure!
