In this Review, both the scientific literature and patents have been analysed to gather, examine and classify synthetic strategies developed to access spirocyclic molecules having olfactory properties of interest for the perfume industry. New structures have been reported at a steady state since 1961 with a particularly intense activity in the 80’s. In the diversity of olfactory properties observed, spirocyclic molecules were found to be quite frequently woody, as well as fruity and ambery, among other tonalities. More recent data reflect the evolution of modern synthetic organic chemistry towards bioinspiration, enantioselective reactions, green and sustainable chemistry and biotechnology.