Looking for the best Madrid food tours? You have come to the right place.
I have selected the most highly rated experiences to try the best Spanish delicacy offered in Madrid.
If you are a food lover like me and always look for the best culinary experience when you travel, then keep reading this post.
Here you will find authentic, local, and downright tasty experiences in Madrid.
By the end of this post, you’ll understand why Madrid is hailed as a foodie paradise. The street food, the home-cooked meals, the secret recipes – it’s a cornucopia of gastronomic delights.
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15 Must Try Madrid Food Tours
1. Madrid Tapas Night Walking Tour
Tapas – small, savory Spanish dishes – are on the menu, but it’s more than just a food trip.
This is a small-group walking tour, that’s aimed at capturing the soul of Madrid’s legendary nightlife.
Walking through the bustling streets, an expert foodie guide takes you through the evening rituals of a typical Madrileno.
The journey isn’t restricted to main thoroughfares; it winds its way down the secret side streets, where the best tapas bars lie hidden.
One of the best things about this tour is its exclusivity. With a maximum group size of just 10 people, it ensures a personal, intimate experience.
It’s like a small band of friends out for the night, discovering Madrid together, one tapa at a time.
You get to visit multiple bars in one night, each offering a universe of its own. The variety is dazzling: from sweet to salty to spicy, Madrid’s tapas cater to all palates.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
2. Madrid Tapas and Wine Tasting Tour
Let’s add some wine to the mix. Spanish wines are as diverse as the tapas and equally delightful.
Each wine in this tour complements the tapas, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that’s sure to please your palate.
This tour isn’t a mad rush from one restaurant to another.
The tour is also deliberately kept small, with a maximum of 12 people; you get the feeling of an intimate gathering, more personalized, more real.
These wine and tapas tours in Madrid are meant to be experienced like that.
The guides do more than just lead the way.
They share knowledge, providing insights into Spanish cuisine, the signature dishes, the unique ingredients, and of course, the best wines to match.
The result is a deeper understanding of the city’s gastronomy and a night you won’t forget easily.
Each of the four tapas bars visited on the tour is a local favorite, frequented by the city’s inhabitants.
So, it’s not just a meal; it’s a cultural immersion, a chance to eat, drink, and be merry like a local.
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3. Tapas, Taverns, & History Tour Madrid
This is an evening tapas walking tour in Madrid designed for those who appreciate good food and fascinating history.
It takes you through Madrid’s Old Town, where the ancient and the modern come together in captivating harmony.
The journey through history is punctuated by stops at critically acclaimed tapas bars.
Now, if you’re a food lover on top of being a history buff, this is where the fun really begins.
The flavors of the food are wonderfully complemented by classic Spanish drinks, chief among them is sangria.
An English-speaking local guide leads the tour, sharing tales from Madrid’s past and insights into its present.
As you walk through the city’s historic center, you’ll come across landmarks and hidden gems, each with a story to tell
The guide’s narratives bring the city’s history to life, making the past resonate in the present.
With a limit of just 10 food and history lovers on each tour, the experience is intimate and personalized.
By the end of the evening, you’ll have a belly full of delicious food and a heart full of cherished memories.
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4. 4-Hour Spanish Cooking Class in Madrid
At this point, it’s safe to say that most of you love tapas or paella. But what if you could whip up these dishes yourself?
Well, with this tour, you get to make that dream come true. Attend a traditional Spanish cooking class, where the secrets of Spanish cuisine are laid bare.
And it’s not some stuffy, formal class, either. It’s hands-on, fun, and filled with amazing aromas and flavors.
Whether it’s crafting classic tapas, blending a refreshing gazpacho, or stirring a pot full of paella, you’ll be right in the thick of it.
An expert chef is always by your side, guiding you through every chop, stir, and taste.
What’s amazing about this cooking class is that it lasts for four hours. That’s plenty of time to learn, cook, and, of course, taste.
Plus, you get to choose between a morning or evening session.
So, you could start your day with a burst of culinary creativity or round off the evening with a delicious accomplishment.
After all the slicing, dicing, and sautéing, you get to sit down and enjoy a homemade feast.
Yes, you’ll be savoring your own creations. And your meal will be accompanied by a traditional glass of Sangria, the perfect partner to your Spanish dishes.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
5. Madrid Tour: Gastronomy & History with Lunch or Dinner
Want even more of Madrilean history and Spanish gastronomy mixed together? This 3.5-hour walking tapas tour in Madrid is for you.
The tour is a journey, led by a local guide, through around four to five eateries in Madrid which are places known for their authentic tapas.
And you’ll be visiting them at the best time – lunch or dinner.
The tapas on this tour are the real deal; Iberian ham, locally produced cheeses, and paella.
Each dish is a nod to Spanish culinary tradition, a celebration of flavors that make your taste buds dance. And what’s tapas without a glass of regional wine or beer to wash it down?
There are over 16 different flavors and 4 different Spanish wines to sample, making this a comprehensive gastronomic journey.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this is a fantastic opportunity to experience the richness of Spanish viticulture.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
6. Madrid Countryside Wineries Guided Tour with Wine Tasting
There’s no better way to appreciate wine than by visiting the place it comes from.
This tour gives you the chance to do just that: a full-day expedition to the heart of Madrid’s wine country, where the magic of winemaking comes alive.
Ditch the city noise for a day, and let’s embark on a journey to the Vinos de Madrid region.
It’s a world away from the hustle and bustle, a tranquil place where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see.
The tour covers three wineries in this picturesque area, each with its own charm and history.
These aren’t just any wineries, though; they’re among the most prestigious in the region.
And you get to explore them with an expert guide, who’ll walk you through the intricate process of winemaking.
You’ll learn about the local methods employed, including biodynamic and organic practices.
As you wander through the atmospheric cellars, known locally as bodegas, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the journey from grape to glass.
The tour also includes tastings of over 10 wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds.
You’ll get to sample wines made from local grapes like Tempranillo and Malvar, each carrying the unique character of the region.
Accompanying the wine are generous samples of cheese, Iberico ham, and olive oil.
They’re the perfect partners for the wine, their flavors harmonizing beautifully with the notes of the vino.
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7. Madrid walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours
The tour takes you through the historic heart of Madrid. And this is about understanding Spain’s unique relationship with food.
It’s a peek into how the locals dine out, how they socialize around food, and how much they cherish their culinary traditions.
From savory tapas to sweet treats, there’s a little bit of everything. And to wash it all down, you’ve got Spanish wines and cider. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, you’re covered too.
Let’s talk more about the food; there’s a delectable lineup of charcuterie, including seasonal pastry, Manchego cheese, two kinds of Iberian ham, Iberian Chorizo, Salchichón, and Lomo.
And it’s not a Spanish food tour without some classics, right? So, there’s the deep-fried squid sandwich. Crispy, tender, full-on flavorful. And the patatas bravas; crispy potatoes, spicy tomato sauce.
In the end, you also get to sample this tour’s signature secret dish. Judging from the reviews, that secret dish is really good!
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
8. Toledo City Tour & Winery Experience with Wine Tasting
Let’s get out of Madrid for a bit and visit Toledo, a city where cultures collide and history unfolds at every corner.
Nestled atop a hill, overlooking the plains of Castilla-La Mancha in central Spain, Toledo has been a melting pot of cultures for centuries.
From El Greco’s masterpieces to the stunning blend of Arabic, Gothic, and Moorish architecture, this city has stories etched into its very soul. Now, let’s talk about a tour that paints the city in a new light.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill sightseeing expedition.
This Toledo day trip from Madrid is a full-day guided tour that takes you from the winding, hilly streets of Toledo to the fragrant vineyards outside the city. It’s a journey through time and taste.
Your guide is an expert with tales of Toledo’s Arabic, Gothic, Moorish, and medieval heritage up their sleeve.
They’ll help you navigate the city’s labyrinthine streets, weaving a tale of history, art, and culture that will leave you spellbound.
After you’ve soaked in the city’s grandeur, it’s time for a change of scene. A luxury van whisks you away from the city and into the rolling vineyards that Toledo is famous for.
The winery tour is another story altogether. An 18th-century winery, a local viticulturist to walk you through the wine-making process, and the chance to explore the vineyards firsthand.
It’s the perfect introduction to Spanish viticulture.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
9. The Best Pub Crawl Walking Guided Tour Experience in Madrid
Madrid. The city that never sleeps. And why would it when it has a nightlife as vibrant as its daylife?
Madrid’s party scene is every night owl’s dream, and here’s a tour that can show you Madrid’s nightlife as you’ve never seen it before.
Hold on to your hats, because you’re about to embark on the biggest pub crawl in Madrid.
The one where you can find a crowd as diverse as the city itself.
The one where there’s not just one, but up to six guides keeping an eye on the group, making sure everyone’s having the time of their lives.
The plan includes 4 bars (covering the drinks and the shots) and a VIP entrance into one of Madrid’s big clubs.
Yes, you heard that right. You’re not waiting in line; you’re not paying the cover fees; you’re walking straight in, like a VIP.
In short, it’s a night of fun, frolic, and memories you’ll cherish. You get to meet interesting people from all walks of life and all over the world and walk away with stories you created together.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
10. Old Town Madrid Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tasting Walking Tour
If you’re an aficionado of authentic Madrid’s awesome food and wine, then allow this tour to take you on a journey through the cobbled streets of Madrid’s old town, known for its rich history and even richer gastronomic offerings.
The experience commences under the guidance of a local food and wine expert, leading you to a selection of the city’s finest and most atmospheric eateries.
Imagine savoring tapas in an 18th-century mansion, or sipping on fine Spanish wine in a historic tavern – the old town tour turns these dreams into a delightful reality.
This isn’t just about tasting, it’s about learning – you learn how to pair food with wine, how to distinguish flavors, and most importantly, how to eat like a true Madrileno.
Included in this adventure are four fine highly-rated wines (all rated between 95 and 100 points), and at least five outstanding gourmet tapas that could easily double as dinner.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
11. Madrid Local Tapas & Wine Tour with Drinks & Views from a Rooftop
Madrid is a city that knows how to eat, drink, and live; a city of markets buzzing with life, swanky bars, and quaint little restaurants tucked away in cobbled side streets.
And this half-day tapas tour is going to take you to some of the best.
One of the stops on this tour is Casa Botín, one of the world’s oldest restaurants. It has been serving mouthwatering meals for centuries.
As you can imagine, the restaurant is steeped in history and delicious flavors.
Now, don’t think you’ll be settling for a single meal here.
This is a tasting adventure; it’s about sampling a bit of this, and a bit of that.
Think of this tour like a mega lunch or dinner with more plates than you can count. You won’t just be eating – you’ll be drinking as well.
You’ll conclude the tour with a visit to the sky bar. Yes, you’ll be ending your day sipping cocktails in the sky.
Just read the reviews, people sing praises about the view. Madrid from above, bathed in sunset light; that’s what you call a day well spent.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
12. Wineries Guided Tour to Ribera del Duero with Wine Tasting from Madrid
Ribera del Duero is a renowned wine region located in the northern part of Spain.
It’s globally recognized for its top-notch quality red wines, primarily produced from Tempranillo grapes, locally known as Tinta del País or Tinto Fino.
The region is also home to numerous ancient castles and medieval villages, making it a blend of historical significance and winemaking tradition.
In this tour, you’ll visit this region, with three wineries on the itinerary; each unique, each with a story to tell. Modern, traditional, medieval architecture – it’s a tapestry of styles and periods.
You don’t even have to wonder about the wine, it’s Ribera del Duero, a name that commands respect in the wine world.
You go beyond sipping the good stuff, though. You get to go behind the scenes; witness the production, the harvesting – get to see how the magic happens.
Gives you a whole new level of appreciation for what’s in your glass.
Remember I said Ribera del Duero is more than just vineyards and cellars?
It’s a region steeped in history. Medieval villages, castles that look like they’ve jumped straight out of a fairy tale – you get to visit some of those as well.
And your guide will provide you with all the knowledge to make history come alive for you.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
13. The Original Madrid Tapas Crawl
At this point, you know that tapas are a way of life in Madrid. And this tour will help you get even more familiar with that way of life.
You’ll make four stops, all at family-owned joints where the welcome is as warm as the food is delicious. These are off-the-beaten-path places that the locals love.
You get to go beyond tasting on this tour, It’s a learning experience. What are tapas, really?
What’s the story behind each dish, each drink? That’s what you’ll be discovering. And who better to guide you than locals who’ve grown up with these flavors?
The best part is that it all happens away from the tourist traps. These are some of the places where the heart of Madrid beats the strongest.
Where tradition meets the present in every bite, every sip.
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14. Iberian Ham and Wine Small Group Tour in Madrid
Time for a feast, have this small group tour to a feast of Iberian ham and wine in the heart of Madrid.
A 2.5-hour journey into the world of Spain’s famous cured meat, paired with some of the finest local wines.
You’ll appreciate and savor the tastes at the two top Iberian ham producers in Madrid; sample specialty foods like salchichón and chorizo.
And it’s not just ham, there’s also Manchego cheese, classic tapas, and wines that perfectly complement the flavors on your plate.
But wait, it doesn’t stop there! Ever seen a professional Iberian ham cutter at work? It’s an art form, and you’ll get the front seat.
Learn about the different curing styles, and get tips on shopping for your own ham. It’s like a masterclass in Iberian ham.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
15. The 10 Tastings of Madrid with Locals: Private Food Tour
With this 3-hour private tour, you’ll dive headfirst into Madrid’s food scene with ten tastings at some of the city’s top spots.
Not just any tour, but a tour that’s all about Madrid’s gastronomic greatness.
Your playground will be the Chueca neighborhood, a hotspot for food lovers.
The stalls at Mercado San Anton, bars that buzz with energy, and traditional restaurants where the flavors are as rich as the history.
This is where you can find some of the best food that Madrid has to offer; we’re talking Spanish specialties like ‘patatas bravas’ and ‘tortilla’, classics that every foodie should try.
The best part is that It’s a private tour, and you get the undivided attention of your guide. And these guides know their stuff.
They live and breathe Madrid’s food scene, and they’re ready to share all of their experience with you.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
What to Eat in Madrid
Tapas
Tapas, small plates but big on flavor, are everywhere in Madrid, and they’re the perfect way to sample a variety of dishes in one sitting.
From classic patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo to creative modern twists, the possibilities are endless. Each tapa is a tiny flavor bomb that’s distinctly different from another.
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Paella
Paella is a dish that originates from Valencia, but Madrid makes it its own. Rich, vibrant, a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Rice, saffron, and a mix of meats and seafood; each bite is a taste of Spanish sunshine.
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Cocido Madrileno
Cocido Madrileno is the ultimate Madrid comfort food. A hearty stew filled with meat, chickpeas, and vegetables.
It’s slow-cooked love in a pot, the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out.
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Bocadillo de Calamares
It’s a sandwich, but oh, it’s so much more. Crunchy, golden fried calamari rings, tucked in a crusty baguette.
Tender calamari, crisp crust, then soft, chewy bread. Paired with a cold cerveza, it’s perfection.
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Callos a la Madrilena
Callos a la Madrilena is not for the faint-hearted but a must-try for food adventurers.
This Madrid-style tripe stew, simmered until melt-in-your-mouth tender, is packed with robust flavors that are deeply satisfying.
Image Credit: Pavel Adashkevich/Istockphoto.
Tostadas
Tostadas is the Spanish take on toast. Pile them high with toppings like fresh tomatoes, Iberian ham, or Manchego cheese.
They’re the perfect way to start the day, but just as delicious any time you need a pick-me-up.
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Croquetas
Croquetas, also known as tiny bites of heaven. These breaded and fried morsels, creamy on the inside and crunchy on the outside, are pure deliciousness.
Whether they’re filled with ham, cheese, or mushrooms, each one is a mouthful of joy.
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Tortilla de Patatas
Tortilla de Patatas, the Spanish omelet: potatoes, onions, eggs – simple ingredients that transform into something extraordinary.
And the best place to eat it is Casa Dani in Mercado La Paz. Trust me (and the thousands of glowing reviews the place has), one bite and you’ll understand why.
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Chocolate y churros
Chocolate y Churros, the dream team of Spanish sweets. Crunchy, sugary churros dipped in rich, velvety hot chocolate.
It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel like a kid again. And in Madrid, it’s the perfect way to end a meal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most Popular Food In Madrid?
That’s a tough one. Madrid is a city of culinary riches, but if I had to pick just one, I’d pick the Cocido Madrileno (covered above), a hearty, slow-cooked stew brimming with meats and chickpeas, that holds a special place in the hearts of the locals.
It’s like a warm hug in food form, deeply comforting and quintessentially Madrid.
What Is The Famous Street Food In Madrid?
Madrid’s street food scene is pretty fantastic, and in this one, it’s impossible to pick just one food as the most famous.
I’m sorry, there are simply so many! I can narrow it down to maybe 3 picks: chocolate y churros, Callos a la Madrilena, and Bocadillo de Calamares.
I’ve covered all of these above, check them out, and more importantly try them when you’re in Madrid.
What time are tapas served in Madrid?
That’s the thing, in Madrid, tapas time is pretty much any time!
But traditionally, they’re enjoyed late in the afternoon, from around 5 pm to 9 pm, as a pre-dinner snack.
Don’t worry, though, if you miss that window, you’ll still find plenty of places serving tapas into the night.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Final Thoughts: Must Try Madrid Food Tours
And there you have it – my list of the top 15 food tours and your foodie roadmap to Madrid.
These Madrid food tours promise to send your tastebuds on a journey through the rich culinary culture of this vibrant city.
Sizzling tapas bars, kitchens perfuming the air with irresistible aromas, wine regions steeped in tradition – this is not just food, it’s an adventure.
Each tour is a flavor fiesta, presenting a Madrid blooming with genuine eats, secret food spots, and above all, food stories that echo the city’s soul.
So, it’s time to sling your bags over your shoulders and bring your hungry selves.
Madrid’s culinary beat is brimming with delight and believe me when I say, you don’t want to miss trying it out for yourself.
So, dig in, or as the Madrilenos would say, “¡Buen provecho!”
Isabella is a full-time traveler, storyteller, and founder of travel blogs like Let’s Travel to Mexico, Let’s Travel to Cancun, and Boundless Roads. Based in Mexico since 2010, she shares honest travel tips from firsthand experiences, with a focus on solo travel, photography, and road trip adventures. While she knows Mexico inside out, she’s also exploring the rest of the world—always on the lookout for unique stays, hidden gems, and meaningful connections.
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This article originally appeared on Boundlessroads.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
