Tapas in Madrid

Perfect for sharing with friends and eating on the go, tapas are delicious bite-sized appetizers that are popular throughout Spain. Joining a tapas tour in Madrid is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culinary culture.

Taste authentic regional tapas and learn about the history behind much-loved dishes as you visit vibrant tapas bars with a local guide.

Here's all you need to know about tapas tours, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Madrid.

What are the best tapas tours in Madrid?

Tapas night walking tour in Madrid

Discover Madrid’s vibrant nightlife scene as you explore the city streets and taste delectable tapas with an expert foodie guide. This small-group tapas tour, which is limited to just 10 participants, visits 4 tapas bars that serve authentic appetizers.

Your guide will provide assistance when it comes to ordering your tapas, providing you with a skill that will prove to be very useful during the rest of your time in Spain. You’ll also learn more about the city’s culinary culture, history and traditions.

As the tour is limited to 10 people, there will be plenty of time to chat with your guide and ask questions. This is the perfect opportunity to meet new people, taste delicious tapas and explore the Spanish capital after dark!

Historic tapas and taverns tour in Madrid

Join a historic tapas and taverns tour in Madrid to learn more about the city’s fascinating history as you visit a variety of popular taverns and tapas bars with a knowledgeable local guide. The tour takes place in the evening, which is ideal for those looking to escape the heat of the day.

Walking between various eateries in Madrid’s picturesque Old Town, your guide will point out historic landmarks and attractions. You’ll get to see some of the city’s most iconic public squares as well as emblematic places, such as the Royal Palace of Madrid.

In addition to tasting tapas, you’ll also get to sample classic Spanish drinks, such as sangria. The excursion is limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate experience in which each participant will get to ask questions and interact with the guide.

Tapas cooking class in Madrid

Why simply taste tapas when you could learn how to make them too? Discover secret family recipes and improve your culinary techniques when you join this 2.5-hour tapas cooking class in Madrid.

Some of the tapas that you’ll learn to make include bruschetta as well as pepper and anchovy skewers among many others. A professional chef will provide you with easy-to-follow instructions and is there to answer any questions you may have about Spanish cuisine.

Once you have created 10 delicious appetizers, you’ll sit down and enjoy your creations alongside a glass of sangria. You’ll also be given an apron and a hard copy of the recipes used to take home with you.

Tapas and wine tasting tour in Madrid

This is your opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Madrid’s vibrant culinary scene as you take an evening stroll through the elegant city streets with a local guide. You’ll savor at least a dozen different tapas, as well as taste wines produced in Madrid and surrounding regions.

Throughout the evening, you will visit four different tapas bars in the city. Some of the dishes that you can look forward to tasting include chickpea stew, salted cod and Iberian ham, which you can wash down with a complimentary drink.

Your guide will teach you about the ingredients used in tapas dishes and provide insight into the history behind Spanish cuisine. The tour is limited to just 12 people, ensuring a personal experience in which everyone gets a chance to ask questions.

Gourmet tapas tour in Madrid

If you’re interested in discovering the trendiest tapas bars in Madrid, then this is the tour for you. You’ll explore an up-and-coming neighborhood just east of Retiro Park, which is filled with hidden gems and lesser-known eateries.

You won’t visit chain restaurants or tourist traps. Instead, your guide will take you to five innovative gastropubs that offer dishes that combine traditional techniques, fresh local ingredients and more modern flavors.

You’ll get to taste the specialty dish of each venue, alongside a glass of local wine.  Your knowledgeable guide will also provide you with advice on where to eat and drink during the rest of your time in the city.

Are there any combos available with tapas tours in Madrid?

Flamenco tour in Madrid with tapas and wine tasting

Dating back centuries, flamenco dancing is an essential part of Spanish culture. Immerse yourself in local culture by watching a flamenco show in Madrid, accompanied by delicious tapas, live music and a wine-tasting experience.

Royal Madrid Palace tour with flamenco show and tapas tour

Follow an expert guide through the ornate hallways of the Royal Palace of Madrid before visiting the Torres Bermejas Tablao, where you’ll enjoy a lively flamenco show as you are served tasty tapas.

Which places are visited?

While each tapas experience in Madrid offers a slightly different itinerary, in most cases you’ll visit several tapas bars in the city center, where you’ll get to taste a wide variety of popular tapas.

As you walk through the city, your guide may point out historical landmarks and explain the significance behind them. Tapas cooking classes typically take place in a local restaurant or cooking school.

How much do tapas tours in Madrid cost?

Basic tapas tours in Madrid, such as the tapas night walking tour, usually cost around €60 per person for a small-group experience that includes three tapas tastings and a drink.

Tapas cooking classes in Madrid usually cost around €65 per person and include all the necessary ingredients and kitchen equipment.

Tapas and wine-tasting tours typically cost €80 per person. On these tours, you will visit four different tapas bars, where you’ll get to taste 12 different tapas and a variety of Spanish wine.

Combo tapas tours that include the Royal Palace and a flamenco show are also priced at around €80 per person and include the services of an experienced guide.

Gourmet tapas tours in Madrid cost €90 per person for an all-inclusive experience, where you will visit five innovative gastropubs.

More comprehensive experiences, like the historic tapas and taverns tour, typically cost around €100 per person for a small-group excursion that includes of several tapas and five drinks.

What is included?

Most tapas tours in Madrid are inclusive of at least 4 or 5 tapas tastings as well as a few drinks. Each experience is different, so it is important to read specific tour inclusions so that you know what to expect.

If you plan on eating and drinking more than what is included in the cost of the tour, you may want to bring along some extra spending money.

Tapas cooking classes are inclusive of all necessary ingredients and you may also be given an apron and hard copies of the recipes used to take home with you.

Where does it start?

As hotel transfers are not typically included in tapas tours in Madrid, you’ll need to make your way to a central meeting point in the city. Popular meeting points for tapas tours include metro stations, historical landmarks and restaurants.

When you book your tour, you’ll be provided with an exact starting location. Make sure that you arrive at least 5 minutes before the starting time so that you don’t keep your guide waiting.

How long does it last?

No matter how much time you have available to you, there is a tapas experience in Madrid to suit your preferences. From succinct 2-hour tours to more comprehensive 4.5-hour experiences, there is something for everyone.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

While most tapas tours in Madrid are not wheelchair friendly, there are certain experiences—such as the tapas cooking class—that are suitable for wheelchair users. Just make sure that you check accessibility details before making a booking.

When is the best time for a tapas tour in Madrid?

The best time for a tapas tour in Madrid is in the early evening, around 8 PM. This aligns with local dining customs, letting you mingle with residents during their prime social hour. The weather is pleasant, streets buzz with life, and you'll catch the magical transition as day turns to night, perfect for a leisurely stroll from one vibrant tapas bar to the next, savoring the city's culinary delights.

Travel tips

• Tapas bars are often close together in the Spanish capital, so a walking tour of Madrid is the best way to experience the variety and ambiance.
• Tapas are meant to be savored. Take your time to enjoy the flavors and the experience.
• With all the delicious wine and beer, it's easy to forget to drink water. Keep hydrated throughout your tour.
• Don't shy away from unfamiliar dishes. Tapas tours are the perfect opportunity to try new things.
• Tipping isn't obligatory in Spain, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.