Madrid: Ultimate Food Tour of Local Markets & Tapas

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Madrid’s culinary scene, this food tour by Devour Tours offers a delightful way to experience the city’s flavors, sights, and local life. While we haven’t personally joined the tour, reviews and the detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of a vibrant, flavorful, and engaging experience that foodies will love.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s a chance to savor more than 12 different tastes across nine family-run establishments. Second, it offers a genuine peek into everyday Madrid life—from bustling markets to hidden deli corners. And third, the guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach.

A small caveat? It involves quite a bit of walking, so comfort and stamina are key. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy exploring on foot and want a well-rounded, flavorful introduction to Madrid’s food culture. If you’re a curious foodie or someone eager to learn about local traditions through taste, this is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Good To Know

• Authentic Flavors: Tastes from local markets, family-run eateries, and iconic tapas bars.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who share stories behind each dish.
• Local Life: Explore vibrant neighborhoods like Lavapiés and Mercado de Antón Martín.
• Variety and Value: Six tasting stops with over 12 tastes and three drinks for a filling experience.
• Historical Insights: Learn surprising stories, like the clandestine meetings held at a deli with a past.
• Walking & Pacing: Moderate walking, so comfortable shoes are a must; the tour is well-paced and informative.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Food Tour Experience

This 3.5-hour journey is designed to give you a deep dive into Madrid’s culinary soul, blending tastes with stories and local insights. Starting at the monument Calderon de la Barca, the tour gradually unfolds through a series of thoughtfully curated stops that reveal the city’s food traditions, history, and everyday life.

The Morning Churros & Chocolate Stop

Your adventure begins at a neighborhood café that redefines what most people think about churros. Instead of the fried dough with sugar we’re all familiar with, you’ll learn about their true origins and enjoy the best version of churros and hot chocolate Madrid has to offer. Reviewers highlight this as a standout moment, with one describing it as a perfect way to kick off the day.

Note: If you opt for the afternoon tour, this stop is replaced with a visit to a popular tapas bar, where you’ll try two local tapas paired with a beer—still a great way to start your Madrid eating adventure.

Baking Bread with Passion

Next, you’ll visit a tiny bakery run by a passionate young baker from northern Spain. Here, you’ll learn why good bread is elusive in Madrid, and taste their homemade chorizo-stuffed rolls—which reviewers say are a revelation. This stop emphasizes how regional quality ingredients and craftsmanship make a difference, especially in a city where bread can sometimes disappoint.

The Vibrant Mercado de Antón Martín

A highlight of the tour is wandering through this bustling market, where locals do their daily shopping. You’ll encounter stalls selling flavorful olives, cured meats, fresh produce, and Spain’s prized extra virgin olive oil. The market visit is not just about tasting; it’s about observing how Madrileños integrate food into their daily routine. Reviewers love the chance to sip Spanish red vermouth and learn when and how to enjoy it, catching a glimpse of local customs.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Hidden Deli with a Past

One of the most intriguing stops is a neighborhood deli that was once a secret meeting spot for anti-dictatorship activities in the 1930s. Today, it’s a cozy space for a cheese and wine tasting, showcasing Spanish cheeses paired with two different wines. Reviewers mention the unexpected historical significance and the quality of the pairings as memorable highlights.

The Plaza Mayor Calamari Sandwich

No visit to Madrid is complete without tasting the city’s famous calamari sandwich. You’ll try the best one around, served in a lively standing-room bar just outside Plaza Mayor. The batter is described as light and crunchy, and many reviewers note how this simple snack captures the essence of Madrid street food. It’s a perfect casual moment, just like the locals enjoy.

Sweet Ending at a Historic Pastry Shop

Your final stop is at a pastry shop established in 1855, once owned by the Spanish Queen’s personal pastry chef. This elegant shop, also featured in a Spanish-American chef’s show, offers a classic Spanish dessert with your choice of coffee or tea. It’s a sweet, sophisticated finish that many visitors find charming and fitting for a city that takes its sweets seriously.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start: Plaza Santa Ana, in front of Calderon de la Barca monument.
• Chocolate Madrid: 25-minute tasting of churros and hot chocolate.
• MoeGA Empanadas & Pan Gallego: 5-minute quick tasting.
• Antón Martín Market: 30-minute exploration and sampling.
• Casa González: 30-minute wine and food tasting.
• Casa Revuelta: 15-minute sampling of local delicacies.
• Bar La Campana: 20-minute tasting of the iconic calamari sandwich.
• El Riojano: 20-minute final tasting at this historic pastry shop.
• End: Back at Plaza Santa Ana.

The tour is designed to balance food, history, and local culture seamlessly, with each stop building a fuller picture of Madrid’s culinary landscape.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

Included are a local English-speaking guide, a well-paced guided walking tour, and six tasting stops with over 12 tastes plus three drinks (including wine and vermouth). Reviewers praise guides like David, Liliana, and Mitzi for their enthusiasm and knowledge, often called out for making the experience both educational and fun.

Not included are hotel pickups or drop-offs, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point, Plaza Santa Ana. The meeting spot is easy to find, with guides holding a red Devour Tours tote bag or sign 15 minutes before start time.

Practical Considerations

• The tour lasts about 3.5 hours and involves moderate walking.
• Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some standing and walking.
• It’s not suitable for guests with mobility issues or strollers.
• Vegetarians, pescatarians, and those with certain dietary needs can be accommodated, but options may be limited at every stop.
• The tour operates in English and is available with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Authenticity & Value

What sets this experience apart is the way it combines delicious tasting with local stories and history, making the food more meaningful. Most reviews mention the generosity of the tastings—many saying they didn’t need to eat again until late—and the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s culture alive.

The price for a 3.5-hour tour that includes over a dozen tastes and several drinks offers solid value for anyone wanting an immersive culinary introduction. Compared to eating solo, you save time, money, and the hassle of figuring out where to go, all while gaining insights you’d miss exploring alone.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to Madrid wanting an engaging overview. It’s ideal if you’re keen on authentic local flavors, learning hidden stories, and meeting fellow travelers in a relaxed setting.

However, if you have mobility issues or dietary restrictions like strict vegans or celiacs, you might want to check with the provider beforehand. Also, those who dislike walking or standing for extended periods should consider their comfort level before booking.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
It is adaptable for vegetarians, pescatarians, gluten-free (not celiacs), and other dietary needs, but some stops may have limited options. Contact the provider ahead for specific arrangements.

Are the food tastings enough for a full meal?
Many reviewers say the portion sizes are generous, and the tour is more than enough to leave you full, with some skipping dinner afterward.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must since this is a walking tour. Bring a hat or sunglasses if it’s sunny; an umbrella if rain is forecast.

Can I join if I have food allergies or restrictions?
Yes, but do notify the tour provider in advance so they can accommodate your needs or advise on the best approach.

Is this tour kid-friendly?
While it’s great for adults, the walking and tasting focus might be less engaging for very young children, especially if they’re sensitive to certain foods or require strollers.

Where does the tour end?
It finishes right back at Plaza Santa Ana, making it easy to explore more of Madrid on your own after.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to experience Madrid through its flavors and stories, this Ultimate Food Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging, and delicious introduction. The combination of local markets, hidden gems, and iconic bites makes it a rewarding activity that appeals to both first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. Expect friendly guides, authentic tastes, and a glimpse into the daily life of Madrid’s residents—all in a manageable, enjoyable package.

If you’re looking for a memorable way to connect with the city’s culinary heart, this tour is an excellent choice. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a group, it’s a flavorful journey worth savoring.

You can check if your dates are available here: