Madrid stands out as a culinary hub in Spain, where food isn’t just fuel but a lively part of daily life. Its markets overflow with fresh seafood, vibrant vegetables, and local specialties, making it an ideal place to learn Spanish cooking firsthand. Whether you’re eager to master the art of paella, perfect tapas, or explore market-to-table traditions, Madrid offers a variety of classes designed for all skill levels. We especially love experiences like the Paella Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine for its authentic hands-on approach and relaxed setting, perfect for wine lovers and foodies alike.
Madrid’s cooking classes go beyond just recipes—they’re immersive, social, and full of insider tips that you’ll remember long after your trip. This list features a mix of options, from intimate family-style lessons to lively group competitions, all with a focus on the city’s most beloved dishes.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of the best cooking classes in Madrid. Each offers a unique way to connect with Spanish cuisine, ranging from paella and tapas to market visits and private home experiences.
1. Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with Bottomless Wine Pairing
At number 1, the Paella Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine stands out for its comprehensive, fun, and very relaxed approach. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll learn how to prepare authentic Valencian paella from scratch—a skill many travel to Spain to master. The class includes a lively multi-course meal with Spanish cheeses, charcuterie, gazpacho, and churros with chocolate, all served at a communal table. The highlight? Sampling five types of Spanish wines during the session, making it a true feast for senses.
Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable instructors and the immersive experience. Reviewers mention the “bottomless wine” as a big plus, along with the opportunity to make friends and learn practical tips you’ll use back home. For those who want a lively, well-organized class with plenty of tasting, this is a strong choice.
Bottom Line: This class offers excellent value for money, blending cooking, dining, and wine tasting in one lively session, perfect for food lovers eager to grasp Spain’s most iconic dish.
2. Taste of Spain: Tapas Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine Pairing
Next on our list is the Taste of Spain: Tapas Cooking Class, a 3-hour hands-on experience that really delivers on flavor and fun. You’re welcomed with a glass of cava, then you’ll prepare classic tapas like garlic prawns and stuffed piquillo peppers. The class culminates in a shared feast of your creations, complemented by a variety of Spanish wines.
This class is particularly good for those who want a more intimate, engaging experience. The instructor, Javie, is praised for making the class lively and informative, making it easy to pick up new skills. Guests enjoy the lively atmosphere and look forward to practicing their new recipes at home.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an authentic, social introduction to Spanish tapas with great wine and expert guidance, this class hits the mark, especially for those who enjoy a relaxed, convivial vibe.
3. Madrid Tapas & Paella Cooking Experience with Local Market Visit
At number 3, this Madrid Tapas & Paella Experience combines a market visit with a small-group cooking class. Starting at a local market, you’ll learn about ingredients directly from market vendors before heading to a private kitchen for hands-on cooking. You’ll make paella, tapas, and dessert, all with ingredients included.
Guests enjoy the personalized attention of the instructor and the chance to ask questions about ingredients and techniques. It’s an immersive experience that’s especially suitable for those who want more than just cooking—they want to understand Spanish culinary culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, interactive experience that covers both shopping and cooking, with a focus on authentic ingredients and techniques.
4. Madrid: Half-Day Spanish Cooking Class
Number 4 offers a versatile half-day class suitable for families and solo travelers alike. You can choose between a paella and market visit in the morning or an evening tapas class. The experience includes hands-on learning and a tasting of what you cook, making it both educational and delicious.
Chef Angel, featured in reviews, is known for being approachable and clear, making this class especially good for beginners. The class can accommodate all dietary needs, and the market visit (in the morning version) adds a nice local flavor.
Bottom Line: This class balances depth and flexibility, ideal for those with limited time or families looking for a fun, engaging activity.
5. Madrid Traditional Paella & Wine Tasting Cooking Class
Number 5’s Paella & Wine Tasting focuses on step-by-step instruction from a local chef, including making sangria, tortilla, and paella. It’s a small-group experience, capped at seven participants, fostering personalized tips and direct interaction.
Guests love the authentic recipes and the opportunity to learn secrets from a Valencian native. The class ends with a shared meal and drinks, making it a relaxed and intimate culinary experience.
Bottom Line: A great option for those wanting to dive deep into core Spanish dishes with expert guidance, especially if you value small-group intimacy.
6. Tapas & Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with a Professional Chef
Number 6 offers a 3.5-hour experience learning tapas and paella with a professional chef. The class includes a visit to a private eatery and ends with your creations paired with red and white wine. The chef, Lola, shares valuable tips and culinary insights that elevate your skills.
Guests consistently highlight the friendly, engaging atmosphere and the interactive cooking that makes this experience memorable. The focus on participation ensures you leave with confidence to recreate the dishes at home.
Bottom Line: This is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, chef-led experience that combines storytelling with hands-on learning.
7. 10 Tapas Cooking Class Experience in Madrid with Sangría
Number 7’s 10 Tapas Class is perfect for those eager to learn multiple small bites in one session. Working with a chef, you’ll prepare 10 different tapas, then enjoy them with homemade sangria.
The class is lively and fast-paced but manageable, with a maximum group size of 15. Guests report that the recipes are simple enough to try at home, making this a practical choice.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a broad taste of Spanish cuisine with a fun, social atmosphere and approachable recipes.
8. Madrid: 10 Tapas 2.5-Hour Cooking Class
Number 8 offers a 2.5-hour journey through regional Spanish tapas. Led by a professional chef, you’ll make 10 different dishes from various parts of Spain, then enjoy your meal with sangría.
Guests commend the personalized help and the chance to learn regional variations. The class is well-paced for both beginners and intermediate cooks.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want to explore regional diversity in Spanish tapas in a lively, interactive setting.
9. Madrid: Tapas & Paella Cooking Class with Expert Chef
Number 9 is a 3.5-hour class that pairs tapasp with paella, led by a passionate chef. It includes a private eatery and unlimited drinks. The chef, Lola, shares valuable tips on ingredients and techniques, making it a dynamic, participative experience.
Many guests call this their highlight of Madrid, thanks to the personalized instruction and the delicious dishes created.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want an all-in-one, chef-led experience with a focus on both tapas and paella.
10. Madrid: Spanish Omelet Cooking Class and Bottomless Wine Brunch
Number 10 offers a fun bottomless brunch featuring Spanish omelet, ensaimada, patatas brava, and churros, all paired with wine or cava. Working in pairs, you’ll learn classic recipes in a relaxed atmosphere with up to 16 participants, emphasizing enjoyment and socializing.
Guests love the lighthearted vibe and the chance to learn and laugh while creating traditional dishes. It’s perfect for those wanting a less formal, more casual culinary experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a fun, social brunch with plenty of food and drinks, especially if you want to relax and enjoy Spanish flavors.
How to Choose the Perfect Cooking Class in Madrid
When selecting among Madrid’s many excellent options, consider your budget, available time, and culinary interests. If you want deep, technical skills in paella, the Paella Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine offers a hands-on, full-flavor experience. For a broader tasting tour through regional tapas, the 10 Tapas Class provides a wide range of dishes in a lively setting.
If you prefer a market-to-table approach, the Madrid Tapas & Paella Experience combines shopping with cooking, perfect for those wanting an immersive cultural experience. Budget-conscious travelers might appreciate the Half-Day Spanish Cooking Class, offering excellent value with a focus on core Spanish dishes.
Lastly, for a fun, social brunch experience, the Spanish Omelet & Brunch provides a relaxed, enjoyable way to indulge in Spain’s beloved morning dishes.
Final Thoughts
Madrid’s cooking classes are as diverse as its culinary landscape. From authentic paella to regional tapas and market visits, there’s an experience suited for every traveler — whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned cook, or simply in it for the fun and flavors. For those seeking a comprehensive introduction, the Paella Bottomless Wine Class offers a lively, authentic experience. If you’re after variety, the 10 Tapas Class delivers a broad taste of Spanish cuisine.
To truly enjoy Madrid’s food scene, booking early is recommended — especially during peak travel seasons. Whether you want to learn how to cook like a local, enjoy a fun group activity, or simply indulge in delicious food and wine, Madrid’s cooking classes are a delicious way to enrich your trip.
Happy cooking and buen provecho!
