Madrid: Ultimate Food Tour of Local Markets & Tapas

Thinking about exploring Madrid through its vibrant food scene? This Ultimate Food Tour from Devour Tours offers a chance to taste local favorites while getting a glimpse into everyday Madrid life. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines the city’s most loved flavors with the stories behind them, all within a manageable 3.5 hours.

What we love about this tour is how it balances delicious tastings with authentic atmosphere. You get to visit local markets and small family-run shops, not just touristy spots. Plus, the variety of food and drinks keeps it interesting from start to finish. That said, it’s primarily a walking experience, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy some light exercise and are comfortable on their feet.

If you enjoy food, history, and lively neighborhoods, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially good if you want to start your Madrid trip with a deep dive into its culinary culture, guided by knowledgeable locals who love sharing their city’s flavors.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences with family-run eateries and local markets.
• Tastings include 12+ bites across 9 different stops, plus drinks like vermouth, wine, and coffee.
• Educational insights about Madrid’s food traditions, history, and the stories behind each stop.
• Well-paced with a mixture of walking, tasting, and short sightseeing snippets.
• Great for food lovers wanting a true taste of Madrid, but less suitable for those with mobility issues or dietary restrictions like vegans or celiacs.
• Engaging guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and share plenty of local tips and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a flavorful journey through Madrid’s most iconic eats, but it’s also a walk through some of its most lively neighborhoods. The experience kicks off at Plaza Santa Ana, a central and easy-to-find starting point, where your guide will be ready with a red tote or sign.

First Stop: Chocolate Madrid

On morning tours, you’ll visit a beloved neighborhood café famous for its churros and hot chocolate. This isn’t just any churro — it’s the real deal, with a focus on the origin of chocolate and its pairing with the snacks Madrid locals have enjoyed for generations. If you’re on the evening tour, instead of churros, you’ll visit a tapas bar for two classic tapas with a beer. Either way, it’s a great intro to Spain’s sweet and savory flavors.

Next: Bread at a Tiny Bakery

You’ll learn why great bread can be hard to find in Madrid, and how this bakery bucks the trend. Managed by a passionate baker from northern Spain, they serve homemade chorizo-stuffed rolls that are worth the visit alone. We loved the way this stop offers a glimpse into Madrid’s bread scene and the craftsmanship involved.

The Market: Mercado de Antón Martín

The most lively part of the tour is the visit to this bustling local market. Here, you’ll see locals shopping for olives, cured meats, fresh produce, and, of course, extra virgin olive oil. It’s an excellent way to observe Madrid’s daily routines. You’ll taste some of these products, including Spain’s favorite aperitif, red vermouth, and learn why it’s such a special drink that’s worth savoring at the right moment.

More Great Tours Nearby

Neighborhood Deli with a Past

This spot is full of history—once a clandestine meeting place in the 1930s where opposition to Spain’s dictatorship was plotted. Today, it’s a cozy place where you’ll sample cheeses from all over Spain paired with two wines. It’s those little stories that add depth to the tasting experience.

Plaza Mayor’s Calamari Sandwich

You can’t visit Madrid without trying a calamari sandwich. This tour’s choice is said to be the best around, with perfectly fried calamari in a crispy batter. It’s a simple, satisfying snack enjoyed standing outside, just like Madrid’s locals do. This stop offers a bit of casual, street-food joy.

Sweet Finish at a Historic Pastry Shop

The grand finale is at a pastry shop founded in 1855 — a place once visited by Queen Elizabeth II! It’s a hidden gem that’s been featured in a TV show, but remains a beloved local spot. Here, you’ll indulge in a classic Spanish dessert, paired with your choice of coffee or tea, wrapping up your flavorful journey with something sweet.

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Plaza Santa Ana, the tour takes you through several vibrant locations:

• Chocolate Madrid: chocolate and churros (morning tours only)
• MOEGA Empanadas y pan gallego: quick tasting of empanadas and bread
• Antón Martín Market: a full half-hour exploring local stalls
• Casa González: wine and food tasting
• Casa Revuelta: sampling cured meats
• Bar La Campana: famous for its calamari sandwiches
• El Riojano: pastry shop visit for a sweet treat

Each stop is designed to be manageable in time, with around 6 tastings and 3 drinks included in the 3.5-hour window. The pace is relaxed enough to soak in the atmosphere, but it’s a fair amount of walking — so comfortable shoes are a must.

The Experience: Food, Culture, and Local Life

One of the biggest strengths here is the authenticity. The stops are carefully chosen to give you a taste of what Madrileños enjoy daily, not just touristy clichés. The market visit, in particular, is a highlight, offering a vibrant scene of locals doing their shopping, with plenty of opportunities to taste fresh, high-quality products.

Guests have raved about the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Multiple reviews mention guides who are engaging, with some saying they shared fascinating historical tidbits along with the food. The small group size helps keep the experience intimate, allowing questions and interactions that enrich the visit.

Value for Money

While the tour is priced to include all the tastings and a knowledgeable guide, many reviews note that the experience is quite generous in terms of food. Several guests mention they felt full by the end and appreciated the variety. It’s a tasting tour, not a full meal, but the quantity and quality of the bites make it feel like a substantial experience.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is that this is a walking tour. If you’re not comfortable on your feet or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. Also, vegetarians and those with gluten or dairy restrictions should note that not every stop offers substitutions, though the tour is adaptable for some dietary needs. No vegan or celiac options are specified, so check with the provider if needed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for foodies who want an immersive taste of Madrid’s local flavors paired with stories. If you enjoy exploring neighborhoods on foot and appreciate learning about a city through its cuisine, you’ll find this rewarding. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a local perspective right at the start of their trip.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, sit-down experience or have specific food restrictions, you might want to explore other options or communicate your needs beforehand.

Final Thoughts

Madrid’s Ultimate Food Tour from Devour Tours offers a genuine way to experience the city’s culinary scene, guided by passionate locals. You’ll sample some of the best bites Madrid has to offer—everything from market olives to crispy calamari sandwiches, topped off with sweets from a historic pastry shop. The combination of high-quality food, compelling stories, and lively neighborhoods makes this a memorable introduction to Madrid.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy walking, tasting, and learning on the go. The knowledgeable guides, small groups, and authentic stops all contribute to a well-rounded, satisfying experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned foodie, this tour will give you a flavorful taste of what Madrid is all about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
It’s adaptable for vegetarians, but not guaranteed for vegans or those with celiac disease. Some stops may not offer replacements for specific dietary restrictions, so it’s best to check with the provider if you have special needs.

How much walking is involved?
The tour is primarily walking through central Madrid neighborhoods. Guests should be comfortable walking at a moderate pace, as it includes several stops and explorations around the market and city streets.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers a local English-speaking guide, 6 tasting stops with over 12 tastes, and 3 drinks like vermouth, wine, or coffee. It does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

When does the tour start?
Check the availability for morning or afternoon times. Morning tours include churros, while evening tours substitute that stop for tapas and a beer.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s not explicitly designed for children, but if your kids enjoy walking and trying different foods, it can be a fun experience. Note that it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or strollers.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable length for most travelers without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there’s quite a bit of walking involved.

Are there options for people with food allergies?
You should contact the activity provider beforehand to discuss any dietary restrictions or allergies so they can try to accommodate your needs.

Is this tour good for first-time visitors to Madrid?
Absolutely. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of local life, food, and neighborhoods, making it perfect for those new to the city.

If you’re looking to combine a relaxed walk through Madrid with a flavorful exploration of its culinary gems, this tour is a solid choice. It balances delicious bites with engaging stories, perfect for food lovers eager to see the real Madrid.

You can check availability for your dates here: