New! Madrid: Not Just Another Tapas & Wine Tour by Eating Europe

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid and want to see beyond the usual tourist spots, this “Not Just Another Tapas & Wine Tour” by Eating Europe offers a surprisingly authentic taste of the city’s vibrant food scene. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an experience that’s both delicious and insightful.

What really stands out about this tour are two things: first, the expert guides who blend history, culture, and food effortlessly, making each stop feel like a visit with a knowledgeable friend. Second, the variety of tastings — from the famous fried calamari sandwich to sophisticated rice dishes and local wines — which promise a well-rounded culinary adventure.

A potential consideration for some travelers might be the group size and pacing — with a max of 12 people, it’s intimate, but if you’re looking for a very relaxed, unhurried experience, you might want to check if the schedule fits your pace.

This tour is ideal for food lovers eager to explore Madrid through its bites and sips, those interested in authentic local spots rather than touristy fare, and anyone wanting a mix of history, culture, and cuisine in a manageable timeframe.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Skip tourist traps and explore Madrid like a true insider.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, engaging, and genuinely passionate about Madrid.
• Variety of Tastings: From jamón ibérico to calamari sandwiches, rice dishes, and desserts, there’s a broad culinary spectrum.
• Beautiful Streets and Landmarks: The tour includes sights like Plaza Mayor and Mercado de San Miguel, enriching the food experience with stunning surroundings.
• Value for Money: For around $111, you get about three and a half hours of guided tasting, local drinks, and cultural insights.
• Ideal Group Size: Small groups (max 12) foster a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Madrid Food Tour

For anyone curious about what this tour entails, let’s walk through the experience step-by-step. You’ll start at Pl. de Ramales, in the heart of Madrid, and from there, it’s a journey through some of the city’s most beloved and hidden spots.

The Underground Cellar and Rioja Tasting

Your adventure kicks off in an underground cellar packed with Rioja wines. Here, you get to skip the line and participate in a wine tasting paired with mastering the art of slicing jamón ibérico. It’s a great way to set the tone — learning about Spain’s famous ham and wine in a cozy, authentic setting. Reviewers rave about the guide’s warmth and engaging manner, making the experience feel like a visit with a friend rather than a formal tour.

The Calamari Sandwich at La Campana

Next, the tour takes you to La Campana, known for serving what many consider Madrid’s best fried calamari sandwich. If you love seafood or are simply curious about this iconic snack, you’re in for a treat. Think crispy, tender calamari tucked into a soft bun — a perfect blend of texture and flavor. Several reviewers mention just how irresistible and crisp the sandwich is, making it a highlight of the tour.

Barrio de las Letras and the Local Rice Dishes

Wandering through the Literary Quarter, your guide shares stories about Madrid’s writers and artists as you stroll past historic streets. Here, you’ll get to try a refined, bolder version of paella — not the typical restaurant kind, but a dish with a twist that elevates the classic rice experience. This stop is especially appreciated by those looking to go beyond the usual and discover local culinary innovations.

Sweet Treats Near Puerta del Sol

Near Madrid’s bustling square, you’ll find a spot to indulge in creamy turrón gelato or a scoop of violet ice cream. It’s a perfect palate-cleanser and a sweet finish to your tasting journey. Many reviews mention how these desserts add a memorable, fun element, especially if you’re into trying local sweet flavors.

Landmarks and Market Visits

The tour wraps up with visits to Plaza Mayor and Mercado de San Miguel, iconic Madrid landmarks that are as much about the sights and atmosphere as they are about food. Your guide will point out interesting details and help you appreciate the city’s culinary history woven into these spaces.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of $111.47 per person, you’re getting a lot. The tour provides five food stops, three local drinks, and the chance to learn about Madrid’s food and drink culture through a knowledgeable guide. The included experiences — from wine tasting to slicing jamón ibérico and trying regional specialties — are well-chosen for offering variety and depth.

However, it’s worth noting that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to and from the meeting point. Tipping is also not included, which is normal for many tours but worth considering if you want to reward your guide.

The Value Angle

While $111 might seem steep for a 3.5-hour tour, the reviews suggest it’s money well spent. You’re not just sampling food; you’re gaining insight into Madrid’s culinary and cultural fabric, all in a small, friendly group. The fact that many guests mention guides like Carolyn and Yvonne by name indicates that the personal touch really enhances the experience.

Pacing and Group Size

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour strikes a good balance—small enough for personal interaction but large enough to create a lively atmosphere. The pace is well-managed, with enough time at each stop to savor the food and ask questions. If you prefer a very relaxed, unhurried experience or are traveling with children, this setup might be perfect, but check if the pace matches your comfort level.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

What do real travelers say? Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One noted that Adolfo made the experience warm and engaging, sharing stories about the city and its food, which added a personal touch.

Another reviewer felt the tour was more like an outing with family and friends than a typical tourist activity, emphasizing the relaxed, genuine vibe. Many mention that the tour helped them learn about Madrid’s food, history, and culture — making it more than just a tasting session.

Several guests suggest doing this tour early in their stay to get a taste of Madrid’s highlights and culinary scene, making it a smart way to kick off a trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for foodies who love trying regional dishes and drinking local wines, but it also works well for travelers who enjoy a mix of history and culture along with their bites. If you appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and enriching.

It’s also a good pick if you’re looking for a small-group setting where you can ask questions and really connect with your guide. While not specifically geared toward families, most travelers found it accessible and engaging, regardless of age.

FAQs

Is there hotel pickup? No, the tour starts at Plaza de Ramales, so plan your transportation accordingly.
How long is the tour? Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and tastings.
What is included? Rioja wines, jamón ibérico slicing, calamari sandwich, rice dishes, desserts, and local drinks.
Are there any dietary restrictions? The tour description doesn’t specify, so check with the provider if you have specific needs.
Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, with full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not explicitly stated, but most travelers found it engaging; it’s a walking tour with food tastings, so it’s generally accessible.
How many people are in each group? A maximum of 12, which helps keep it personal and lively.
Is the tour walkable? Yes, it involves strolling through historic streets and landmarks.
Do I need to book in advance? Yes, especially during peak times, as it’s popular with last month’s 10+ bookings.
What’s the best time to join? The tour is available most days; morning or early afternoon options might suit those wanting to explore more afterward.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to get an authentic feel for Madrid while indulging in its delicious bites and sips, this “Not Just Another Tapas & Wine Tour” offers a balanced mix of food, culture, and local stories. The guided experience, small group size, and thoughtfully curated stops make it a compelling choice for those who want more than just a list of restaurants—rather, a story of Madrid told through its flavors.

While it might not suit travelers seeking a very leisurely or private experience, for most food lovers eager to explore Madrid’s culinary heart, this tour hits the sweet spot. The combination of expertly guided tastings, historic sights, and memorable desserts means you’ll leave with more than just a full stomach — you’ll have a better understanding of Madrid’s food identity and a handful of new favorite spots.

In essence, this tour is a tasty, insightful, and well-organized way to uncover Madrid’s culinary soul. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or just want a meaningful food adventure, it’s worth considering.