Madrid Tapas, Taverns & History Tour

Enjoy incredible local tapas and a fun history walk of Madrid’s historic city center as you discover how the city’s food and history go together. 

Madrid’s history comes to life through food and fascinating stories on this one-of-a-kind tapas crawl. In between stops at some of the city’s oldest tapas bars, you’ll embark on a journey through hundreds of years of history past legendary monuments, unassuming hidden corners, and everything in between. You’ll also gain firsthand knowledge of how to go out for tapas just like the locals do in Madrid! 

Your evening begins at a historic tavern in the heart of Madrid, where you’ll enjoy your first tapas of the evening along with vermouth—Spain’s favorite aperitif. Get a crash course in the art of tapeo as your guide shares some of the secrets of going out for tapas here in Madrid. 

Your next stop was once a horse stable and is now a beloved family-run restaurant serving homemade dishes from Asturias. You'll see how cider is traditionally poured and even get the chance to try it yourself! You'll sip your freshly-poured cider and enjoy two tapas typical to region.     After that, you’re off to discover Madrid’s history up close on an expertly guided walking tour! For the next 35 minutes, history will come alive before your eyes as you pass iconic sights like the Royal Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in the world, and wander through the historic Habsburg neighborhood with buildings dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries. 

Having worked up an appetite, it’s time for more tapas at a beloved bar in the historic center. Each of these bites is a time-honored local favorite that has won the hearts of generations of madrileños over the decades! You'll pair your tapas with a delicious wine cocktail locals love on a night out. 

You'll resume your history walk visiting two more iconic landmarks: Madrid’s famed Plaza Mayor and the lively Puerta del Sol. Your guide will fill you in on why these plazas hold immense significance in Madrid's history and culture.

The final stop is a family-run bar open since 1906. Here you'll sit down and enjoy a selection of classic tapas, including Madrid's signature tapa, gambas al ajillo or garlic shrimp. You'll even try this dish at the place that claims it was invented with a glass of wine.

As you make your way from one tapas bar to another, you’ll get insights into Madrid’s fascinating past. You’ll leave with plenty of knowledge of how to enjoy tapas like a local in Madrid, and how the city’s history and food go hand in hand.