Madrid Tapas Tour: 4 Bars, Spanish Wines & Old Town Walk

4.96

(553 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the clatter of plates echoing under the arches of Plaza Mayor—honestly, it caught me off guard. Our guide, Carmen, waved us over with that quick little “venid” that made me feel like we were already friends. She handed out tiny glasses of vermouth (I’d never tried it chilled before) and pointed to a bowl of olives so green they almost looked fake. The air smelled like fried garlic and something sweet I couldn’t place. Maybe churros from somewhere nearby? Anyway, that’s how our Madrid tapas tour started—no big speeches, just straight into the good stuff.

We wandered through narrow streets where the stones felt warm even in late afternoon. At San Miguel Market, Carmen explained how locals pick their favorite stalls by watching which ones have the loudest regulars—not by any sign or menu. I tried to order “boquerones” myself and totally mangled it; Li from our group laughed so hard she nearly dropped her wine. The market was noisy but not overwhelming—just a mix of chatter, clinking glasses, and someone playing guitar outside. We tasted jamón that melted on my tongue and these little peppers that surprised me by not being spicy at all.

By the time we reached Plaza de la Villa, I’d lost track of which wine we were on (third? fourth?). The last bar was all dark wood and old photos; Carmen told us about her grandfather sneaking out for late-night tapas during Franco’s time. It got quiet for a second—funny how food tours can get you thinking about history when you least expect it. The tortilla here was softer than any I’ve had back home. I still think about that view from the Royal Palace area as dusk hit—the city sort of humming below us while we finished off our last bites.