The Original Tapas Crawl: A Guide to Experience the Best Tapas in Madrid

Madrid is famous for its delicious tapas, and the best way to experience them is through a tapas crawl. A tapas crawl is a fun-filled evening of bar hopping and trying different tapas dishes at each stop. If you are planning a trip to Madrid, make sure to try the Original Tapas Crawl. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the city like a local and explore non-touristy areas while tasting the best traditional tapas.

Here is a guide on planning the original tapas crawl in Madrid:

Book the Tour

The first step is to book the tour. You can book the Original Tapas Crawl through the GetYourGuide website. The tour costs €89 per person and includes 10-12 tapas dishes and drinks. The tour lasts about three and a half hours, and the meeting point is in front of Banco de Espana metro station. If you want to avoid disappointment, book the tour in advance.

Book the tour here on GetYourGuide

Highlights of the Tour

The Original Tapas Crawl is a unique tour that takes you to some of the best family-owned businesses in Madrid. Here are some of the highlights of this tour:

Visit a non-touristy area of Madrid

The tour takes you to a non-touristy area of Madrid that is popular with locals. This area is rich in history and has many hidden gems.

Take a trip to 4 different family-owned businesses

The tour takes you to four different family-owned businesses, each with its own unique tapas dishes. These businesses have been serving tapas for generations and are known for their authentic and high-quality food.

Learn about the local area from your knowledgeable guide

Your guide will provide you with interesting facts about the area, including its history and culture. You will also learn about the ingredients used in the tapas dishes and the traditions behind them.

Taste 12-15 different delicious tapas meals

The Original Tapas Crawl offers a wide variety of tapas dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options. You will taste 12-15 different tapas meals, each with its own unique flavor.

The Full Description of the Tour

The Original Tapas Crawl is an exciting outing with a knowledgeable local guide who will take you to the best tapas Madrid has to offer. The tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Madrid’s hidden gems and have insight into the city’s rich culture and traditions.

During the tour, you will visit four locations, including a market cuisine restaurant, a well-known ice-cold beer bar, a new slow food tavern, and a one-century-old bodega in a high-quality and non-touristy tapas area. You will feel like a local as you dine amongst true Madrileños.

Your knowledgeable guide is well acquainted with many of the families that own the businesses, giving you special insight into what makes their version of tapas so special. You will learn about the history and traditions behind each tapas dish and each establishment.

The tour includes 10-12 tapas dishes with drinks, including Iberian dried meat, seafood, extra virgin olive oil, Madrid-style potatoes, artisanal beers, and locally produced wines.

Tips for the Original Tapas Crawl

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Original Tapas Crawl:

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is walking involved
• Bring a jacket or sweater, as it can get chilly at night
• Come hungry and pace yourself as there are many tapas dishes to try
• Be open-minded and try new dishes you may not have tried before
• Ask your guide for recommendations on other tapas bars to visit during your trip

Conclusion

The Original Tapas Crawl is a must-do activity in Madrid. It is a great way to experience the city like a local and taste some of the best traditional tapas dishes. The tour is informative, entertaining, and will leave you with unforgettable memories. Book your tour today and get ready to explore Madrid’s culinary scene.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Madrid

Madrid is a city of vibrant culture and rich history with a captivating beauty that leaves everyone in awe. As an insider of this city, I’m excited to share with you some hidden gems, traditional spots, cultural experiences, intriguing history, and off-the-beaten-path places to create unforgettable memories.

Local Attractions

Madrid offers countless attractions, and there is something for everyone. But there are some hidden gems that only the locals know about, like the stunning Debod Temple. Located near the Plaza de España, this ancient Egyptian temple is a breathtaking sight that offers panoramic views of the city.

If you are a fan of street art, be sure to visit Lavapiés, which is known for its urban art scene. The area is full of colorful murals and graffiti that express the creativity of the local community.

Dining Spots

Madrid is not only the Spanish capital, but it is also a food lover’s paradise. From traditional tapas to the latest gastronomic trends, there is something for every palate.

Start your day with a churro breakfast at the famous Chocolatería San Ginés located in the heart of the city. For lunch and dinner, try the world-famous Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, a cured ham that is exclusively produced in Spain. You can find it at Mercado de San Miguel, an indoor market known for its vibrant atmosphere and local delicacies.

Don’t forget to taste the delicious cocido, a traditional stew made with meats, vegetables, and chickpeas. You can find the best cocidos at Casa Carola, which has been serving this delicacy since 1854.

Cultural Experiences

Madrid has a vibrant cultural scene that reflects the city’s rich heritage and diversity.

One cultural experience not to miss is the charming district of La Latina, known for its lively street life, historical monuments, and traditional taverns. A trip to the Prado Museum is also a must-see, housing one of the finest art collections in Europe, with works by Goya, Velazquez, and El Greco.

You’ll also want to experience the city’s rich flamenco culture, which dates back centuries. Casa Patas is a popular choice for those looking for an authentic flamenco experience, with live performances and delicious tapas to boot.

Local History

Madrid’s history stretches back thousands of years, and its past is dotted with fascinating stories. One little-known fact is that the famous Madrid Metropolis building was originally intended to be a casino, but the government at the time banned all forms of gambling, so it became a symbol of the city’s prosperity instead.

Another intriguing story is about the mastermind of the Spanish Inquisition, who was born in Madrid. Known as Tomás de Torquemada, he served as the Grand Inquisitor of Spain for 15 years. Today, his legacy is marked by a statue in the Plaza del Conde de Barajas.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking for an unforgettable experience, venture outside Madrid to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of El Escorial. This impressive complex was built in the 16th century by King Philip II and includes a royal monastery, a palace, and a library with more than 40,000 volumes.

Another hidden gem is the Retiro Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city with more than 125 hectares of tranquil gardens surrounding a picturesque lake. You can take a rowboat ride on the lake, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and marvel at the beauty of the gardens.

Madrid is a city with something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or a history buff, Madrid is sure to captivate your heart and leave memories that will last a lifetime.