Madrid, Spain: The Vibrant Heart of Spanish Cuisine May 2-10, 2026

Why Madrid?

Hello Travelers,

Madrid’s food history is a delicious patchwork woven from regional Spanish influences, royal traditions, and humble peasant fare. Since Madrid only became the capital in 1561 under King Philip II, its cuisine isn’t rooted in ancient local traditions the way other Spanish regions are—but that’s exactly what makes it so interesting: it borrowed and blended flavors from all over Spain.

Exploring the culinary landscapes of Madrid and its surrounding historical towns with Zingerman’s Food Tours offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Spanish gastronomy and culture.

We start and end in Madrid, the capital of Spain and the heart of Castile. It became a culinary melting pot where aristocratic kitchens, influenced by French cuisine, incorporated spices, seafood, and fine techniques can be found with dishes that reflect the hearty, rustic fare of the region - designed to warm and sustain. It is also the undisputed capital of tapas, a dazzling array of small-plate delights, from classic patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo to more innovative creations.

Madrid boasts incredible food markets like Mercado de Maravillas where we guide you through this vibrant space, offering tastings of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and cured meats - all followed by a market lunch.

Central Spain is vast, and with Madrid as our base, we’ll head out to nearby towns, each with its own culinary riches and specialties.

We travel to the ancient city of Toledo to explore and taste its renowned artisanal marzipan (mazapán), a legacy of its Moorish past.

Hop aboard the Strawberry Train to Aranjuez, famous for its sweet strawberries and white asparagus, grown in the fertile lands surrounding the Royal Palace and shaped by a culinary heritage influenced by the Spanish monarchy.

A bus ride into the nearby Sierra de Guadarrama mountains will take us to the town of El Escorial, known for its artisanal cheeses. There, we’ll visit a creamery that produces marvelous goat cheese.

Arganda del Rey is wine and olive oil country. There, we’ll visit a winery and olive mill co-op that has been producing olive oil and wine for over 80 years.

We also travel to Brihuega to see its famous and stunning lavender fields. While not a direct food item, the lavender subtly infuses local honey and other products, adding a unique aromatic touch to the regional gastronomy.

Join Zingerman’s Food Tours and experience the diverse culinary landscape of central Spain—from the bustling tapas scene of Madrid to the regional specialties of the surrounding towns. You'll discover how food is deeply intertwined with culture, providing insight into the history, traditions, and local life of each area.

Madird

May 2-10, 2026

Why Choose Zingerman's Food Tours?

With years of experience curating unforgettable culinary experiences, we pride ourselves on our small group sizes, expert guides, and a commitment to supporting local communities.

Our Food Tours take you to the source. If you’re hungry to explore behind the scenes, come with us. We use food & wine to connect to the history of a region, the spirit of its people, and the rhythm of daily life. Zingerman’s Food Tours is your concierge to the best local guides, food, and cultural experiences. Relax, enjoy, and experience the best, because of our long-standing connections in the food and travel world.