Madrid: Malasaña Food Market Tour & Churros Breakfast

Summary

Malasaña mornings with churros, market tastings and stories

You’ll wander Malasaña’s lively streets with a local guide, tasting fresh churros dipped in chocolate, sampling Iberian ham and olive oil at the market, then sitting down for a relaxed tapas lunch with classic Madrid drinks. It’s a morning full of flavors and stories — perfect if you want to feel part of real Madrid for a few hours.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so at home in Malasaña — I mean, it’s just a neighborhood, right? But the way our guide Carmen waved at the baker as we passed (they actually remembered her coffee order) made me realize this is someone’s daily life, not just a place on my map. The air was still cool when we ducked into that tiny churrería. The smell of hot oil and sugar hit first. I tried to say “porras” like she did but probably mangled it — Carmen grinned anyway. Dunking those crispy churros into thick chocolate was messier than I thought. Worth it though.

We wandered along narrow streets lined with graffiti that felt more like art than vandalism — one mural had a cat wearing sunglasses, which made me laugh for some reason. At the market, vendors handed out slices of jamón Ibérico (I swear I could taste the acorns), and someone behind us argued about football in rapid-fire Spanish. The olive oil tasting surprised me; I always thought olive oil was just… olive oil? Turns out there’s a grassy kind that almost tingles on your tongue.

By the time we sat down for tapas lunch (shrimp sizzling in garlic, olives that snapped between my teeth), I’d stopped worrying about looking like a tourist or getting the language wrong. Carmen answered every random question I had about Madrid — even where to find the best tinto de verano later. There’s something about eating food grown or made right here that sticks with you longer than any museum visit. I still think about that first bite of churro sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Malasaña and local food market

• Walk through Malasaña neighborhood
• Learn history of local square
• Visit fresh foods market
• Taste specialties from market vendors

Top questions

How long is the Malasaña food tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Are drinks included on this Madrid food tour?

Yes, two beverages are included—local beer or tinto de verano, plus non-alcoholic options.

Does this tour include breakfast?

Yes, you start with classic Spanish breakfast: churros and coffee.

Is this tour suitable for children or strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can join and strollers are welcome.

Where does the tour take place?

The tour takes place in Madrid’s Malasaña neighborhood, near Sol plaza.

Are food allergies accommodated?

Yes, special menus are available if you notify them at least 24 hours before the tour.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the meeting point.

What’s included

Your morning includes six tasting stops across Malasaña: fresh churros with coffee to start, Iberian ham and organic olive oil tastings at the market, plus classic tapas like garlic shrimp and olives. Two drinks—beer or tinto de verano—are included along with non-alcoholic choices. You’ll be guided throughout by a local who knows everyone from bakers to butchers.