Madrid

What to eat in Madrid

Data checked on October 4, 2026

Cocido madrileño

A chickpea stew served in stages: the broth first, then the chickpeas, vegetables and meat. It is a heavy lunch, eaten mostly from autumn to spring.

Fried squid rings in a crusty roll, a plain and cheap snack that people eat standing near Plaza Mayor.

Fried eggs broken over fried potatoes, often with ham or chorizo. People share a plate as a starter.

A thick potato omelette cut in wedges and served at the bar, warm or at room temperature, often with bread.

Fried dough sticks dipped in thick hot chocolate. Madrileños have them for breakfast or after a night out.

Sweet red vermouth served over ice with an orange slice and an olive. It is the weekend drink before lunch, especially in La Latina.

Every itinerary on this site keeps a lunch break after 12:30, so there is room for a proper meal in the middle of the day.

An evening of flamencoSmall venues in the centre stage flamenco in the evening, with seating close to the stage. Book ahead for the better seats and expect a show of about an hour.
A walk along Madrid RíoA riverside park along the Manzanares, built over a former ring road, with cycle paths, playgrounds and the Matadero arts centre. It is flat and good for a slow afternoon.
The cable car over Casa de CampoA cable car leaves from near Paseo del Pintor Rosales and crosses the park, with a view of the palace and the city skyline behind it.
A day in SegoviaHigh-speed trains reach Segovia in about 30 minutes. The town has a Roman aqueduct, a cathedral and an alcázar, and it is a calmer day trip than Toledo.
The Royal Botanical GardenA walled 18th-century garden beside the Prado, with greenhouses and shaded paths. It is a quiet break between museums.

Markets in the stop base