Madrid Tapas, Taverns and History Tour with Botín

A table at the world's oldest restaurant is normally booked out months in advance. This tour gets you inside before it opens: into the wine cellar and the wood-fired oven that's kept it running for more than 300 years, through war, famine, and a pandemic. Along the way, taste vermouth in a building once home to Spain's most celebrated novelist, and garlic shrimp at the tavern where the dish was invented. The evening finishes with a full sit-down dinner once the doors open to the public.

1. 1

   Casa Alberto

   40 min

   Begin at Casa Alberto, a centennial tavern set on the ground floor of the building where Miguel de Cervantes once lived. Over a glass of vermouth and a plate of Manchego cheese, your guide explains the ritual behind Madrid's favorite aperitif, and the history embedded in the walls around you.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   40 min

   Walk to Casa del Abuelo, a family-run tavern serving gambas al ajillo, sizzling garlic shrimp invented as a way to stretch a poor family's ingredients and now one of Spain's most-loved dishes. Alongside it, taste the house wine, made at the family's own vineyard and served here for generations.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   30 min

   (Early Access) Before Botín opens its doors to the public, your group heads inside, starting on the lower floor and into the wine cellar, once nearly lost to flooding and off-limits to anyone outside your group. Upstairs, look into the wood-fired oven that's roasted cochinillo without interruption for more than 300 years.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   1.5 hours

   The evening ends at the table, with a full dinner inside the restaurant that's run continuously the longest of anywhere in the world. Choose from the menu and taste what the same 300-year-old oven has been producing since Botín first opened its doors.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.