Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What makes this different from other Madrid tapas tours?

Accepted Answer

Most Madrid tapas taverns history tour and Botín itineraries stop at walking past the restaurant. This one gets you inside before it opens, plus two historic taverns and a full dinner, all guided in English over one evening.

Question 2

Is this the same as a regular Botín restaurant tour?

Accepted Answer

Not quite. A standalone Botín restaurant tour usually means booking a table months out and dining during regular service. This tour includes an early, guided visit into the kitchen and wine cellar before Botín opens, then a full dinner once the doors open to everyone else.

Question 3

How many people are on the tour?

Accepted Answer

Groups run up to 12 guests, with a local English-speaking guide throughout.

Question 4

Is this a good Madrid evening food tour for first-time visitors?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As a Madrid evening food tour built around three historic stops and a guaranteed table at one of the country's most in-demand restaurants, it works well whether this is your first trip to Madrid or your fifth.

Question 5

Where do we meet, and where does the tour end?

Accepted Answer

The tour meets at Plaza Santa Ana, by the statue of Calderón de la Barca, and ends at Botín, where you'll stay for dinner after the guided portion concludes.

Question 6

Do we really get into Botín before it opens?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your guide takes the group into Botín before public service begins, including the wine cellar and a look into the wood-fired oven that's been in continuous use for more than 300 years.

Question 7

Is dinner included, or just the early access?

Accepted Answer

Both. The early access is guided, and dinner follows once the doors open to the public, so you get the behind-the-scenes look and a full sit-down meal in the same visit.

Question 8

Can guests with mobility needs join this tour?

Accepted Answer

This tour covers one to two kilometers on foot with several stops along the way, so it isn't currently suitable for guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers. We're happy to talk through details before you book.

Question 9

Is this suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

This tour is best suited to guests aged 15 and up, given the evening timing and the wine and vermouth served throughout.

Question 10

Can you accommodate dietary needs?

Accepted Answer

Vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and non-alcoholic options can all be accommodated with advance notice, though not every stop may have a substitute available. Vegan and celiac diets can't be accommodated on this tour, due to the risk of cross-contamination across venues. Email info@takewalks.com after booking so we can arrange your ingredients, and note that a signed allergy waiver is required for serious allergies.

Question 11

What should I wear or bring?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable shoes. It's a walking tour between three stops, covering one to two kilometers over the course of the evening.

Question 12

Is a private version of this tour available?

Accepted Answer

Not at the moment. If a private version would work better for your group, let us know and we'll pass that along to our product team.

Question 13

Is gratuity included?

Accepted Answer

Gratuities aren't included in the price, though they're appreciated if your guide made the evening a little easier.

Madrid tapas tour with Botín restaurant

Overview

What's included

You will visit

What to expect

Casa Alberto: vermouth in Cervantes' old address

Casa del Abuelo: the shrimp dish born from hunger

Postcards from Madrid

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