Tapas Tour Madrid
(Ref 21)

This tour combines both history and gastronomy in the most charming neighborhoods in the city: the Literary Quarters and Hapsburg Madrid.Hapsburg Madrid is the oldest section of the city, so it's logically packed with the most historical attractions, an area that changed dramatically with Philip II's decision of choosing Madrid as the capital city of a great empire. The highlight in this district is Plaza Mayor, the main square of the city for centuries, being in past market place, bullring, theater stage or an open air court for inquisition trials. Nowadays is a gathering point for Madrile os due to its many bars, taverns and restaurants (think that just in Central Madrid we have over 4000 bars and restaurants), and for the famous collectors and Christmas markets.
The alleys of Plaza Mayor also host some hidden gems like the 'mesones', traditional taverns that received their names from the French merchants that used to be regular guests of these spots when they stayed in the city, and obviously we cannot forget about the most charming market in Central Spain, the seductive 'Mercado San Miguel' where you can try any kind of Spanish olives, the best seafood , some delicious creamy croquettes and much more in a great place where you will learn the difference between a 'tapa' and a 'pintxo'.
Few blocks from Plaza Mayor we find another gorgeous square: Plaza Santa Ana. Heart of the Literary Quarters, the name of this district is given for being home to the most important authors of the Spanish Golden Age. Cervantes, Lope de Vega or Quevedo traces can be found in the streets of the neighborhood. In the last years the area has become the favorite destination among tapas lovers in Madrid. Old beerhouses where Hemingway had a reserved table when in Madrid, the oldest tavern in Madrid, a tapas bar where you can order shrimps only all this and much more you find in this historical district. Enjoy!

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