Madrid is a city that breathes food. Its lively markets, traditional taverns, and passionate chefs make it an ideal place to learn how to cook Spanish classics firsthand. Whether you’re a beginner eager to master the art of paella or a foodie wanting to deepen your tapas knowledge, Madrid offers an array of cooking classes that combine fun, authenticity, and excellent value. We especially love the Paella Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine, which is praised for its hands-on approach, convivial atmosphere, and generous wine pours. Participating in one of these experiences lets you not only learn new skills but also enjoy a hearty, multi-course Spanish meal paired with local wines.
If you’re curious about the city’s culinary secrets, these classes are more than just cooking lessons—they’re a taste of Madrid itself. From exploring local markets to sharing dishes with fellow travelers, you’ll leave with new recipes, tips, and a fuller belly. Now, let’s explore the top 12 options available.
1. Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with Bottomless Wine Pairing
This highly-rated class (rated 5.0/5 with 846 reviews) offers a hands-on experience in making the iconic Valencian paella from scratch. For around $138 per person, you’ll spend about two and a half hours in a lively Madrid setting, preparing this saffron-scented rice dish with expert guidance. The fun begins with a communal atmosphere where you learn step-by-step how to make authentic paella, then sit down to enjoy your creation alongside a varied selection of Spanish cheeses, charcuterie, gazpacho, and traditional desserts like churros with chocolate. The cherry on top? You’ll sample five different Spanish wines throughout the class, making it a delightful pairing experience.
What makes this class stand out is the interactive approach and the focus on making paella from start to finish—no shortcuts here. Guests rave about the friendly instructors and the generous wine, with one reviewer calling it “the absolute highlight of their 2.5-week vacation.” Ideal for food lovers who want to learn a signature dish and relax over a multi-course feast, this class offers exceptional value and a true taste of Spanish culture.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, comprehensive, and social way to learn how to cook Madrid’s most famous dish, this class delivers. It’s perfect for aspiring chefs and wine lovers alike.
2. Taste of Spain: Tapas Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine Pairing
For around $138, this three-hour, interactive tapas class in Madrid is a fantastic way to learn how to prepare Spain’s most beloved small plates. Starting with a welcome glass of cava, you’ll get hands-on instruction in crafting classic dishes like garlic prawns and stuffed piquillo peppers. As you cook, enjoy sampling different Spanish wines—another highlight of this experience. After the cooking, everyone sits down together to feast on the dishes, plus a main course and dessert.
What sets this experience apart is the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the emphasis on traditional recipes. Guests describe it as one of their trip highlights, with mentions of the excellent food, wine, and lively atmosphere created by chef Javie. This class is ideal for foodies who want to master tapas dishes and enjoy the social aspect of Spanish dining.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for those seeking a relaxed, fun, and educational introduction to Madrid’s famous small plates, combined with generous wine tastings.
3. Madrid Tapas & Paella Cooking Experience with Local Market Visit
At number 3, this 3.5-hour experience combines a market visit with a cooking class focused on both paella and tapas. For only about $110, you visit a local market to learn how to select fresh ingredients and gather insider tips. Then, in a small-group setting in a private kitchen, you learn how to prepare classic Spanish dishes, including dessert. Afterward, you sit down to enjoy your culinary creations with drinks included.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of market shopping and cooking, giving you insight into Spanish ingredients and cooking techniques. Guests rave about instructor Danielle’s knowledge and the intimate setting, which makes learning personalized and fun. This experience is best suited for travelers who want a hands-on immersion into Madrid’s food culture, especially if they enjoy sourcing fresh ingredients.
Bottom Line: If you’re eager to connect with local markets and learn authentic recipes firsthand, this class offers a comprehensive and engaging experience.
4. Madrid: Half-Day Spanish Cooking Class
This 4-hour class is a versatile choice, with options for paella in the morning or tapas in the evening. Priced at about $91 per person, it’s led by local chefs who guide you through the process of cooking traditional Spanish dishes from start to finish. The class is suitable for all levels, including families, with accommodations for allergies and dietary needs. If you choose the morning paella option, you’ll also visit a local market, adding an extra layer of authenticity.
Guests consistently praise the clear instructions and the generous portions. One reviewer highlighted chef Angel’s engaging teaching style and the delicious results, noting it’s a very fun and accessible experience for beginners. The flexibility of the format makes it suitable for travelers with different schedules.
Bottom Line: For a flexible, family-friendly way to learn authentic Spanish cuisine, this half-day class hits the mark with approachable instruction and a market visit component.
5. Madrid Traditional Paella & Wine Tasting Cooking Class
At just over $87, this small-group class (rated 5.0/5 with 159 reviews) focuses on the essentials of making paella, tortilla, and sangria. Led by a native Valencian, you’ll learn step-by-step techniques, including how to prepare a true Valencian paella, along with tips for balancing flavors. You’ll also make sangria and a Spanish omelet, then enjoy your dishes with drinks served in a convivial setting.
Guests praise the personalized guidance from instructor Paloma, who shares insider tips that make all the difference. This class offers a great value considering the hands-on approach and the chance to learn regional specialties. It’s perfect for travelers who want a focused introduction to classic dishes with a friendly group atmosphere.
Bottom Line: If you want to master paella and accompany it with wine and sangria, this class provides a practical, friendly environment and expert instruction.
6. Tapas & Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with a Professional Chef
Priced at $103.50 and rated 5.0/5 from 158 reviews, this 3.5-hour experience offers a professional-led tapas and paella class inside a private Madrid eatery. You will learn the art of Spanish tapas from a master chef, then savor your dishes with both red and white wines. The emphasis is on learning techniques that you can replicate at home, with personal guidance and a friendly atmosphere.
Guests appreciate the small-group setting that allows for plenty of interaction and tips. The chef’s expertise ensures a high-quality learning experience, making it suitable for foodies who want a deeper dive into Spanish culinary techniques. The inclusion of unlimited drinks enhances the social vibe.
Bottom Line: For a professional cooking experience that emphasizes quality and technique, this class is a top pick, especially if you love pairing food with wine.
7. 10 Tapas Cooking Class Experience in Madrid with Sangría
This 2.5-hour class, costing just under $79 and rated 5.0/5 from 110 reviews, offers a fun, hands-on opportunity to learn how to make 10 different tapas. Led by an engaging chef, you’ll work in a small group, cooking each tapa and then enjoying a homemade dinner paired with sangria. It’s a lively, social class perfect for those wanting to learn a variety of small bites quickly and enjoy a relaxed meal afterward.
Guests highlight the engaging instructor and the variety of recipes, praising how easy they are to replicate at home. The intimate group size (limited to 15) ensures personalized attention, making it a favorite for travelers seeking a relaxed, interactive evening.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want to learn multiple tapas quickly, then sit down to enjoy a home-cooked meal with drinks in a convivial setting.
8. Madrid: 10 Tapas 2.5-Hour Cooking Class
For about $77, this 2.5-hour class (rated 4.8/5 from 164 reviews) explores regional Spanish tapas in a small-group environment. Led by a professional chef, you’ll learn how to prepare 10 different types of tapas from various regions. Afterward, you’ll enjoy tasting your creations with a glass of sangría, making it both a learning and tasting experience.
Guests love the personalized tips and the variety of recipes, with many mentioning how they feel more confident cooking Spanish tapas back home. The class is well-suited for those wanting a comprehensive overview of regional specialties in a friendly, guided setting.
Bottom Line: If you want a broad introduction to Spanish regional tapas, this class offers a balanced mix of hands-on making and tasting.
9. Madrid: Tapas & Paella Cooking Class with Expert Chef
This 3.5-hour class, priced at $101 and with a 5/5 rating from 47 reviews, features a dedicated chef guiding you through making both tapas and paella. You’ll visit a private eatery, learn hands-on techniques, and enjoy your culinary creations with unlimited drinks—beer, wine, or sodas.
Guests describe it as the highlight of their trip, emphasizing the participative nature and professional guidance. The instructor Lola shares useful tips and cultural insights, making the experience enriching as well as delicious. This class is perfect for those who want a comprehensive lesson in Spanish cuisine with a lively, social environment.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full Spanish meal, with expert guidance and a lively atmosphere, this class hits all the right notes.
10. Madrid: Spanish Omelet Cooking Class and Bottomless Wine Brunch
For a more relaxed, brunch-style experience, this 1 hour 45-minute class costs around $89 and has a 5/5 rating from 45 reviews. Working in pairs, you’ll learn to make Spain’s iconic tortilla, along with ensaimada, patatas brava, and churros, all washed down with unlimited wine, cava, tea, or coffee. The setting is casual and fun, perfect for those who want to combine a cooking lesson with a lively social atmosphere.
Guests commend Jaime’s friendly teaching style and the authentic recipes, making this a memorable and tasty morning. It’s great for travelers who enjoy a more informal, lively experience with plenty of drinks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a casual, fun culinary morning with a focus on classic Spanish dishes and a relaxed brunch vibe.
11. Madrid: Paella & Tapas Cooking Class and Market Visit
This 3.5-hour class (rated 4.9/5 from 38 reviews) combines a market visit with cooking a variety of authentic dishes, including paella, tapas, and dessert. For a bit more, you get personal guidance from an experienced chef and a tour of a local market, making it an ideal choice for those who want a comprehensive culinary experience.
Guests love the insightful market tour and the opportunity to make dishes like croquettes, crema catalana, and more. The class is especially suited for those who want to learn regional flavors and understand Spanish ingredients in context.
Bottom Line: For a full immersion into Madrid’s food scene, with market shopping and diverse dishes, this class is a top contender.
12. Small Group Tapas and Paella Cooking Class in Madrid
This highly personalized experience (rated 5.0/5 from just 10 reviews) costs $178 for a 3.5-hour private class hosted in Lola’s home. You’ll learn to prepare two or three recipes from her family repertoire, then sit down to enjoy your meal with drinks included. The private setting allows for tailored instruction and a relaxed, homestyle atmosphere.
Guests describe Lola as an exceptional chef and teacher, emphasizing the authentic, family-style environment. It’s best suited for travelers seeking an intimate, culturally rich experience and who prefer cooking in a homestyle setting.
Bottom Line: If privacy and personalized instruction matter most, this intimate class offers a genuine taste of Spanish family cooking.
How to Choose the Right Cooking Class in Madrid
When selecting the best cooking experience, consider your budget, time available, and interest level. For a comprehensive culinary immersion, the Paella Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine offers a great mix of hands-on cooking and socializing. If you prefer a focused class on tapas, options like the Taste of Spain or 10 Tapas Class are perfect. For those who love local markets, the Market & Cooking Experience provides a deeper cultural layer.
Consider your dietary needs—most classes note accommodations—and your schedule. Book early, especially in peak seasons, as these classes tend to fill up. No matter what you choose, each promises a memorable, tasty slice of Madrid’s culinary world.
In sum, Madrid offers a rich variety of cooking classes that cater to all tastes—from traditional paella to regional tapas, market visits, and intimate home-based lessons. For an authentic taste of Spain, we recommend booking at least one experience, especially if you want to learn new recipes and enjoy a true social meal. Two standout options are the Paella Cooking Class with Bottomless Wine for its lively atmosphere and excellent reviews, and the Market & Cooking Experience for its cultural depth. Whatever your choice, Madrid’s culinary classes promise memorable flavors and new skills to take home.