How Much Does a Meal Cost in Madrid?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a trip to Madrid and wondering about the cost of meals? Well, you’re in the right place.

Madrid is known for its vibrant street food culture and diverse cuisines that cater to all tastes and budgets. In this article, we’ll break down the average cost of meals in Madrid to help you plan your budget accordingly.

Breakfast

When it comes to breakfast, Madrilenos usually enjoy a light meal consisting of coffee or juice, pastries, or toast with tomato spread. You can find many cafes and bakeries throughout the city that offer breakfast menus ranging from €2-€5. If you’re looking for more substantial breakfast options like eggs or pancakes, expect to pay around €6-€10.

Lunch

Lunchtime is the main meal of the day in Spain, and most restaurants offer a set menu (Menu del Dia) that includes a starter, main course, dessert, bread, and sometimes drinks. The average cost of Menu del Dia is around €10-€15 per person. However, if you prefer eating at fancier restaurants or trying out more elaborate dishes like paella or seafood platters, expect to pay €20-€30 per person.

Dinner

Dinner is usually served later in Spain than in other countries. Most restaurants don’t open until 8 pm or later.

Restaurants have a similar pricing structure as lunchtime but with slightly higher prices for similar dishes. You can expect to pay around €15-€20 per person for a regular dinner at an average restaurant.

Snacks

Madrid has plenty of snack options available throughout the day. If you’re on-the-go or just want something quick and easy to eat while walking around the city streets, try some local favorites like churros con chocolate (fried dough pastry with hot chocolate), bocadillos (sandwiches), or tapas (small plates of food). The prices of snacks vary depending on the place you choose to eat, but generally, you can expect to pay around €2-€5.

Conclusion

In conclusion, eating out in Madrid can be affordable if you stick to local cafes and restaurants that offer set menus. A three-course meal with drinks can cost around €15-€20 per person.

However, if you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around €30-€40 per person. With this information in hand, you can plan your budget accordingly and enjoy the delicious cuisine that Madrid has to offer without breaking the bank.