Madrid: Goya Route with Aperitif and Guided Tours

Experience the life and works of Francisco Goya with this engaging 4-hour tour in Madrid that combines art, history, and local tastes. Organized by Voilàrt and rated 4.3, this guided experience takes you through two of Madrid’s most iconic sites: the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando and the Basilica of San Francisco el Grande. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a snack stop featuring local drinks and tapas, giving you a taste of Madrid’s vibrant social scene.

This tour is perfect for those interested in Goya’s art, Spanish history, and culture, especially because it includes exclusive access to significant works by the artist, like ‘San Bernardino de Siena preaching before Alfonso V of Aragon’ in the Goya chapel. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) and live guides in Spanish and English make it a personal and informative experience. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes to enjoy walking comfortably through the sites.

Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours, with a flexible start time depending on availability
• Highlights: Visit the Royal Academy of Fine Arts to see 13 Goya paintings, including self-portraits and engravings
• Cultural Stop: Explore the Goya chapel within the Basilica of San Francisco el Grande, featuring Goya’s ‘San Bernardino de Siena’
• Local Flavors: Enjoy a snack break at a typical Madrid bar with wine, beer, tapas, and local snacks
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and takes place in a small group for a more personalized experience
• Booking Flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Madrid Goya Route: An Artistic Journey in 4 Hours

This tour offers a focused exploration of Goya’s work and Madrid life, making it suitable for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. It begins at the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, a key venue where thirteen of Goya’s works are displayed. Here, you get close-up views of self-portraits, ‘The Burial of the Sardine’, and engravings, providing insights into Goya’s early and contemporary art styles.

The experience continues with a refreshing stop at a local bar, where participants can enjoy drinks and tapas. This pause not only recharges the group but also offers a glimpse into Madrid’s everyday social life. Afterward, the tour moves to the Goya chapel within the Basilica of San Francisco el Grande, where the famous painting of Goya—‘San Bernardino de Siena preaching before Alfonso V of Aragon’—is on display.

From the Royal Academy to the Goya Chapel

The Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando stands as a pillar of Madrid’s artistic heritage. It features thirteen distinguished paintings by Goya, showcasing his progression as a painter and his role in contemporary art. The self-portraits offer a personal look at Goya’s character, while the engravings highlight his technical mastery. The admission to see these works is included in the tour, providing a rare opportunity to view Goya’s art up close outside of the more crowded museums.

Following this, the snack stop is set in a typical Madrid bar. Guests can choose from local snacks and tapas, paired with wine or beer, giving a taste of Madrid’s culinary culture. This informal break is a perfect way to discuss the art seen so far or simply relax before the next stop.

The Goya chapel at the Basilica of San Francisco el Grande offers a more intimate perspective on Goya’s religious and historical works. Here, the painting of ‘San Bernardino de Siena’ is housed, alongside works by artists like Alonso Cano, Luca Giordano, and Zurbarán. Sculptures by Mariano Benlliure also decorate the space, adding to the artistic richness of the site.

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour departs from the main entrance of the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, with the guide holding a sign that says Voilàrt. The exact coordinates are 40.41770553588867, -3.7007558345794678. The group is small, limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

The activity includes skip-the-line access through an express security check, saving time and allowing more focus on the art and stories. The live guides speak both Spanish and English, making the tour accessible to a wide audience. The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, making it a manageable and enriching addition to a day in Madrid.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and standing at multiple sites. The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing those with mobility needs to enjoy the experience fully. The small group size enhances comfort and interaction with the guides.

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Comparing Similar Experiences in Madrid

This tour stands out for its focus on Goya and Madrid’s art scene outside the typical museum visits. It offers a combination of art viewing, cultural storytelling, and local flavors. Other experiences in Madrid include Flamenco shows, full-day tours to Toledo and Segovia, or skip-the-line palace visits. However, this experience’s artistic focus and intimate setting make it a unique choice for those interested in Goya’s life and Madrid’s social fabric.

Final Thoughts on the Goya Route with Aperitif

This 4-hour guided tour provides a rich portrait of Goya’s work and Madrid’s history, with highlighted stops at key sites. The art, food, and storytelling combine to create an informative and pleasant experience. The small group size, flexible cancellation policy, and local flavor make it an appealing option for art enthusiasts and culture seekers.

While it emphasizes Goya’s art and influence, the experience also offers a slice of Madrid’s everyday life, especially through the snack stop. Travelers interested in art, history, and local culture will find this tour both enriching and manageable within a short timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers entry to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, viewing Goya’s works, the snack stop with drinks and tapas, and guided commentary in Spanish and English.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts 4 hours, with some flexibility depending on availability.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at the main entrance of the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando in Madrid, coordinates 40.41770553588867, -3.7007558345794678.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak Spanish and English.

What is the focus of the art at the Royal Academy?
The focus is on Goya’s paintings, self-portraits, and engravings.

Is there a break during the tour?
Yes, there is a 30-minute snack stop at a typical Madrid bar.

What makes this tour different from visiting a museum alone?
The guided experience offers context, storytelling, and access to key works, along with local food and a personal touch from the guides.

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