From Miró to Verdi, Gaudí and the bouquinistes of Paris, discover six National Geographic Day Tours dedicated to the arts.
April 15th is World Art Day, an international celebration dedicated to the world of art. Established in 2012 by the International Association of Art and recognized by UNESCO, it’s the perfect excuse to discover art in every part of the world, appreciate its beauty and discover the stories behind it. And what better way to do this than by joining a guided tour?
National Geographic Day Tours, operated by TUI, are unmissable experiences for those who love art and culture in all its forms. Featuring exclusive access, guides trained by National Geographic and insights from local specialists, these immersive experiences take you deep into the world of the arts.
To mark this World Art Day, we’ve selected six National Geographic art and culture tours that you don’t want to miss:
1. Barcelona (Spain): Homage to Miró
If you love surrealist art, you’re probably no stranger to the work of Miró. With this National Geographic tour, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the world of this Catalan painter and sculptor. The tour gives you exclusive access to the Joan Miró Foundation before it opens to the public. Tucked away in the scenic setting of Montjuïc, the foundation itself is a sight to behold. Designed by architect Josep Lluis Sert, the building was deliberately intended to interact with the surrounding space and the artist’s works. With the help of a specialized architect, you’ll discover details of the most emblematic features of Sert’s design and his collaboration with Miró.
You’ll also get to visit the panoramic terraces, the museum library with illustrations of some of Mirò’s personal books, and finish off the tour with a glass of cava.
Book your experience online: Nat Geo Day Tour: Homage to Miró
2. Barcelona (Spain): Gaudí’s Hidden Treasures
Another National Geographic Day Tour set in Barcelona, this one is entirely dedicated to the famed architect synonymous with Catalan modernism: Antoni Gaudí. The visit takes place at Casa Milà, one of Barcelona’s most iconic attractions. Enter before the site officially opens to enjoy it without the crowds. Your guide, trained by National Geographic, will share with you the controversial history of the building, also known as La Pedrera, and help you discover every corner, including an apartment usually closed to the public.
Finally, enjoy exclusive access to the rooftop terrace, which lets you see Casa Milà’s famous chimneys up close. Finish the visit with a tour of the basement, the auditorium, and a delightful breakfast at the cafe.
Book your experience online: Nat Geo Day Tour – Unveiling Gaudí’s Hidden Treasures
3. Milan (Italy): In Verdi’s Footsteps
This tour retraces the life of Giuseppe Verdi – one of the world’s most famous and celebrated opera composers – through the elegant neighborhoods of Milan. The itinerary begins at Casa Verdi, a retirement home for musicians founded by Verdi. There you’ll learn all about his life and career, meet current residents of Casa Verdi (including internationally renowned artists), and even see one of them perform in an exclusive performance. Finally, head to the luxurious La Scala Theater to visit its museum, see backstage and discover insights about Verdi’s work. The tour finishes in style with an aperitivo at the Grand Hotel.
Book your experience online: Nat Geo Day Tour – In Verdi’s Footsteps
4. Paris (France): Paris, the City of Book Lovers
This guided tour of the city of Paris is ideal for lovers of literature. Led by a historian, you’ll discover the literary history of the City of Light by exploring some of its most beloved sights. The tour includes a visit to three main sections of the National Library of Paris; Shakespeare and Co., the iconic bookstore frequented by influential writers such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway; as well as the banks of the Seine, where for centuries the city’s famous bouquinistes have been selling second-hand books.
Book your experience online: Nat Geo Day Tour: Paris, the City of Book Lovers
5. Madrid (Spain): A Morning at Thyssen
With its enormous collection boasting nearly 1000 works from the 13th to the 20th century, The Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is a paradise for painting enthusiasts. On this National Geographic Day Tour, you’ll be able to enjoy the work of prominent artists in an intimate setting before the museum opens to the general public. After discovering numerous insights and stories about the works, artists, and the museum’s history, thanks to the knowledgeable art expert/guide, the tour comes to an end with a delicious traditional breakfast at the museum cafe.
Book your experience online: Nat Geo Day Tour: A Morning at Thyssen
6. Paphos (Cyprus): Philippos Yiapanis, from Torment to Triumph
Reflect on the fusion of art, history, and culinary tradition in Cyprus on this fascinating tour led by Philippos Yiapanis, a renowned Cypriot sculptor whose work was influenced by his escape and captivity during the Turkish invasion. Learn about his own compelling story and artistic process as he guides you through his workshop, museum and the outdoor sculpture park. Discover his bronze working techniques and the emotions embodied in his works, before ending with a flavorsome local meal.
Book your experience online: Nat Geo Day Tour: Philippos Yiapanis, from Torment to Triumph