Experience the Prado Museum, a jewel of Madrid and one of the most esteemed art institutions in the world. This visit allows you to skip the lines and immediately delve into an exceptional collection of European art on a private guided tour. The museum is home to masterpieces by iconic artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, each showcasing the richness of their unique styles and contributions to art history. We'll also learn about the museum's spectacular collection of works by Titian, whose paintings influenced Spanish art.

We will have lunch together in the neighborhood near the museum then will possibly walk through Retiro Park or explore Centro in the afternoon. 

In the evening, we will experience flamenco, the captivating and emotive dance of Spain. Listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, flamenco is a cornerstone of Spanish culture. It represents the most emblematic national folklore and is celebrated as one of the most renowned forms of artistic expression in Spain.

Today, we explore some of Liesl's favorite creative shops in Madrid! Get a creative insider's tour of some secret gems that only a local would know about. Liesl will be there to lend any creative assistance you need or want!

As a real highlight on these tours, you will take a unique behind-the-scenes tour to a famous and historic notions and trims shop,.

In between all the delightful shops, you will be stopping at a lovely cafe for chocolate and churros!

This week, you will have time to fabric shop or explore other shops. Liesl will provide a list of all of her favorites and can help with fabric shopping if you would like.

You will head to Granja de San Ildefonso where you will start with a guided tour of Real Fabrica de Cristales, a glass factory with a museum, including the chance the chance to see the glass blowers at work. Following the tour, you will participate in a sand casting workshop.

Enjoy lunch with your travel companions.

Following lunch, you will head over to Segovia. There, you can explore the beautiful city to see all the major highlights.

Since its founding, Real Fábrica de Tapices has played a vital role in preserving Spain’s textile heritage, particularly the historical pieces associated with the Spanish Crown.

During your visit, you'll explore the workshop where tapestries, carpets, and wall hangings are still produced entirely by hand, preserving the deep rooted tradition of Spanish textile craftsmanship.

The tour provides a fascinating insight into how the factory has evolved,embracing high-quality and 100% sustainable production methods. This visit will allow you to witness master weavers at work, observing the meticulous process that goes into each piece.

Following that visit, explore the fascinating world of fashion and culture with a self-guided visit with Liesl to the Museo del Traje (the fashion museum).

With a collection exceeding 160,000 pieces and documents, this unique museum showcases an extensive collection of clothing and accessories that span centuries, from traditional garments to contemporary fashion.

As you explore the exhibits, you’ll discover how fashion has evolved over time and how it reflects the social, cultural, and historical context of each era.

Whether you're passionate about fashion history or simply curious to see iconic styles from different periods, the Museo del Traje offers a rich and immersive experience. You can take your time exploring at your own pace, delving into the stories behind each piece. Or you can spend some time with Liesl and see the history of fashion through her eyes.

Free afternoon to explore more of Madrid on your own.

Immerse yourself in the ancient art of Toledo damascening with this unique participatory workshop, hosted in a specially reserved space. Enroute, you will take a panoramic tour around the city with some photo opportunities.

The experience begins with an insightful explanation of the traditional damascene craftsmanship, where you'll learn about the history and techniques used to inlay precious metals like gold and silver into steel to create intricate designs. 

Following the introduction, enjoy a master class led by a skilled artisan. During this live demonstration, you'll witness the meticulous process of damascening firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of this remarkable technique.

Next, it's your turn to get hands-on! Under the guidance of the master artisan, you'll have the opportunity to create your own damascened piece. Whether you're a beginner or more experienced, this is a chance to test your creativity and craftsmanship in a fun and supportive environment.

At the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a special souvenir — the damascened piece you personally created.  This workshop is the perfect combination of culture, creativity, and tradition, making it a memorable experience for all participants.

The rest of the afternoon is yours free for lunch and to explore more of Toledo!

Today, you will start your day with a visit to a sastreria de toreros (bullfighting tailor), one of the most famous makers of the bullfighting suit in Spain. You will visit the workshop and learn about the process, in addition to seeing the various stages of construction. The “traje de luz”, as the bullfighter’s costume is called, is entirely custom-made, with lots of beading and embroidery in addition to unique construction techniques.

You will then visit a multi-generational guitar luthier who will explain the process and give you a little demonstration, plus a short history of their business. This luthier has produced guitars for many famous musicians.

Lunch at your leisure.

In the afternoon, you will visit Liesl's studio to learn more about her creative process.

To end our wonderful time in Madrid, we will gather with our new friends once more for a wonderful farewell dinner!

Today we will say goodbye and catch our departure flights home or begin your next adventure!

We can set up private transfers to the airport for additional cost.