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art appreciation tours

Enjoy some of the world's most iconic art with our dedicated range of art holidays. The range of itineraries we offer are imaginative, authentic, balanced and often include guest speakers. Whether you are looking for a short trip to learn more about art in the UK or a longer trip to discover more about Art Deco in New York then we have an art trip for you. 

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art appreciation tours

Highlights of Normandy: Monet’s Garden, Rouen and Honfleur

William the Conqueror, D-Day, atmospheric Honfleur, medieval Rouen immortalised by Monet plus delightful Bayeux. This...

art appreciation tours

Monet's Garden, The Loire Valley and Fontainebleau

from £1,169

If you are looking to visit one of the most beautiful regions of France, then our tour of the Loire Valley is ideal –...

art appreciation tours

Madrid, Salamanca and Toledo

from £1,299

It seems incredible that despite Spain being one of the most visited countries on earth, so much of it still remains...

Signature tour

art appreciation tours

Timeless Provence

from £1,499

Striking natural beauty, immortalised by Van Gogh and Cezanne, home of the Papacy and capital of Roman Gaul. Provence...

art appreciation tours

Florence and Tuscany

from £1,549

Its cities, Florence, Siena and Pisa, together with smaller towns and medieval villages like Lucca and San Gimignano,...

art appreciation tours

History and Art of the Rhône - MS Lord Byron

from £2,099

Magnificent Roman remains, the remarkable architecture of the Middle Ages and the light and beauty of the Provencal...

Save £100pp

art appreciation tours

Central Europe: Castles, Culture & Capitals

from £2,149

A must for any inquisitive adventurer, Central Europe is a treasure chest of cultural wonders and architectural...

art appreciation tours

Highlights of Romania

from £2,199

Immerse yourself in Romanian life, sample traditional food and meet craftsmen still mastering ancient techniques. This...

rest of the world

art appreciation tours

India's Golden Triangle

Discover the Golden Triangle – a classic route linking Delhi, Agra and Jaipur – on a pulsating tour that takes in...

art appreciation tours

Marrakech & the Sahara

Experience the grandeur of the Sahara as we journey from Marrakech across the High Atlas Mountains to the palm groves of...

art appreciation tours

Marrakesh and The Atlas Mountains

Immerse yourself in a truly captivating city filled with intriguing souks, vibrant squares and superb architecture, plus...

art appreciation tours

Sri Lankan Highlights

With so much diversity, Sri Lanka has enough to keep even the most jaded traveller engrossed for several weeks. However,...

art appreciation tours

Highlights of Morocco

Experience the very best of Morocco, from mazey medinas and lively souks to the broad-shouldered Atlas Mountains and...

art appreciation tours

Highlights of Vietnam

from £1,049

This highlight-packed trip encapsulates the magic of Vietnam: the conservative north, imperial cities, majestic...

art appreciation tours

Colours of Rajasthan

from £1,149

Immerse yourself in Rajasthan, known as the Land of Kings for its countless palaces, forts and monuments to warriors...

art appreciation tours

Highlights of Northern India

Discover the best of northern India on this highlight-packed adventure. Led by an expert tour leader, we marvel at the...

art appreciation tours

Highlights of Northern India - Summer itinerary

from £1,195

art appreciation tours

Uzbek & Turkmen: Cities of the Silk Road

art appreciation tours

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Art & History Tours

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Art Lover's Tour of Europe - Italy, Switzerland, France, Netherlands

Grand history tour of europe - france, germany, czech republic, scientific marvels of europe - italy, switzerland, france, england.

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Day 1: Welcome to Rome

Welcome to Rome! On arrival you are met by your Travel Director and transferred to your accommodation. (D)

Day 2: Rome Sightseeing

This morning, visit the Vatican Museum with a Local Expert. Admire the papal art collection and enter the Sistine Chapel and admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece on its ceiling. Next door, in St Peter’s Basilica, see one of Michelangelo’s early works, the Pieta, and the splendid dome, completed after his death. Afterwards, visit the Colosseum, where the gladiators prepared for battle. (B, RD)

Day 3: Tuscan Hills onto Florence

Journey through the picturesque Tuscan Hills towards Florence. On arrival, join a local art historian to see Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Museum. (B, D)

Day 4: Renaissance Florence

This morning, see the multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti’s ‘Gates of Paradise’. Then join a Local Expert for a visit to the Uffizi Galleries, one of the oldest and most famous art museums in Europe. You'll also enjoy works by Michelangelo, Botticelli and Raphael, among other masterpieces. (B, RD)

Day 5: Leaning Tower of Pisa & Milan

Stop first in Pisa to see the incredible Leaning Tower, as well as its splendid cathedral and baptistery. Continue north to the financial and fashion capital Milan. (B, D)

Day 6: Experience Milan

This morning, visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie with a Local Expert. It is an outstanding work of architecture and an emblem within the Catholic tradition, and is perhaps even more famous for its connection to Leonardo Da Vinci’s fresco of ‘The Last Supper’, which is preserved inside its refectory (dining hall). The Church is one of Renaissance art’s most important testimonies and has therefore been included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (tickets to the Last Supper are subject to availability).  Later, for a change of pace, we embark on an alternative visit to Milan to see urban graffiti, murals and street art scattered around the city. Get a glimpse of an alternative Milan, meet colourful characters, learn about modern-day Milan and be inspired by the vibrancy of city life.  (B, D)

Day 7: Milan to Basel

Travel across the border into Switzerland. En route, we stop for a cheese or chocolate tasting before heading to Basel. (B, D)

Day 8: Basel Sightseeing

Explore Basel, with a Local Expert, concluding with a visit to Foundation Beyeler In 1997, the famous collection of Ernst and Hildy Beyeler in Riehen. The collection contains around 200 pictures and sculptures, including works by Cézanne, Picasso, Rousseau, Mondrian, Klee, Ernst, Matisse and Newman.  Famous around the world, the astounding temporary exhibitions are highlights of your visit. (B, D)

Day 9: Basel to Paris

Travel through the French countryside to Paris. (B, D)

Day 10: Best of Paris

After an orientation tour, visit one of the world's best-known art collections at the Louvre Museum. A specialist art historian guides you through the galleries to see the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory, Mona Lisa and more (Louvre visit subject to availability). Continue on a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral, famously protected by its roof-top gargoyles, to learn about over-arching Parisian history. This evening, embark on an illuminations journey in Paris to see iconic sights at night. (B, HD)

Day 11: Musee De L’orangerie & Giverney

This morning, visit the Musée de l'Orangerie, an art gallery of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. Though most famous for being the permanent home of eight Water Lilies murals by Claude Monet, the museum also contains works by Paul Cézanne, Henri Matisse, Amedeo Modigliani, Pablo Picasso, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Henri Rousseau, Alfred Sisley, Chaim Soutine, and Maurice Utrillo, among others. Afterwards, we head to Monet’s garden in Giverney to see the inspiration of some of his most famous works before heading back to Paris. (BB, D)

Day 12: Paris to Amsterdam

Travel through northern France and Belgium en route to Amsterdam. (BB, D)

Day 13: Amsterdam Galleries – Rijksmuseum & Vincent van Gogh Museum

Admire world-famous masterpieces in the Rijksmuseum, which has on display 8,000 objects of art and history. There is a total collection of 1 million objects, spanning the years 1200–2000AD, among which are masterpieces by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer. Then onto the Vincent van Gogh Museum, which is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries in Amsterdam. The museum is home to the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's paintings and drawings in the world.  This evening, enjoy a canal cruise dinner to bid farewell to our time in Europe. (B, FD)

Day 14: Farewell Amsterdam

Your tour concludes after breakfast with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: Welcome to Paris

Welcome to Paris! On arrival at Charles De Gaulle airport you will be met by your Travel Director and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Paris From a History Perspective

Learn about the significance of the French Revolution and visit key sites such as Place de la Bastille, Les Invalides War Museum, the Conciergerie and Place de la Concorde. In the evening enjoy a walk along the Champs-Elysees, followed by a cruise along the River Seine. (BB)

Day 3: Disneyland in Paris

Spend the day at Disneyland Paris. Included in your tour is a full-day, one-park pass to either Disneyland Park or Disney Studio Park. (BB)

Day 4: Versailles & D-Day Memorial

Travel this morning to Versailles and visit the Palace of Versailles to see its opulent rooms and gardens. Experience the extraordinary Hall of Mirrors where the historic Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending World War I.  Continue to Arromanches and visit the D-Day Memorial. It’s then onto Bayeux for our overnight stay. (BB, D)

Day 5: Battle of the Somme

Today we visit Amiens and the nearby Somme Battlefields, where some of the most intense fighting took place during World War I. More than 3 million men fought in this battle with1 million wounded or killed. We visit some of the many interesting memorials and museums dedicated to the fallen. Our overnight stay is in Amiens.  (BB, D)

Day 6: The Lost Territories - Strasbourg

We travel to Verdum where you will visit the Verdum Battlefields and War Memorial.  Our journey continues to Strasbourg, on the border of Germany, for our overnight stay. (BB)

Day 7: Strasbourg to Colmar

In the morning travel to Colmar where you will enjoy a boat tour in the canal quarter, followed by a walking tour around Petite Venise and the historic centre. From Colmar, continue to Riquewihr for a walking tour in the town.  We then visit Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg for a visit to the castle, before arriving back in Strasbourg for our overnight stay. (BB)

Day 8: Europa Park & Friedrichshafen

Spend the day at the Europa Park, one of the best theme parks in Europe. This evening we overnight in Friedrichshafen. (BB, D)

Day 9: Meersburg Castle onto Munich

Begin your morning with a walk up to Meersburg Castle. We then make our way to the well-known Neuschwanstein for a tour to the castle and a horse-carriage ride down the mountain. Then it’s onto Munich where a Local Expert will take you on a walking tour in the city centre, including key sites related to Hitler’s time in Munich and the Third Reich. Finally we visit the Nazi Documentation Centre. (BB)

Day 10: Eagle’s Nest & Obersalzburg

A short drive out of Munich, visit Hitler’s former retreat, known as the Eagle’s Nest. Afterwards, stop for lunch at Obersalzburg (own expense) and continue to the Konigsee for a boat tour on the Lake and a chance to swim in Lake Chiemsee. Return to Munich for your overnight stay. (BB)

Day 11: Dachau & Rothenburg

We start the day with a tour to the Munich Residenz Museum. It is then onto Dachau for a sobering visit to the concentration camp. Our overnight stay is in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. (BB)

Day 12: Explore Medieval Rothenburg

Rothenburg was regarded by the Nazis as the most “German” of German towns. Visit the Museum of Torture, explore the medieval city and battlements, and join a Nightwatchman tour. (BB)

Day 13: Nazi History in Nuremberg

We depart Rothenburg and continue to Nuremburg in the morning. On arrival, join a Local Expert for a tour to city centre. Walk up to the Kaiserburg Castle, visit the Nazi parade grounds and the Albert Speer Documentation Centre to bring to life the history of Hitler’s rise to power. In the afternoon, visit the Palace of Justice and Courtroom 600, the location of the Nuremburg Nazi trials. (BB)

Day 14: Onto Magical Prague

This morning travel to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. On arrival, join your Travel Director for an orientation tour of the old town centre, including the town square, St Nicholas Church and Tyn Church. Afterwards visit Prague Castle and walk to Charles Bridge. (BB)

Day 15: Museum visits in Prague

Visit The Prague Communism Museum, Jewish Museum and the Kepler Museum today. (BB)

Day 16: Military History in Dresden

In the morning we travel to Dresden where we join a Local Expert for a tour of the Dresden’s Zwinger Palace, the Bundeswehr Military History Museum, the Dresden Armoury and Frauenkirche. (BB)

Day 17: Tropical Islands Water Park

Depart Dresden and spend the day at the Tropical Islands Water theme park. (BB)

Day 18: Berlin Sightseeing

Tour to Berlin starts with a visit to the ‘Story of Berlin’ Museum to provide an overview of the city’s tumultuous history. Your journey with a Local Expert includes the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie, sections of the Berlin Wall and Alexanderplatz. Visit also the Zeppelin Field and the Jewish Museum, the German Resistance Memorial Centre and the Holocaust Memorial. (BB)

Day 19: Farewell Berlin

On our final morning we visit the Wansee Haus Museum and Documentation Centre of the “Final Solution”. Later, explore the DDR Museum to learn about life under communist rule after the end of World War II. We bid farewell to Berlin and make our way to the airport for flights home. (BB)

Day 1: Welcome to Florence

Welcome to Italy! On arrival at Bologna airport, you will be met by your Travel Director and driver. We continue to our hotel in Florence where you’ll have time to settle in, before enjoying a welcome dinner at the hotel. (WD)

Day 2: Discover Florence

After a restful night’s sleep and breakfast at the hotel, we visit the Basilica di Santa Croce and Museo Galileo, home to the only surviving instruments designed and built by Galileo himself. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Florence. (BB)

Day 3: Florence at your Leisure

Enjoy a day at leisure. Explore captivating Florence at your own pace or join your Travel Director for a day tour to Vallombrosa to see the Monastery where Galileo studied. (Guided tours only available in July & August). (BB)

Day 4: Bologna to Padua

After breakfast at your hotel, spend the morning at leisure. In the afternoon, we drive through Bologna to Padua where you’ll enjoy a local 3-course dinner alongside a guest lecturer from the Padua University. (Lecturer organised by MTG.)  (BB, HD)

Day 5: Padua to Venice

Today we visit the Il Bo University, the second oldest university in Italy, for a guided tour. The afternoon is free for you to visit the Botanical gardens and St Anthony Basilica. Later in the afternoon, we continue to our hotel, situated in Mestre Venice, where we will stay for 2 nights. (BB)

Day 6: Romantic Venice at your Leisure

After breakfast, the rest of the day is yours to explore romantic Venice at leisure. (BB)

Day 7: Onto Swiss Geneva

Les Nations Hotel After a restful night’s sleep, we cross the border to Switzerland. On arrival into Geneva enjoy a late afternoon cruise on Lake Geneva.   Afterwards we check into our hotel. (BB)

Day 8: Nuclear Science in Cern & Geneva Exploration

After breakfast we travel to CERN (subject to availability) to visit the European Organisation for Nuclear Research and see the Large Hadron Collider, the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city of Geneva. (BB)

Day 9: Geneva to Paris

Enjoy a delightful drive through the French countryside, as we make our way to Paris. On arrival you are free to relax or explore the city of love on your own. Gather for dinner at the hotel, during which you’ll enjoy the company of a guest speaker from the Marie Curie Museum. (Lecturer organised by MTG.) (BB, D)

Day 10: Gardens of Paris

Visit the Botanical Gardens in the morning. Here you will discover the Alpine Gardens, which contain 2000 mountain plants from all over the world. Wander through the rose garden, the iris garden and the Botany School's Garden, where 4500 species are labelled and regrouped by families. (BB)

Day 11: Arts & Metier Museum in Paris

Take time to visit the Arts and Metier Museum and spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore the wonderful city of Paris. (BB)

Day 12: Science in Paris

After breakfast in the morning, visit the Marie Curie Museum. Completely re-designed, the Museum reveals the life and times of a family of unusual physicists and their huge contribution to science. The rest of the day is at leisure. (BB)

Day 13: Paris at your Leisure

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the city of Paris. (BB)

Day 14: Eurostar to London

Bid farewell to Paris today, as we travel by Eurostar to London. On arrival we will be met and transferred to a local pub for lunch. We’ll then check into our hotel and you’ll have the rest of the day to enjoy at leisure. (BB, L)

Day 15: Day Tour to Kent

Today we travel to Kent to visit the Down House, the home of Charles Darwin, before returning to our London hotel. (BB)

Day 16: Scientific Marvels of London

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including a visit to the Royal Observatory, Flamsteed, Meridian Courtyard and Maritime Museum, and a cruise on the River Thames. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (BB)

Day 17: Royal Society & Faraday Museum in London

This morning we visit the Royal Society followed by a visit to the Faraday Museum at the Royal Institution.  Lunch is served at a local restaurant. (BB, L)

Day 18: Westminster & Science Museum in London

We spend the morning visiting Westminster Abbey and the afternoon exploring the Science Museum in Kensington. (BB)

Day 19: Discover Cambridge

After breakfast, we continue to the university town of Cambridge for a 2-night stop. Enjoy a private walking exploration of the town including a visit to Trinity College – the largest of the Cambridge Colleges. (BB)

Day 20: Cambridge at your Leisure

Today is yours to explore at leisure.  We meet again in the evening to celebrate the end of our tour with a farewell dinner at our hotel. (BB, D)

Day 21: Farewell from London

Our science tour has come to an end. Transfer from Cambridge to the London Heathrow Airport for your flight home. (BB)

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Artful Jaunts

Luxury art travel experiences

Travel the world on intimate journeys curated through the lens of art

Experience an insider's view through artists' studios, museums, galleries, and collectors' homes 

Build your art collection with the help of a skilled team

Make a difference by supporting art's impact on the world

Welcome to Artful

Bespoke or Museum Trip

Artful fog design+art, la frieze prequel, a pilgrimage to marfa, the home of american art, the center of the art world, america's museum redefined, contemporary art in london, contemporary art in paris, art in the hamptons, art in the hudson valley, land art in the american west, art basel in miami beach, unlock a world of art experiences, featured jaunt: washington d.c..

Spend a day experiencing magical Glenstone, one of the most exciting new private museums in the world. Located in Potomac, Maryland, 15 miles from downtown Washington, D.C. and set on 230 acres, Glenstone, designed by architect Charles Gwathmey, is renowned for its idyllic architectural spaces and important collection— 1,300 works by some of the most significant postwar artists from around the world. Developed and financed by billionaire American businessman Mitchell Rales and curated by his wife Emily Wei Rales, Glenstone—which collects artists in-depth and will only purchase work after an artist has been exhibiting for 15 years—has been compared to historic U.S. private museums such as the Frick Collection and the Phillips Collection. During your time in D.C., you will also visit major museum exhibitions of the moment, as well as new galleries and collectors' homes.

Space is extremely limited (8-10 people).

A unique blend of art, travel, and philanthropy

Unique Itineraries

Unique itineraries

Enriching experiences

Enriching experiences

Impactful Giving

Impactful giving

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Artful impact.

Now more than ever, art matters. Artful Impact was established to help amplify art's philanthropic influence on our communities. Our charitable efforts directly support artists, museums, public installations, art education, as well as social justice and sustainability issues. We donate a third of the revenue generated from art purchased on a jaunt to the Artful Impact Fund. Please take a moment to learn about some meaningful charities. We think you will agree they are making a significant difference.

The latest from Artful Magazine

At prospect.5 new orleans, history and the present haunt each other.

The long-awaited fifth edition of the triennial, delayed by the pandemic and a hurricane, finds artists reflecting on the nation’s past while coping with current-day catastrophes.

Mariane Ibrahim on Her New Paris Gallery and Why the City is the Next Cultural Capital

The French-Somali art dealer, whose space in Chicago has been an influential showcase for artists from the African diaspora, has just opened a new branch in a rising Paris art district.

Ei Arakawa on Post-Pandemic “Performance Anxiety” and Artists’ Mental Health

The influential performance artist speaks to Artful about his new show at Artists Space in New York, inspired by the advocacy of the tennis player Naomi Osaka and the architecture of New York City’s outdoor dining structures.

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The Blue Walk

Our Art Vacations

Mary Beth Shaw with illustration from Greece art vacation workshop

Jeannette and Suzy set a new high standard of travel. I joined an ArtWalk Greece with 3 girlfriends. We left Greece with a whole new appreciation of seeing the world by traveling “at the speed of you.” They are fabulous tour leaders. They have a depth of knowledge of the local towns and sites that I have never before experienced. We always felt so well taken care of. We did a lot of walking and art-making. I am looking forward to another Blue Walk in the future!

Prescott, AZ

Travel Journal Art Vacations

Create an experience to remember.

You’ve daydreamed of this: a vacation with time each day to simply create. The destinations are beautiful. The accommodations are welcoming. All the details are taken care of. In the company of like-minded travelers you savor the wonder of the present moment. And you capture it all through your art.

Create as You Travel

Our Art Walk art vacations are the perfect tours for artists of all levels. Talented and engaging teaching artists offer daily classes inspired by stunning locations. Equal parts journey and learning, our art vacations are based on a travel journal format. Art classes are mostly on site. Some programs have “studio” time at our hotels. Space is almost always limited, so you will learn to work with what is available, being able to create wherever and however you may find yourself. Sketchbook, watercolor, collage, and multimedia workshops are all represented in our schedule.

Everyone is Welcome

Join us. Solo travelers love the easy camaraderie our tours provide. First time European travelers and budding artists love the safe, supportive, and welcoming atmosphere. The main requirements are a desire for adventure and gratitude for the opportunity to pursue it. 

Travel at the speed of you.

Stretch your legs and expand your experience.

Find a community. Receive and share inspiration.

Return home renewed, accomplished, and feeling better than ever.

Keeping an illustrated travel journal enhances your trip and opens your mind. Everything around me is fresh and beautiful because I’m drawing it, seeing it truly for the first time.    

Once you return from your trip, your mind remains full of wonder. A quick flip through your journal’s pages keeps those memories alive.  

Danny Gregory

The Art of Keeping a Travel Sketchbook

Explore Our Art Workshops & Retreats

Protected: Art Workshop in France: Mixed Media Travel Journal

Protected: Art Workshop in France: Mixed Media Travel Journal

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Sketchbook Travel Journal Vacation in Greece with Koosje Koene

Sketchbook Travel Journal Vacation in Greece with Koosje Koene

Sep 24-Oct 6, 2024 join Koosje Koene’s island-hopping sketchbook journal vacation in Greece.

Art Journal Workshop in Paris, France with Betsy Beier

Art Journal Workshop in Paris, France with Betsy Beier

Sep 16-23, 2024 join Betsy Beier’s art journal workshop in Paris, France. Fill your sketchbook as we walk the neighborhoods of Paris!

Watercolor Sketchbook Art Workshop in Italy

Watercolor Sketchbook Art Workshop in Italy

Ohn Mar Win teaches a 7-night watercolor sketchbook art workshop in Italy. We will tour the Italian Riviera and stunning Lake Como. Join us October 2024.

Art and Creativity Workshop in Italy

Art and Creativity Workshop in Italy

Join Jill Badonsky for an art and creativity workshop on the Italian Riviera in October 2024. Write, paint, and sketch for an inspired week.

Art workshop in Venice, Padua, and Parma, Italy

Art workshop in Venice, Padua, and Parma, Italy

Oct 21-27, 2024 Anne Leuck teaches her art workshop in Venice, Padua and Parma, Italy. See Venice like a local! Taste the best of Parma!

Watercolor Workshop in Greece with Angela Fehr

Watercolor Workshop in Greece with Angela Fehr

April 22 – May 4, 2025

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Portugal with Tammy Gilley

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Portugal with Tammy Gilley

March 30-April 5, 2025

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Portugal with Mary Beth Shaw

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Portugal with Mary Beth Shaw

April 6-12, 2025

Art Workshop Vacation in Paris, France with Tammy Gilley

Art Workshop Vacation in Paris, France with Tammy Gilley

April 12-19 , 2025

Watercolor Workshop in Italy with Angela Fehr

Watercolor Workshop in Italy with Angela Fehr

May 5-11, 2025

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Italy with Tiffany Goff-Smith

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Italy with Tiffany Goff-Smith

May 11-18, 2025

Collage Travel Journal Workshop in Greece with Karen Stamper

Collage Travel Journal Workshop in Greece with Karen Stamper

May 20-June 1, 2025

Sketchbook Art Workshop in Portugal with Anne Leuck

Sketchbook Art Workshop in Portugal with Anne Leuck

June 9-15, 2025

Watercolor Journal Workshop in Spain with Ohn Mar Win

Watercolor Journal Workshop in Spain with Ohn Mar Win

June 30 – July 6, 2025

Travel Journal Art Workshop in Spain with Julie Snidle

Travel Journal Art Workshop in Spain with Julie Snidle

Sep 8-14, 2025

Sketchbook Art Workshop in Spain with Koosje Koene

Sketchbook Art Workshop in Spain with Koosje Koene

Sep 14-20, 2025

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Sicily, Italy with Mary Beth Shaw

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Sicily, Italy with Mary Beth Shaw

Oct 19-Nov 1, 2025 (Coming Soon)

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Switzerland

Mixed Media Art Workshop in Switzerland

Join Mary Beth Shaw on her mixed media art workshop in Switzerland June 2024.

Collage Travel Journal Workshop in Italy

Collage Travel Journal Workshop in Italy

Karen Stamper teaches a 7-night collage travel journal workshop in Italy. We will tour Milan, the Italian Riviera, and stunning Lake Como. Join us April 14-21, 2024.

Art Vacations Schedule

This is a list of our public art vacations. The Blue Walk offers private and custom small group tours in addition to our advertised tours. 

There is a separate Blue Walk schedule for our walking vacations. 

2024 Art Vacation Workshops

  • September 16-23: Sketchbook journal with Betsy Beier in Paris, France (7 nights) from $4295
  • September 24-October 6: Sketchbook journal with Koosje Koene in Greece (12 nights) SOLD OUT 
  • October 7-14: Sketchbook journal with Ohn Mar Win on the Italian Riviera and Lake Como (7 nights) from $3795 SOLD OUT 
  • October 14-20: Art and Creativity workshop with Jill Badonsky on the Italian Riviera (6 nights) from $3595 SOLD OUT 
  • October 21-27: Sketchbook journal with Anne Leuck in Venice and Parma, Italy (6 nights) from ($3745) SOLD OUT 

2025 Art Vacation Workshops

  • March 30-April 5: Mixed Media Workshop Vacation in Portugal with Tammy Gilley (6 nights) from $3495 (Sold out waiting list available)
  • April 6-12: Mixed Media Art Workshop in Portugal with Mary Beth Shaw (6 nights) from $3495 SOLD OUT (wait list available)
  • April 12-19: Art Workshop Vacation in Paris, France with Tammy Gilley (7 nights) from $3995 (filling fast)
  • April 22 - May 4: Watercolor workshop with Angela Fehr in Greece (12 nights) from $4745
  • May 5-11: Watercolor workshop in Italy with Angela Fehr (6 nights) from $3445 (filling fast)
  • May 11-18: Mixed media art workshop in Italy with Tiffany Goff-Smith (7 nights) from $3795 (2 spaces available)
  • May 20 - June 1: Collage Travel Journal Workshop in Greece with Karen Stamper (12 nights) from $4745  SOLD OUT (wait list available)
  • June 9 - 15: Sketchbook Workshop in Portugal with Anne Leuck (6 nights) from $3495
  • June 30 - July 6: Watercolor journal workshop in Spain with Ohn Mar Win (6 nights) from $3595 SOLD OUT (wait list available)
  • September 8-14: Travel Journal Art Workshop in Spain with Julie Snidle (6 nights) from $3445 
  • September 14-20: sketchbook workshop in Spain with Koosje Koene (6 nights) from $3445

Book a Private Walking Tour or Art Vacation

Travel with your own tribe! Friends, family or colleagues with groups from 8-20 can reserve private tours. Special pricing or tour leader rates availble. We will work with you to reserve the best itinerary and dates for your own amazing tour.

Group in front of stone wall Amorgos Greece walking tour vacation art travel journal workshop

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Art & Architecture tours

From Classical orders to modernist innovations, our art and architecture tours examine many protagonists and periods in the history of civilisations around the world, whether the rich artistic traditions of Japan or the private palaces of Venice .

Explore the most famous and celebrated galleries in the world, such as the Uffizi, Prado and the Hermitage, and study countless lesser known gems on our art tours – and on our architecture tours, learn about great buildings as monuments and dwelling-spaces, as works of engineering as well as works of art, and as vital components in a city’s mythos. 

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West Coast Architecture A century of building in Arizona and California

art appreciation tours

Dark Age Brilliance Late Antique & Pre-Romanesque

Ravenna, San Vitale, engraving 1906 from 'The Shores of the Adriatic'.

Ancient Rome Art & architecture of the classical world

art appreciation tours

Georgia Uncovered Treasures of the Southern Caucasus

art appreciation tours

Footpaths of Umbria Walks, art and wine between Arezzo and Assisi

Assisi, St. Francis, by Frank Fox publ. 1915.

Raphael, in celebration A pilgrimage from Urbino to Rome

Lithograph c. 1850 after Raphael’s Madonna della Seggiola.

Granada & Córdoba with Úbeda & Baeza

art appreciation tours

Arts & Crafts in the Cotswolds Art and artefacts in the buildings they were designed for

art appreciation tours

The Cathedrals of England Ely, Lincoln, Durham, York, Coventry, Gloucester, Bristol, Wells, Salisbury, Winchester

Durham Cathedral, engraving in The English Provinces, 1888.

The London Backstreet Walk Hyde Park to the Tower

Fountain Court, Inner Temple, watercolour by Jack Merriott.

Belgian Modern Masters Ensor, Magritte and fellow individualists

art appreciation tours

Extremadura Landscape, history and food in rural Spain

art appreciation tours

Bulgaria Archaeology & art from prehistoric to modern

Plovdiv, bridge over the Maritza, image ©Antiqua Print Gallery / Alamy Stock Photo.

Frank Lloyd Wright and the Chicago School

Fallingwater, photograph courtesy of Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

Courts of Northern Italy Princely art of the Renaissance

art appreciation tours

Basilicata & Calabria Italy’s undiscovered south

art appreciation tours

The Douro From Porto to Pinhão

The river Douro, lithograph 1813.

Berlin, Potsdam, Dresden Art and architecture in Brandenburg and Saxony

art appreciation tours

Palermo Revealed Art, archaeology, architecture and gastronomy

Palermo cathedral, steel engraving c.1850

Le Corbusier Through France and Switzerland

art appreciation tours

Italian Design Modernism in Turin and Milan

art appreciation tours

Walking in Southern Tuscany Art, architecture & landscapes in the Val d’Orcia & Chianti

Pienza, Capitelli Cortile (detail).

Castile & León The magnificent heart of Spain

Segovia, La Granja de San Ildefonso, watercolour by Mima Nixon, publ. 1916.

Art in the Netherlands A spectrum of the finest

art appreciation tours

Roman & Medieval Provence The south of France in the Middle Ages

art appreciation tours

Modern Art on the Côte d’Azur Picasso, Matisse, Chagall and their contemporaries

Nice, etching c. 1925 by Frederick Farrell

Samarkand & Silk Road Cities with Tashkent, Shakhr-i-Sabz, Bukhara and Khiva

Khiva, the Grand Minaret, wood engraving c. 1880.

Istanbul Revealed Byzantine & Ottoman metropolis

Sicily: from the greeks to the baroque temples, churches and palazzi: three thousand years of history.

Segesta, watercolour by Alberto Pisa, publ. 1911.

Gastronomic Catalonia Fine food & wine, art & architecture

Barcelona, La Rambla, engraving c. 1890

Florentine Palaces Defence, humanism, magnificence and beauty

art appreciation tours

Art in Madrid The Great Galleries

art appreciation tours

Venetian Palaces The greatest and best-preserved palaces of La Serenissima

art appreciation tours

The Making of Argentina A creative history from the Atlantic to the Andes

art appreciation tours

Essential India Hindu temples, Rajput palaces and Mughal tombs

art appreciation tours

Venice Revisited From prison to palazzo: art and life in historic Venice

art appreciation tours

Ravenna & Urbino Byzantine capital, Renaissance court

Ravenna, Mosaics in S. Apollinare, 20th-century engraving.

Paris at Christmas Art and music in the Ville Lumière

art appreciation tours

Christmas in Emilia-Romagna Art, architecture & gastronomy in Northern Italy

art appreciation tours

Vienna at Christmas Art and architecture in the Habsburg capital

Vienna, Karlskirche.

Bruges at Christmas and the ancient cities of Flanders

art appreciation tours

Naples at Christmas Art, antiquities & architecture –with Caserta, Amalfi & Ravello

art appreciation tours

Venice at Christmas Painting, sculpture & architecture in the world’s most beautiful city

art appreciation tours

Caravaggio The master of painting in Milan, Rome and Naples

art appreciation tours

Oman, Landscapes & Peoples Desert, coast and mountains

Etching, 1927, by E.J. Detmold.

Renaissance Rivals Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael: the tumultuous trio

art appreciation tours

Palaces & Villas of Rome From Empire to Papacy: the power of magnificence

Gardens of the Villa Borghese, watercolour by Alberto Pisa, publ. 1905.

Essential Rome The complete spectrum of art, architecture and antiquities

Rome, Trevi Fountain, watercolour by C.T.G. Fornilli, publ. 1927.

Florence & Venice The finest and best-known art and architecture in the Western world

art appreciation tours

L'Ancien Régime Paris before the Revolution

art appreciation tours

Indian Summer Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Shimla

Strauss in berlin a celebration of richard strauss in the german capital.

art appreciation tours

Walking in Sicily Crater & coast: in the footsteps of history

Tourists inspecting Mount Etna, engraving c. 1830.

Florence Revisited Art off the beaten track and in private collections

Florence, Uffizi, the Tribune, engraving 1820.

Albania: Crossroads of Antiquity Archaeology, history, art and landscape

Berat, lithograph 1851 by Edward Lear.

Civilisations of Sicily Mediterranean crossroads: three thousand years of creativity

Normans in the south castles and cathedrals in puglia, basilicata and campania.

Castel del Monte, lithograph by Edward Lear from Edward Lear in Southern Italy.

The Venetian Hills Renaissance art in the foothills of the Dolomites

The Dolomites and the Cadora Valley, wood engraving 1893 after John McWhirter.

Tuscany Revealed Highlights and hidden treasures of Cosimo de Medici’s Grand Duchy

Montepulciano, aquatint c. 1830.

Morocco Cities & empires

art appreciation tours

Romans & Carolingians Germany from Augustus to Charlemagne

Cologne, early-19th-century aquatint.

Cities of Catalonia 2,000 years of art and architecture, from Romans to Modernistas

art appreciation tours

Val D’Orcia and the Sienese Hills lesser-known delights of Southern Tuscany

art appreciation tours

The Heart of Italy Umbria’s finest art and architecture

Spoleto, Ponte delle Torri, reproduction of a 19th-century steel engraving.

Cornish Houses and Gardens Landscapes, flowers, buildings and art

art appreciation tours

Medieval Saxony Carolingian, Ottonian, Romanesque

Paderborn

The Ligurian Coast Arts, history and scenery on the Riviera di Levante

art appreciation tours

Palladian Villas The greatest house builder in history

Teatro Olimpico, Vicenza, 18th-century-engraving.

Aragón: Hidden Spain Teruel, Zaragoza, Sos

art appreciation tours

Medieval Toulouse & Languedoc Art & architecture in south-west France

Abbaye de Moissac, south portal, engraving c. 1830.

Art in Scotland Great cities, spectacular museums

Edinburgh Castle from Greyfriars cemetery, wood engraving c. 1890.

Arts & Crafts in the Lake District Churches, houses and museums

Ruskin’s house at Brantwood, wood engraving c. 1880 after a drawing by L.J. Hilliard.

The Venetian Land Empire A spectrum of north-east Italy’s finest art and architecture

art appreciation tours

Moldavia & Transylvania Towns, villages and painted churches on the edge of Europe

art appreciation tours

Medieval Burgundy Abbeys and churches of the High Middle Ages

Autun, wood engraving c. 1860.

Great Private Houses in Norfolk Special arrangements and in-depth visits

art appreciation tours

Art in Japan Art, craft, architecture & design

art appreciation tours

The Road to Santiago The pilgrimage route through northern Spain

art appreciation tours

Traversing the Tyrol From the foothills of the Dolomites to the capital of the Austrian Alps

art appreciation tours

Moving on: Architecture & Memory Bauhaus to the present in Stuttgart, Ulm and Munich

art appreciation tours

The Welsh Marches Castles, abbeys and parish churches

art appreciation tours

Galleries of the American Midwest From Chicago to Detroit

art appreciation tours

Lincolnshire Churches Major and minor, from cathedral to parish

Lincoln Cathedral, wood engraving c. 1890.

Stockholm Modern A century of inspirational building and design

Woodland Cemetery Asplund Lewerentz

Chichester & the South Downs Great houses & gardens

art appreciation tours

Medieval Oxfordshire and the Southern Cotswolds

art appreciation tours

Lusatia: Germany’s Eastern borderlands Cities, palaces and gardens along the Oder-Neisse Line

art appreciation tours

Versailles: Seat of the Sun King The greatest palace & garden

Hall of Mirrors, Versailles.

French Gothic The great cathedrals of northern France

art appreciation tours

The Hanseatic League Cities and abbeys of Germany’s Baltic Coast

Lübeck, Town Hall, engraving from 'Leaves from a Sketchbook', c. 1890.

Opera in Santa Fe Summer music in the mountains of New Mexico

art appreciation tours

Gdańsk & Eastern Pomerania with Warsaw

art appreciation tours

Baroque & Rococo In Southern Germany

art appreciation tours

Mitteldeutschland Weimar and the towns of Thuringia and Sachsen-Anhalt

Arnstadt, steel engraving c. 1850

Isambard Kingdom Brunel Engineering modern Britain

art appreciation tours

The Age of Bede Anglo-Saxon Northumbria

art appreciation tours

Sacred Armenia Early Christian Monasteries & modern-day Yerevan

art appreciation tours

Castles of Wales Conquest and colonisation in medieval Britain

art appreciation tours

Trecento Frescoes The age and legacy of Giotto

art appreciation tours

Parma & Bologna Churches, cathedrals and castles in Emilia-Romagna

art appreciation tours

Walking to Santiago On foot for selected sections of the pilgrims’ way

Burgos Cathedral, Capilla del Condestable, steel engraving c. 1850.

Essential Andalucía Spain’s southern province

art appreciation tours

Friuli-Venezia Giulia The border lands of northeast Italy

art appreciation tours

Piero della Francesca A pilgrimage from Umbria to Milan

art appreciation tours

Habsburg Austria Castles & churches, houses & palaces, town & country

Innsbruck, aquatint c. 1830.

Bauhaus The birth of modern architecture and design

art appreciation tours

Fiesole to Lucca: Tuscany on foot Country walks and Renaissance art

Tuscan landscape, etching c. 1920.

Siena & San Gimignano Hilltop towns of Tuscany

art appreciation tours

Traditions of Japan Art, crafts, history, society

art appreciation tours

Painted Palaces of Rajasthan Jodhpur, Nagaur, Bikaner, the Shekhawati & Jaipur

art appreciation tours

Art History of Venice Painting, sculpture & architecture in the world’s most beautiful city

art appreciation tours

The Art of Florence Cradle of the Renaissance

Florence, watercolour publ. 1904.

The Printing Revolution Renaissance print culture in Rome & Venice

art appreciation tours

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HEARST CASTLE NOW OPEN FOR TOURS.

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle

art appreciation tours

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Plan Your Visit

Art Under the Moonlight

The “art under the moonlight” tours will offer guests a unique opportunity to explore william randolph hearst's world-renowned art collection like never before – under the enchanting glow of the moon. these guided tours will be available on select fridays and saturdays from oct. 4 through nov. 16. due to the limited availability, reservations are highly recommended..

Art under the moonlight

Join Hearst Castle’s Guides for an exploration of William Randolph Hearst’s art collection as the sun sets and the moon rises. View illuminated outdoor works of art while learning their significance through time and enjoying their beauty as a guest would have seen them during the 1930s. Inside, have an intimate look at the collection that Mr. Hearst amassed during his time here. This tour’s unique focus on select works of art, both indoors and outdoors, will leave you feeling like an honored guest of William Randolph Hearst with an understanding and appreciation of the cherished collection he displayed.

Physical Requirements

The tour will involve navigating 308 stairs, approximately 3/4 mile, and will take moderate effort. An ADA-accessible version of the tour that involves no stairs and can accommodate up to four people per tour is also available.

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Arts Culture Tours

People visiting Kiyomizu-dera temples in Kyoto, Japan

Top Arts & Culture Tours

Save up to $959

Splendors of Japan with Hiroshima Guided Tour

Splendours of Japan

9 Locations

13 Day Japan Tour from Tokyo to Osaka via Hiroshima

Save up to $629

East Coast USA and Canada end New York Guided Tour

East Coast USA and Canada

11 Locations

2 Countries

14 Day USA and Canada Tour starting and ending in New York

Save up to $562

Bohemian Highlights Guided Tour

Bohemian Highlights 2024

6 Countries

14 Day European Tour of Germany, Poland, Hungary, Austria and Czech Republic

Save up to $339

Best of Turkey Guided Tour

Best of Turkey

18 Locations

14 Day Turkey Tour of Istanbul, Gallipoli, Pamukkale and Cappadocia

Save up to $497

Best Of France Guided Tour

Best of France

13 Day France and Monaco Sightseeing Tour from Paris

Save up to $559

Best of Italy Guided Tour

Best of Italy

15 Locations

13-Day Italy Sightseeing Tour of Rome, Lake Como and Sorrento

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Arts & culture tours inspiration

Cultural wonders, ancient traditions & local artisans

Delve into the unique cultures of the world and get a deeper insight with your Local Specialists on our art and cultural experiences. Meet with local artisans, learn how they keep their traditions alive, and witness moving cultural performances.

Monuments in the garden of Chateau De Beauvois in France

Stays with incredible stories

Our cultural vacations continue on well into the night, with our unique Stays with Stories. Step back in time with a stay in the lavish 17th-century Château de Beauvois in France, sleep in a room hewn out of the surrounding ancient rock in Turkey, experience genuine Japanese hospitality at a traditional ryokan in a mountain hot springs village, or stay in an old Franciscan convent in Santa Maria degli Angeli in Italy.

A hand holding a bowl with flowers during Kumbh Mela festival in India

Witness powerful cultural rituals

Immerse yourself in ceremonies and traditions around the world with our cultural experiences. Witness the soulful ritual of Aarti on the River Ganges in India, take part in a private blessing ceremony at Wat Damnak in Cambodia, meet a Shaman who will perform an ancient Pago a la Tierra ceremony to welcome you to Peru, or watch the Grand Entrance Dance Performance at a Black Hills Pow Wow in the USA.

Artisans creating Buddha sculptures in Angkor Siem Reap, Cambodia

Connect with locals

Our cultural trips connect you with locals who share their unique customs. Witness the revival of Khmer crafts by young artisans in Siem Reap, see the delicate craft of Venetian glassblowing on Giudecca Island, learn the art of haggling at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, discover the spiritual connections the local Anangu caretakers have with the land at Uluru, or learn how local artisans make Japanese washi paper in Gokayama. 

The best local culture unlocked for you

Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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Want to learn about Black Forest craft?

Want to discover folk italian weaving, want to see lusitano horses in portugal, all you need to know about arts & culture tours, what is culture heritage tourism.

Culture heritage tourism is traveling to experience authentic food, music, clothing, stories, artifacts and activities of different countries and cultures around the world. Our arts and culture tours include cultural heritage experiences like listening to Fado music in Portugal, learning how to wear a kimono in Japan, and witnessing the flamenco in Spain.

What is the art capital of the world?

Looking for the best cities in the world for art? You can’t miss the art mecca of Paris, with over 1,000 galleries including The Louvre. You also have to visit New York for its MoMa and Guggenheim, London for its Tate Modern and National Gallery, Florence for Renaissance art, Barcelona for the works of Gaudi, Amsterdam for its iconic Dutch artists, and Singapore for its futuristic exhibitions.

Which destinations are popular for arts and cultural trips?

If you’re keen on arts tours or cultural vacations, you can’t go past destinations like Kyoto in Japan, Shanghai in China, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Hoi An in Vietnam, Wellington in New Zealand, the Northern Territory in Australia, the east coast of the USA, and European cities like Paris and Rome.

What are the top cultural trip destinations in Europe?

Our cultural tours take you to some of the top destinations in Europe where you can experience arts and cultures, including Istanbul, Vienna, Prague, Porto, Seville and of course, the cultural heavyweights like Venice, Florence and Rome of Italy and Paris and Bordeaux of France.

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A category page for art appreciation courses and art history tours, holidays ... MORE

Art appreciation courses & art history tours

artbreak™ Arts Immersion Vacations

based: Prague, Czech Republic

visit site»

artbreak™ is an unequalled active-arts and adventure-learning vacation to renew your mind, heart, and spirit, midst the most beautiful city in Europe. artbreak™ gives you intimate access to Prague's brilliant artistic world via hands-on art workshops, gallery tours, plus the best of Prague's music, theatre and dance performances.

| city breaks | art appreciation | painting/drawing | music tours | concerts/music festivals | ballet/opera | theatre/shows | groups | Czech Republic |

based: Suffolk, UK

Art history tours in Italy of three different types, firstly their original 6-week courses for gap-year students, which run four times a year. Then there are summer holiday courses of 2 or 4 weeks. And finally adult art history tours to Italy and beyond, including tours designed specifically for people in their 30's and 40's.

| art appreciation | gap year | Italy |

based: London, UK visit site» Unforgettable painting holidays in Italy and France, in small groups (5 to 10). Destinations include: Venice, Capri, Amalfi-Pompeii, Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Florence, Sicily, Rome, South of France (French Riviera), Chateaux, Brittany and Paris. Holidays include plein air tutoring with materials, equipment and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the art.

| painting/drawing | art appreciation | groups | city breaks | Italy | France |

Exclusive small-group art history tours of Tuscany and Florence, given by a museum specialist and local tour guides and providing a good general intro to Renaissance and Medieval Tuscan and Florentine art. Also focuses on certain artists, sculptors and architects in depth.

| art appreciation | Italy |

based: Norfolk, UK

Escorted holidays and cruises from a caring family-run business established over 10 years; multiple British Travel Award Winners. Offering 54 holidays to 31 different destinations. Specialists for mature single travellers in small groups, no single supplements and exclusive sole occupancy rooms/cabins. Quality hand-picked hotels and experienced knowledgeable tour managers. Over 77% repeat guests.

| singles holidays | seniors/silver surfers | city breaks | sightseeing | escorted tours | ballet/opera | Christmas & New Year | art appreciation | architectural | theatre/shows | music tours | tailor made | ocean cruises | lake & river cruises | Worldwide |

based: Kent, UK

| singles | ocean cruises | USA | Canada | Hawaii | Bermuda | Europe | surfing | walk/trek/hike | Costa Rica |

based: London, UK

Small group art tours for discerning travellers, offering well planned and reasonably priced cultural visits in Europe accompanied by a specialist in the field.

| art appreciation | Europe |

based : Cambridgeshire, UK

Art courses and cruises to worldwide destinations, from Art Nouveau in Brussels to the Art and Architecture of Puglia.

| art appreciation | Worldwide |

based : Dorset, UK

Residential courses in St Ives, Cornwall, and other short UK trips, plus European tours to destination such as Florence and Paris.

| art appreciation | England | Scotland | Europe |

based : Surrey, UK

Art holidays with a specialist guide to destinations in the UK and abroad.

| art appreciation | UK | Europe |

based : Oxfordshire, UK

Specialising in expert led cultural and art history tours for groups and individuals.

based : London, UK

Creating art tours that offer privileged, private access to some of the most beautiful private houses in Europe.

An art tours programme with trips such as: Art Galleries of Holland, Art, Music & Gastronomy in Emilia-Romagna, Art on the French Riviera, Art, Opera & Architecture in Rome ...

NETHERLANDS: The golden age of Dutch art

ENGLAND: Great art in the North West

   See important art collections on six gallery visits including the Laing Gallery, the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Sunderland Museum, the Bowes Museum and Shipley Art Gallery. Also see Antony Gormley's iconic work and the UK's largest sculpture – The Angel of the North – accompanied by an expert guide.

Tips for selecting an art appreciation tour

• a learned tour with expert guides, lectures and talks; or a more relaxed approach strolling through galleries and taking things as they come.

• a particular period or school of art, be it the old masters, modern painters or the Impressionists.

• to see the work of a particular noted artist: Leonardo, Picasso, Gauguin, Monet, Hockney ...

• the art of a specific region or country.

• art using a particular medium: sculpture, painting, mixed media, printmaking, ceramics ...

• do you want to visit the great art museums like the Louvre or the Tate Modern; bijou galleries; or to see art in the outdoors – in the street markets of Amsterdam or spray painted on city walls by artists like Banksy.

• do you want to expand your art appreciation by visiting the landscapes that inspired the great artists.

More art appreciation holiday tips:

• If you want in-depth knowledge check the credentials of the tour guides, this is where a smaller more specialist company may win out.

• If you want to get more involved with modern works look for a trip that's visiting commercial galleries, art shows or exhibitions where there may be opportunities to discuss work directly with the artist. Some have artists actually sculpting or painting on site during the exhibition.

• Many art museums are very large so, to get the most out of it, split your visit into two or three shorter visits if possible.

• The rules on taking photos differ, most galleries and museums will not allow it at all, so check beforehand if you feel you might want to press the shutter. If you really want a copy of an artwork get postcards or prints from the museum shop or, particularly if it's a commercial gallery, there will probably be a catalogue.

• Again it's best to check beforehand, but sketching from artworks with dry media (pencil, charcoal, pastels etc.) is usually fine in art museums, but not in commercial galleries. If you want to sketch or paint using wet media you will almost certainly need to obtain permission.

• Ladies, if you're visiting religious art in places of worship take along a headscarf as many places will require you to cover your head; there is also often a requirement to cover shoulders, arms and not to wear skimpy shorts or short skirts.

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CATEGORY DEFINITION FOR TOUR OPERATORS WISHING TO BE LISTED: MORE

Travel-Quest's art appreciation courses and art history tours holidays section, lists holidays, tours, breaks and residential courses where the main activity is learning how to appreciate the visual arts, including painting, drawing, sculpture, carving, ceramics etc. This is likely to include visiting art galleries, museums, exhibitions, historical sites or artists studios, studying art ranging from the old masters to contemporary artists. These holidays are likely to be lead by art historians or experienced artists and tutors, and may deal with art history as well as the understanding of composition, colour, technique etc. These trips will be suitable for those with no practical artistic skills themselves as well as painters and artists (amateur or professional). Practical hands-on drawing and painting courses are included their own separate section.

PHOTO CREDITS: MORE

Unless credited otherwise, any photos used on this page are copyright of the Travel-Quest Directory or of the companies listed. See our Photography Policy for more details (including any credits for photo collages). Any other specific credits for this page now follow. Top right: Rijksmuseum from behind ©Flickr user: Simone Richter

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art

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Nerman Museum Tours

Free group tours are available for student groups and visitors by appointment.

Tour Reservations

Virtual Tours –  Museum educators are available by appointment to meet with classes and community groups in Zoom or Webex meetings to share collection highlights. Make a reservation online at least two weeks in advance. Thirty artists videos, including our InSight series, are available on our Youtube Playlist, Nerman Museum Education .

Docent-Led Tours –  To request a docent-led tour, please submit your request with details. To help us with scheduling and preparation, we appreciate if you notify us a minimum of three weeks prior to your preferred date. Docents work by appointment only. You will receive an email or fax acknowledgement once your request has been received, and you will receive an email or fax confirmation once your reservation has been processed.

Self-Guided Tours - To make your reservation for a self-guided tour, we appreciate your helping us with scheduling by notifying us one week or more before your preferred tour date. Space is limited, and priority is given to previously scheduled groups and tours.

Tour Request

Guided Tours

Free guided tours are led by docent volunteers who have completed a comprehensive training program through the museum. Informative, interactive art appreciation tours are designed to facilitate understanding of contemporary art in our exhibitions and in the permanent collection on view throughout campus. Tours are available for college classes, community groups and school groups, starting with kindergarten, with five to 50 individuals.

Tours are typically one hour and cover approximately 10 works of art.

Guided tours will be offered by reservation only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. pending docent availability, excluding days the college is closed. Refer to our our group and tour guidelines for information regarding group size and chaperones.

Self-Guided Tours

The museum is free and open to the public during regular hours. Printed visitor orientation guides are available at the museum information desk, or copies may be mailed upon request.

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FREE ADMISSION Tue., Fri., Sat.: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed., Thu.: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun.: noon-5 p.m. Mon. and JCCC Holidays: Closed

The museum’s front entrance is currently undergoing repairs. On-site signage indicates location of the alternative entrance to the museum.

All Museum Tours have been resumed! Call to book your tour!

art appreciation tours

Slide title

art appreciation tours

THE GETTY VILLA

art appreciation tours

Tour Length Descriptions

The classic tour.

Explore the highlights of the museum’s permanent collection in this 1.5 -hour tour which focuses on a selection of works of art representing different cultures

and time periods. . Enjoy walking through time—from the Renaissance to Impressionism and see and hear about the prized artwork of The Getty, van Gogh’s Irises. Meander through the architectural triumph of its four pavilions and the panoramic views of Los Angeles. 

       1-6 People: $225 Total

      Additional people: $30 PP

The Deluxe Tour

A 2 -hour in-depth highlight tour of the museum’s permanent collection as described in the Classic Tour with the addition of Medieval Art and post-Impressionism.  

1-6 people: $275 Total

       Additional people: $35 PP

The Grand Tour

 Spend a morning or an afternoon at the museum on a 2.5 -hour tour of the museum's highlights as described in the Deluxe Tour--- in addition to facts about the architecture and the biography of J. Paul Getty plus a deep dive into each art period and the artists’ relevance and impact to the art of today! See original, rare clips of both Monet and Renoir painting!

1-6 People: $300 Total

        Additional people: $40 PP

           Tours available in French and Russian at no extra charge!

art appreciation tours

ESCORTED TOURS

About the art fund.

The tours visit some of the world’s most famous art and architecture, and with each tour booked a donation is made to the Art Fund.

The Art Fund , an independent charity that exists to save great works of art for the nation and helps museums and galleries buy, show and share great art. In fact, more than 600 museums, galleries, castles and historic houses throughout the UK have had their collections enriched by works acquired due to Art Fund grants. The work of the Art Fund relies upon the generosity and commitment of its supporters, including 92,000 members who all own a National Art Pass, as well as corporate supporters, funding from trusts and foundations, and support from patrons and patrons circle members. The Ultimate Travel Company is delighted to add their support, through Specialtours, by donating between 5% and 10% of the cost of each Art Fund Tour.

The tours themselves explore a diverse range of art forms – from decorative Portuguese tiles to the symbolist art works of Edvard Munch, and showcase the cultural highlights and natural beauty of each spectacular location – from the gilded ceiling of Istanbul’s Haghia Sophia to the breath-taking vistas of the Amalfi Coast. With private access visits organised by special arrangement and the presence of expert guest lecturers, the tours provide a privileged insight into the art and architecture of each destination.

If you are not already a member of the Art Fund, but would like to travel on one of their tours, you will receive one year’s complimentary annual membership (worth £50 for a single membership) with your first booking. Your membership includes a National Art Pass Fund, giving you free entry to over 200 museums, galleries and historic properties across the UK.

Escorted journeys mean enhanced experiences

Your journey becomes more of an experience when you travel with someone who has inside knowledge. Who can take you to places you wouldn’t otherwise see – and give you extra insight when you arrive.

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP WITH US

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art appreciation tours

  • MyU : For Students, Faculty, and Staff

Weisman Art Museum

333 E River Road Minneapolis , MN 55455 United States

Jose Art Bites

Additional Details

During stressful times of the year, it's important to approach the spaces we inhabit and transform them to take care of ourselves. Discover how you can do this with art gallery spaces in this guided tour!

ART BITES  are 30-minute, 3-stop tours given by Student WAM Guides developed under instruction from WAM’s  LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT ASSOCIATE , Olivia Comstock.

The current Student WAM Guide cohort is comprised of:  JOSÉ MIGUEL MANRIQUE  [They/Them] – (Sophomore, Product Design & Creative Writing) and  BEVAN BREAUX  [They/Them] – (Senior, Asian and Middle Eastern Studies/Japanese).

The WAM Guides program is a paid opportunity for University of Minnesota students to develop and lead interactive, close-looking tours of the museum for the visiting public. Drop in, meet other curious-minded museum goers, and listen to your WAM Guide approach the museum’s collection via a theme of their own choosing.

Art Bites graphic designed by Jason Nawrocki

JOSÉ MIGUEL MANRIQUE

Jose Miguel Manrique portrait

They/Them Sophomore, Product Design & Creative Writing

My tours, for the month of February, are developed around the theme of MEMORY & NOSTALGIA (Spanish-language tours) and SENSORY x EXPERIENCE . While every individual has their own particular story, shared familiarities connect our pasts and the emotions we experience. Through interactive quick sketching and close-looking activities at three selected art pieces currently on display, we’ll explore what elements of our lives transcend to be part of an universal narrative.

More Like This

the words "ART BITES" in an illustration of a human mouth

System Campuses

  • Twin Cities
  • Gallery Map
  • Directions + Parking
  • Accessibility
  • ART + ARTISTS
  • The Collection
  • Public Art on Campus
  • Create + Learn
  • Watch + Listen
  • Read + Reflect
  • U of M Students
  • Become a Member
  • Support WAM
  • Staff + Board
  • Opportunities
  • Field Notes
  • Venue Rentals

art appreciation tours

  • Study Days Dorset
  • Study Days Wiltshire
  • Study Days Somerset
  • East Dorset Heritage Trust
  • Fifehead St Quintin
  • Study Day Trips
  • News and Reviews

STUDY DAYS SOMERSET 2024

This year Jennie will be returning to Monk's Yard, Horton Cross, Ilminster in Somerset TA19 9PY for her talks. With a lovely garden and onsite cafe it is the perfect setting for art history lectures.

art appreciation tours

Sargent and Fashion

Monk's Yard

Monday 26 February

10.00 - 13.00

In portraits by John Singer Sargent (1856–1925), sitters assume elegant stances, the fabric of their dress richly depicted in broad, sensuous strokes of paint. Sargent brought his subjects to life, but he did much more than simply record what appeared before him. He often chose what his sitters wore and, even if they arrived in his studio dressed in the latest fashions, he frequently simplified and altered the details. Exploiting dress was an integral part of his artistry. (Exhibition of interest: Tate Britain -   Fashion, identity, painting: explore the unique work of John Singer Sargent  22 February – 7 July 2024.)

Cost: £35.00 including refreshments and biscuits at the interval.

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    art appreciation tours

COMMENTS

  1. Art Appreciation Tours

    Art Appreciation Tours is run by Jennie Spiers MA, an experienced Art Historian, tutor and lecturer. Jennie organizes and leads courses, study days and residential tours in Britain and Europe; lecturing for major art galleries, local authorities and adult education on a wide variety of art history topics. ...

  2. Quick Culture

    Quick Culture's museum tours and journeys are meticulously researched and paced to Explore the hidden gems of art, iconic and emerging artists, off-the-beaten-track attractions, culinary tastes of art and conversations with distinguished influencers from the past, the present, and the future. Quick Culture will Inspire your imagination and awareness in a completely new way!

  3. Art Appreciation Tours

    Art Appreciation Tours have arranged trips to Amsterdam, Florence, Paris, Glasgow, Oxford, Edinburgh, Cornwall, Liverpool and London. Jennie presents a series of talks related to the tour theme and brings to life the intricacies of, for example, The Pre-Raphaelites, The Italian Renaissance and the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. ...

  4. Art Holidays and Tours 2024/2025

    Art tours. art tours. Enjoy some of the world's most iconic art with our dedicated range of art holidays. The range of itineraries we offer are imaginative, authentic, balanced and often include guest speakers. Whether you are looking for a short trip to learn more about art in the UK or a longer trip to discover more about Art Deco in New York ...

  5. Art & History Guided Tours

    Day 13: Amsterdam Galleries - Rijksmuseum & Vincent van Gogh Museum. Admire world-famous masterpieces in the Rijksmuseum, which has on display 8,000 objects of art and history. There is a total collection of 1 million objects, spanning the years 1200-2000AD, among which are masterpieces by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer.

  6. Luxury Travel Experiences for Art Collectors

    Bespoke or Museum Trip. Artful creates custom art-focused trips for museums, families, friends, and corporate teams. Led by our experienced Art Educators, enjoy behind-the-scenes visits to your chosen venues, ranging from museums to artist studios to collector homes. Pricing is similar to all Artful Jaunts experiences. More Details.

  7. Art Vacations: Create as you travel through Europe

    We left Greece with a whole new appreciation of seeing the world by traveling "at the speed of you." They are fabulous tour leaders. ... Our Art Walk art vacations are the perfect tours for artists of all levels. Talented and engaging teaching artists offer daily classes inspired by stunning locations. Equal parts journey and learning, our ...

  8. Art & Architecture tours

    The Printing Revolution Renaissance print culture in Rome & Venice. 24 Nov - 01 Dec 2025 £4,720. Read more. Art and architecture tours for small groups with expert lecturers. View our art and architecture themed events or call +44 (0)20 8742 3355 to find out more.

  9. About us

    About Art Appreciation Tours. Art Appreciation Tours provides an informal and friendly environment in which to learn about the fascinating, inspirational and educational world of art. Through art we learn about the history of the world, it's wonders, horrors, achievements, disappointments, beauty, ugliness, sensuality - all that life has to offer.

  10. Art & Painting Holidays in Europe

    Embark on a journey of creativity and discovery with our Painting Holidays in Spain & Italy, where inspiring landscapes meet timeless art in an unforgettable experience for artists of all levels. Welcome to Your Creative Escapes, where the art of travel meets the joy of creativity. Our unique short art courses are designed for travelers seeking ...

  11. Art Under the Moonlight

    The "Art Under the Moonlight" tours will offer guests a unique opportunity to explore William Randolph Hearst's world-renowned art collection like never before - under the enchanting glow of the moon. These guided tours will be available on select Fridays and Saturdays from Oct. 4 through Nov. 16. Due to the limited availability, reservations are highly recommended.

  12. Cultural Trips & Art Tours

    Connect with locals. Our cultural trips connect you with locals who share their unique customs. Witness the revival of Khmer crafts by young artisans in Siem Reap, see the delicate craft of Venetian glassblowing on Giudecca Island, learn the art of haggling at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, discover the spiritual connections the local Anangu caretakers have with the land at Uluru, or learn how local ...

  13. Art appreciation courses & art history tours

    Travel-Quest's art appreciation courses and art history tours holidays section, lists holidays, tours, breaks and residential courses where the main activity is learning how to appreciate the visual arts, including painting, drawing, sculpture, carving, ceramics etc. This is likely to include visiting art galleries, museums, exhibitions ...

  14. Nerman Museum Tours

    Informative, interactive art appreciation tours are designed to facilitate understanding of contemporary art in our exhibitions and in the permanent collection on view throughout campus. Tours are available for college classes, community groups and school groups, starting with kindergarten, with five to 50 individuals. ...

  15. 5 holiday ideas for art and architecture lovers

    Tour Italy, home of Renaissance art. The home of Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli and Dante, Italy was the centre from which the Renaissance emanated. Art, literature and music flourished here, so it's the perfect place to holiday. See the Uffizi and Accademia galleries in the beautiful Tuscan city of Florence or step inside the legacy of ...

  16. Quick Culture

    Quick Culture's museum tours and journeys are meticulously researched and paced to Explore the hidden gems of art, iconic and emerging artists, off-the-beaten-track attractions, culinary tastes of art and conversations with distinguished influencers from the past, the present, and the future. Quick Culture will Inspire your imagination and awareness in a completely new way!

  17. Art Fund

    The tours visit some of the world's most famous art and architecture, and with each tour booked a donation is made to the Art Fund. The Art Fund, an independent charity that exists to save great works of art for the nation and helps museums and galleries buy, show and share great art.In fact, more than 600 museums, galleries, castles and historic houses throughout the UK have had their ...

  18. Art Appreciation Tours

    Art Appreciation Tours, Fifehead St. Quintin Sturminster N. "I have attended several of Jennie's courses, on the pre-Raphaelites, Victorian Narrative Painting, Art Under the Dictators, Dame Laura Knight, to name just a few.

  19. Art Appreciation Tour

    The average person spends 17 seconds looking at a work of art in a museum. To truly understand a work of art, you must slow down and take time to see the details. Explore our carefully curated art and sculpture collection during this 30-minute experience. Learn about the lives of the artists behind these masterpieces and gain an appreciation ...

  20. Educational Student Art Tours & Field Trips

    Son Tours can help you create immersive art history and appreciation tours that will encourage students to engage with the curriculum, surrounding them with creations from some of the most well-known and well-respected artists in the world. Get a Well-Planned Art Field Trip without the Hassle. We make planning art field trips easy.

  21. Art Appreciation Tours

    Jennie holds a variety of Art History study days in Dorset and these run throughout the year. To discuss or book one of Jennie's study days, please contact her direct, either by calling on 01258 818249 or sending an email via the contact page. Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, 9 Fore Street, Evershot, Dorchester, Dorset. DT2 0JR.

  22. Art Bites Tour: Art Appreciation as Self Care

    Discover how you can do this with art gallery spaces in this guided tour!ART BITES are 30-minute, 3-stop tours given by Student WAM Guides developed under instruction from WAM's LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT ASSOCIATE, Olivia Comstock. ... Art Bites Tour: Art Appreciation as Self Care. Apr 11 2024 | 2 - 2:30pm. FREE. Weisman Art Museum. 333 E River ...

  23. Art Appreciation Tours

    Sargent and Fashion Monk's Yard. Ilmimster Monday 26 February. 10.00 - 13.00 In portraits by John Singer Sargent (1856-1925), sitters assume elegant stances, the fabric of their dress richly depicted in broad, sensuous strokes of paint.