Arts
and Architecture Custom Tours
France
and Spain are second to none when it comes to art
and architecture. Among artists, Picasso is a shining example, of course - he
was born and raised in Spain and spent most of his career in France - but there
are many more famous names: Cézanne, Van Gogh, Goya and Velásquez,
to mention only a few. And architecture
is equally as impressive. It ranges from the Roman ruins of Pont du Gard to the
Gothic churches of northern France and to the modern buildings of Antoni Gaudí,
Santiago Calatrava and Raphael Moneo. Touring
France and Spain is a special treat for those looking to understand the finest
manifestations of the human spirit and intellect. Enjoy!
Most
of the following tours are suggested itineraries for private groups and describe
some of the many possibilities. Tell us where and when you want to go. We will
create a custom program that fits your specific interests and requirements.
FRANCE
Great
Operas: Classical
Mozart, romantic Wagner, Donizetti's "bel canto" and Janacek's symbolism
are just a short sampling of opera experiences offered in France during the 2009
spring season. There are many more to discover in Paris and other cities around
the country. You can actually choose from over 40 different operas and some 300
performances from January to June.
Spectacular
French Gothic Cathedrals: There is no better place than the heart
of France for a tour of classical Gothic architecture. Within a few hours' drive
from Notre-Dame de Paris, you can easily reach several more of these amazing cathedrals:
Reims, Rouen, Chartres, Beauvais, Amiens, and more.
Art
in Sunny Provence and the French Riviera: Provence is the ideal destination
for a quick look at 19th and 20th century French art... so many Impressionists
and modern artists lived and worked there! This sunny corner of southern France
brings a rare opportunity to experience art in its original setting.
From
Paris to Provence - Art, Heritage and Culture: This tour captures the
essence of French heritage and culture: a delectable blend of art, ancient architecture,
cuisine Provençale and wine... Tour world-famous Paris museums: l'Orangerie
and the Musée d'Orsay. Then, Claude Monet's gardens in Giverny, Avignon
and its Palais de Papes, Arles with the memories of Van Gogh and Cézanne,
the native son of Aix-en-Provence.
Modern
Art and Architecture in and around Paris: This tour reveals some of the
most outstanding achievements in art and architecture produced in France since
the middle of the 19th century. During the tour you will admire the Impressionist
art of Claude Monet, the cubism of Pablo Picasso, the brightly colored sculptures
of Niki de Saint Phalle and the modern architecture of Renzo Piano...
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SPAIN
Culture,
Art and Architecture on the Mediterranean: The northern Mediterranean
coast of Spain gives an appreciation of a range of cultures dating from the Phoenicians
and the Romans to modern times. Along this beautiful sunny coastline you can tour
typical Spanish cities, enjoy picture-perfect scenery and learn to understand
a variety of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and "futuristic"
modern.
We
have personally visited all regions that are the most important for art and architecture
in France, Spain and Portugal. See pictures from our trips:
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