DE MADRID AL CIELO Private Before-Hours Art Gallery Tour and Gastronomic Break

Explore the Thyssen-Bornemisza Gallery, Madrid's Neo-Classical art museum in a private ‘before hours’ tour of one of the world's most important collections of private art. Your own expert historian will guide you through the permanent collection, spanning eight centuries of inspirational European art. Acquired by Swiss industrialist Baron Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza and his father, this eclectic collection traces the development of Western humanism from Medieval art to Renaissance, Baroque to 20th Century Impressionists, Expressionists, Surrealists and Pop Art. Experience the calm of Monet’s winter landscapes, Salvador Dali's dream-like portals, or discover in secret the reflection in the mirror of Picasso’s Harlequin. Opened in 2009, Ramon Freixa’s two Michelin-starred restaurant showcases the very best of Spain’s culinary revival. Savour the signature ‘Grand Frx’ tasting menu, spanning a delectable 15-courses of innovative dishes, such as; Cod in their skins with pumpkin and “mole” sauce live. Not your average Michelin-starred establishment, Ramon Freixa’s dining space is quirky and luxurious. Lounging art deco chairs, vibrant prints and wide, fresh-white tables overlook peaceful gardens in the heart of the city. The creative, modern Spanish cuisine is testament to both Freixa’s heritage and formal training at famous French favourite Comme Chez Soi and Brussels' La Truffle Noire. From the modern to the historic, it’s not every day that you are able to eat at the Guinness World Record’s ‘Oldest Restaurant in the World’. Restaurante Botín on Plaza Mayor has been turning out impeccably roasted meats from its original Castilian-style cast iron wood burning oven since 1725. Hemingway adored Botín, notably including it in his novel The Sun Also Rises, and it is rumoured that Francisco Goya worked there as a busboy before becoming one of Spain’s most famous Romantic artists. Seated in the wood-beam dining room or rustic cellar, this immersive three-course meal serves up phenomenal and traditional Spanish fare of succulent Cochinillo Asado (roast pig) and tender Cordero Asado (roast lamb). You may even be treated to an atmospheric song by the authentic ‘Tunas’, as you dine. Muy bien!