From its rich cultural history to its treasure box of artistic masterpieces, Spain has long been a global leader in the world of art. The nation is home to some of the most prestigious art museums, boasting vast collections spanning centuries of priceless works. With its commitment to preservation, educational programs, and world-class facilities, Spain’s art museums truly set the gold standard for institutions worldwide. From the Golden Triangle of Madrid to the walkable art gallery that is Barcelona, here’s where to explore the best art museums in Spain. 

Experience it: Spain & Portugal in Style

Spain’s art heritage

Spanish art has a long and storied history, with each period boasting its own unique contributions to the global art scene. From prehistoric cave paintings and Roman mosaics to Gothic masterpieces, Spain has been a hotbed of artistic creativity and talent throughout the centuries. 

Commitment to preservation and conservation

Spain’s art museums play a key role as custodians of their nation’s artistic heritage. These institutions have made significant investments in state-of-the-art conservation to ensure their collections remain in pristine condition for generations to come. 

Spanish art museums also actively engage with their local communities and visitors from around the world through a wide range of educational programs. From guided tours and hands-on workshops to lecture series and special exhibitions, these institutions provide opportunities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds to connect with art in meaningful ways. Furthermore, many Spanish art museums offer free or reduced admission to students, seniors, and other groups, making their collections accessible to everyone.

Read more: The Luxury Gold guide to discovering statement art pieces on your travels

A thriving contemporary art scene

It’s not just about celebrating the old masters in Spain. The country’s contemporary art scene is alive and well, with numerous galleries and museums dedicated to showcasing the work of emerging and established artists alike. This commitment to fostering new talent ensures the country’s artistic legacy continues to flourish. There’s no doubt that Spain’s art museums will remain at the forefront of the global art scene for years to come.

World-class art museums

Spain’s diverse artistic heritage is reflected in its exceptional museums. Here are some of the best institutions you can’t miss.

Museo Nacional del Prado (Prado Museum) – Madrid

The Prado Museum is one of the most important and prestigious art museums in the world. It houses an extensive collection of European art from the 12th to the early 20th centuries. The museum’s collection is especially rich in Spanish paintings, including works by great masters like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. You’ll also find masterpieces by international artists like Titian, Rubens and Bosch. 

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Some of the most best works to see in the Prado Museum

• Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez
• The Third of May 1808 by Francisco Goya
• The Naked Maja by Francisco Goya 
• The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch
• The Annunciation by Fra Angelico 
• The Descent from the Cross by Rogier van der Weyden 
• The Triumph of Death by Pieter Bruegel the Elder 
• Alegoría del Verano by Juan Antonio Ribera y Fernández

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Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Reina Sofía Museum) – Madrid

The Reina Sofía Museum is dedicated to modern and contemporary art, with a strong emphasis on Spanish artists from the 20th century. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, and multimedia works and features iconic pieces from the likes of Picasso, Dalí, Miró, and more.

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Some of the best works to see in the Reina Sofía Museum

• Guernica by Pablo Picasso
• The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dalí
• Girl at the Window by Salvador Dalí
• Portrait II by Joan Miró
• Woman in Blue by Joan Miró
• A World by Ángeles Santos
• The Open Window by Juan Gris
• Monument to the Spanish Civil War by Alberto Sánchez
• The Screaming Pope by Francis Bacon

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Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum – Madrid

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum rounds out the famous Golden Triangle of art galleries in Madrid. It holds an extensive collection of European and American art from the 13th to the 20th centuries. The museum’s collection, assembled by the Thyssen-Bornemisza family, covers a wide range of styles and periods, including Impressionism, the German Renaissance, Italian primitives, and 19th-century American art.

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Some of the best works to see in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

• Woman in a Hat (Olga) by Pablo Picasso
• Les Vessenots in Auvers by Vincent van Gogh
• Poppy Field by Claude Monet 
• The Annunciation by El Greco
• Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bee around a Pomegranate a Second before Waking by Salvador Dalí
• The Annunciation Dyptich by Jan van Eyck
• Saint Catherine of Alexandria by Caravaggio
• Young Knight in a Landscape by Vittore Carpaccio
• The Penitent Saint Jerome by Titian

Read more: A work of heart: meet the founder of the Rosengart collection

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Guggenheim Museum Bilbao – Bilbao

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a striking contemporary art museum that has become a symbol of the city. The museum’s magnificent facade is a work of art in itself, but head inside and you’ll discover some extraordinary collections of art. The museum largely focuses on post-war European and American art, showcasing works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Rothko, de Kooning, Warhol, and Kiefer.

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Some of the best works to see in the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

• The Matter of Time by Richard Serra
• Maman by Louise Bourgeois
• Tulips by Jeff Koons
• Puppy by Jeff Koons
• One Hundred and Fifty Multicolored Marilyns by Andy Warhol
• Villa Borghese by Willem de Kooning
• The Large Glass by Marcel Duchamp
• The Fish by Frank Gehry

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Barcelona

With its many museums, galleries and architectural gems, the city of Barcelona is like one giant art gallery. From Gaudí’s influence to the works of Picasso, here are some of the best art and architecture to see in Barcelona.

Sagrada Familia

This iconic church is one of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks and is still under construction, more than a century after Antoni Gaudí began work on it. Its distinctive spires and ornate facade are unparalleled.

Park Güell

This public park is one of Gaudí’s most famous works, known for its colorful mosaic sculptures and panoramic views of the city.

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Casa Batlló

With its undulating façade, colorful mosaics, and sculptural forms, this apartment building is iconic Gaudí.

Casa Milà

Also known as La Pedrera, this building’s rippling rooftop, curved facade, and intricate ironwork, and is considered one of Gaudí’s most innovative works.

Palau de la Música Catalana

This concert hall is famed for its beautiful stained glass windows, mosaics, and ornate design, and is one of the most beautiful buildings in Barcelona.

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Picasso Museum

This museum is dedicated to the works of Pablo Picasso and features many of his early works and important pieces from his career.

Joan Miró Foundation

You’ll find an impressive collection of the works of Joan Miró here, including paintings, sculptures and drawings. 

Gothic Quarter

This historic neighborhood is filled with stunning Gothic architecture, narrow streets, and charming squares.

Barcelona Pavilion

Designed by the famous architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this iconic building is renowned for its minimalist and elegant design and innovative use of materials.

Read more: These are 2023’s most remarkable luxury travel trends

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Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (National Art Museum of Catalonia) – Barcelona

Special mention goes to the National Art Museum of Catalonia in Barcelona. It houses a vast collection of Catalan, Spanish, and international art spanning from the Romanesque period to the mid-20th century. It’s also famous for its collection of Romanesque mural paintings, considered one of the most important in the world.

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Some of the best works to see in the National Art Museum of Catalonia

• Apse of Sant Climent de Taüll by the Master of Taüll 
• The mural paintings of the Conquest of Majorca
• Saint Peter and Saint Paul by El Greco
• The Virgin of the Consellers by Lluís Dalmau
• Portrait of Ramon Casas by Ramon Casas 
• The Spanish Wedding by Mariano Fortuny Marsal

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Journey from Barcelona to Madrid on our Spain & Portugal in Style luxury tour and take a deep dive into Spain’s most extraordinary art museums, or explore more of what the country has to offer on a luxury trip to Spain.

A captivating world of wildlife, communities and industry, with an amazing story to tell, the Mississippi Delta is one of the lesser-known treasures of the American South.

We had the pleasure to speak with Barbara Johnson, co-founder of Great Delta Tours to learn more about her love for the Delta. She talks us through the significance of these remarkable wetlands and gives a peek at what’s in store on your journey through New Orleans and this natural wonderland.

Experience this on: Southern Grace

Arriving in Louisiana aged 17 with her family, Barbara studied for a Masters in Urban and Regional Affairs in New Orleans, and fell deeply in love with its community. New Orleans has now been her home for over 30 years, and she founded Great Delta Tours six years ago with her colleague, Dr. Peter Yaukey, a local science professor and naturalist.

Originally working in Community and Economic Development, Barbara’s entire life has been about building up this community. She tells us that it was when working as a consultant with coastal communities after Deepwater Horizon (the BP oil spill) in 2010, that her ‘aha’ moment happened.

Founding Great Delta Tours

“New Orleans is known around the world for its distinctive culture and the richness of its food, music and architecture,” Barbara explains. “But we’re less celebrated for our natural environment – one of the most important river delta systems in the world.”

“With ecotourism fast-growing, I realized there was an opportunity to build on that sector of our travel and leisure economy; to tell the story of this amazing natural environment and to also build awareness of how we sustain ourselves as a coastal community.”

A fresh perspective

“This is what we celebrate on Great Delta Tours and what guests of Luxury Gold will experience,” says Barbara. “We offer a fresh and unforgettable perspective and understanding of New Orleans. And we reveal the beauty and importance of one of the largest river ecosystems in the world, through cultures, wildlife, fisheries and economic assets that are not found anywhere else.

“We are the river. Everything comes from the Mississippi that’s created this amazing tapestry of land and people and diverse cultures and wildlife.”

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A rainforest of North America

‘The Mississippi Delta’ refers to the bottom third of Louisiana and is a massive wetland system – a 200-mile-long swathe from Texas to Mississippi. “It’s sometimes referred to as a ‘Rainforest of North America’,” Barbara says, “because of its diversity of plant life, marine life and wildlife.”

“These wetlands are like giant nurseries of life and on this tour Luxury Gold guests will get to truly experience that bounty. We go beyond the flood walls and visit places most visitors don’t get to experience.”

Highlighting the importance of the Mississippi as a navigable waterway and one largest port systems in the world, she explains that the wetlands protect incredibly important economic resources. “We are one the largest producers of energy in the country,” says Barbara, “and this land protects all of that.”

Celebrate birds and conservation projects

Explaining that the Mississippi Delta is also one of the great bird flyways of the world, Barbara tells us “Right now, there are millions of birds moving from South America to North America on a great migration. The wetlands provide them food and habitat along their way, and we endeavor to seek out birdlife on our tours.

“On the tour we’ll celebrate some of conservation success stories that we’ve been able to achieve. Whether it’s saving the Brown Pelican, our state bird, that was on the verge of extinct extinction from the 60s to the 80s, or the alligators whose population is once again rising steadily. These animals are no longer threatened, and we have a very rich number of them here now. It’s a great success story for us.”

Discover another spectacular experience on Southern Grace: Brenda Lee: The pop icon who inspired some of the biggest names in music

A fortress we must protect

“The wetlands have a very important role to play in flood prevention,” Barbara explains. “They’re a crucial part of the fortress of levees and flood walls protecting the people of Louisiana.”

New Orleans is surrounded by water and is located in a depression between the Mississippi River and Gulf of Mexico that is up to five meters deep. This makes the city especially vulnerable to flooding from hurricanes, the river and heavy rainfall.

“The wetlands act like giant speed bumps and barriers, protecting around 1.5 million people from storms and hurricanes that come off the Gulf,” she says.

“For various reasons we’ve been losing these wetlands and the land is sinking, partly due to natural evolutionary processes and also as the result of human activity. So now in South Louisiana we have underway one of the largest climate adaptation projects in the world, working to restore what’s been lost since the 1930s.”

Louisiana is recognized as a global pioneer in taking action to mitigate the impact of the climate crisis to its communities. In place since 2007, a $50 billion, 50-year plan developed using the best available science and engineering, guides the state’s efforts to sustain its coastal ecosystem, safeguard coastal populations, and protect vital economic and cultural resources.

“Our future depends on ensuring that we have a flood protection system as well as restoring and conserving our wetlands here,” says Barbara, “and this is what guest will also see as we point out these projects on our tour.”

Discover fishes and fishermen

“One of my favorite parts of the tour is the Yscloskey fishing village, where we go to have lunch and meet with a fifth generation Isleños fishermen,” Barbara tells us. “It’s a very quaint, small village, you feel like you’re in in a fishing village in the South Pacific, with lodges up on stilts 20 feet high as is the requirement beyond the flood walls.

“It’s also a major commercial fishing community (Louisiana has the second largest fishery in America), that also defines who we are as a coastal community. Families have been here for generations, and they harvest and process blue crabs, shrimp, crawfish and oysters, everything we celebrate in our restaurants.

“Here you can just drink in the beautiful nature with birds and wildlife. You’ll see the fishermen coming in with their catch and have the chance to talk with a local. It’s like taking a step back in time.”

You may also be interested in: Why a Luxury Gold tour is perfect for families with grown-up children

Celebrate Spanish culture

 “While New Orleans is more often known for its French influence, we like to celebrate the city’s very distinctive Spanish culture,” Barbara says. “Architecturally the French Quarter and its surrounds is more Spanish in character than French.”

Defeated by the British in the French and Indian War, France gave up control of Louisiana to Spain from 1763 until 1801. The Spanish recruited militia and farmers from the Canary Islands, a Spanish colony, to defend New Orleans from British expansion. They were known as ‘Isleños’.

“3000 Isleños were recruited, and we share the whole story with guests in the Islenos Village Complex,” she says. “There is a museum and also several of the original homes that the Spanish built. It’s a fascinating culture that most people don’t know about, and we celebrate this at the Isleños village that is now St. Bernard Parish.”

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Fresh eyes on New Orleans

“Through the Mississippi Delta tour, we take guests on a deep dive into the history of New Orleans, to show how it emerged from a backwater settlement on the edge of a cypress swamp to one of the most prosperous cities in America by the mid 1800s,” Barbara explains. “You’ll see the colorful and beautiful historic architecture of neighborhoods that we travel through and understand the city’s development from living on the edge of the river, on the natural levees, to how we were able to expand into the surrounding areas.

“You’ll also see architectural hidden gems such as New Orleans Lakefront Airport, one of the finest examples of art deco in the country. When it was built in 1934 it was the largest and most modern airport in America. Renovation after Hurricane Katrina revealed eight priceless murals by the Spanish muralist Javier Gonzalez on the second floor. The building and grounds also include a beautiful bas relief façade and a sculpture fountain by Mexican born Louisiana artist Enrique Alvarez.”

Maybe extend your time in this amazing city: 7 incredible destinations to extend your Luxury Gold vacation

Working with the water, for the future

“We also celebrate nature in a special way at places like New Orleans City Park,” Barbara explains. Over 170 years old, one mile wide and three miles long comprising a total of 1,300 acres, New Orleans City Park is one of the largest urban Parks in the country. It is home to the largest grove of live oak trees in the world and one of the finest sculpture gardens in the country in the New Orleans Museum of Art.

“The museum shows in a special way how we are learning to live with, and celebrate, water as we learn from the Dutch for our future survival, and resilience post Katrina. We used to turn our backs to the water and try to pump it out as fast as we can. But now there’s a whole different way that we’re trying to capture water and celebrate it.”

This intimate look at the Mississippi Delta is one of the unforgettable moments that await on Southern Grace. Discover the best of the sublime American South with exquisite hotels, exceptional dining and exclusive experiences, curated for you.

In South Africa’s Western Cape, the enchanting Cape Winelands may just be the most coveted wine region in the world. With sublime scenery, world-class wines, and rich cultural history, this remarkable region is a sought-after destination for wine lovers and travelers alike. From soaring mountains and manicured gardens to lush vineyards and charming Cape Dutch architecture, we take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful South African wineries in the Cape Winelands.

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Vergelegen Estate

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Located in Somerset West in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Vergelegen Estate is one of the oldest and most prestigious South African wineries. Established in 1700, the estate has over 300 years of rich history and is home to historic Cape Dutch architecture, manicured gardens, and award-winning wines. 

Vergelegen, meaning “situated far away” in Dutch, covers around 3,000 extraordinary hectares, with 146 hectares dedicated to vineyards producing a wide variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.

As part of our Spectacular South Africa luxury tour, you’ll indulge in a wine tasting of the estate’s premium wines while soaking up the stunning views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains. You can also explore the historic homestead, the library, and the mill ruins. Or enjoy a stroll through the ancient camphor tree forest or the 18 unique gardens, including the lovely rose garden. 

Read more: An exclusive invitation from La Famiglia Mazzei, a Tuscan wine dynasty

Boschendal Wine Estate

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Boschendal Wine Estate is a picturesque winery nestled between the Groot Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains in the Franschhoek Valley. Established in 1685, it’s one of the oldest and most celebrated South African wineries, with a remarkable history, diverse wines, and breathtaking scenery. 

Spread over 2,400 hectares, the estate is a tranquil haven of flower beds, luscious lawns, shady okay trees, and fruit and vegetable gardens. As for the wines, Boschendal is known for its award-winning Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Méthode Cap Classique. 

When you travel on our Spectacular South Africa luxury tour, you’ll savour a farm-to-table lunch at Boschendal Wine Estate. Chef Allistaire Lawrence presents a seasonal menu with local and ethically sourced produce harvested from the Werf Food Garden. After your meal, you can explore the restored Cape Dutch Manor House, original wine cellar, and dreamy rose garden. You can also admire the impressive collection of Cape Dutch furniture and artwork, before returning to Cape Town in a chauffeured vintage car.

Read more: What to look for in a top-quality Pinot Noir, by wine expert Courtney Kingston

Babylonstoren

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Set in the heart of the Drakenstein Valley between Franschhoek and Paarl, Babylonstoren is famed for its immaculate gardens, award-winning wines, and luxurious spa. This farm and wine estate is not only beautiful but historic, dating back to 1692. 

The impressive gardens span over eight acres and are designed in the style of a traditional Cape Dutch farm. The gardens have over 300 varieties of plants, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. You can explore the gardens, learn about sustainable farming practices, and even take part in the harvesting.

One of the highlights of this wine estate is the Greenhouse restaurant. Walk through the tall oaks and arrive at the gorgeous Greenhouse, where you can enjoy picnic-style lunches and teas in the dappled sunlight of the greenhouse.

Read more: Cape expectations: how Travel Concierge Jameel makes South Africa sing

Waterford Estate

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Located in the scenic Blaauwklippen Valley in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s most famous wine-producing region, Waterford Estate is renowned for its spectacular views and exceptional wine-tasting experiences.

Established in 1998, Waterford Estate cultivates a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Shiraz. Their flagship wine, “The Jem”, is a blend of several grape varieties showcasing the diversity of the Stellenbosch terroir. Indulge in a wine-tasting of all their award-winning wines, or take part in the more unique wine and chocolate tasting. 

Waterford Estate’s stunning setting adds to its allure. Surrounded by lush vineyards, fragrant citrus orchards, and breathtaking views of Helderberg Mountain, the estate creates an idyllic atmosphere. The Mediterranean-style architecture, including the terracotta-tiled buildings and courtyard, adds a touch of European elegance to the South African landscape.

Read more: This is what it’s actually like to travel on South Africa’s Rovos Rail

La Motte Wine Estate

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The esteemed La Motte winery is located in the magnificent Franschhoek Valley, one of the premier wine-producing regions in South Africa’s Cape Winelands. La Motte has a rich history dating back to 1695, with over three centuries spent refining its delectable wines reflecting the unique terroir of the Franschhoek Valley. Their notable wines include the La Motte Sauvignon Blanc, La Motte Chardonnay, and the La Motte Pierneef Shiraz Viognier.

The most striking features of La Motte are its gorgeous gardens and superbly restored Cape Dutch-style manor house, dating back to the 18th century. The manor house sits among the gardens, with its traditional whitewashed walls, thatched roof, and intricate gables. After exploring the charming building, you’ll find it’s a pleasure to get lost in the gardens. You can wander through the peaceful lily pond and the rose garden with over 1,000 rose bushes. There’s also the remarkable herb and vegetable garden that supplies the estate’s restaurant.

La Motte is also home to an impressive collection of Pierneef artworks, one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. The Pierneef à La Motte Museum showcases a permanent exhibition of his works, alongside other rotating art exhibitions.

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Delaire Graff Estate

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Perched on the Helshoogte Pass between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, Delaire Graff Estate is one of the most exclusive South African wineries, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and unparalleled luxury. 

The first thing you notice is how the design of the estate’s architecture intentionally maximizes the views. With floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces, you can fully immerse yourself in the scenes of the Stellenbosch mountains. The immaculate gardens showcase indigenous plants, vibrant flowers and manicured lawns. Meanwhile, the exquisite vineyards produce a range of award-winning wines, including Bordeaux-style red blends, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc.

You’ll also find an impressive collection of contemporary South African art. The estate houses sculptures, paintings, and installations by acclaimed artists such as Lionel Smit, Deborah Bell, and Dylan Lewis. Thoughtfully displayed throughout the estate, including the fine dining restaurants, the art collection adds to the sophisticated atmosphere. It’s no wonder the estate is known as the Jewel of the Cape Winelands.