Private Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando Tour in Madrid

Explore Spanish Art from the 16th Century to Today with an Art Historian at the Madrid Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando.

Spanish Romanticism

This hidden gem in the heart of Madrid, often underrated, boasts a spectacular array of works dating back to the 16th century and remains one of Spain’s most prestigious art institutions that rivals many major museums. From Spanish Romanticism to the iconic Goya’s etchings, this tour is a treasure trove for any art enthusiast.
Let’s start with the Academy’s historical significance. Many of Spain’s greatest artists, including Sorolla, Picasso, Dalí, and other luminaries of Spanish Romanticism, were once students here. The Academy has witnessed the birth of artistic genius and continues to house some of Spain’s most revered masterpieces. If you’re seeking a travel experience that offers depth, beauty, and history, this is it.

The highlight of this Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando private tour is an up-close encounter with the famous copper plates used for Goya’s etchings:

Disparates – Goya’s surreal and enigmatic depictions of human folly.
Caprichos – his satirical critique of 18th-century society.
Desastres de la Guerra – the haunting portrayal of war’s brutal realities.
Tauromaquia – an exploration of Spain’s bullfighting tradition.

Beyond Goya’s iconic works, our licensed guide, Irina Karasenko, will guide you through a selection of masterpieces from artists such as Arcimboldo (don’t miss his famous “Spring”), Zurbaran, Francisco Collantes, P.P. Rubens, Carreño de Miranda, Antonio de Pereda, Zuloaga, and Joaquin Sorolla. Each piece represents a significant chapter in the evolution of Spanish art of painting and is sure to leave you inspired.

A fascinating stop on the tour is the magnificent sculpture “The Killing of the Innocents” by José Ginés, the chief sculptor of King Charles IV. This powerful piece, along with the art collection housed in the Academy, gives a vivid picture of the Bourbon court and the artistic movements that formed Spain during that period.

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Our Guide

This Madrid Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando tour isn’t just about observing art—it’s about diving into the stories, techniques, and cultural contexts behind each masterpiece.

Irina will reveal little-known facts and fascinating anecdotes that are seldom found in traditional guidebooks or audio tours. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of how these artists influenced and reflected their time.

Tour Observations

Length: 2 hours.

Time: Tours take place from Tuesday to Sunday, any time between 10 AM and 1 PM.
(This tour is not available on Monday.)

Languages: English, French, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish.

Guides: All our guides are licensed by the Madrid Regional Government and Art History specialists.
High-quality audio gear for crystal-clear listening to your guide.

Admissions: NOT included.

Cancellations: before 8 days of the tour: NO penalization.
Less than 7 days before the Tour: 100% cancellation cost.

Cost of museum admission is NOT included in the tour pricing, as group sizes vary.

Our designated meeting point is at the Information counter of Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando museum.