A Morning at the Prado Museum

As a travel writer and a mother of three, I am always on the lookout for experiences that are both enriching and enjoyable for the whole family. When I heard about the Prado Museum Tour & Lunch in Madrid, I knew it was something I had to experience. The idea of combining art and history with a culinary adventure was too tempting to resist.

I arrived in Madrid on a crisp January morning, eager to begin my adventure. The city was quieter than usual, a serene backdrop for my exploration. I met my guide, Ewan, at the Goya statue outside the Prado Museum. Ewan, originally from Scotland, had made Spain his home for many years, and his passion for the country’s art and history was palpable.

The Prado Museum is a treasure trove of masterpieces, and having Ewan as my guide made the experience even more special. His knowledge and enthusiasm brought the artworks to life, and I found myself captivated by the stories behind each piece. We spent two hours wandering through the museum, pausing at the works that caught my eye. Ewan’s insights added depth to my understanding, and I left the museum with a newfound appreciation for Spanish art and history.

Strolling Through Madrid’s Literary Quarter

After our enlightening tour of the Prado, we made our way to Madrid’s Literary Quarter. This charming neighborhood is steeped in history, and as we strolled through its cobblestone streets, I could almost feel the presence of Spain’s literary greats.

Our first stop was Los Gatos, a quirky little tavern where we enjoyed a refreshing vermouth and some olives. The atmosphere was lively, and it was the perfect place to relax and soak in the local culture. Ewan shared stories about the area’s history, pointing out landmarks like the Trinitarian Convent and Plaza Mayor.

As we continued our walk, I couldn’t help but think about how much my children would enjoy this part of the tour. The Literary Quarter is a living history lesson, and I imagined them being fascinated by the tales of Cervantes and other literary legends. It’s a reminder that travel can be both fun and educational, a philosophy I always strive to incorporate into my family adventures.

Dining at the World’s Oldest Restaurant

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly our visit to Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world. Arriving before the lunch rush, we had the unique opportunity to explore the restaurant’s historic interiors. From the basement dining room to the ancient tunnels, every corner of Botín is steeped in history.

Lunch was a delightful affair, with a menu that showcased the best of traditional Spanish cuisine. We started with ham and chicken croquettes and sautéed artichokes with cured ham, followed by the restaurant’s famous suckling pig. The meal was accompanied by a glass of Viña Salceda Rioja, a perfect complement to the rich flavors.

As we dined, Ewan shared more stories about his life in Spain and offered personalized recommendations for my stay in Madrid. His passion for the city was infectious, and I left the restaurant feeling inspired and eager to explore more.

This tour was a perfect blend of art, history, and gastronomy, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Madrid. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, the Prado Museum Tour & Lunch offers a unique and memorable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for this vibrant city.