Curated Tour - National Gallery of Art with French Art Historian
Active
2h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
REACH OUT DIRECTLY AT ART WITH TOSCA
Instead of wandering purposelessly in the National Gallery of Art, Tosca will lead you into an in-depth visit of the museum’s history and its masterpieces. You have heard of Raphael, Da Vinci, Titian, Rembrandt, Monet but do you really know their lives and why they are seen as geniuses? We’ll dive into the lives of the great masters as we wander the rooms of the NGA.
We’ll go from the only Da Vinci in America before seeing Monet’s “Japanese Footbridge” to witness the different styles and evolutions in art. You’ll be armed with the information and history that you’ll need to appreciate the works of art on display.
Art with Tosca offers tours of cultural institutions in Washington D.C and online lectures about art history. Tosca brings you an extensive knowledge about European Art history having studied and lived between Paris, London and Italy.
Great gift idea: a lot of my guests have received this tour as a gift - They loved it!
Available options
PRIVATE TOUR
Completely private visit for your group. Minimum 2 participants are required to book this option. We will coordinate the time
Curated Tour of the National Gallery of Art with French Art Historian
What's included
"Semi-private" means that there is never more than 8 guests maximum
Semi-private Museum Tour
Professional Guided Tour led by Art Historian
Entrance to the museum is included
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Instead of wandering purposelessly in the National Gallery of Art, I will lead you into an in-depth visit of the museum’s history and its masterpieces by some of the world’s most acclaimed artists. For a better experience, tours are limited to 6 people. I bring you an extensive knowledge about European Art history having studied and lived between Paris, Italy and London (UK).
You have heard of Raphael, Da Vinci, Rubens, Rembrandt, Monet, Degas etc but do you really know their lives and why they are geniuses? We’ll dive into the lives of the painters behind some of the world’s most famous paintings. If none of the following names ring a bell to you, we’ll make sure that they do by the end of the tour. We’ll go from Da Vinci’s “Portrait of Ginevra de’ Benci” before fast-forwarding to Monet’s “Japanese Footbridge” to witness the different styles and evolutions in art over the centuries.
What's not included
Tour price does NOT include gratuities (optional)
Tour price does NOT include transportation. We recommend Uber, Taxi or Metro (get off at Archives)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will meet up at the National Gallery of Art's entrance on Constitution Avenue NW.
(There are several entrances, please make sure you are on the Constitution Avenue NW entrance, perpendicular to 6th St NW).
About Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and a vibrant city filled with iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of political significance, cultural diversity, and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
National Mall
The National Mall is a large, open park in downtown Washington, D.C., featuring numerous iconic landmarks, monuments, and museums. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city.
Historical/Park
Half day to full day
Free
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
This museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and features a vast collection of natural history specimens and exhibits, including dinosaurs, gems, and cultural artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is the meeting place of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American democratic government. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol building and its grounds.
Historical/Government
1-2 hours
Free
International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is a unique and interactive museum dedicated to the history of espionage and the world of intelligence. It features an extensive collection of spy artifacts and exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
$24.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (7-12)
Georgetown
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its charming streets, upscale shopping, and renowned dining scene. It is also home to the historic Georgetown University and the C&O Canal.
Historical/Shopping/Dining
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Must-Try Local Dishes
Half-Smoke
A half-smoke is a type of sausage that is smoked and then grilled, typically served with chili, cheese, and onions. It is a D.C. classic and can be found at various local eateries, including Ben's Chili Bowl.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Crab Cakes
Maryland-style crab cakes are a local favorite, made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They are typically served with a side of remoulade sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for those with seafood allergies
Eggs Benedict
A classic American breakfast dish consisting of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, typically served on an English muffin. The Founding Farmers restaurant is known for its delicious eggs Benedict.
Breakfast/Brunch
Contains eggs, dairy, and meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Sweet Potato Fries
A popular side dish in D.C., sweet potato fries are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as aioli or ketchup. They can be found at many restaurants and food trucks throughout the city.
Snack/Side Dish
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly (ensure no butter or animal products are used in preparation)
Popular Activities
Hiking and biking in Great Falls Park
Rock climbing and rappelling in Theodore Roosevelt Island
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Potomac River
Picnicking in the National Mall
Strolling along the Georgetown Waterfront
Visiting the United States Botanic Garden
Exploring the Smithsonian Museums
Attending a performance at the Kennedy Center
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall features beautiful foliage.
10-25°C
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, Chinese, Amharic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Washington, D.C. is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always confirm the fare before starting your journey
- • Be cautious when approaching strangers or signing petitions or surveys
Getting there
By air
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport • 5 km from city center
- Washington Dulles International Airport • 42 km from city center
By train
Union Station
By bus
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro system is efficient and reliable, with six color-coded lines serving major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Adams Morgan
U Street Corridor
Capitol Hill
The Wharf
Day trips
Mount Vernon
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Mount Vernon is the historic estate of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The site features a museum, a mansion, and beautiful gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of one of America's founding fathers.
Old Town Alexandria
10 km (6 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Old Town Alexandria is a charming historic district featuring cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums. It is a popular destination for shoppers, foodies, and history enthusiasts alike.
Great Falls Park
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Great Falls Park is a scenic park featuring breathtaking waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Potomac River. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Festivals
National Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April
Independence Day Celebration • July 4
Washington, D.C. Jazz Festival • Late June
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions, such as the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- Use public transportation, walking, or biking to get around the city, as traffic and parking can be challenging
- Purchase a multi-day pass for public transportation, such as the Metro or bus, to save money and time
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, such as spring (cherry blossom season) and summer (Independence Day)
- Research and compare prices for activities and attractions, and consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time and money
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
