Museums Around The World The Getty, Los Angeles, California
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12 Must-Visit Museums Around The World For Art Lovers

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For art lovers, visiting museums is a fantastic way of exploring different cultures and appreciating the beauty of artistic masterpieces. Museums provide a platform to showcase the creativity and talent of artists throughout history, highlighting the diverse range of art forms and styles. 

Whether you’re a fan of classical paintings, modern installations, or contemporary sculptures, countless museums worldwide offer an enriching experience.

This list highlights 12 must-visit museums that every art lover should include in their travel itinerary. They not only take you through different eras of art but let you explore massive art collections, marvel at works of some of the most iconic artists, and see art from different perspectives. These museums are sure to captivate and inspire any artistic person. 

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Museums Around The World Uffizi Gallery, Florence © Alexey Kuznetsov / Adobe Stock
Uffizi Gallery, Florence 1/5
Museums Around The World Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam © Pandora Pictures / Shutterstock
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam 2/5
Lesser-Known Museums Around the World Musee d'Orsay, Paris © BRUCE / Adobe Stock
Musée d’Orsay, Paris 3/5
Museums Around The World Louvre Museum, Paris © Benh LIEU SONG (Flickr) / Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 3.0
Louvre Museum, Paris 4/5
American Cities With Art Scene New York City New York Paolo Castellanos Shutterstock 2180702017 - 12 Must-Visit Museums Around The World For Art Lovers © Paolo Castellanos / Shutterstock
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York 5/5

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Museums Around The World Uffizi Gallery, Florence 1
Uffizi Gallery, Florence
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Museums Around The World Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam 2
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
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Lesser-Known Museums Around the World Musee d'Orsay, Paris 3
Musée d’Orsay, Paris
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Museums Around The World Louvre Museum, Paris 4
Louvre Museum, Paris
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American Cities With Art Scene New York City New York Paolo Castellanos Shutterstock 2180702017 150x150 - 12 Must-Visit Museums Around The World For Art Lovers 5
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Art Museums Around The World The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
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With over two million works of art spanning over 5,000 years of history, the Metropolitan Museum of Art offers a comprehensive view of artistic evolution that every art lover should experience. The museum showcases various creative genres, including paintings, sculptures, musical instruments, armor, and textiles.

While this museum has numerous iconic works of art, a highlight you do not want to miss is the European paintings collection, featuring works by legendary artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. Some unmissable pieces include Van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Jacques-Louis Davi’s The Death of Socrates, Emanuel Leutze’s Washington Crossing the Delaware, and John Singer Sargent’s Madame X. 

  • Entry Fee and Hours: Admission is 30 USD for adults, 22 USD for seniors, and 17 USD for students. It is open Sunday through Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Friday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. More details can be found on the official website.
  • Don’t Miss The Roof Garden Café and Martini Bar: Located on The Met’s rooftop, this café offers stunning views of Central Park and Manhattan. Visitors can grab small bites and creative drinks, with signature cocktails starting at around 18 USD.

Read also: Unique US Museums

Louvre Museum, Paris

Art Museums Around The World Louvre Museum, Paris
© Benh LIEU SONG (Flickr) / Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

The Louvre Museum is among the largest and most visited museums on earth, and for a good reason. It is home to some of the world’s most iconic artworks, including Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” the ancient Greek sculpture “Venus de Milo,” and the “Winged Victory of Samothrace.” These masterpieces draw millions of visitors annually and are must-sees for any art enthusiast.

Beyond its art collection, The Louvre is renowned for its stunning architecture. It was initially built as a fortress in the late 12th century and later transformed into a royal palace before becoming a museum during the French Revolution.

  • Entry Fee and Hours: General admission costs 17 EUR (about 18 USD) when booked online. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, with extended hours until 9:00 PM on Wednesday and Friday. It is closed on Tuesdays. Book tickets through the official Louvre website.
  • Lunch at Le Café Marly: Located in the Louvre’s courtyard under the arcade, Le Café Marly is ideal for a chic meal with views of the iconic pyramid. Signature dishes like foie gras and sea bass start at 30 EUR (about 32 USD). Reservations are advised.

Read also: Lesser-Known Art Museums Around the World

Musée d’Orsay, Paris

Art Museums Around the World Musee d'Orsay, Paris
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Located in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay in Paris is a must-visit for Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art enthusiasts. Home to works by renowned artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh, the museum showcases the revolutionary art movement that transformed the art world in the 19th century. Stroll through the museum’s galleries to witness iconic masterpieces such as “Starry Night Over the Rhône” and “Luncheon of the Boating Party.”

Other iconic pieces to look for in the museum include The Gleaners by Jean-François Millet, Olympia by Édouard Manet, and Bal du moulin de la Galette by Pierre-Auguste Renoir. 

Finish your trip in the Orsay by taking photos of the museum’s large clock, which is a work of art in itself. 

  • Entry Fee and Hours: General admission costs 16 EUR (about 17 USD), and the museum is open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM from Tuesday to Sunday, with extended hours until 9:45 PM on Thursdays. It is closed on Mondays.
  • Lunch at Restaurant du Musée d’Orsay: Located on the first floor, this stunning art deco restaurant offers a delightful escape with views of the Seine. Signature dishes like duck breast with spices start at 28 EUR (about 30 USD).

Read also: Stunning Small Towns in Europe

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

Art Museums Around The World Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
© Pandora Pictures / Shutterstock.com

The Rijksmuseum boasts a diverse collection of Dutch art and history from the Middle Ages to today. It houses over 8,000 objects, including paintings by Dutch art icons such as Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer, and Frans Hals, as well as sculptures and photographs from numerous other artists. 

One highlight of the Rijksmuseum’s collection is Johannes Vermeer’s masterpiece, “The Milkmaid.” This painting captures a domestic scene with remarkable realism and attention to detail that will impress any artistic mind. 

  • Entry Fee and Hours: General admission costs 21 EUR (about 23 USD). The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors 18 and under enter for free.
  • Lunch at RIJKS®: This Michelin-starred restaurant, located within the museum, showcases Dutch ingredients with creative flair. The tasting menu starts at 60 EUR (about 64 USD), offering dishes that reflect regional flavors.

Read also: Unique European Places To Visit

Uffizi Gallery, Florence

Art Museums Around The World Uffizi Gallery, Florence
© Alexey Kuznetsov / Adobe Stock

Step back to the Renaissance era with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. Home to one of the most important collections of Italian Renaissance art, the Uffizi features works by the greatest art geniuses of all time, such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

While primarily known for its paintings, the Uffizi Gallery also features a notable collection of sculptures. Visitors can admire various sculptures, including Sleeping Eros and Wrestler, showcasing the skill and artistry of the Renaissance sculptors.

Some of the museum’s most sought-after pieces include Sandro Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Annunciation, Gentile da Fabriano’s The Adoration of the Magi, and Michelangelo’s The Doni Tondo. 

  • Entry Fee and Hours: General admission costs 25 EUR (about 27 USD), with reduced-price tickets available for EU citizens aged 18-25 for 2 EUR (about 2.20 USD). The gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays.
  • Visit Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori: Located just behind the Uffizi, Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori is a highly-rated restaurant that specializes in authentic Tuscan dishes. Try their pappardelle al ragù di cinghiale (wild boar pasta) for around 16 EUR (about 17 USD). Reservations are essential due to limited seating.

Read also: European Cities That You Must Visit Right Now

Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam

Art Museums Around The World Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
© acediscovery / Wikimedia Commons licensed under CC BY 4.0

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and emotional world of Vincent van Gogh at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. This museum features his early works, including his famous Sunflowers series, iconic self-portraits, and later masterpieces like The Bedroom and Wheatfield with Crows. In addition to Van Gogh’s works, the museum also exhibits letters and drawings by artists who influenced him or were influenced by his art.

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The Van Gogh Museum is a fitting tribute to one of the 19th-century’s most influential and visionary artists.

  • Entry Fee and Hours: Tickets cost 22 EUR (about 24 USD) for adults, while visitors under 18 enter for free. The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays until 9:00 PM.
  • Relax at the Museumplein Café-Restaurant: Situated on the Museumplein, Cobra Café is a casual spot for a quick meal after your visit. Try their Dutch pancakes, which start at 10.50 EUR (about 11 USD), while enjoying the vibrant plaza atmosphere.

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Read also: Best Budget European Destinations

The Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago

Art Museums Around The World The Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago
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This museum was founded in 1879 and holds nearly 300,000 works worldwide, including paintings, photographs, and sculptures. It’s home to Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,” and Vincent van Gogh’s “The Bedroom,” among other works. 

In addition to paintings and sculptures, the museum houses an extensive collection of European decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and textiles. These objects reflect the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of their respective eras.

  • Entry Fee and Hours: General admission for adults costs 32 USD, while tickets for seniors and students are 26 USD. Admission for children under 14 is free. The museum is open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • Dine at The Gage: Located a short walk from the museum at Millennium Park, The Gage is a gastropub offering upscale American cuisine. Signature dishes like wild boar sloppy joes start at around 22 USD. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

Read also: Small Historic Towns in the US

The British Museum, London

Art Museums Around The World The British Museum, London
© jennyt / Shutterstock.com

Embark on a journey through the annals of human history at the British Museum in London. With over eight million objects, the museum houses some of the world’s most coveted artworks and archaeological finds. From Egyptian mummies to classical Greek sculptures, each piece tells a compelling story, allowing art lovers to immerse themselves in the beauty and complexity of human civilization.

Beyond its permanent collections, The British Museum hosts a rotating selection of temporary exhibitions, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

  • Entry Fee and Hours: Admission is free for general access, though specific exhibitions often require tickets, typically starting at 15 GBP (about 18 USD). The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays until 8:30 PM.
  • Lunch at The Great Court Restaurant: Located within the museum, The Great Court Restaurant is perfect for a leisurely meal under the stunning glass ceiling. Enjoy the afternoon tea set starting at 25 GBP (about 30 USD), which includes freshly baked scones and a choice of teas. Reservations are recommended.

Read also: Underrated European Cities

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Art Museums Around The World Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
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Nestled in the heart of Boston, the Museum of Fine Arts is a cultural treasure trove for art lovers and history buffs. With an extensive collection of over 450,000 artworks spanning millennia of artistic expression, it is among the largest art museums in the world.

Art enthusiasts are spoilt for choice at the MFA, highlighting works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and John Singer Sargent. The museum’s Egyptian mummies, Asian ceramics, and American paintings further enrich its collection, catering to varied tastes.

  • Entry Fee and Hours: General admission costs 27 USD for adults, 10 USD for students aged 18 and older, and is free for children under 7. The museum is open Saturday to Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Wednesday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • Grab a Coffee at Tatte Bakery & Café on Van Ness Street: This highly-rated spot, just a 10-minute walk from the museum, serves artisan coffee, pastries, and a variety of light meals. Try their shakshuka or almond croissant, with prices starting at 4.50 USD.

Read also: American Towns With European Feel

Acropolis Museum, Athens

Art Museums Around The World Acropolis Museum, Athens
© Achillefs Katsaounis/Wirestock / Adobe Stock

Perched on the foothills of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, the Acropolis Museum is a perfect place to explore the rich Greek heritage and civilization journey. In this ultramodern glass and steel museum, art lovers can explore artifacts dating back to the Archaic and Classical periods. 

One of the highlights of the Acropolis Museum is its Parthenon Galleries. The legendary friezes and metopes of the Parthenon are meticulously displayed in the galleries, offering perfect learning and photo opportunities.

Some of the museum’s must-see sculptures include the Parthenon Frieze, the Statue of Athena Parthenos, Kritios Boy, and Peplos Kore. 

  • Entry Fee and Hours: Tickets cost 20 EUR (about 16 USD) during the summer season (April to October) and 10 EUR (about 11 USD) during the winter season (November to March). Children under 18 enter for free. The museum is open on Mondays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Fridays from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and other days from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • Take the Panoramic Glass Elevator: The museum’s iconic glass elevator offers a stunning view of the Acropolis hill while taking you to the top floor. Don’t miss this scenic ride, which is included in your ticket.

Read also: Perfect European Spring Getaways

Picasso Museum, Barcelona

Art Museums Around The World Picasso Museum, Barcelona
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Step into Pablo Picasso’s world at the Picasso Museum in Barcelona, Spain, and discover the revolutionary artistry of the 20th-century’s most influential artist. With over 4,000 works in its collection, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and drawings, visitors can trace Picasso’s evolution as an artist and gain insight into his creative processes.

Highlights in this museum include iconic works such as “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,” “Guernica,” and “The Weeping Woman,” all of which demonstrate Picasso’s unparalleled ability to push the boundaries of artistic expression.

  • Entry Fee and Hours: General admission costs 15 EUR (about 16 USD). Reduced-price tickets for students and guests under 25 are 7.50 EUR (about 8 USD). The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM, and closed on Mondays. Free entry is available Thursday evenings from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and the first Sunday of each month.
  • Dine at El Xampanyet: Located just a minute’s walk from the museum, El Xampanyet is a traditional tapas bar loved by locals and tourists alike. Try their anchovies in vinegar and pair them with a glass of their house cava for an authentic Catalan experience. Prices for tapas start at 5 EUR (about 6 USD), but seating is limited, so get there early.

Read also: Charming Small Towns in Europe

The Getty, Los Angeles, California

Art Museums Around The World The Getty, Los Angeles, California
© Ludovic Charlet / Shutterstock.com

Established in 1997, The Getty Museum is the brainchild of the J. Paul Getty Trust, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the arts and humanities. One of The Getty’s most alluring aspects is its extensive collection spanning diverse periods and genres. From ancient manuscripts to Asian jewelry, this museum houses over 125,000 objects of artistic and historical significance. 

Highlights include works by luminaries such as Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Claude Monet, ensuring a captivating journey through the evolution of art. 

Beyond its role as a repository of art, The Getty continually hosts engaging exhibitions, such as sculpted portraits from Ancient Egypt, which ensure there is always something new for art lovers to explore.

  • Coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee: Stop by Blue Bottle Coffee inside The Getty for a handcrafted latte or cold brew. Their mocha, starting at 6 USD, is highly recommended. Enjoy your coffee while relaxing in the Getty’s outdoor courtyards.
  • Visit the Central Garden: Designed by artist Robert Irwin, the Central Garden is a living art installation featuring vibrant flowers and meandering walkways. Admission is free, and it’s a must-see for any visitor to The Getty.

Read also: Art Destinations in the US

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