Get to know Europe from its museums! A great way to see European countries’ cultural and historical aspects is by visiting the places that display everything from artwork to exhibits of scientific importance. So, let’s see the list of the best 11 museums in the continent you should visit!
Uffizi Galleries, Florence
One of the top things to do in Florence, since the city itself oozes culture and art, the Uffizi Galleries is the place to see some of the most stunning pieces of artwork, featuring works of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. Uffizi is the perfect spot for art lovers!
Neon Museum, Warsaw
Let’s see what Poland has to offer! A completely different than what you might initially think while hearing the word ‘museum,’ the Neon Museum in Warsaw is a former factory displaying numerous neon signs that were a part of the Eastern European cityscape during the Cold War. It offers an insight into history but from a completely different point of view!
Musee Louvre, Paris
At the top of any tours of France, Musee Louvre is one of the country’s most important historical and cultural monuments. Open since the 18th century, it displays artworks of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and many others. Collections of the Renaissance and Egyptian periods are also a great attraction, along with the Prehistoric exhibits.
Picasso Museum, Barcelona
Best-known for his three-dimensional abstract Cubism work, Pablo Picasso is one of the more intricate artists to understand. However, if you head to Barcelona, you might get a way clearer view of his progression and thoughts. See the iconic paintings and sculptures, dating back to when he started up until his latest years!
The Patriarca, Valencia
If you are making your way through museums in Spain and have already visited Picasso Museum, just jump on the train from Barcelona to Valencia to see one of the most impressive historical museums in Europe. The Patriarca is at the top of displays from the Renaissance time, mostly architecture. However, plenty of paintings and manuscripts are collected, and the whole museum consists of a church, college, and seminary. All of which you should visit!
National Gallery, London
Standing as the fourth most-visited gallery in the world, the National Gallery in London displays pieces of every significant movement since the 1300s, mainly explaining the history of Western art. Their collections grow bigger each year, and there is so much to work through; we suggest setting a whole day aside just for the National Gallery!
The Vatican Museums
Mostly, people go to visit the Vatican City to see the famous chapels and squares; however, what about the museums? Actually, the Sistine Chapel with the famous Michelangelo’s ceilings is the centerpiece of the Vatican Museums, but there is more stuff to see! Like the Raphael Rooms, Gallery of Maps, Sala Rotonda, which is a smaller version of the Pantheon, and the Bramante Spiral staircase, designed by no other than Giuseppe Momo.
DDR, Berlin
Probably no surprise to many, Germany is also rich in culture and history. The most excellent example is the interactive DDR Museum. A perfect place for history buffs, DDR allows you to literally feel what life was like in East Germany under the German Democratic Republic. Not only will you be able to observe the displays, but also touch and interact with any items. So strap in for an exhilarating afternoon!
Vasa Museum, Stockholm
Vasa Museum in Stockholm is a perfect choice for fans of marine life and lovers of massive, stunning objects from the past. The main attraction here is the enormous 17th-century ship on its voyage. Luckily, right on the shore of Stockholm! So you can explore the exterior and have guided tours that would explain everything about Vasa.
The Acropolis Museum, Athens
You have surely heard about the Acropolis in Greece. It is their most important, history explaining, monumental site, and a religious sanctuary for over 3.000 years. However, it is entirely empty, so everything that was found on the site was brought nearby to the Acropolis Museum, which you should definitely visit! Learn more about Greece from guided tours and ancient artifacts, including carved statues, painted vases, and friezes.
Prado Museum, Madrid
And, another one for Spain! The Prado Museum is an impressive gem of 8.600 paintings and more than 700 sculptures. Obviously, you will need a lot of time to explore! A mix of Spanish, Italian, and Flemish art, Prado stands as one of the most popular galleries ever and the most extensive collection of Spaniards’ art in the world. See the masterpieces of artists like Goya, Velazquez, or El Greco!
Are you just about ready to learn all about Europe? You can make no wrong choice with these 11 options, so pick anything that interests you and go get some knowledge! Keep in mind that we suggest purchasing tickets beforehand to ensure quick entrance. Good luck!
